Pro Tip: Clarifying Client Priorities for Focused Program Design
Do you ever find yourself designing programs that don't quite align with what your clients need most? Or perhaps you get overwhelmed trying to address too many areas at once? Today's pro tip focuses on a critical step that many coaches overlook: clearly defining and tracking client priorities before programming begins.
Pro Tip: Clarifying Client Priorities for Focused Program Design
What are Client Priorities?
Client priorities are the specific areas of focus that will drive the most meaningful progress based on assessments, consultations, and client goals. These might include improving specific movement patterns, addressing lifestyle factors, or targeting particular aspects of nutrition or body composition.
Rather than trying to fix everything at once, priorities help you create a hierarchy of needs that keeps your programming focused and effective. They serve as a bridge between assessment findings and practical program design.
How to Implement a Priority-Based Approach in CoachRx
Follow these steps to effectively manage client priorities in your coaching practice:
Identify Priorities from Multiple Sources
Consultation discussions (client-expressed needs)
Assessment results (OPEX Body, Move, and Work)
Observations during training sessions
Weekly check-in data
Failed movement patterns or limitations
Record Priorities in CoachRx
Use the Priorities icon [!] in the sidebar from the training calendar to track exercise, lifestyle, and nutrition priorities
Add specific details like "improve anterior core strength" or "increase daily protein intake"
Include context about why each priority matters for this client
Integrate Priorities into Your Planning
Reference your priority list each time you sit down to program
Use the Cycle Priorities section in each short-term plan
Focus on addressing 3-5 priorities at a time rather than trying to fix everything
Align exercise selection, progressions, and lifestyle prescriptions with these priorities
Review and Update Regularly
After monthly consultations
Following reassessments
When significant progress is made
Remove priorities that have been addressed
Add new priorities as the client evolves
Why This Matters
A priority-based approach transforms your program design from a shot in the dark to a precision tool. Rather than starting with a blank calendar and wondering what to program, you'll have clear guiding principles that inform every decision.
For your clients, this means faster progress in the areas that matter most, creating visible wins that build trust and motivation. They'll appreciate that you're not just giving them random workouts but focusing specifically on what they need.
For you as a coach, tracking priorities reduces decision fatigue, creates programming consistency, and helps you maintain focus through the client's entire journey. It's the difference between reactive coaching and strategic coaching.
Take a few minutes today to update each client's priority list and notice how much more confident and focused your program design becomes when you have this clear direction.
Not yet using CoachRx? Start your free trial today and experience how the priority tracking features can transform your approach to program design!
Ready to Transform Your Coaching Business? Take Action Now.
For Existing CoachRx Users:
Log In Now and explore your new "Needs Attention" dashboard. Your clients are waiting!
New to CoachRx?
Start Your Free 14-Day Trial and see why leading coaches trust CoachRx to deliver exceptional client experiences.
