Whether it has been years since you studied or just weeks, listening and remembering what is said in your fitness or massage course may seem daunting, says Charmaine Grame, Australian Institute of Fitness Coach, ACT.
Making the decision to start studying is a huge step, which would have come with thought and consideration for yourself and your family. With such a big decision, it is important to maximise your learning potential so you get the most out of the course.
Outside the Classroom
Set aside 30-60 minutes per evening after class where you can review the day’s notes and come up with some questions if needed for further clarification. With Support Plus+ you can also spend some time with your Coach during dedicated support time, where you can have one-on-one time with your Coach to address any unanswered questions you may have.
Develop your Learning Style
You can learn in three different ways, and using an element of all three will allow for easier absorption of information.
- Visual learning (watching): Look at pictures in anatomy books, watch your Coach for practical demonstrations, and watch relevant videos. This learning style will help to cement a mental picture for your mind for future reference.
- Auditory learning (listening): Listen to your Coach, and to your classmates’ questions and answers. But don’t just listen; actively listen. Hear the words, let them register and respond as required. Repeat aloud to your classmates all the major points so you can all hear the words and connect them to your learning content.
- Kinaesthetic learning (doing): Participate in the practical components. In the fitness and massage industry, having a kinaesthetic approach to learning is crucial as it will help you to understand exactly what is happening within an exercise or massage in terms of muscle and joint movements, and feeling the burn or relief in a targeted region of the body. So jump up, bottoms out of seats, and be proactive when there are practical activities, even if they seem a little quirky.
Practise, Practise, Practise
The more you apply in real life what you are learning in class, the more confident you are going to feel training or treating a client out in the industry. When you learn a new technique or exercise, grab a friend or family member and teach it to them!
Have Fun
The Australian Institute of Fitness has a great reputation for fun and invigorating learning. We combine the textbook learning with practical learning. We encourage class discussions and peer support. Friendships are forged with your classmates and every effort is made to make your learning journey motivating, creative and authentic.
If you aren’t laughing, you aren’t listening, and if you aren’t listening you aren’t learning!
