Training for Life away from you, the trainer??

So,
Who is still confused over what style of training is best? By this I mean, what manifests the greatest results when it comes to fitness? (I care nothing about looks right now). Is it cardio or endurance training or strength training exclusively--3 to 5 sets of one exercise per body part, is it split body part training or old style 'circuit' training?

I have been giving my clients weekly routines for years that involve each of these scenarios. In my opinion, train for fitness first then for whatever your particular favorite event is next. Meaning that if you want to run a marathon, fine, but first make sure your body is fit enough to handle it. You must be strong enough to handle the pounding your body will take, so train for it.

If a client asks me to give them something to do when they aren't training with me, I am realistic about how often they will train without me. No client is the same. Keep this in mind when handing out "to go" workouts. To stay fit, and therefore have function (ie everyday living capabilities) one must train all 3 energy systems, as well as muscular strength and endurance. Look this up online if you are unfamiliar with them...phosphagen, glycolytic, and oxidative.

To do this, givce them workouts accordingly. One day's workout should focus on strength training, one day's on muscular endurance and some form of cardio endurance (either utilizing resistance or traditional cardio machines), and another day on intervals (again utilizing resistance or traditional cardio machines).

Use your skills as a trainer to figure out what type of exercises your client needs away from you. Let's be realistic and understand that most are NOT doing what they need to do outside of your presence when 'prescribing' these exercises. Know that they may screw up your drill when they are not near you. At least make sure their form is safe...it may not be perfect, but if it's safe, off they go!

Good New Year so far?!?!?