How to Find the Right Personal Trainer

As seen in Shine Magazine and YourHub.com

Finding a personal trainer should be given more thought and attention than it typically gets. Those that are looking for a “personal trainer” usually take that title for granted and I am here to tell you, don’t! Just because someone says, “I’m a personal trainer,” does not mean they know what they are doing. In all actuality, a personal trainer can do more harm than good if not properly educated and trained themselves. Just think if you went to a chiropractor and later found out he or she was not properly educated. So how do you make this decision with thousands of personal trainers out there? Here are some guidelines to follow when selecting the right personal trainer for you. 

Education. Make sure that your personal trainer has a degree in a field such as Health and Exercise Science, Health Education or Sports Science. With this, check to see if there has been plenty of intense work-related experience. Inquire about the program he or she graduated from and if there was any practical experience required or voluntary. For recent work experience, find out how long they have been personal training, the longevity of their clients and how well their clients have done. For instance, if you are looking for a transformation change or an increase in upper body strength, has that personal trainer achieved those goals with other clients?

Credentials. There are plenty of sub-standard certifications available so a reputable organization to be certified through is a must. Check to see if your trainer is certified through a nationally accredited organization like the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association, National Academy of Sports Medicine or American Council on Exercise. Another certification that always needs to be up to date is First Aid and CPR. The last, but equally important credential every trainer should hold is liability insurance.  The right fit. Sometimes a trainer and client just do not fit together, and that’s okay. Personal referrals are tremendously valuable in your evaluation. If you know a friend, co-worker or an acquaintance that has a trainer, get a first-hand opinion. Inquire about progress made, obstacles encountered and overcome and the professionalism of the trainer.  

• Is the trainer fun and attentive?
• Does he or she change the workouts when necessary?
• Is enough variety provided?
• Is the trainer strict or easy going?
• Are you held accountable?
• Is the trainer accommodating to your needs?

 Nutrition. The knowledge of nutrition is imperative to incorporate into any personal training program. Now, most personal trainers are not Registered Dieticians and many do not know how to incorporate nutrition into a complete program design. Ask your trainer-to-be about any education in nutrition, what their philosophy on nutrition is and how they feel about diets. Because not only will you achieve faster and better results with an emphasis on nutrition in your training program, but the more life-long results you can maintain.

Value/Investment. How much do you charge?” That’s usually the first thing a trainer is asked. There are a wide range of costs encompassing anywhere from $20 - $200/hour. Please do not think that a $20 trainer is worth the savings and a $200 trainer has a “magic potion.” Think about what your health is worth to you, what you are willing to invest into a healthy lifestyle, and then examine where each trainer falls utilizing the information you have gathered concerning their education, credentials, referrals and nutritional background to make a well-informed decision.                                                                                                D. Ward