Scams infiltrate every type of business, but for some reason, it seems extremely easy for people to scam you in the fitness industry. I personally think it is because of so much misinformation that it is easier for people to be scammed.
Most people believe almost everything they hear. They think that because someone is online and offering advice they are somehow an expert or a guru. To me, a guru is someone who has accomplished something major in their field. Tom Venuto is a guru. Skip Lacour is a guru. Carlos DeJesus is a guru. They have all accomplished incredible things in their field. This is why I call myself a “fitness guru wannabe” because I want to accomplish major things in this field, but have not yet done so. I am honest and let people know my credentials right up front.
If you are sick of scams in the fitness industry, you are the key. Scammers won’t exist if people aren’t allowing themselves to be scammed. Make sure that you are checking the credentials of every single person you take advice from. Realize that if someone tells you one way is the right way (and it is always their way that is the right way), be skeptical immediately. Ask alot of questions before you plunk down any cash. Look to reliable sources of information before committing to anything on the internet.
If, despite taking such precautions, you are still scammed, don’t despair. Take advantage of the guarantees that are attached to these products. Better yet, do your internet research before you buy anything. It pays to be careful these days.
The best advice I can give you is take advantage of social networks. Become friends with these alleged gurus and find out what they are like. You will quickly weed out the guy who goes to Las Vegas and spends all his time in the bars partying. Do you really want to take his advice when he, himself, doesn’t take his own advice? It is something you really need to consider as you find people to listen to.
Remember, pretty much every technique in the fitness industry today is not new. Nutritional ideas that existed years ago still work today. Yes, scientific discoveries have helped alot, but even then they have only changed the outlook a little bit. The same goes for training techniques. Why spend a ton of money to have someone tell you what exercises to do when you can get that same information for free? The main reason is that people think they only get quality advice if they pay for it. The reality is that the information you need is at your fingertips—just type away in Google and you will find what you need.
