Brian Schiff’s Blog

Seldom do I use my blog as a platform to rant, boast or anything in between.  I generally like to share evidenced based information that helps improve your health and performance.  But, every once in a while I feel the need to share my opinions on things I feel strongly about.  Today, I want to offer you my suggestions and theory on professional excellence within the fields of health and fitness.

Let me preface this post by simply saying I would never think of writing this or publishing it online for the whole world to read without having several years (15 now) of professional experience under my belt and a proven track record of getting RESULTS for my clients.  In my mind, the very reasons for my success include: being blessed with above average intelligence, a strong work ethic, a desire to help and serve others, unquenchable PASSION to be the very best I can be in my field, and an uncanny knack for seeing things others do not and using that information to make impactful exercise and treatment decisions for my patients and clients.

Where am I going with this?  Well, unfortunately, not all trainers, coaches and physical therapists share this same passion or possess this knack that I speak of.  Some are content after college (or certification) to be good enough and may not read literature, go above and beyond with continuing education, surround themselves with the best in the business or strive to be better each day.  Others may simply not have an innate ability to problem solve and synthesize given data to construct the right plan for the client.  Often trainers and clinicians default to what is easy or “what they know” as opposed to viewing each client in a different light.  In other words, they lack artistry.  They will never be revered like Picasso (pictured below).

Jim Collins defines how important passion  and identifying what you are better than everyone else at in life in Good to Great when he discusses the “hedgehog concept” and why some businesses are so much better than others.  Passion fuels learning. Passion propels great practitioners to accept their mistakes and move forward.  Passion fuels the desire to create the perfect program for each and every client.  Passion sparks creativity.  Herein lies the very reason you must seek out a Picasso – he had passion, skill and and was able to blend this into rich artistry and ultimately achieve greatness in his profession.

In my mind, an adequate fitness pro or therapist can put together fundamentally sound programs.  However, many times they simply use templates, protocols or the same approach for similar clients or problems.  Many times they simply copy other successful people.  While this approach does no harm in most cases, I fear it falls short in delivering excellence to each respective client or patient.  It is almost as if some people would rather paint by numbers and follow predictable patterns of programming without considering the unique qualities of each client or his/her specific needs and goals.

Ever see someone prescribe the same exercises and same number of reps all the time?  Or do the same stuff over and over and expect a different result?  Ever wonder how someone gages the types and intensity of the plyometrics they prescribe?  Do you wonder why some people go to rehab and suffer a re-tear in their rotator cuff or labrum after surgery?  Did it occur to you that some runners may not be able to run as many miles as others w/o getting stress fractures based on their body?  Maybe less is more?  Ever consider that some exercises are not right for you?

I think we must turn over every stone along the way to be sure about things.  I believe we must test, measure and be willing to wipe the slate clean until we find the right solution for each person.  We must question the norms and be willing to work outside the lines at times.  It becomes easy to follow the same patterns and assumptions in training and medicine.  Becoming a Picasso takes hard work and a willingness to be wrong or change your approach several times until it feels just right and brings harmony to the client.

With that said, would you prefer predictable programming that looks like this………….

Or would you be more satisfied with a an evolutionary product that ends up like this?

You see, no two human bodies are exactly alike.  They are complete originals just like hand crafted artwork.  Beyond the physical issues that exist, one must carefully consider personality type, mental capacity, prior experiences, age, sex and most importantly the particular goals of the client.  I would strongly suggest to you that no book, DVD, conference, etc. produces a Picasso type expert.  Rather, it is a long arduous process that shapes and molds a master artist or practitioner.  I know my philosophy and approach is consistently broadening and changing as I continue to learn and work – each year brings more seasoning and creativity.

The real X Factor that defines a true Picasso

Instead, artists are developed over time by their own education, experiences, passion and willingness to pursue greatness.  The best doctors, therapists and trainers (Picassos) I have worked ever with have the ability to quickly analyze findings and begin to craft a specific plan that is “just right” for that individual.  They use sound science to guide decision making, yet exercise freedom to deviate based on astute personal observations and intuition.

Ultimately, the very best have a certain “sixth sense” or “magical touch” if you will.  They know when to pull back, when to push harder and when to change course.  They can read their clients like a book and communicate on a level that prohibits miscommunication and eliminates barriers.  Their methods evoke the utmost trust from those they serve.  They seem to be one with the client at all times – this connection is truly special.

I feel as if I have been blessed with such a gift, and that I am fortunate enough to be using it to serve others myself.  Understand this – successful training and rehab is really just beautiful artistry.  There are many different forms of it, and several experts in the industry have the gift of creating physical masterpieces, resolving pain, and restoring broken people.  Personally, I try to learn from such experts in my quest for everyday greatness.

Inherently, I think you know when someone has a gift and is really good at what they do.  There is a reason they find success where others have failed.  Are they smarter than others?  Probably not.  They just have a burning passion, sufficient talent and an innate ability to sense what the next step or plan of action should be to bring about the optimal results.  They treat every client like a blank canvas and work on a new masterpiece as opposed to copying a prior piece of work.

So, if you are someone in pain looking for relief or an athlete seeking better performance, make sure you seek out a Picasso in your area.  Examine their previous work and sample it for yourself.  You will know when it is right.  If you are a practitioner reading this, perhaps you already paint like Picasso.  If not, closely examine your passions and make sure they align with what you are doing in life as your clients deserve that much.  In the end, never settle for imitations and cheap art because your health and attainment of goals is priceless!