In every training certification I've seen, the importance of planning and documenting a client's workout and improvement is well-stated. However, it's easy, especially with long-term clients, to slip into a routine where workouts are "planned," on-the-spot, regular tests to prove progress in strength, flexibility and body fat reduction, and other important markers are neglected.
Consider what a disservice you're doing to your clients. If you neglect to show them a trend of improvement, either through a documented workout that shows increases in weight, repetitions or intensity, or through regular testing where there is an apple-to-apple comparison and undeniable improvement, you remove a significant motivating factor that boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to work harder. You also handicap yourself. Without objective data that proves what you are doing for them generates marked improvement, they have little incentive to spend further time and money with you. Ouch.
