What is a Personal Trainer?

A personal trainer should be, at the least, educated and certified through a reputable fitness organization (see below). This person's job is to assess your fitness level, set up a program for you and keep you motivated. He or she will push you past your comfort level--something difficult to do on your own.

A trainer also provides:

• guidance on reaching your goals
• education about strength training, cardio and basic nutrition
• a reason to show up at the gym each week
• accountability
• ways to help track your progress

What to Look for In a Personal Trainer:

• Education: A personal trainer should be certified through a reputable fitness organization such as ACSM, ACE or NSCA. An exercise science or other related college degree isn't necessary, but the more education and experience your trainer has, the better your workouts will be.
• CPR: your trainer should have an updated certification in CPR and/or first aid.
• Experience: Make sure your trainer has several years of experience, especially in relation to your goals. For example, if you're a bodybuilder, you want someone knowledgeable in that area.
• Specifics: If you have a specific medical problem, injury or condition (such as being pregnant, heart problems, diabetes, etc.) make sure your trainer has education in these areas and will work with your doctor.
• A good listener: A good trainer will listen closely to what you say and make sure he understands your goals.
• Attention: A good trainer will be focused only on you during your sessions.
• Tracking progress: A good trainer will regularly assess your progress and change things if necessary.

Personality is important too since you'll be working very closely with this person. Make sure you get along with your trainer and feel comfortable asking questions.

How to Find a Personal Trainer :

• Get a referral from a friend who's had success in reaching their goals with a personal trainer.
• When you're at the gym, watch trainers with their clients and see how they interact. Make a note of trainers who get along with their clients and seem fully involved in their workouts...they may be a good one to choose.

Warning Flags

Like all professions, personal training has its share of losers. But, just because you're assigned to one trainer doesn't mean you can't work with someone else. It may be a personality conflict or you may wonder if you're getting the best advice. Either way, here are some warning flags that it's time to switch.

Beware if your trainer does any of the following:

• Ignores or dismisses your questions
• Works you so hard you're in pain for days. Soreness is normal, but you should still be able to get out of bed
• Neglects any part of a complete program or recommends a level of training that's too hard for you
• Recommends questionable supplements or herbs. Always talk to your doctor before taking anything!
• Diagnoses injuries or illnesses instead of referring you to a doctor
• Interrupts your session to talk to friends or take phone calls (unless it's an emergency or can't be avoided)
• Doesn't return phone calls or emails

A personal trainer should watch you, correct your alignment, and explain what you're doing and why. If you're having problems, talk to them--they may not be aware there's a problem. It's your money and your body...you have a right to get what you want and a good trainer will understand that.