The Sandwich Technique: A Simple Cueing Strategy for Personal Trainers to Improve Coaching
- The Anthos Team
- Sep 18
- 2 min read
If you are a personal trainer, you know that cueing can make or break a session. A great workout plan means nothing if your client cannot perform the exercises correctly. Good cueing helps clients move better, stay safe, and feel more confident.
One simple method you can use to clean up your coaching is called the sandwich technique. It is straightforward, effective, and keeps clients engaged.
What Is the Sandwich Technique?
The sandwich technique is a three-step process for giving feedback:
Step one: Show what you want.
Demonstrate the correct form or describe what the client should feel. This sets a clear example.
Step two: Show what they are doing.
Point out their current movement. This helps them see the difference without feeling criticized. Try to correct one or two things that will make the biggest improvement in their form.
Step three: Return to what you want.
End by showing or saying the correct version again. This reinforces the right technique and keeps things positive.
Why the Sandwich Technique Works for Personal Trainers
Trainers often give too many cues at once. Clients then feel overwhelmed and confused. The sandwich technique keeps things simple by focusing on one clear loop: correct form, current form, correct form again.
It also helps clients take ownership. Instead of waiting for endless corrections, they start noticing what feels right and adjusting on their own. This builds confidence and speeds up learning.
Finally, it keeps your coaching encouraging. Clients hear what they should do, not just what they did wrong. That kind of feedback motivates them and builds trust in you as a coach.
Tips to Master the Sandwich Technique
Keep demonstrations short. Highlight one or two key points only.
Be specific when showing what they are doing. Avoid overloading them with details.
Always finish with the correct version. That is the part you want them to remember.
Give them a chance to try again right away. Quick application makes learning stick.
Take Your Cueing to the Next Level
Programming and exercise selection are important, but your cueing is what truly sets you apart from being a great personal trainer. Clients stay with trainers who make them feel successful, and techniques like the sandwich method help you deliver that experience every time.
To see Professor Cliff explain this, check out our Instagram post here.
PS: Do you want to become a more confident personal trainer? Our hands-on trainer certification program gives new trainers the tools, confidence, and real-world experience to coach with ease. Learn proven methods that make you feel prepared, capable, and ready to guide anyone right from day one.
