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So you have decided to hire a personal trainer, someone who can give you one-on-one attention during your workouts. You are ready to spend some money on a fitness expert who will give you the advice and guidance you need to reach your goal of getting in shape. But how do you know whether a self-professed personal trainer has the know-how? What makes one better than another?
Before you recruit a personal trainer, determine just how qualified he or she is by considering certain criteria:
Credentials -- Personal trainers should be certified by a reputable fitness organization such as the IDEA Foundation, the American College of Sports Medicine, ACE (American Council on Exercise), the Institute for Aerobics Research, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Certification programs require that individuals pass a written and/or practical exam in exercise science and technique.
Educational background -- Preferably, the personal trainer should have at least a bachelor's degree in the health/exercise sciences. College degrees demonstrate a personal trainer's knowledge of and commitment to the field. Also, find out if the individual stays current on fitness information by taking continuing education classes, attending seminars sponsored by the fitness industry and reading professional journals and literature. You want someone who is abreast of the latest news.
Related skills -- CPR certification highly is recommended. Training in nutrition counseling is another plus, although not necessary. If the personal trainer teaches aerobics classes, is he/she certified to do so?
Personality -- Consider the personal trainer's attitude, interpersonal skills and appearance. The trainer's job is to motivate you, improve your technique and keep your workouts fun and effective. If the trainer's style and approach to fitness do not feel right to you, look elsewhere. You need to have excellent rapport with your personal trainer in order to reap the rewards of this unique relationship. A friendly, enthusiastic person with terrific communication skills is far superior to the scholarly individual who cannot convey technical information in easily understood terms with practical applications.
Free consultation -- Schedule a free, initial consultation where you can discuss some of your fitness concerns. Find out how the trainer gets new clients started. He/she should have you complete a comprehensive medical history questionnaire and ask many pertinent questions about your fitness needs, goals, interests, etc. before prescribing an exercise program.
Previous clients -- Talk to other clients of the instructor. Ask them how the instructor has helped them and if they have any complaints to air. Several positive testimonials can be very reassuring.
Fees, etc. -- Other basic considerations such as fees and scheduling also are important. A personal trainer should charge competitive fees for service; compare rates with other trainers to be sure. Also, consider when and where you want to work out -- at home or at a health club -- and find a trainer who can accommodate your wishes.
Do not stay stuck with a trainer who is not meeting your expectations. Resume searching and you will eventually find one who is the right "match" for you.
The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website is for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician.