Stupid people in the park... do I tell them they are dumb? - Page 2

Garrett Smith · 03-24-2009, 08:16 PM

I met my wife at the college rec center by asking her if she'd like some help/advice with her behind-the-neck pulldowns (that some L.A. trainer had shown her)...I had that scenario (hot girl doing bad pulldowns) set up in my head for a long time, and she stepped into my trap.

Note that I asked her if she'd like some advice. If she said "not really", I would have left her alone.

Timothy Holmes · 03-24-2009, 10:22 PM

Dave, that's exactly what I wanted. I really like that post.... I just felt bad because the 'issue' was easily 'fixed' and would reap benefits, especially for the older exerciser... quality of movement and all that... I guess what they were doing was far better than nothing at all...

That's awesome, Garret. So, don't do it, unless she's hot and struggling and doesn't mind the interuption

Jay Cohen · 03-25-2009, 01:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave Van Skike

it's never appropriate. when you feel compelled to teach, it means you have much to learn.

just do what I do and blather on message boards about shit that doesn't matter.

Dave, that is very wise. Do you know the source of the quote??
Thanks.

PS. I need that tattooed on my arm, forehead or at least a Post It Note placed somewhere in view at all times...........

Dave Van Skike · 03-25-2009, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jay Cohen

Dave, that is very wise. Do you know the source of the quote??
Thanks.

PS. I need that tattooed on my arm, forehead or at least a Post It Note placed somewhere in view at all times...........

well...that particular arrangement of words was my own but I'm sure the idea is old.

Gant Grimes · 03-25-2009, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dave Van Skike

it's never appropriate. when you feel compelled to teach, it means you have much to learn.

just do what I do and blather on message boards about shit that doesn't matter.

Quote:

I have run into this same problem at both of the places I lift. It's a tough one but I try to employ the rules of home ownership.

Clean up your own backyard.

Lead by example. Be an absolute technician with your own form. People recognize skill when see it.

Know your neighbors

Get to know the trainers on at least a friendly conversational basis. People are not ignorant on purpose (not usually). If you have a relationship with them it's a lot easier to ask them why they teach in a certain way. As a big plus, you may learn from them and they from you. Side benefits ensue, a trainer at my gym lets me keep my kettlebells there.

Buy a fixer in the best neighborhood you can afford.

Quit your gym and go lift someplace where people are smarter and stronger than you. It's profoundly unhealthy to be walking around thinking you're the only one who knows shit. Most people don't get better unless pushed. Empty your cup and go someplace where you can learn, not where you feel the need to teach.

Wisdom!

Arden Cogar Jr. · 03-25-2009, 01:17 PM

Wow, Dave said it perfectly.

I personally never offer advice unless it's asked. Then it's all holds barred.

I likely need a lesson in "tact" or however that's spelled. Diplomacy is a learned skill.

My favorite is "Let's start with what you're doing right." Askee- "well, what am I doing right?" Coach - "Not much."

All the best, Arden

Gant Grimes · 03-25-2009, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Arden Cogar Jr.

My favorite is "Let's start with what you're doing right." Askee- "well, what am I doing right?" Coach - "Not much."

All the best, Arden

At my last tournament, I drew the guy who always wins these things (and has beaten me before...quickly). I had the following conversation with my coach.

"Feel his feet and hips. He loves to throw the drop knee, and he'll circle around to move you into position. He's also got a great sumi gaeshi, so don't rush. Also, watch for the back grip. He's tall, and he loves to reach over you. That's how he sets up his hip throws, which are excellent."

"Great, coach. So what are his weaknesses?"

"Hmm. Well...he's pretty good."