How to Know if Your Personal Trainer is Charging Too Much (or Too Little)

Hiring a personal trainer is definitely an investment, and it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the most for your dollar. There is no industry standard for how much a trainer should charge, especially since the majority of trainers set their own rates. There are, however, a few basic questions you should consider before deciding whether or not to pay the requested rate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Look at the range of services the trainer will provide. Some trainers provide only one specific type of service (such as weight lifting, cardio or triathlon training) while others may provide a weight lifting, cardio and nutrition plan. If you will have to hire additional professionals for other parts of your workout routine, then think twice about paying top dollar for a personal trainer that only provides one specific service.
2. Find out how much experience the trainer has. Experience is important, and you should be willing to pay a little more for someone who has been in the field for a while and really knows his/her way around fitness. Conversely, be wary of newbie trainers who are trying to charge as much as their more experienced peers.
3. Assess whether the trainer is self-employed or works for a gym. A self-employed trainer will probably charge a bit more because they have to cover their own insurance, sick days, liability and continuing education. If a trainer is employed by a gym, usually the rate is set for them depending on their experience and performance.
4. Compare prices with what other trainers in the area are charging. Call around to other gyms and trainers in the area and get an idea of what the going rate is so that you can compare. In general, city rec centers have a lower rate for training, and high-end health clubs tend to charge substantially more. This is usually (but not always) a case of you get what you pay for, because high end clubs tend to attract better trainers and have a more selective hiring process.
5. Inquire about a discount on packages. Ask if you can get a discount for buying 5 or 10 sessions up front. Often times trainers are more than willing to accommodate this request.
6. Ask current clients if they think the trainer is "worth it." This is the most important consideration. Ask if they are pleased with what they are getting for the money they are paying.