So you planned to start your fitness program January 1st, but you’ve been kind of lost trying to do it on your own. You start, then you stop. You’re confused on what to do. You don’t know where you’re supposed to start.

 

It’s time to hire a personal trainer. 

 

Personal trainers are more than gym rats. Often times they act as psychiatrists, nutritionists, physical therapists, and even best friends. Finding the right fitness professional will maximize your workout and can make the difference between falling short of your goals and reaching them. 

 

“But how can I find a good trainer?” 

 

“And just because they’re good, how do you know if they’re right for me?”

 

It takes more than a first impression. Just like dating, it’s hard to find “the one.”

 

But arming yourself with a good strategy and some research can help you find the perfect match. Consider this your ultimate guide for hiring the best guy or gal to help you reach your fitness goals.

 

Step One: Know Your Motivation

 

Understanding what fuels your drive to get on a fitness program will make the process of finding a trainer much easier. Do you

 

·     Want to lose weight?

·     Build muscle?

·     Prepare for a triathlon?

 

Whatever your goal is, you need to know that all personal trainers aren’t created equal. Some specialize in athletic training. Some specialize in bodybuilding. There are even some trainers that prefer free weight and functional training as opposed using machines. When you know what you want to achieve you have the best chance of being matched with someone who is a good fit for you. 

 

Step Two: Make A List Of Would Be Trainers

 

Take some time to research potential personal trainers. There are plenty of sources where you can find a qualified one. To find one try

• A Google search

• Instagram

• Checking your local gym

• Asking friends and family

Step Three: Schedule A Consultation

 

Reach out to each trainer on your list and schedule a consultation with them. Consultations are typically free and last only 15 – 20 minutes so they don’t require a huge upfront commitment. This is the perfect opportunity to ask questions, test your commute, and get a feel for the gym culture.

 

Step Four: Make your pick and get to sweating.

 

After you’ve decided on a personal trainer you’d like to work with, work together to develop a program that aligns with your goals. Make sure you schedule time with your trainer to evaluate your sessions and make adjustments if necessary.

 

Other things to consider when choosing a personal trainer

 

Credentials

 

There aren’t any mandated professional licensing requirements for personal trainers. But a trainer who has invested the time and resources into earning one shows that they understand the responsibilities and possible liabilities they have. At Push The Limit, our trainers must be certified from a recognizable certifying body. 

 

Experience

 

A certified trainer shows they have discipline and the knowledge to do their job. But nothing beats experience. Ask potential trainers about their past experience and ask if they can provide you with a reference. It may seem intimidating, but remember this is about you. You want to make sure you’re making the right investment. 

 

Personality

You and your trainer don’t have to be the best of friends, but you should get along. This is a person you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time with and will rely on to provide you with the support you need. Take time to consider the kind of personality you’re comfortable working with. Do you want someone to ride your ass like a drill sergeant? Or are you looking for someone more laid back? The more comfortable you feel with your trainer the higher your chances for success.

 

Cost

 

The national average for a one-hour personal training session is $50 - $60. But, sessions can vary from $20 per hour up to $300 or more, depending on factors like location and experience. 

 

Money is an object for most people (if you aren’t most people good for you!), so be honest about what you can afford before you begin contacting prospective trainers. It’ll help ensure you don’t end up paying more than you comfortably can.  

 

Availability 

 

Want to know a common reason people fall off their exercise program? Time. There just never seems to be enough of it. Before you hand over your credit card and commit to a program, make sure the trainer has a schedule that works with yours. Do you need to train in the morning? Or maybe in the evening after you get off work. Be sure to communicate your scheduling needs with your prospective trainer. Don’t let time be the reason you don’t fall off. 

 

Know when to move on

 

Sometimes things just don’t work out. It’s cool. But you have to know when to walk away. Your trainer is a professional and will understand. In fact, most trainers only want to work with people who feel comfortable working with them.

 

After a few sessions evaluate them. Be honest with yourself. if you aren’t feeling it, there’s no need to continue wasting money. Just make sure you’ve done your part and pushed yourself first.