Burnout – identifying and avoiding it

I believe it happens to all of us from time to time, most commonly when we just get started with our teaching.  It's so exciting and the adrenaline is addictive.  We also know that the more we teach the more confident and comfortable we feel.  But all too often, just after we get qualified, we take on every single class made available to us.  It is difficult to say ‘no’ but it is also important to remember that our bodies and our health are our business and we should care for it as the investment it is.

Common signs of burnout are;

• Fatigue
• Insomnia , even and although we feel exhausted.
• Struggle to concentrate.
• Flu-like symptoms that we cannot exactly pin point but may include headaches, mild temperature, aches and pains even nausea and light headed ness, sore throat and ears.
• Muscles that don't recover …that consistent burning in the legs before we have even started the class perhaps walking up the stairs to the studio.
• Tearfulness
• We often feel like we have a mental block and absolutely bored with our choreography.

The good news is that we can avoid the burnout with some preparation and coordination.

I always encourage group exercise instructors learn as many disciplines as possible.  Therefore, avoiding repetitive strains on the body. 

Looking at you weekly schedule of classes, there should be an array of intensities from cardio to conditioning to stretch and perhaps even water.This will inspire creativity; it also means dealing with different groups of people with a variety of needs.

It is also important to identify when you feel at your best to teach.  Some of us are early morning trainers and have no problem taking this 5 am slots but others might need that little sleep in but enjoy the later evening crowd.It might take a while to get the classes that are perfect to your needs but it will fall into place eventually

.

Another way of re-energizing ourselves is obtaining new music, for me it is essential.  Listen to the same music day after day inhibits creativity. Circulate the music you have.

If possible, purchasing new training wear, when we look good, we feel good.  It goes a long way to inspiring us to give of our best.

Participating in other instructors’ classes.  It is so relaxing to switch off the mind and follow for a change and often it helps our own create juices to flow.Most importantly, rest.  I believe nothing can replace eating well, sleeping well and taking recovery time, even if it is active recovery.  A small change to a routine can make the world of difference for you and in turn for your clients.