Pro Tip: Implementing Lifestyle First Programming
[6 minute read]
Want to know the secret to making your training and nutrition programs more effective? It starts before your client ever picks up a weight or tracks a macro.
The Foundation of Coaching Success
As coaches and fitness professionals, we know that exceptional results don't just come from perfect programming – they come from understanding and optimizing the fundamentals of our clients' daily lives. That's where Lifestyle First programming comes in, and today we're sharing exactly how to implement it using CoachRx.
Understanding Lifestyle First Programming
Lifestyle First programming is OPEX's foundational approach to coaching success. Before diving into complex nutrition plans or training programs, we focus on Basic Lifestyle Guidelines (BLGs). This isn't just about tracking habits – it's about understanding that in the OPEX methodology, we progress from Life → Fuel → Person.
You can't effectively personalize nutrition or training until you've mastered these lifestyle basics with your clients.
Implementation Guide
1. Access the Lifestyle Feature
Getting started is simple:
Open your client's profile
Click on the left sidebar
Select "Lifestyle Planning"
2. Create Your Plan
Set the foundation for success:
Design up to 3 prescriptions for a 4-week period
Start with a timeframe (4 weeks is ideal for checking adherence)
Add specific lifestyle types (movement, sleep, hydration, etc.)
3. Set Specific Metrics
Begin with achievable targets:
Movement: Start small (e.g., 10-minute walks after meals)
Sleep: Begin with realistic goals (e.g., screens off 30 minutes before bed)
Hydration: Set progressive targets (e.g., increase from current intake by 10-20 ounces)
4. Monitor and Adjust
Stay engaged with client progress:
Set notification times for check-ins
Review compliance daily
Progress prescriptions every 4 weeks based on adherence
Why Lifestyle First Matters
We understand that sustainable results come from a holistic approach. Think about it: nutrition plans affect sleep quality, sleep affects stress management, stress affects digestion – it's all connected.
Benefits of Mastering Lifestyle Programming:
Creates a strong foundation for higher-order nutritional prescriptions
Prepares clients to progress from inadequate to highest-order food profiles
Provides concrete data to inform when clients are ready for more personalized nutrition plans
Supports training programs with lifestyle habits that enhance recovery and adaptation
This isn't just about tracking habits – it's about building the baseline that makes every other aspect of your coaching more effective. Just as we wouldn't prescribe complex training movements without proper mechanics, we shouldn't jump into detailed nutrition plans without lifestyle mastery.
Implementation Strategies for Success
Start Small
Begin with 1-2 lifestyle prescriptions
Focus on habits that have the highest impact for each client
Build confidence through early wins
Progress Methodically
Review adherence before adding new prescriptions
Use data to guide progression
Celebrate small improvements
Monitor and Adjust
Regular check-ins
Adjust based on compliance
Keep communication channels open
Pro Implementation Tips
Use the notification feature strategically
Document client feedback
Look for patterns in adherence
Build progressive targets
Celebrate small wins
Remember
As James FitzGerald says, "The goal over time is always autonomy." Your role is to guide clients towards recognizing where they sit on the continuum and then give them achievable goals that lead to lasting change.
Take Action Now
Log into your CoachRx dashboard and explore the Lifestyle Planning feature. Start with one client and implement a simple 4-week plan. You'll be amazed at how this foundational approach transforms your coaching effectiveness and client results.
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