Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gym rat, gym etiquette is something you don’t want to mess up. Making the wrong move can turn heads in the wrong way – don’t end up on Joey Swolls IG page saying you need to do better! Not only do these slip-ups make you look like a rookie, but they can also rub people the wrong way and even make you less effective in your own workouts. So let’s break down some of the most common gym etiquette mistakes, and how to avoid them, with a few personal stories thrown in for good measure! Feel free to add your thoughts in the comment section below.
Gym Etiquette Mistake #1: Not Racking Your Weights (We’re Not Your Mom!)
We’ve all been there—you finish a tough set, your muscles are burning, and all you want to do is collapse in a puddle of sweat. But before you do, don’t forget to rack your weights! Seriously, this is gym rule #1.
Why It’s a Problem
Not racking your weights is like leaving your dirty dishes out at a shared dinner. It’s rude, inconsiderate, and worst of all, dangerous. Someone might trip over your stray dumbbells or plates, leading to injuries. Plus, it’s incredibly annoying having to search for the other dumbbell pair when it’s on the other side of the gym so don’t do it to someone else!
Gym Etiquette Mistake #2: Hogging the Machines (Time to Share, Folks)
Look, we all have our go-to machines, but camping out on one for an hour like it’s your personal domain? Not cool. Whether it’s the squat rack or the leg press, remember—you’re not the only one trying to get a workout in.
Why It’s a Problem
Gyms are shared spaces, and everyone needs access to the equipment. If you’re taking forever on one machine, you’re slowing down other people’s workouts, and let me tell you, there’s nothing more frustrating than waiting 20 minutes for someone to finish scrolling through Instagram between sets. It’s one thing if you’re doing a workout that requires longer rest times but keep it within reason or be mindful of others who may be standing around. Just have awareness of the situation.
Pro Tip
If you’re doing supersets or need longer rests, let someone work in with you. It shows respect for others’ time and makes you look like a pro instead of a rookie. Or offer to hold onto the machine and get them when you’re done! This is one way to make friends or get to know others at the gym.
Gym Etiquette Mistake #3: Not Wiping Down Equipment (Sweaty Surprise)
Gyms are sweaty places—which is to be expected! That’s the nature of the beast. By the way everyone reading this is a beast in their own way! But what’s not cool is leaving your sweat behind for the next person to deal with.
Why It’s a Problem
Nobody wants to lie down on a bench soaked in someone else’s sweat. Not wiping down equipment after using it is gross and unsanitary.
I’ll never forget the time I unknowingly sat on a drenched bench and slipped off mid-bench press. Talk about embarrassing! Since then, I’ve always had a towel handy and made it a point to wipe down everything.
Gym Etiquette Mistake #4: Talking Too Loud or Blasting Music Without Headphones
Hey, I love a good conversation as much as the next guy, but there’s a time and place for everything. The gym floor? Not the best place for a chat-fest. And don’t even get me started on people blasting music out loud.
Why It’s a Problem
The gym is a place to focus, and when you’re loudly chatting or blasting your playlist, you’re distracting others. The last thing someone wants while they’re trying to hit a PR on their deadlift is to hear you rant about last night’s party. Just be mindful of the situation and your surroundings. This goes a long way in a lot of areas in our lives!
Pro Tip
Save the conversations for the locker room or in a less crowded area of the gym. Invest in a good pair of headphones. You can vibe out to your tunes without making everyone else suffer through them.
Gym Etiquette Mistake #5: Not Using a Towel or Mat on Shared Equipment
Using a towel or mat when you’re on shared equipment like benches or mats is basic hygiene. But you’d be surprised how many people skip this step. See mistake #3. Don’t be that person!
Why It’s a Problem
Not using a towel is just inconsiderate. If you’re dripping sweat everywhere, it’s on you to make sure the equipment stays clean for the next person.
My Experience
I once walked into a gym where someone had been doing shirtless crunches on a bench, and it looked like someone had poured a bucket of water on it. No towel in sight. Guess who didn’t use that bench for the rest of the day?
