You are 85 percent more likely to achieve your fitness goals with the help of a personal trainer. Unfortunately, not all trainers are equal. Doing your due diligence when choosing a personal trainer is extremely important so you don’t waste your money, or – more importantly – get injured
Here are some tips on how to make the right choice when it comes to finding the trainer that’s right for you:
Check out their credentials, certifications or degrees. If they are reluctant to give you the names of the certifying body then you should question the validity of their qualifications.
They should provide you with an initial consultation, where they review your past and current exercise and health history, go over any injuries and discuss your goals with you. They will then take the information acquired during this consultation and create a program that is suited to you needs.
The program they have you on should change and adapt to accommodate the gains you are making in the gym.
If any of the following is true of your current trainer, you may want to start looking for a replacement:
-They do the same workout with every client, regardless of imbalances, weaknesses and goals.
-Half your session consists of them watching you do cardio.
-They cycle through every machine in the gym but rarely use free weights or incorporate exercises that involve body weight exercises and dynamic movements.
-They are not able to answer basic questions (you can’t expect them to know everything, but they should be willing to research your concerns and possibly refer you to someone who is more knowledgeable).
-You are getting injured!
Of course, fees vary from one trainer to another. Rates should always be based on qualifications. Choosing a trainer simply because they give you the best bang for your buck is not the best idea. Take your health seriously!
Sign up now for the Best Body Bootcamp 4 week program. Next Bootcamp starts Aug 17. Best Body Bootcamp is a goal-oriented, fitness program that I co-founded. Every workout is different and are all based on interval training. Check out one of our 10 outdoor locations at bestbodybootcamp.com to sign up now.
Image courtesy of Vu Bui.
