[Y201K]

I think instead of being coached, barbell lifts require learning them, as opposed to just doing the movements described on the machines' pictures. The difference means that anyone right now can go to YouTube and look up the proper form for back squatting or overhead pressing, as long as they want to invest a bit of time researching and then practicing (that is, you don't absolutely need to pay someone to teach you).

Agree otherwise, though. I think our culture needs to emphasize the importance of strength training for health (over casual gym attendance for hypertrophy and self-esteem).

[Afton]

Sure. I mean, that's what I did/do. But I also did lots of precise athletic training before hand, and I know from experience trying to "coach" people that there is a very big spread of people's proprioceptive abilities. You'd be surprised what some people can fail to notice about their own movements.

Besides which, if I had the time and money, I would absolutely hire a good quality strength and conditioning coach, and I bet I'd be kicking myself for not having done it earlier, since I've basically fixed all the things that I can notice and fix by introspection and film.

But basically I think we're in agreement on the big issues. :)