If you're in the market for a personal trainer, you may be a bit intimidated by those that you see at the gym. I have seen trainers yelling at their clients, which to some people may be motivating, but to others it's just downright scary. Here are a few tips from the American Council on Exercise on picking the right trainer for you:
- Ask for references: Ask the trainer for the names and phone numbers of other clients with goals similar to yours. Call to see if they were pleased with their workouts, if the trainer was punctual and prepared, and if they felt their individual needs were addressed. The best personal trainer to hire is the one others give high marks to.
- Make sure the trainer has liability insurance and provides business policies in writing: Many personal trainers operate as independent contractors and are not employees of a fitness facility. You should find out if the trainer you want to hire carries professional liability insurance. A reputable personal trainer should also make sure you understand the cancellation policy and billing procedure. The best way to avoid confusion and to protect your rights is to have those policies in writing.
- Look for a trainer who is able to assist you with your special needs: A personal trainer should always have you fill out a health history questionnaire to determine your needs or limitations. If you have a medical condition or a past injury, a personal trainer should design a session that takes these into account. If you're under a doctor's care, a personal trainer should discuss any exercise concerns with your doctor, and should ask for a health screening or release from your doctor.
- Find out what the trainer charges: Rates vary, depending on the trainer's experience, and the length and location of the workout session. For example, a personal trainer who works in a fitness club will probably charge less per hour than one who works independently and needs to come to your home or office.
- Decide if this is someone you can work with: Some people like to exercise in the morning, some in the evening. Will the personal trainer you're talking to accommodate your schedule? What about the trainer's gender? Some people do better working with a trainer of the same sex; others prefer the opposite sex.
For a few of my own personal tips read more
- Shop around: Meet them and see if you bond before setting up sessions. Chances are that if you don't feel the bond, they don't either, and there is no harm done in finding another.
- Ask for certification: Certification in the fitness industry is a relatively new thing so some trainers have not been certified. Certified trainers have actually been educated on training, whereas those who aren't may just be going on experience.
- Take the freebie: Most gyms offer a free session with one of their trainers when you sign up. Take advantage of this as you may click with that trainer and want to use them in the future.
- Be honest: Just as you should be honest with your doctor, you should also be honest with your personal trainer. This is the best way for him/her to help you to the best of their abilities. If they can't (or aren't qualified to) do what you're looking for, they should tell you.
J Brand
Ann Sofie Back
Firetrap
Great tips! It's really funny though... I have a friend who is trying to get rid of her trainer! At first, he was really supportive, but now... their whole relationship has turned awkward and weird. He's always asking for advice and their whole workouts have become so personal. It's like she's spending more time helping him out emotionally instead of actually working out. She feels bad sometimes but I think she needs to get out it. Not to scare anyone out of seeking out a trainer though!!
That's why I think it's a great tip to seek out references!!
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