1. Always check with your physician before starting any exercise program.  Our exercise programs are designed for healthy individuals and therefore should not be viewed or used for rehabilitative purposes. 
   
2. Please read the articles listed to the left on our sidebar. We want you to have a basic understanding of functional training and its benefits, its guidelines and how early one can start on a conditioning program.
3. Please read closely the Disclaimer and Release of Liability forms before purchasing or performing any exercise on our web site.  At the bottom of the page click on "Forms."
   
4. Consider purchasing an exercise program from our site, one that is designed specifically for the female athlete.  These basic starter programs will provide the proper strength and conditioning foundation needed before more advanced training protocols are ever implemented.  These cost effective programs can be done easily in-home, at the gym or even in a dorm room with a minimal amount of training aids. Click on "Conditioning Programs" at the top of this page.
   
5. If you have in-depth questions or concerns about getting started on a strength training program please consider using our “Ask A Question” service.  This is a unique feature that we provide to our visitors and friends.  This service gives you the opportunity to talk directly via e-mail with Margaret Hofmann or with another FAF Performance Coach.  This is your opportunity for dialogue with a professional who can provide support and direction for change. You will be guaranteed a return e-mail.  There is no cost at this time.  This is a Grand Opening special.  A fee may be charged in the future.  On our home page or in your member services area click on “Ask A Question” for all the details.
   
6. For more personalized attention each and every workout, consider hiring a personal fitness trainer or sports performance coach in your area.  This person can be on hand and design a sports specific strength and conditioning program for you based on your individual needs and goals.  You may find this person by contacting your local Health and Wellness Facility or contact the closest college or university.  Ask to speak to the Fitness Director at these institutions and tell them you are acquiring about personal training services.  In most large cities there are independent personal training businesses that specialize in sports performance enhancement.  Search the web or check the yellow pages to find these companies.  Also consider contacting The American Council on Exercise at www.ACEfitness.org to locate an ACE Certified Fitness Professional in your area that specializes in training athletes, in particular female athletes. 
   
7. Schedule a consultation to meet with a personal fitness trainer or performance coach.  Most trainers offer 30-60 minute complimentary consultations. This is an opportunity for you to get to know the trainer, view a training facility and learn more about the trainers’ business and services.

     Here are some questions to ask yourself when choosing a personal fitness trainer or performance coach:

1. Does he/she have a college degree in the field?
2. Does the trainer hold a current personal training certification through a reputable institution such as ACE, ACSM, NSCA or CSCS?
3. How many years has the trainer been working in the field?
4. What is the trainer’s specialty area?
5. Am I comfortable with the trainer?
6. Are his/her training rates reasonable based on his/her qualifications and the industry standards for your geographical location?
7. Does he/she specialize in functional strength training?

     Don’t hesitate to ask the personal fitness trainer for proof of his/her degree or membership card of their certifying organization.