Gym Etiquette Mistake #6: Ignoring Personal Space (Don’t Crowd Me, Bro)
Gyms can get crowded, but that doesn’t mean you should be invading someone else’s bubble. When you’re lifting weights or even doing cardio, be mindful of personal space.
Why It’s a Problem
Nobody likes to feel crowded, especially when they’re in the zone. Plus, being too close to someone while they’re lifting can be dangerous. You don’t want to catch a dumbbell to the face because you were too close. Plenty of scary videos on Youtube.
Pro Tip
Keep a safe distance, especially in front of mirrors. People are watching their form, and blocking the view can be super annoying.
Gym Etiquette Mistake #7: Overloading the Barbell (Without Spotters or Safety Bars)
We’ve all been there: you’re feeling strong, so you load up the barbell. But if you’re not 100% sure you can handle the weight, don’t be afraid to ask for a spotter. Trust me, it’s better than getting stuck under a bar.
Feel like seeing some videos of accidents? Please don’t end up on here!
Why It’s a Problem
Going heavy without a spotter is dangerous. Not only are you risking injury, but you’re also creating a hazard for those around you.
My Story
There was one time I overloaded the incline bench press without a spotter and the safety pins weren’t high enough. Halfway through my set, I realized I was in trouble. I had to bail on the weight, and luckily I wasn’t seriously hurt but my left shoulder has never been the same since. Lesson learned—always use a spotter or safety bars!
Gym Etiquette Mistake #8: Taking Selfies or filming yourself in the Middle of the Gym Floor
Look, I get it. You worked hard for those gains, and you want to document the progress. But there’s a time and place for selfies and filming your workouts, and it’s definitely not in the middle of the gym floor during peak hours.
Why It’s a Problem
Taking selfies in the middle of the floor disrupts others and can make the gym feel like a photo studio rather than a workout space.
Pro Tip
If you want to snap a quick pic or film yourself, do it in a quieter part of the gym or after your workout when it’s less busy. Most people don’t want to be an extra in your video! Just be mindful of your surroundings and you’ll be ok!
Conclusion: Respect the Gym and It Will Respect You Back
Gym etiquette might seem like common sense, but it’s easy to forget in the heat of the moment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these mistakes can happen to anyone. But by being mindful and respectful of those around you, you’ll not only avoid looking like a rookie—you’ll also contribute to a better gym environment for everyone. Don’t be the person that everyone dreads seeing walking into the gym. Most importantly have fun, make progress, and achieve your goals!
Why This is the Most Exciting Time in Bodybuilding: Chris Bumstead’s Retirement and a Wide-Open Field for Champions
The Changing Landscape of Bodybuilding Bodybuilding has always captivated fans with its intense competition and high-stakes rivalries. Yet, 2024 marks an especially unique and thrilling moment in the sport's history. Chris Bumstead, the six-time Olympia Classic Physique champion, recently announced his retirement, leaving his division up for grabs. Meanwhile, the Men's Open division has been without a long-reigning champion for almost a decade, breaking the historic trend of dominance by a single athlete. This convergence of unpredictability across both divisions brings a renewed energy to bodybuilding, making it an incredibly exciting time for fans and athletes alike. Let’s dive in and explore why this is arguably one of the most exciting times in bodybuilding. What Is A Sports Dynasty? Let’s first define what a Dynasty is in sports and what that looks like in bodybuilding. A sports dynasty is typically defined as a team or individual that achieves prolonged dominance and success in a particular sport over an extended period. This term is commonly used when discussing teams or athletes who have sustained excellence and regularly outperform their competition, often winning multiple championships or maintaining a high level of competitive consistency. Here’s a breakdown of the main criteria that typically define a sports dynasty: Requirements For a Bodybuilding Dynasty Three Championships in Five Years - This is often seen as the minimum requirement for a dynasty in most team sports. Winning three titles within a five-year span demonstrates both dominance and consistency, showing that the team or athlete is not just a "flash in the pan." Back-to-Back Titles as Part of a Larger Run - Winning consecutive titles (back-to-back) can contribute to dynasty status if the team or athlete also sustains success around