Summer is here, bringing with it vacations, beach days, and hot weather that can disrupt fitness routines. But with the right approach, this season can be just as busy for you, and just as active for your clients. One effective way to ensure this is designing a summer challenge!
From creating accountability through community support to tackling popular fitness trends, these challenges can help your clients stay fit while having fun in the sun, and your fitness business beat the summer slump.
Here are some key tips for running a successful summer fitness challenge.
Preparation is Key
You know what they say, fail to prepare…
As it is with all your coaching, it’s important to set yourself and your clients up for success. The first thing you should identify is which kind of challenge(s) you plan on running. Here’s some inspiration!
Popular Fitness Challenge Ideas
#1: 30-day fitness challenge
A 30-day fitness challenge is a great way to kickstart your clients’ summer fitness. Plan daily workouts targeting different muscle groups and activities for them. For example, alternate between cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises, with Sundays reserved for rest or yoga. This structured approach keeps things interesting for your clients and helps build a lasting habit. Be sure to include rest days for their recovery.
#2: Outdoor adventure challenge
Summer is the perfect time for outdoor activities. Create an outdoor adventure challenge for your clients with weekly activities like hiking, kayaking, or beach volleyball. These activities provide full-body workouts while allowing them to enjoy nature. Encourage them to try something new each week and invite friends or family to join for extra fun and accountability.
Check Out: Fun Fitness Challenges: Super Simple and Super Important
#3: Step count challenge
Walking is a simple yet effective way to keep your clients active. Set a daily step goal for them and challenge them to meet or beat it. Encourage them to use a fitness tracker or smartphone app to monitor their progress. Keep it interesting by suggesting they explore new walking routes and incorporate walks into their daily routines—taking the stairs, walking during lunch breaks, or planning weekend hikes to stay active and engaged.
Overcoming Summer Fitness Barriers
As we’ve mentioned, summertime can impact people and their workout routines. Take note of these factors and how you can help overcome them:
Heat and sun
Exercising in hot weather can be challenging, but with a few precautions, your clients can stay safe and comfortable. Schedule their workouts for early mornings or evenings when temperatures are cooler. Advise them to wear light, breathable clothes and apply sunscreen to protect their skin. Ensure they stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after their workout to maintain energy levels.
Hydration and nutrition
Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet is essential, especially in the summer heat. Encourage clients to stay hydrated throughout the day by always carrying a water bottle and incorporating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens into their meals. For optimal energy and recovery, encourage clients to balance their diet with lean proteins, whole grains, and lots of fruits and vegetables.
Vacations and schedule disruptions
Vacations can disrupt your clients’ routines, but they don’t have to derail their fitness goals. Encourage them to pack portable workout equipment like resistance bands or a jump rope and look for quick bodyweight exercises they can do anywhere. Suggest they explore new places on foot or by bike to stay active while sightseeing. Remind them that even short, daily workouts can help maintain their fitness level.
Summer schedules can be unpredictable, but maintaining a consistent workout routine is key for your clients to stay on track. Encourage them to take advantage of the sunny weather by providing a change of scenery with outdoor workouts. Schedule these outdoor sessions in advance, like appointments, to make it easier for your clients to stick to them.
Motivation and accountability
Keeping your clients motivated during the summer can be challenging, but setting clear goals and tracking their progress can make a big difference. Encourage them to celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, and treat themselves when they reach milestones. Suggest they stay connected with their fitness community through social media, group challenges, or local meetups. The encouragement and support from others can help them stay inspired and committed to reaching their goals.
As a trainer, accountability plays a huge role in enhancing your clients’ commitment to fitness goals through community support. Encourage your clients to find a workout buddy or join a fitness group where mutual support and motivation thrive. Help them share progress, challenges, and successes within this supportive environment to foster encouragement and commitment. This sense of accountability not only makes the fitness journey more enjoyable for your clients but also significantly increases their chances of achieving long-term success.
TZ Collective | How to Increase Client Engagement this Summer
We recently hosted the latest instalment of TZ Collective powered by ABC Fitness.
The event, titled “Beat the Heat: How to Increase Client Engagement this Summer” was our most successful yet.
Missed out? Don’t worry! Our recap provides all valuable tips and tricks to help you navigate the seasonal challenges of summer.
With ABC Trainerize, you’ll find everything you need for fitness, nutrition, and habit coaching. Begin your journey today with a 30-day free trial, and make this summer your best one yet!
