The Five Habits of High-Impact Fitness Leaders

Becoming a fitness leader is a rewarding but challenging journey. While many can share tips and tricks online, the most successful leaders in the industry have earned their reputations through consistent effort and trustworthiness. So, what sets them apart? Let’s explore the habits of two influential fitness leaders, Ben Bergeron and Laurie Christine King, to find out.

Ben Bergeron is renowned for coaching the world’s fittest athletes in the CrossFit Games. Beyond that, he founded CompTrain, a free CrossFit programming platform, and hosts the podcast "Chasing Excellence." Laurie Christine King is a nutrition and fitness blogger focusing on hormonal health and athletic performance. A former gymnast and CrossFit competitor, she now co-runs Paragon Performance Training, helping clients achieve aesthetic goals through manageable training schedules.

Habits of Successful Fitness Leaders

1. Take Your Own Classes or Follow Your Own Programming

   Bergeron emphasizes the importance of practicing what you preach. He draws comparisons to chefs who don’t eat their own cooking or designers who don’t wear their own designs. Coaches who don’t follow their own programming risk creating a disconnect with clients. Confidence in your own methods inspires trust and commitment in others.

2. Pay Attention to Your Body

   Laurie Christine King advocates listening to your body’s signals. She emphasizes tracking energy levels, sleep quality, nutrition, and, for women, hormonal cycles. Many issues can be addressed by understanding and responding to these signals. King’s approach helps individuals improve not only their athletic performance but also their overall well-being.

3. Treat People as Individuals

   From his podcast, Bergeron shares a lesson in personal connection. He recalls a gym experience where no one bothered to learn his name, leaving him feeling overlooked. Using names and making eye contact shows care and builds trust. Treating clients as unique individuals fosters strong relationships and loyalty.

4. Focus on Nutrition and Clean Eating

   Both leaders stress the importance of nutrition. Bergeron shares a story about discouraging unhealthy food choices in his gym, while King highlights the benefits of clean eating for both aesthetics and performance. While occasional indulgences are fine, consistency in healthy eating is key to long-term success.

5. Avoid Complaining, Whining, or Making Excuses

   Bergeron describes complaining as a “disease that erodes everything.” Instead, he advocates for honesty and accountability without succumbing to negativity. Excuses won’t lead to success—staying positive and solution-focused is essential.

Before You Go

These habits have propelled fitness leaders like Bergeron and King to the top of their field. Reflect on which of these habits you can incorporate into your own life to enhance your leadership and personal growth.

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