those consecutive wins. For example, winning two championships in a row, taking a short gap, and then winning another might be enough to qualify. Chris Bumstead’s Retirement: A Power Vacuum in Classic Physique Chris Bumstead’s legacy in Classic Physique is undeniable. His reign from 2019 to 2024 set a standard (actually one of his mottos) that many believed would be hard to surpass. CBum absolutely took over the division and quite frankly (no disrespect to the other competitors) it really wasn’t that close. His combination of aesthetics, symmetry, and muscle density embodied the classic ideal that fans and judges alike celebrated. Bumstead didn’t just win; he defined the division. His timing was perfect as the Classic Physique division was a new division and Bumstead took the opportunity and ran with it. It really was a perfect storm with social media/youtube, a rising division, and Bumstead being the leader behind it. On top of that he became a megastar only paralleled by the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jay Cutler, Ronnie Coleman, and so on. However, with his recent departure from competitive bodybuilding, the door is now wide open for a new generation to make their mark.His retirement creates a power vacuum in Classic Physique that has energized the competition. Competitors like Mike Sommerfeld, Urs Kalecinski, Terrence Ruffin, Ramon Dino, and (hell even, let’s not count out) Breon Ansley, who all held top placements alongside Bumstead, are now vying to claim the throne. Their different physiques and approaches to the division could take Classic Physique in several new directions, depending on who emerges victorious. This dynamic landscape means fans and analysts are in for a season where anything can happen, making each show must-watch entertainment. We’ll definitely never see another Chris Bumstead but someone will eventually pull away from the pack to lead another dominant run. Could we see various winners over the next few years or will someone take the division away from everyone else? I believe that it’s anyone’s game for the next few years. The title will change hands several times over the next few years then the next dominant reign will occur. Shifting Placements in Classic Physique’s Top 6 The Classic Physique division has also seen a lot of movement among the top 6 placements over the past few years, especially as competitors adapt to the criteria and evolve their presentations. While Chris Bumstead maintained his stronghold at the top, the placements beneath him fluctuated, highlighting the depth of talent and the fierce competition.Here’s a breakdown of the top 6 at the Classic Physique Olympia over the last few years, showing how competitive the field has become:2020 Top 6:Chris Bumstead - ChampionTerrence Ruffin - Runner-up with a unique posing styleBreon Ansley - Former champion, known for his incredible back and symmetryAlex Cambronero - Balanced and aestheticBryan Jones - Impressive size for the divisionDani Younan - Sharp conditioning and muscularity2021 Top 6:Chris Bumstead - ChampionTerrence Ruffin - Maintained his runner-up positionBreon Ansley - Consistently among the top competitorsRamon Dino - Emerging star with potential to challenge BumsteadUrs Kalecinski - "The Miracle Bear" with an impressive physique and fan appealFabian Mayr - Sharp conditioning and symmetry2022 Top 6:Chris Bumstead - ChampionRamon Dino - Moved up to the runner-up spot, showing rapid improvementUrs Kalecinski - Climbed to third with a unique blend of size and aestheticsTerrence Ruffin - Known for his artistic posing and balanceBreon Ansley - Consistently competitiveMike Sommerfeld - A new face with impressive conditioning2023 Top 6:Chris Bumstead - Still ChampRamon Dino - Stays in 2ndUrs Kalecinski - Stays in 3rdBreon Ansley - Moves to 4thTerrence Ruffin - Traded places with BreonMichael Daboul - Made the top 62024 Top 6:Chris Bumstead - Champion for the last timeMike Sommerfeld - Top 2 came out of nowhereUrs Kalecinski - Stayed in 3rd Ramon Dino - Dropped to 4thBreon Ansley - Stayed in the top 5 Jose Manuel Munoz - Made the 6th spotWith Bumstead no longer in the mix, each of these competitors has a chance to redefine the division’s standard. The diversity of physiques and styles among the top contenders in Classic Physique makes this a fascinating time for fans. Whether it’s Ruffin’s artistic posing, Dino’s dense musculature, or Kalecinski’s balanced aesthetics, each athlete brings a unique style that could influence the direction of the division. An Unpredictable Men’s Open Division: A Decade Without Dominance The Men’s Open division has historically been defined by long stretches of dominance by a single competitor. Let’s recap the dynasties in Bodybuilding history Sergio Oliva (1967-1969) with 3 straight titles. Note: No runner up in 1968. Arnold Schwarzenegger (1970–1975) with a 6-year winning streak. 