I love these discussions. They started back in February 2009 as a way to share, debate and learn a wealth of training-related information. In that time we’ve heard numerous ideas, tips and suggestions; and been pointed to some fascinating sites, apps, podcasts, books and equipment.
Thanks to everyone who’s taken part – it really is appreciated.


Still, it always frustrated me a little that there’s no easy way to point people to previous discussions. Unless you were there at the time, there wasn’t a lot you could do.

Accordingly, we’ll be moving these conversations to a platform that makes this sort of thing nice and painless : Google+.

Google+ (or just G+) offers a lot of advantages, both for the people who are there and those that can’t make it at the time. Specifically :

• Each post on G+ has a permalink, so you can point people to previous discussions. This is just the same as any other URL, so you’ll be able to share it in the usual ways.
• The questions/answers can be as long as you like – no more 140 character restriction. It’s still a good idea to keep them reasonably brief (so people can read and absorb them in time), but you’re not limited at all.
• Posts and comments can be edited if necessary. If you spot a glaring mistake somewhere (in one of your own points), you can go back and fix it.

And seeing as we’re moving to Google, a new name is in order. I’ll be running with ‘Gymchats‘, as it isn’t too much of a change and makes the subject matter pretty clear. The topics themselves will be exactly the same.
Incidentally, if you haven’t used Google+ before and would like an invitation, I have a few left. Otherwise, swing by my profile and add me to one of your circles.

The most recent discussion : How to Find a Personal Trainer
This was a very interesting look at the various things to consider when hiring a Personal Trainer, and the many benefits they can bring. Featuring interviewee Kirk ‘Captain‘ Fontaine, we were also joined by New York-based Trainer Derek ‘Body by D-Rock‘ Peruo.

Great conversation – and you’ll find the entire transcript here.

To find out the details of next week’s discussion as soon as they’re announced, subscribe to the weekly newsletter. And to ask a question or share a comment in upcoming Gymchats, simply add Scott Bird to one of your Google+ circles.
See you there.

NB : parts of this article initially appeared in the Strength & Fitness Newsletter. You can sign up (free) here.