Christine Conti is a chronic disease fitness specialist, best-selling author, keynote speaker, educator, and the 2023 IDEA Fitness Professional of the Year.
Embracing Empowerment Through Fitness
Christine Conti has journeyed from being an investment banker to an advocate for chronic disease wellness. In our conversation, she shares her story of battling an aggressive autoimmune disease that drastically shifted her career and perspective on fitness and wellness. Christine emphasizes the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of chronic diseases and advocates for a mindset shift to live our best lives despite diagnoses. Her journey is a testament to how powerful the right mindset can be in overcoming life's challenges.
Practical Tips for Fitness Professionals
Working with older adults means encountering a significant number of clients with chronic diseases. According to the National Council on Aging, 95% of adults over 60 have at least one chronic condition, and 80% have two or more. Christine shares practical advice for fitness professionals on how to best serve these individuals:
Key Strategies from Christine:
1. Understanding the Mindset: - Fitness isn't just about the physical; it starts with the mind. Understand what stage of acceptance your client is in regarding their condition. - Watch for cues in their language and attitude. Are they giving their disease power, or are they ready to overcome it?
2. Effective Communication: - Move beyond traditional client intake forms and engage in meaningful, empathetic conversations. - Ask questions to delve deeper into their experience and struggles with their condition. - Avoid commiserating with clients. Instead, focus on encouraging a positive outlook and reframing negative thoughts.
3. Positive Interaction: - Begin sessions with positive affirmations rather than asking how a client feels, which could lead to a negative start. - Create an experience during your sessions where clients can forget about their disease and simply enjoy moving and being active.
4. Listening Skills: - Be an attentive listener and validate your clients' feelings without reinforcing their complaints. - Show empathy by listening to understand rather than listening to reply.
Why Mindset Matters
Christine’s own experience with chronic disease reveals the transformative power of mindset. She encourages professionals to understand that: - Chronic illnesses don't define an individual; they are simply one aspect of their life. - Encouraging a positive mindset can significantly impact clients' overall well-being and their engagement in fitness. - Building trust and fostering a supportive environment is key to helping clients navigate their conditions.
Christine’s story and insights are invaluable for fitness professionals working with older adults. Her approach combines empathy, positivity, and a focus on the mental aspect of chronic disease management. By understanding and addressing the psychological hurdles, fitness professionals can make a profound impact on their clients' lives.
Links for Christine:
Podcast: Two Fit Crazies and a Microphone
Instagram: @thechristineconti
Comments