1 title in 1980.Frank Zane (1977-1979) with a 3 peat Lee Haney (1984–1991) with an 8-year streak.Dorian Yates (1992–1997) with a 6-year streak.Ronnie Coleman (1998–2005) with an 8-year streak.Jay Cutler (2006-07 then 2009-10) with 4 titles in 5 yearsPhil Heath (2011–2017) with a 7-year streak.Other notable mentions are:Larry Scott (1965-66) with back to back titlesBig Ramy (2020-21) with back to back titles Sergio Oliva starts off this list with the 3 titles in a row. He always showcased an impressive physique at a time where the Mr. Olympia was getting started. Then Arnold started this big reign off in the 70’s with 6 years in a row then later won his last one in 1980. In the 1980s, Lee Haney had 8 straight wins in a row. It was his world and we were just living in it (if you were alive at that time). Dorian Yates ruled the Olympia stage with six consecutive wins. In the early 2000s, Ronnie Coleman’s eight consecutive wins solidified him as a legend. Jay Cutler then took the spotlight, followed by Phil Heath’s seven-year reign from 2011 to 2017. These champions each held the top position for years, creating a sense of continuity in the division and setting a high bar for future competitors.Over the past decade, the Men’s Open division has seen unprecedented turnover at the top. Since Phil Heath’s last win in 2017, no single competitor has been able to establish a dominant reign. Here’s a look at the Men’s Open winners over the past few years:2018 - Shawn Rhoden: Known for his aesthetics and conditioning, Rhoden captured the title from Phil Heath, ending Heath's seven-year run.2019 - Brandon Curry: After Rhoden was unable to compete, Curry took the title with a combination of symmetry and impressive muscle fullness.2020 & 2021 - Big Ramy (Mamdouh Elssbiay): The Egyptian powerhouse claimed back-to-back wins with his unmatched size and conditioning, becoming a fan favorite.2022 - Hadi Choopan: Known for his muscular density and balance, Choopan took the title with a physique that appealed to fans and judges alike.2023 - Derek Lunsford: His win represented a modern shift in the criteria for the Mr. Olympia title, focusing not just on sheer size but also on shape, conditioning, and muscle detail. 2024 - Samson Dauda: Known as "The Nigerian Lion," Dauda brings an ideal mix of aesthetics and size, which has made him a fan favorite. His victory is seen as a testament to the trend towards more balanced, aesthetic physiques in bodybuilding, moving away from purely mass-dominant champions.In just seven years, we’ve seen six different champions, a stark contrast to the days when a single bodybuilder could dominate for nearly a decade. This revolving door of champions is thrilling because it means there is no clear frontrunner—every Olympia weekend is full of surprises. Current competitors like Nick Walker, Hadi Choopan, Derek Lunsford, and Samson Dauda, and others are all in contention, but none have yet proven they can hold onto the title for an extended period. Each year brings new possibilities and potential upsets, making the Men’s Open one of the most unpredictable divisions in bodybuilding history.Frequent Changes in the Top 3The top 3 placings have also become more varied in recent years, reflecting a broader pool of high-caliber competitors. In the 2010s and beyond, we see athletes like Phil Heath, Kai Greene, Dexter Jackson, Shawn Rhoden, and others consistently placing in the top spots but with shifting positions year by year.This variability shows that no single competitor is consistently outpacing the others by a wide margin, making the competition more dynamic and, arguably, more exciting for fans.Average Time Between Streaks of Consecutive WinsHistorically, once a dominant streak ended, there was often a short period of time before the next began. For example:After Arnold Schwarzenegger (1975), there was a two-year gap until Frank Zane's streak (1977–1979).After Lee Haney (1991), Dorian Yates started his streak immediately in 1992.Following Ronnie Coleman's run (2005), Jay Cutler had a brief two-year reign before Phil Heath's dominance began in 2011.Phil Heath had his last win in 2017. Big Ramy has been the closest so far to have a dominant reign. The past few years, however, have seen multiple champions without a new dominant streak, a relatively unusual occurrence compared to prior decades.Perhaps, we could argue that the dominant runs of Haney, Yates, and then Coleman being on top of one another was a rare feat in itself and that was truly rare how that