Hi, I'm Coach Helen!

I started my fitness journey as a multi-sport athlete from a young age: swimming, running, skiing, and participating in almost any other sport you can possibly think of. After breaking my back in a car accident in 2015, I realized the importance of functional training, mobility, and flexibility. This lead me to dive head-first into group fitness teaching for the first time. 

I then moved on to pursue multiple certifications through multiple different organizations including:

• Group Centergy - MOSSA

• Certified Personal Trainer - National Academy of Sports Medicine

• Certified Nutrition Coach - National Academy of Sports Medicine

• Performance Enhancement Specialization - National Academy of Sports Medicine

• Virtual Coaching - National Academy of Sports Medicine

• Level 1 Certification - J3 University

In addition to this educational knowledge base, I also have practical knowledge in the fitness industry, having been a multi-sport athlete myself, rehabilitating injuries, and as a Bikini Athlete with the NPC, coaching myself through four Top 5 finishes in 2 years.

I am constantly looking for ways to level up my coaching, and continue to enroll in continuing education programs and seminars to stay up to date on all of the techniques used in the industry to build the very best athletes and physiques I possibly can.

One of the most common questions that I often hear when someone is asking about my style of coaching is what the distinction is between what I do as a physique coach and a trainer.

The roles of a coach and a trainer are often seen as similar, but they have distinct responsibilities and areas of expertise, particularly in the context of bodybuilding and physique development.

Trainer:

• Focus: A trainer primarily focuses on the physical aspect of training. This includes designing and implementing workout programs specifically aimed at building muscle mass, improving symmetry, and enhancing overall physique.

• Responsibilities: Trainers work directly with clients in the gym, teaching proper form and technique for exercises, guiding them through workout sessions, and ensuring they are performing movements safely and effectively. They may also advise on general nutrition and recovery strategies, but their main role is centered around the physical training process.

• Certification: Trainers often hold certifications in fitness and exercise science (e.g., NASM, ACE, ISSA), which qualify them to create and oversee workout routines tailored to physical goals.

• Approach: The approach of a trainer is typically instructional and hands-on, providing specific guidance on exercises, workout plans, and techniques to maximize muscle growth and improve physical performance.

Coach:

• Focus: A coach takes a more holistic approach, addressing not only the physical training but also the mental, nutritional, and strategic aspects of bodybuilding. They work with clients to achieve peak performance and optimal physique development, particularly in preparation for competitions.

• Responsibilities: Coaches help clients set long-term goals, develop detailed nutrition and supplementation plans, manage their mental and emotional states, and strategize for competition prep, including posing practice, peak week protocols, and stage presentation. They often take on a mentor-like role, guiding clients through the entire bodybuilding process from off-season to competition day.

• Certification: Bodybuilding coaches may have certifications in specific coaching areas (e.g., nutrition coaching, sports psychology) and are often experienced competitors themselves, bringing a wealth of practical knowledge to their clients.

• Approach: The coaching approach is collaborative and strategic, focusing on the entire bodybuilding journey. Coaches work closely with clients to monitor progress, make adjustments to training and diet, and provide motivation and support to overcome challenges. They aim to develop the client’s overall potential, both physically and mentally.

Key Differences:

• Scope: A trainer is focused primarily on gym-based training and physical development, while a bodybuilding coach addresses the broader aspects of bodybuilding, including mental preparation, nutrition, and competition strategy.

• Methodology: Trainers provide specific exercise instructions and workout routines tailored to muscle growth, while coaches work on setting and achieving long-term goals, including competition preparation and overall physique enhancement.

• Client Relationship: Bodybuilding coaches often build deeper, more holistic relationships with clients, guiding them through all stages of their bodybuilding journey, whereas trainers may focus more specifically on the day-to-day physical training aspects.

As a coach, I commit providing you with:

• A willingness to listen

• A desire to help

• A sense of responsibility

• A dedication to service

As a client, I expect:

• A willingness to learn

• A desire to change

• A sense of responsibility

• A dedication to communication