We Build Strong Bodies

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. I’m a novice exerciser, not an athlete. Are classes at the Trailhead too hard for me?
    The benefit of small class sizes (maximum 8 people) with 2 trainers means that our classes are almost like personal training! All our classes employ scaleable exercises that can be easily tailored to match your current level of fitness or to accommodate any injuries you may be working to heal.

  2. How do Trailhead Athletics classes differ from fitness Boot Camps or Crossfit training?
    Our classes are designed to develop strength, agility and power, all things that take time. Our multi-week training blocks give you the opportunity to see real results from your efforts.
    Our classes are periodized with big efforts and built in recovery so your body can adapt and grow stronger from the class workload. By creating cycles of effort throughout the year your body is challenged in different ways, keeping your workout routine fresh and your body improving.
    Our athlete to trainer ratio of 4:1 is unheard of in group exercise. The increased attention provides the highest levels of safety, education, motivation.
    With smaller classes you will develop a community of like-minded classmates who will be there to support you, challenge you and motivate you.
    Our trainers understand that many of you train for other activities. Our programs are designed to coordinate with most competitive seasons but we can modify your workouts within the class setting to accommodate your competitive schedule.
    If you have a group of 4 or more, contact us to create your own class series.

  3. Can I start classes at the Trailhead in the middle of a training block?
    We have a strong belief that you will see maximum benefits by making a commitment to a strength and conditioning component of your training for a period of time greater than two months. But the best time to start a program is NOW! Don’t procrastinate and start building strength in your first session. We accept new participants at any time and will tailor your workouts as necessary. Pricing will be prorated as needed.

  4. I’m an endurance athlete. Will strength training increase my muscle mass and make me slower in my sport?
    This is a common myth. Muscle hypertrophy (big muscles common with bodybuilders) requires a specific approach to training and is not generally accompanied by endurance-based cardiovascular training (running, cycling). Cardiovascular training breaks down muscle. It doesn’t build it. The strength and conditioning program at Trailhead Athletics will help you maintain strength through your endurance training and will provide a balance to muscles that are not primarily used in your sport, reducing the risk of injury. We also provide power, agility and speed components to our workouts that will help you reach a higher level of fitness than you can reach by cardiovascular endurance training alone. Finally, most endurance athletes do not consume the amount of protein required to build the amount of muscle that generates muscle hypertrophy.

  5. Are there any other benefits of adding a strength training component to my current training program?
    Improved strength and balanced musculature come from a well designed program but two other benefits of strength training should not be overlooked.
    a. Bone health is actually compromised by cardiovascular endurance training, whether it is impact based (running) or not (road cycling). This is due in large part to mineral loss from sweat. Strength training & plyometric training have been proven to stimulate and increase bone density.
    b. Improved balance & developing a keen sense of where your body is in space are key factors in reducing the potential for injury when you are exercising in an ever-changing or unstable environment (roots, rocks, sidewalk cracks etc.).

  6. I’d like to bring a friend to check out your classes. Is there an option for them to try things out?
    Of course! Friends and family are always welcome. Just ask us for a complimentary class pass. We really appreciate your referrals. If your friend purchases a class package, you will receive a 10% discount off your next class package or a ½ price personal training session

  7. I have a group of friends/teammates that would love to train at the Trailhead. Can we form our own class?
    With 4 or more friends we can create a special class just for you! We will tailor the classes to match your group’s personal goals – weight loss, sport specific training (for hockey, motocross, cycling etc.)

  8. Do you offer workshops for groups who want to learn about the benefits of balanced strength training or other fitness-related topics?
    We offer and develop group-specific workshops on various fitness and training related topics. Examples of past seminars include “lunch bag” office workshops on life-work balance, “Learn to Race” clinics for cyclists & Proper Biomechanics for Strength Training. Contact us for more information

  9. Do you accept credit cards for payment?
    Yes. We accept Visa and Mastercard.

  10. What is a Compass Class? Why are they important?
    Our Compass Class helps us find the right direction for your training. This fitness appraisal is mandatory for all new Trailhead athletes. It includes full baseline fitness review (strength, flexibility, goal setting) and base knowledge session. Compass classes are about 90 minutes in length. They ensure that we have a clear view of any training limitations you may have and highlight specific areas of concentration for your training.

  11. How can working with a trainer help me?
    A qualified trainer will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to be successful in achieving your fitness goals. We motivate and teach you the most effective way to take your fitness to another level as well as give you someone to be accountable to. By continually analyzing your progress and your technique, a trainer will make reduce your potential for injury and will maximize the efficiency of your workouts. The plateau effect many people experience when working on their own is negated because your trainer is responsive and objective.

  12. How long are the classes/training sessions?
    Our classes are FAST!TM. You will be in & out within one hour. The Daily Plan changes throughout the week and your class may be as short as 40 or 45 minutes or as long as 60 minutes. Each class moves through Movement Prep, Effort and Cool Down. With access to the trail network at Whatcom Falls Park, you may choose to extend your workout with a run or ride before or after class.
    Our personal training sessions are 60 minutes.

  13. This sounds like a great fit for me. How can I get started at Trailhead Athletics?
    Call us at (360) 392-8628 or email us at info@trailheadathletics.com and we will book a time for your first session.

  14. For what hours is the studio open?
    We offer classes beginning at 6am Monday thru Friday. Please see our class schedule for details. Our studio is closed from 1pm - 3pm daily (we have to exercise too!). Because our facility is small we may be training if you pop by for a visit. Please bear with us, we’d love to speak with you or show you around. We encourage you to call and make a brief appointment to check us out but if you’re in the neighborhood, feel free to stop by. If we are not available, leave your contact info in the space provided and we will get right back to you.