occurred. International Representation Over TimeThe early years of Mr. Olympia were primarily dominated by U.S. athletes, but as the competition became more global, champions from other countries began to emerge:Sergio Oliva from Cuba in the late 1960s.Samir Bannout from Lebanon in 1983.Dorian Yates from the United Kingdom in the 1990s.More recent champions include Big Ramy from Egypt and Hadi Choopan from Iran. Samson Dauda is Nigerian-British who lives in the United Kingdom.This diversity highlights bodybuilding’s evolution into an international competition, making recent contests even more intriguing as champions come from different parts of the world. The Fan Experience: Unpredictability and New Storylines For fans, this new era in bodybuilding is like a breath of fresh air. The unpredictability in both the Men’s Open and Classic Physique divisions has created an atmosphere of excitement. No longer can fans assume the winner before the competition begins; instead, each event brings new storylines, potential upsets, and the chance for fresh faces to make an impact.Social media has amplified this excitement, allowing fans to engage with their favorite athletes, follow their journeys, and speculate on who will come out on top. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are filled with discussions, predictions, and analyses that keep the fanbase engaged year-round. This level of engagement further fuels the sport's growth, bringing in new fans and creating a larger community.Industry Impacts and the Future of BodybuildingWith these changes, the bodybuilding industry is also evolving. Brands and sponsors recognize the potential of this new, unpredictable era and are investing heavily in athletes who can capture fans' attention. The lack of a dominant champion in Men’s Open and the open field in Classic Physique mean that sponsorships and endorsements are less concentrated, giving a broader range of athletes the chance to build their brands and connect with fans.Looking ahead, bodybuilding may see even more structural changes as competitions adapt to the shifting dynamics of the sport. As fans grow more invested in storylines rather than just physiques, there may be a push for formats that emphasize rivalries, personal journeys, and comeback stories.Conclusion: Why This is the Most Exciting Time in BodybuildingWith Chris Bumstead’s retirement creating a power vacuum in Classic Physique and the Men’s Open division experiencing a decade-long rotation of champions, bodybuilding has entered an era of thrilling unpredictability. Both divisions are now open to new champions, new styles, and new approaches, making this an exciting time for both fans and athletes.For competitors, this period is a chance to seize the moment and establish their own legacies. For fans, it’s an opportunity to witness history in the making. The sport of bodybuilding has never been more dynamic, and the stage is set for a new generation to take the spotlight.Whether you’re a longtime fan or just tuning in, this era of bodybuilding promises a blend of excitement, uncertainty, and potential that hasn’t been seen in decades. Now is the time to watch closely—because anything can happen, and a new era of champions is ready to rise. Looking To Hire A Bodybuilding Coach To Help Achieve Your Goals? Click the button below to search for coaches that can help you with off season plans and with your prep! Click Here
The Dark Side of Matt Jansen’s Coaching: Why His Approach May Be Devastating For Athletes
Is Matt Jansen's Coaching Controversial? In the sport of bodybuilding, few coaches have caused as much debate as Matt Jansen has recently. Known for guiding several athletes to success, Jansen is hailed by supporters as a coaching mastermind. Yet, critics argue that Matt Jansen's coaching methods may do more harm than good, suggesting his success is built more on aggressive marketing than sound coaching. Is Matt Jansen truly a great coach, or has the bodybuilding community been seduced by hype?Let’s take a closer look at the controversies surrounding Matt Jansen’s coaching style. We'll delve into the criticisms of his training methods, examine some high-profile failures, and explore the potential harm his practices could be inflicting on athletes. Most importantly, we'll discuss the crucial role that fitness reviews play in protecting athletes, using platforms like Fitness Coach Ratings to make informed decisions.1. The Pressure to Succeed at Any CostA major criticism of Matt Jansen is his uncompromising drive to win, often prioritizing results over the well-being of athletes. This mentality can lead to pushing clients beyond safe limits, sometimes with extreme calorie deficits, grueling