The truth about accountability

In the world of fitness coaching and client-coach relationships, there’s a big misconception around accountability.

It’s a rather amorphous term that gets thrown around a lot, and everyone seems to have their own idea of what it means.

To some, accountability simply means a periodic kick in the ass from their coach to ensure they stay on track.

To others, it’s an expectation that their coach needs to hunt them down and chase them over missed check-ins and missed workouts.

Well, the truth is, accountability is neither of those things.

Let’s start with the true definition.

The true definition of accountability tells us what it is, but more importantly, what it’s not.

Accountability from a coach is not:

Accountability from a coach is:

Providing a container for the client which allows him to accept responsibility and account for his actions.

In other words, true accountability is a fifty-fifty agreement between a coach and a client.

The coach provides the proper support channels, and the client self-actions those channels when he needs them.

This is what builds long-term ownership and self-governance within the client.

An interesting observation I’ve noticed…

Since launching Ditch Your Dad-Bod nearly 6 years ago and coaching several hundred men, I’ve identified two archetypes within the realm of accountability.

The men who actively seek accountability always achieve the greatest and longest lasting results.

Anytime they feel unsure, stuck, or simply need some additional guidance, they run toward accountability, not from it.

This ensures they get the support they need in a timely manner, allowing us to refocus, recalibrate, and get them back on track.

The men who fall within the Seeker Archetype consistently reach their goal of losing 20, 40, 60, even 80+ pounds permanently.

These are the men who, after facing a roadblock or setback, retreat, go dark, and suffer alone in silence.

Sometimes driven by shame, but usually driven by ego.

The Avoider Archetype typically expects accountability to just show up at their doorstep, which leads to these men staying stuck in a self-perpetuating loop of inaction.

Luckily, the ratio within Ditch Your Dad-Bod has always weighed heavily towards the Seeker, which is why we have endless transformations and success stories under our belt.

That being said, I think it’s still important to bring visibility to this for those few men who may be struggling right now, waiting for accountability to show up.

If you ever find yourself suffering alone in silence after a roadblock or setback, the worst thing you can do is continue to stay in the shadows.

Build up the courage to become the Seeker and go after the support and accountability you need.

— Coach RK

PS, if you’re ready to finally lean in to support, structure, and accountability, and you’re ready to drop at least 20lbs of belly fat by summer, simply reply to this email with the word “ACCOUNTABILITY” and we’ll determine whether we’d be a good fit to work together.