Trainer or Supplements?

The best way to learn what’s going on around you is to talk to people in your environment. I just got back from the gym and had interesting conversation with a fellow male NPC competitive athlete. We were discussing how we had both done at our past shows and what our plans are going forward.

And of course, the topic of how much it all costs came up. It’s a common concern among athletes. It doesn’t take long to spend more money than you may have budgeted for. So when that happens, how do your prioritize what you’re going to spend on and what you’ll try and get by without? My gym buddy told me he’s going to be competing in June. I asked him who his trainer is and he told me that he’s going to do it on his own this time. His plan was to use the programs his trainer had given him for his last show. My response was, “Why don’t you check out my trainer? She’s awesome, knows her stuff and because she works in the gym you get to see her all of the time. And she’s very reasonably priced.” He told me he would rather save the money he’d pay a trainer and use if for supplements.

I’m both a trainer and a client. So I know what it’s like to be on either side of this issue. However, how much accountability can you get from supplements? How objective can you be about your own progress, especially when it comes to the extremes of physique sports? What happens when you have a question, who are you going to turn to that can give you expert advice with your best interests in mind? Maybe a Google search will help. But, a trainer who knows you and how your body responds to various stimuli will ease your mind and guide you in the right direction towards your goals.

Sure you need supplements to help you along with basic nutritional needs and for other health factors. A variety of nutrients, minerals and other products can assist you in many aspects of your sport or weight loss goals. However, I believe far too many people rely on pills to get them the results they seek to achieve. Hard work, training with a focused discipline and sticking to a specifically structured meal plan should be the foundation for you - not something found at the bottom of a pill bottle.

You might be thinking, “I’ve been working out for years. I know what to do.” Even if you’re an experienced gym goer, does that mean you’ll actually stay accountable and motivated no matter what? Will you get through the gym doors each day that you need to? Professional athletes have coaches. Having a support team of people can make the difference between hitting your target or getting steered off course.

If you have the money for both a trainer and supplements, the decision is easy. The combination of both of these elements would be the most ideal situation. Regardless if you are getting ready for a competition or you’re about to begin your own lifestyle transformation, make the choice that’s best for you, going to bring you the most effective results and sustain in the long term picture of your health. So for you, does that mean deciding between hiring a trainer or buying supplements?

Yours in health, fitness and fun,
Karma Schopp
NPC Physique Athlete, Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach and Freelance Writer
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