In the ever-evolving world of fitness and performance training, having a personal trainer can be a game changer. 

Whether you’re an athlete aiming to improve your performance, a fitness enthusiast looking to optimise your workouts, or someone just starting their fitness journey, a personal trainer can provide the guidance, motivation, and expertise you need to achieve your goals. 

When combined with cutting-edge technology like VALD Force Decks, the results can be truly transformative. 

How a Personal Trainer Can Elevate Your Fitness Journey

In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of working with a personal trainer and how VALD Force Decks can enhance your training through key assessments like the Mid-Thigh Pull, Squat Assessment, Counter Movement Jump and Drop Jump.

Why work with a Personal Trainer?

1. Personalised Training Programs

A personal trainer tailors workouts to your specific needs, goals, and fitness level. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, or recover from an injury, a trainer ensures your program is effective and safe.

2. Accountability and Motivation

Staying consistent with your fitness routine can be challenging. A personal trainer provides accountability, keeping you on track and motivated to push through plateaus.

3. Correct Technique and Injury Prevention

One of the most critical roles of a personal trainer is to ensure you’re performing exercises with proper form. This not only maximises results but also minimises the risk of injury.

4. Goal Setting and Progress Tracking

Trainers help you set realistic, measurable goals and track your progress over time. This ensures you’re constantly moving forward and celebrating milestones along the way.

5. Access to Expertise and Advanced Tools

Personal trainers often have access to advanced tools and technologies, such as VALD Force Decks, to provide deeper insights into your performance and progress.

What Are VALD Force Decks?

VALD Force Decks are a state-of-the-art force plate system designed to measure and analyse human movement and performance. These portable, dual-force plates provide real-time data on strength, power, balance, and asymmetry, making them an invaluable tool for personal trainers and athletes alike. 

By using VALD Force Decks, trainers can conduct precise assessments to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Key Assessments with VALD Force Decks

Here’s how VALD Force Decks can be used in conjunction with a personal trainer to enhance your training:

Mid-Thigh Pull

• What It Measures: This test assesses maximal strength and force production, particularly in the lower body and posterior chain.
  
• Why It’s Important: It’s a key indicator of explosive power, which is crucial for athletes in sports like sprinting, football, and weightlifting.
• How a Trainer Helps: A trainer can use the data to design strength programs that target weak areas and improve overall power output.

Squat Assessment

• What It Measures: This test evaluates lower body strength, symmetry, and movement efficiency during a squat.
  
• Why It’s Important: Squats are a foundational movement in many sports and daily activities. Identifying imbalances or weaknesses can prevent injuries and improve performance.
• How a Trainer Helps: Based on the results, a trainer can correct form, address muscle imbalances, and prescribe targeted exercises.

Counter Movement Jump (CMJ) 

• What It Measures: This test assesses lower body power, reactive strength, and jump height.
• Why It’s Important: CMJ is a key metric for athletes in sports like basketball, volleyball, and football, where explosive power is essential.
• How a Trainer Helps: A trainer can use the data to design plyometric and strength training programs to enhance jump performance.

Drop Jump

• What It Measures: This test assesses landing mechanics, reactive strength index, and the ability to absorb force.
• Why It’s Important: Proper landing mechanics are critical for injury prevention, especially in high-impact sports.
• How a Trainer Helps: A trainer can identify poor landing patterns and prescribe exercises to improve technique and reduce injury risk.

The Synergy Between Personal Trainers and VALD Force Decks

When personal trainers incorporate VALD Force Decks into their practice, they can:  

• Provide Data-Driven Insights: Objective data allows trainers to make informed decisions about your training program.
• Track Progress Over Time: Regular assessments show how your performance is improving and where adjustments are needed.
• Enhance Motivation: Seeing measurable progress can be incredibly motivating and reinforce your commitment to training.
• Prevent Injuries: By identifying imbalances and weaknesses early, trainers can address issues before they lead to injuries.

Investing in a personal trainer is one of the best decisions you can make for your fitness journey. Their expertise, combined with advanced tools like VALD Force Decks, ensures that your training is effective, safe, and tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a fitness beginner, these tools and assessments can help you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals faster than ever before.

Ready to take your training to the next level?

At Real Health London, our expert personal trainers use VALD Force Decks to deliver data-driven, results-focused training. Book a consultation with us today to start your journey towards peak performance!

About the Author

Jay Homewood is a Personal Trainer with 13 years of experience in strength and conditioning, muscle building, flexibility, and mobility. He has worked as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for a National Netball Squad, helping players reach top teams like Pulse, Saracens, and Bath. Jay focuses on progressive, tailored training to ensure both results and an enjoyable fitness journey.

Ready to optimise your own training and recovery? Book a session with Jay today.