How to Choose a Personal Trainer
You’ve decided you want to change your body for the better but you aren’t sure how to choose a personal trainer.
Follow these steps and you will find the one for you.
- Credentials. There are probably hundreds of personal training certifications available, but only a few are reputable with top rated study programs to meet the requirements needed to earn the credential. Taking one or two online courses are not sufficient! The American Council on Exercise (ACE), International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) are among the well-respected and accepted in the health and fitness industry.
- Experience. Does the trainer have experience working with people who have similar goals to yours? If you want to become a competitive bodybuilder, and the trainer has only been working with pre-teens and teenagers to help them improve their basketball skills and endurance, this trainer might not be the one to help you achieve your goal.
- Philosophy. You want a trainer whose philosophy is similar to yours. For instance, if the trainer believes that you need to drink a blender full of raw eggs every morning, punch a side of raw beef, and run the streets to the theme of Rocky, and you aren’t comfortable with this, then you should find another trainer!
- Good Listener. A trainer needs to listen to what you are saying and not assume what you want.
- Referrals. Do any of your family members, friends, or co-workers work take personal training sessions or follow a personalized online fitness program from a certified trainer?
- Location. Since the pandemic, location isn’t as critical as it once was. Working virtually with a trainer can and is an effective way to reach your goals. It also eliminates travel time and child care concerns.
However, there are benefits if you choose to work with a trainer in-person such as using a wide variety of equipment which can make workouts more fun and exciting.
For in-person training, you want to work with a personal trainer who either comes to your home or work, or who has a studio that is near your home or work. Let’s face it. Many people will use any excuse not to exercise, and having to drive too far could easily be one of them.
If you choose an online trainer, location obviously shouldn’t be a determining factor. - Insurance. Make sure the trainer carries professional liability insurance.
- References. Trainers should be willing to provide with you references. You can also look on the trainer’s website for testimonials.
- Rates. Ask about the different programs and how they can help you achieve your goals. Understand that this is an investment in your current and future health. Don’t choose the cheapest. Choose the one who has a proven record of helping others achieve their goals through fitness, nutrition, and accountability.
Now that you know how to choose a personal trainer, learn about the benefits of personal training so you get the most out of it!
