Why Scope of Practice Matters IN Personal Training: Protecting ONE’S Health, Safety, and Progress

At Wellness League in Wichita, Kansas, we are SO proud to be one of the most specialized fitness studios in the state of Kansas. Our team is highly trained and skilled in the art of teaching generalized fitness and Corrective Exercise.

And of course, (harmless plug), it’s all executed in the comfort of your very own beautiful, private, by appointment-only—personalized studio!

Now, all our programs are designed specifically for the benefit of those who need safe and effective movement training. We try to keep all our programs safe, fun, progressive, and enjoyable, all while providing the supportive environment needed to begin or continue one’s fitness journey.

But let’s set the record straight about something we believe in wholeheartedly: scope of practice.

ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE CHOOSING THEIR PERSONAL TRAINER… READ FURTHER!!!!

What Is Scope of Practice?

In personal training, scope of practice refers to the professional boundaries of what a trainer can, cannot, should, and should not do. At its core, trainers are here to:

• Create safe and effective workout programs

• Teach correct movement patterns and exercise techniques

• Motivate, coach, and guide you toward realistic fitness goals

And that’s it. That’s our lane as personal trainers and believe me… it’s an incredibly important one.

Sure, there are nuances based on higher levels of certifications, for example: some coaches are credentialed in nutrition, so they can discuss basic nutritional guidelines and help their clients to make better food choices. But they are not able to create meal plans. That needs to be left to a Registered Dietician.

Wellness League owner Nathan Engels is as highly credentialed in the world of fitness as it comes, but even he has limits on what he can or cannot do with a client. Three of his specialty certifications include being a Medical Exercise Specialist, a Biomechanical Corrective Exercise Specialist, and an Orthopedic Exercise Specialist. Even with all of these, and the 15 years’ experience he has in the world of exercise, he is still not allowed to attempt to perform the job of a Chiropractor, Athletic Trainer, or Physical Therapist.

All of those professions have multiple years of targeted education that must be completed before getting their licenses, so it is downright insulting for a Personal Trainer to believe they can fill these shoes.

Here is a rundown of what we, as trainers need to be avoiding, and why it’s important to follow the SCOPE!

What We Are Not

At Wellness League, we never pretend to be something we’re not. And remember friends,

PERSONAL TRAINERS are not:

• Doctors

• Pain management specialists

• Physical therapists

• Chiropractors

• Dieticians

• Mental health therapists

If your situation requires it, we will gladly refer you to the right medical professional and even require a doctor’s clearance before beginning your program. Why? Because your health and safety matter more than pretending to have all the answers. That is EGO, and your safety and results are more important than any trainer’s idea of how good they are.

Why This Matters for You

Far too often, people place trust in trainers who overstep their boundaries: handing out meal plans, diagnosing injuries, or trying to “fix” pain. Not only is this dangerous, it can delay proper care and put your long-term health at risk.

The right trainer respects your body, your limits, and your team of medical professionals. That’s exactly what we do at Wellness League. We stay in our lane, so you can safely thrive in yours. This is also why we are so highly referred by Physical Therapists post surgical rehabilitation.

BECAUSE WE DON’T HAVE AN IDENTITY CRISIS!

Our Promise to You

When you train with us, you get a team that:
* Specializes in safe, effective beginner’s level fitness that progresses as you progress.
* Works hand-in-hand with your doctors and care providers, just look at our partnership with Kansas Care Connect!
* Creates a private, supportive environment that puts your needs first… you are all that matters!
* Believes in honesty, professionalism, and integrity, honestly that’s really all there is to it.

At the end of the day, never trust a trainer who oversteps their boundaries. Your health is too valuable for shortcuts or guesswork.

At Wellness League, our mission is simple: to help you move better, feel stronger, and live healthier—while always respecting the boundaries of our profession.

Here’s where to learn more about our specialty programs!

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