training routines, and questionable supplementation. Former clients have raised concerns about physical burnout and injuries, claiming they felt pressured to follow Matt Jansen’s coaching advice even when it seemed excessive.The drive for instant results may work in the short term, but it's a dangerous game when it comes to long-term health. Athletes who seek sustainable progress need a coach who understands their limits, adapts strategies to their individual needs, and emphasizes overall well-being—not just success at all costs.2. Lack of Individualization in Training ProgramsOne of the most glaring criticisms of Jansen's approach is his alleged reliance on "cookie-cutter" programs. Many former clients have reported feeling like they were following a one-size-fits-all plan rather than receiving personalized guidance tailored to their unique physiology and goals. In the case of Nick Walker, when prep wasn't going to plan then was Jansen able to make decisions on the fly and pivot to help Walker get ready for the Olympia? The answer to that question, Nick Walker dropped out of the Olympia a week before the competition...Apparently Nick Thrives on chaos according to Jansen. Matt Jansen is no longer Nick Walker's coach as of writing this. Sorry, Nick Walker still has a chance to avoid ending up like the New York Jets. This lack of individualization raises serious concerns about the quality of Matt Jansen’s coaching. While generic programs might produce quick, visible results, they can also lead to injuries, plateaus, or burnout if not adjusted to fit the specific needs of each athlete. An effective coach should build their reputation on tailored solutions that cater to each client's abilities, not on recycled training plans that are barely modified for individual athletes. 3. A Track Record of High-Profile FailuresWhile Matt Jansen has coached some well-known athletes to victories, his track record isn’t without glaring failures. High-profile breakups with clients like Nick Walker have cast doubt on Matt Jansen’s coaching methods. Some athletes have blamed stalled progress or injuries on his advice, revealing disagreements over the intensity of training, lack of rest, and extreme nutrition protocols.These incidents make one question whether Matt Jansen's coaching prowess is the result of skill or simply good timing with genetically gifted athletes. It's important to remember that a few success stories do not guarantee the effectiveness of a coach’s methods for the majority of athletes.Want some videos with athlete's examples? See belowhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?si=bmFw6ekB00fqdobR&v=XLDrSPvd6M0&feature=youtu.be https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbnxEZOLoQkhttps://www.youtube.com/live/xD2Znz1CHZI 4. Controversial Supplement and Nutrition AdviceAnother contentious aspect of Matt Jansen’s coaching is his approach to nutrition and supplements. Allegations of extreme and potentially dangerous dietary protocols have surfaced, with some athletes pointing to high-risk supplements and aggressive cycling practices as concerns. Critics argue that Jansen’s recommendations may not always be rooted in science, potentially putting athletes’ health at risk.Additionally, Jansen’s ties to certain supplement brands raise questions about his impartiality. Is his advice genuinely aimed at helping athletes, or is it influenced by business connections? When athletes are encouraged to follow supplementation protocols that might not suit their specific needs, the results can be disastrous.5. Emotional Manipulation and FavoritismAthletes who have worked with Jansen often describe his coaching style as emotionally manipulative. Some report feeling pressured to follow his advice without question, while others feel dismissed if they voice concerns. Favoritism appears to play a role in how much attention an athlete receives, with Jansen allegedly favoring “star” clients at the expense of others. This toxic environment can demotivate athletes, leading to self-doubt, frustration, and a lack of trust in the coaching process. A good coach should inspire confidence and support athletes’ autonomy, fostering a culture of open dialogue rather than creating an atmosphere where clients feel they must comply without question.6. The Impact of Injuries Under His GuidanceInjuries are an unfortunate reality in any high-level sport, but several clients have suffered significant injuries under Matt Jansen’s coaching. Critics point to his demanding and rigid training protocols, suggesting that they contribute to the frequency of these injuries. The emphasis on short-term gains, with little regard for recovery, can lead to overuse injuries and chronic