How to Find the Right Personal Trainer?

Answer 1

As more and more Americans focus on getting healthy, the services of personal trainers are increasingly in demand. Personal trainers specialize in taking clients from poor fitness levels to moderate and superior levels of fitness. Athletes, coaches and entertainers have all been known to hire personal trainers for various reasons. Even if you want to only lose 10 to 15 pounds or lower your Body Mass Index (BMI), you can use the services of a physical fitness coach. But first you need to find the right personal trainer. Here's how:

• Look for a personal trainer who is certified by organizations like the American Council on Exercise (ACE) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Certified personal trainers know how to design training programs so that you can reach your optimal health as quickly as possible. Many certified personal trainers have experience working with different body types since they often start their careers working at health clubs.
• Sit down and interview two to four personal trainers that you are considering hiring. Ask them for references of current and previous clients. Take the time to speak with those clients and find out how satisfied they are with the work of the personal trainer in question. Before you conclude your meeting with a trainer, inquire about their experience. Find out how long they have been working as a personal trainer, if they have gym experience, if they have worked with people with lifestyles and fitness levels similar to your own, etc.
• Shop around for a personal trainer and compare half hour and hourly rates. Many work as independent contractors and charge a wide range of fees. Ask peers, relatives and friends who have hired a personal trainer what a reasonable rate is in the area where you live and work. Find out about the trainer's cancellation policies and whether you'll incur expenses for unused services if you cancel the contract early.

The right personal trainer will understand your physical fitness needs and listen to and respect your recommendations, concerns and fitness goals. An effective trainer will partner with you to ease you into lifestyle changes that you can continue on your own after the training ends. He or she will also have adequate liability insurance in the event that you become injured while training under their supervision. Overall, your ability to trust and communicate openly and freely with your trainer will have a profound impact on the success of the training.