Choosing a Personal Trainer

Hiring a personal trainer is a very big commitment that needs to be considered carefully. First, there is the cost. Second, there are the goals you will be setting and then trying to achieve with the help of the trainer.

Why Hire a Trainer?

Hiring a trainer does cost money, but it can help keep you more motivated with each session. A trainer can serve as an accountability partner you report your progress to. They can encourage your efforts and point out ways of working out more efficiently. They can also customize workouts if you have any existing health conditions and teach you proper form for exercises and equipment in order to prevent injury. Those who are determined to see more consistent results in their new workout routines think the money is well-spent.

However, you need to find the right trainer for you. Here are some of the most important things to consider:

Cost

How much will they charge per session? Is there a discount if you buy a number of sessions at the same time?

Credentials

A trainer should be able to show you some form of fitness certification in their particular area of expertise. To become certified, personal trainers must pass an exam through an accredited organization such as The American Council on Exercise (ACE), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Accreditation ensures they’ve met certain standards of professionalism and competence from a trustworthy professional organization.

Experience

Less experienced trainers will often be cheaper, but you will often get what you pay for from a more experienced trainer who has several years under their belt of working successfully with clients.

A Personality You Click With

Some people like a tough approach and boot-camp style attitude to training. Others want someone they can relate to more easily. No matter which, the important thing is that you feel you have enough rapport with the person to share your goals with them and be honest about your progress. It’s no good fibbing and saying you are working out every day and watching what you eat if you never exercise and are eating junk food.

Recommendations and Testimonials

If your friend is looking amazing these days and you discover they have used a personal trainer, ask if they think the trainer would be a good fit for you. 

When meeting a trainer, as if they can provide testimonials in the form of people who would be happy to speak to you on the phone briefly about their experience.

Scheduling

If they are in high demand, it might be tough to get an appointment.

Outlook on Life and Health

Some trainers take a very physical approach, while others are more holistic and look at mind, body and spirit. They will also look at diet. Try to find someone who matches your philosophy about health and wellbeing.

Where You Will Do the Work

Will it be at the gym, or in your home, or at a studio? If it is outside your home, will you be motivated and responsible enough to go.

The Right ‘Vibe’

In these days with more open conversations about appropriate versus inappropriate behavior, it is important to put safety first. If the trainer says or does anything you feel crosses your boundaries, they are not the right trainer for you.