pain that impact an athlete’s career.This raises a crucial question: Does Jansen prioritize his athletes' long-term health, or is he more concerned with showcasing rapid transformations to build his reputation? A sustainable coaching approach should include a balance of intensity and recovery, tailored to each athlete’s physical capacity.7. A Culture of Silence Among AthletesOne of the most troubling aspects of Matt Jansen’s coaching reputation is the culture of silence among his athletes. There seems to be a code of loyalty that discourages speaking out, even when athletes have had negative experiences. Those who do raise concerns are often labeled as “haters” or “quitter”—labels that can be damaging in a community where reputation means everything.This culture of silence is detrimental to the sport, preventing athletes from discussing what works and what doesn’t. Open dialogue and constructive criticism are essential for evolving training methods, and a coach who discourages feedback may not have the best interests of athletes in mind.Conclusion: Is Matt Jansen's Coaching Deserving Of This Controversy? In bodybuilding, results often speak louder than words. Matt Jansen has undeniably guided some athletes to success, but the criticisms surrounding his methods cannot be overlooked. From accusations of extreme training and cookie-cutter programs to reports of injuries and favoritism, Jansen’s approach may be doing more harm than good. Athletes deserve a coach who cares about their long-term well-being, not someone who is solely focused on achieving quick, short-lived success. The controversy surrounding Jansen should serve as a warning to athletes everywhere: Reputation doesn’t always equal quality.What This Means for You: The Role of Fitness Coach RatingsThe controversies around Matt Jansen highlight a broader issue within the fitness industry. If high-profile athletes like Nick Walker can be misled by a coach’s reputation, what does that mean for everyday gym-goers and amateur athletes who don’t have that insider access? Think about the coaches who are on instagram with massive followings due to their physiques or showcasing (or photoshopping) their same handful of clients that made progress while the other 90% got no where. How about the personal trainers not focused on their clients at the gym and just collecting payments while they sit on their phones?Why do we choose coaches that have not proven that they are worth paying for? How often do you buy things or go to restaurants without reviews these days? The fitness industry has so much mistrust in it and we're allowing it to happen to us. We’re better than this! There are great coaches and personal trainers out there. We just need to recognize them. That’s where Fitness Coach Ratings comes in. At Fitness Coach Ratings, our mission is to bring transparency to the fitness world. We encourage athletes and gym-goers to share their experiences with different coaches—both the good and the bad. Reviews give insight into a coach’s methods, professionalism, and ability to adapt to individual needs. By gathering and sharing this information, we aim to create a community where athletes can make informed decisions based on real-life feedback, not just a coach’s marketing tactics.Don’t Get Fooled: Do Your ResearchThe allure of a quick transformation or a coach with a strong online presence can be tempting. But as Matt Jansen’s story shows, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and seek out honest feedback. Don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions, demand individualization, and prioritize long-term health over short-term gains.Fitness Coach Ratings is here to support that journey. Our platform is designed to give athletes a voice, provide accountability for coaches, and help you find the right fit for your needs. In a world where hype can sometimes overshadow quality, informed decisions can make all the difference. We need your help in leaving reviews on coaches profiles so that others can have a better understanding of who is worth working with. Final ThoughtsMatt Jansen’s career is a reminder that even the most respected and successful coaches can have questionable practices. Before choosing a coach to guide your fitness journey, visit Fitness Coach Ratings to read reviews, compare experiences, and select a coach who aligns with your values and goals. Don’t get blindsided by flashy marketing or big names—get informed, stay safe, and choose a coach who genuinely cares about your long-term success. Looking To Hire A Bodybuilding Coach To Help Achieve Your Goals? Click the button below to search for coaches that can help you with off season plans and with your prep! Click Here
