With a Trainer or Without One?

This month, we’re discussing the difference between working out with a trainer or doing it on your own. We’ve also got the best mini stretch routine to do while traveling to avoid back pain.

Steve training two middle aged women at Dopamine FX gym.

Most of us know that exercising is critical for a healthy life.

But most of us aren’t so certain if we should be working out with a trainer, or going at it on our own. Deciding if a trainer is a good fit for you starts by understanding how a trainer can or can’t serve you.

Having spent years training celebrities, athletes, and newcomers both young and old, Steve gives his candid input on how a trainer should be serving you and discusses how he approaches training at Dopamine FX:

“Education, motivation, accountability, and being a confidant: These are the hallmarks of what makes a great personal trainer.

We work to challenge and motivate the client while spicing up their workouts with a variety of movements and exercises they normally wouldn’t consider. It’s about helping someone achieve the best version of themself, so they can go out and conquer the world.

Having fun, being inspired, and being a friend and confidant – it’s not about punching a clock and making someone lift weights. Go to another gym for that – but come to us if you really want to see improvements, enjoy yourself, and make your entire life better.”

– Trainer Steve

Welp, we couldn’t have said it any better than that. Thanks, Steve!

Want to schedule your first FREE training session with Steve or one of our other trainers and see firsthand how they can serve you?

Do This While Traveling!

Woman on floor mat stretching up and back with one arm.
Credit Unsplash: Mary Jo Caballero

In the summertime, people tend to travel more than usual. This results in hours of sitting in a stiff, upright position in cars, buses, trains, planes, airports, and stations. All this sitting in cramped spaces would make anyone’s lower back clench up.

Here’s one of the best mini stretch routines for an achy lower back that takes about 5 minutes to complete:

  1. Lay on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Bring one knee to your chest and hug it against your body, repeat both sides.
  3. Straighten and bend one leg at a time. Do 10-12 reps per leg.
  4. Glute bridges: with feet and shoulders pressed flat on the ground, press through your feet and lift your hips up until your body forms a straight line, then lower. Do 10-12 reps.
  5. With feet pressed flat on the ground, squeeze your core and flatten your lower back against the ground. Do 10-12 reps.

This 5-minute routine might save you hours of discomfort. It’s something you can do before, during, or after traveling. Another way to minimize a stiff back while traveling is to stay moving. 3-5 minutes of walking, standing squats, or lunges can help keep your body fresh and limber on your journey.

Still want to book that free training session before you go?

Got specific health or fitness questions? Shoot them over to us at: steve@dopaminefx.com and chris@healwellnutrition.com, we would love to offer some expert advice.

Stay happy and healthy friends,

Steve + Chris & The Dopamine FX Team