FAQ — Latitude Strength Studio

Your Questions, Answered

(At least, I hope this answers your questions. I’m sure there are lots of things I didn’t cover here, but my current clients will attest that I am nothing if not thorough). If you’re wondering about something else, please reach out.

info@latitudecarlisle.com

717-282-2925 (call or text)

Completely. Most people are. You can tell me that on day one, and we'll go at your pace.
Nope. That's like cleaning your house before the cleaner comes. Getting stronger is literally what we're here to do.
After you fill out the questionnaire on the Get Started page, I'll reach out to schedule a free phone or video call. We'll talk about what's going on, what you're hoping for, and whether working together is a good fit. No pressure and no commitment.
You don't need a referral. If you're recovering from surgery or an injury, or managing a medical condition, I may ask for your provider's OK or connect with them so your training fits your care.
Wear clothes you can move in and comfortable footwear. If it’s rainy or snowy out, please bring an extra pair of shoes to change into prior to entering the training space.
A lot of people prefer to work out barefoot or in grippy socks, which is also fine by me!
Bring a water bottle that you can fill up! I will probably bug you about hydrating. Best to stay ahead of it ;)
This varies based on your needs. I generally recommend 2-3 sessions per week for best results, but how those sessions happen is somewhat flexible.

The Basics

No yelling, no punishment workouts, and burpees are strictly optional (and rarely recommended, because I hate them).
If I yell, it’s with excitement because you’re doing something awesome.
Maybe a little, sometimes. Never "can't sit down on the toilet" sore. That's not the goal, and it's not a sign of a good workout. We’ll talk more about what muscle soreness is and how we manage it when we work together.
Welcome to the club! Hopefully there’s more “laughing until you can’t breathe” than crying, but frankly we’ve all been there because sometimes movement is cathartic or unlocks feelings we aren’t expecting. And if you accidentally pee your pants in the process of us working together to improve that? No worries, we’ve gotcha.
That's expected, especially with a chronic condition. Tell me how you're feeling, and we'll adjust the session to meet you where you are that day.
Yes, with your permission. I collaborate closely with local physical therapists and can communicate with your providers so your training complements your care, during and after therapy.

What it's actually like:

Absolutely. Many clients start with little or no experience, or they may have tried things in the past but haven’t felt like it was a good fit. We'll begin where you are and build your skills and confidence step by step. I can’t promise you’ll LOVE exercise but I bet I can help it feel more fulfilling and rewarding!
Nope. That's like cleaning your house before the cleaner comes. Getting stronger is literally what we're here to do.
NO WAY. I’ve worked with clients across the age, body shape, and body presentation spectrum. And you’re not broken. You’re just working through a lot and have yet to find someone who sees YOU.
Yes, and it's one of my favorite times to start. I can work alongside your PT while you're still in therapy, then help you keep building strength once you're discharged.
I have specialty training in pre- and postnatal fitness and pelvic health. I'll follow any guidance from your OB, midwife, or pelvic floor PT and adjust your program as your body changes.
Yes. Many of my clients are on the hypermobility spectrum or managing a chronic condition. We'll build gradually, respect your energy and symptoms, and adjust as needed.
Nope nope nope - and I want to be really clear about that! While I'm a licensed physical therapist assistant, my work at Latitude is strength and movement coaching, not physical therapy. I don't diagnose or treat injuries or medical conditions. My clinical background shapes how I coach, and I'm glad to work alongside your physical therapist or healthcare provider, but my advice is not meant to replace that of any medical professional.
Building big muscles takes years of very deliberate effort and a lot of food.
You'll get stronger and more capable, and yes, muscle growth may change the way your clothes fit - but we are here to build strong bones, stable joints, and capable bodies!
PS: There’s nothing wrong with having aesthetic goals, and there are definitely ways to account for those goals within your overall programming, but I want to clearly say that I am never going to coach someone towards an aesthetic goal at the expense of their health or function. I am happy to be very honest about this conversation, because I think the way fitness bodies are portrayed out there is super misleading and does a number on our psyche and how we frame what “fit” should look like.
(exit soapbox.)

Is This Right for Me?

Fair question and it’s a conversation that I’m happy to have!
First and foremost, I am very open about my pricing because it is a 100% a factor in choosing a coach.
This costs more than a basic gym membership because you're getting a lot more than access to equipment. Your sessions are just the part you see. Behind them is a program built and adjusted specifically for you, messaging and check-ins between sessions, coordination with your PT or doctor when it helps, and a coach with clinical training who's paying close attention to how your body is responding. Latitude is small on purpose, so you get real time and attention instead of a template.
We could say that this is an “investment in yourself” and while that’s true, it also doesn’t acknowledge the fact that finances can be a struggle. If you’re not sure you can afford it, please reach out anyway. I am not here to hard sell you or pressure you, but we may be able to set up a package that is more accessible for you. OR I can talk through what other options locally may make more sense for you.
In the future I hope to be able to offer a small number of sliding scale coaching spots as well. Stay tuned for those updates.
Let's talk about how to make it work!
Yes. All clients start with some private training but most ultimately transition to semiprivate or independent training.
My goal is to teach you and build confidence to the point that you don’t need me (but by all means, please hang out as long as you want because if you’re here, you’re probably a cool person).
Latitude doesn't bill insurance (because insurance sucks, plus, we’re not a medical provider).
Some clients have used HSA or FSA funds with a letter of medical necessity that can be gotten from a physician or through a service like Truemed. Eligibility depends on your health needs and your plan, so check with Truemed and your plan administrator.