One of the most satisfying things about being an accomplished lifter in the gym is when you can help a young aspiring lifter to be more successful.  This usually takes the form of answering some simple questions, or maybe giving some pointers about exercise technique.

When I see these young men, usually high school aged, who are so enthusiastic and want so badly to make some progress, I immediately flash back to my early days.  Growing up, I was  the classic “98 pound weakling” who desperately wanted to be a bigger and stronger.  I also remember how intimidating the gym could be, and how much I had to learn.

So whenever a young lifter asks for advice, I am always happy to stop and take a few minutes and help them out any way I can.  The questions are often about supplements like which protein powder to buy, or when to add it to your diet, or even where to find the best prices and availability.

If I’ve had some interaction with this gym member, then I might also take the initiative to help them out on exercise form if I see them performing an exercise in an inefficient way.  And especially if they might be doing something dangerous where they could possibly hurt themselves, I’ll always step up to say something.  How you approach someone can be tricky, as I have to remember that I can be a bit intimidating if I’m not careful.  Luckily, I usually have my workout partner John with me, and he could charm the horns off a goat.  So if he’s there to put them at ease, then we’ll often show them proper form or give them some tips to help them out.

There’s no question they want to improve and be bigger and stronger, and correct form and proper nutrition are critical ingredients to their success.  I’m always very happy to be able to share some of the knowledge and experience I’ve gained from my (gulp) 35 years in the gym (!!)

Recently a gym manager saw me talking to a young lifter who was asking me how long it took to start seeing results.  After my conversation, the manager told me thanks for speaking with the young kid.  And I told him “I would talk to this kid all day because I remember exactly how it felt to be in his shoes.”  So if someone asks you a question in the gym, don’t think of the inconvenience, but rather seize the opportunity to help them out.  This is how the gym atmosphere can grow and be better for everyone.