How to Work With a Trainer to Set Workout Goals

Beginning a workout routine is an important first step in achieving physical fitness. If you have never worked out before, the hundreds of workout programs and exercise equipment on the market can be overwhelming. Knowing what areas of fitness you need to work on most and what kinds of exercise are best for you may seem impossible to figure out on your own. A trainer can work with you to set workout goals and help you meet them. Follow these steps to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Set Achievable Workout Goals With Your Trainer

1. Know why you want to work out. Is it to lose weight? Build or define muscle? Recover from surgery? Train for a race or other sporting event? When you have goals in mind for your workout experience, you will be more motivated to keep at it even on days you would rather not exercise. Your trainer can use this knowledge to help keep you motivated, too.
2. Tell your trainer the areas of your body you would like to improve. This way, your trainer can develop an idea of the types of exercises you should be doing.
3. Let your trainer weigh you and calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI). The results of both of these tests will have an impact on the type, frequency and intensity of your workouts.
4. Ask for your trainer's opinion. He may see areas where you need improvement or may benefit from additional exercises. These may be areas you have not considered before.
5. Test your endurance. Before starting your workout routine, your trainer will test your cardiovascular and muscular strength and endurance as well as your flexibility. The results of these tests will help determine what your starting workout will be.
6. Be patient. Remember, the goals you set for yourself are ideals to reach at a specified time in the future. You are not expected to reach them right away. Working out is a work in progress. Your trainer will be able to get you where you want to be in a timeframe that is right for you and your body.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a trainer at your local YMCA or health club.
• Make sure you meet with your potential trainer before signing on to work with him or her. Compatible personalities are essential to the success of your experience with your trainer. You are not going to feel motivated to work out if you and your trainer don't get along. You should only work with someone who treats you with respect and who you feel comfortable with.
• Always get a clean bill of health and an official go-ahead from your physician before starting any workout routine or consulting with a trainer. Your trainer will need to know in advance of any medical conditions or physical limitations you have in order to properly design your workout.

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