Client Check-Ins

Check-ins are how your clients report their progress, share updates, and stay accountable. Learn how to review and respond effectively.

What are Check-Ins?

Check-ins are regular submissions from your clients through the mobile app. They typically include:

• Progress photos
• Current weight
• Notes or comments from the client
• Answers to custom questions (if configured)
• Timestamp and date

Accessing Check-Ins

To view a client's check-ins:

1. Navigate to the Clients page
2. Click on the client you want to review
3. Click the Check-in tab

You'll see a chronological list of all check-ins submitted by that client, with the most recent at the top.

Check-In Components

Progress Photos

Clients can upload multiple photos per check-in (typically front, side, and back views). Photos help you:

• Assess visual progress over time
• Identify muscle development or fat loss
• Spot posture or form issues
• Motivate clients by showing their transformation

Weight Tracking

Each check-in includes the client's current weight. The system automatically:

• Tracks weight changes over time
• Calculates weekly/monthly trends
• Displays weight on the Progress tab chart
• Shows distance from goal weight

Client Notes

Clients can add text notes to their check-ins, often including:

• How they're feeling
• Energy levels and sleep quality
• Challenges faced during the week
• Questions for you
• Personal wins or struggles

These notes provide valuable context beyond just photos and numbers.

Responding to Check-Ins

Your response is crucial for client engagement and accountability. Here's how to respond:

Writing Effective Responses

1. Acknowledge Progress

Start by recognizing what the client has done well:

• "Great work staying consistent this week!"
• "I can see real progress in your back development"
• "Your weight is trending in the right direction"

2. Address Concerns

If the client mentioned challenges, respond directly:

• Answer their questions
• Provide solutions to problems
• Adjust plans if needed
• Offer encouragement

3. Give Actionable Feedback

Provide specific guidance for the coming week:

• "Let's increase your cardio by 10 minutes"
• "Focus on hitting your protein target of 150g daily"
• "Try adding 5lbs to your squat this week"

4. Set Expectations

Let them know what to focus on next:

• "Continue with your current plan for 2 more weeks"
• "Take progress photos again in 14 days"
• "Let's schedule a check-in call this week"

Check-In Frequency

How often should clients check in? It depends on your coaching style:

Weekly Check-Ins (Recommended)

• Best for accountability
• Allows quick adjustments
• Keeps communication consistent
• Not overwhelming for either party

Bi-Weekly Check-Ins

• Good for experienced clients
• Reduces submission fatigue
• Shows clearer trends
• Works for less intensive coaching

Monthly Check-Ins

• Maintenance or advanced clients
• Long-term trend tracking
• Less time commitment
• May reduce accountability

Check-In Reminders

The mobile app can send automatic reminders to clients when it's time to check in. Make sure your clients have notifications enabled.

Analyzing Check-In Trends

Look beyond individual check-ins to spot patterns:

Positive Trends

• Consistent weight loss/gain (depending on goal)
• Improved photo quality (better muscle definition, posture)
• More detailed notes showing engagement
• Regular submission schedule

Warning Signs

• Missed check-ins or inconsistent submissions
• Weight stagnation for 3+ weeks
• Photos showing no visible change
• Frustrated or discouraged notes
• Rushed or minimal effort submissions

Using Check-Ins to Adjust Plans

Check-ins inform your coaching decisions:

When to Increase Intensity

• Client reports exercises feeling too easy
• Progress photos show good muscle development
• Weight is stable and client wants more challenge
• Energy levels are high

When to Reduce Intensity

• Client reports excessive fatigue
• Notes mention poor recovery or soreness
• Weight loss is too rapid (health concern)
• Photos show signs of overtraining

When to Change Approach

• Plateau lasting 4+ weeks
• Client boredom or lack of motivation
• Injuries or limitations mentioned
• Goal changes

Best Practices

For Coaches

• Respond to every check-in, even if brief
• Review photos at full size, not just thumbnails
• Compare current photos to previous check-ins
• Ask follow-up questions when needed
• Celebrate wins, no matter how small
• Be honest but encouraging with feedback

Encourage Clients To

• Submit check-ins on the same day/time each week
• Take photos in consistent conditions
• Weigh themselves at the same time (morning, after bathroom)
• Write detailed notes about their week
• Ask questions if they have concerns

Common Questions

What if a client submits incomplete check-ins?

Gently remind them of what's expected. Explain that complete check-ins help you provide better guidance. You can send a message via the app or during your next call.

Should I require weekly check-ins?

It depends on your coaching package and client agreement. Many coaches make weekly check-ins a requirement for accountability and better results.

Can clients see my responses?

Yes, your responses appear in the mobile app under their check-in history. Clients receive a notification when you respond.

What if I miss responding to a check-in?

Respond as soon as you notice. Apologize for the delay and provide thorough feedback. Consistency is important for trust.

What's Next?

Learn more about client management:

• Progress Tracking - Advanced progress monitoring with photos and charts
• Managing Client Profiles - Navigate tabs and organize clients
• Assigning Plans - Give clients workout programs