How to Pick a Good Physical Trainer
Some people enjoy exercising by themselves and know how to plan a program. For others, hiring a physical trainer is a needed boost to their workout routine. A good trainer could pinpoint exactly what should and should not be done, while providing motivation. Not all trainers, however, are of equal ability. Employing a trainer who gives the wrong advice could be dangerous. One concern is that anyone can claim to be a trainer. There are ways to make sure you're hiring someone legitimate, as well as a person tailored to your fitness needs.
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Instructions
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What to Look for in a Physical Trainer
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Owns a certification certificate. The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) are some of the legitimate organizations that certify physical trainers. Whichever one you choose, you'll want to make sure the organization educates and tests its members about topics relating to fitness. They include CPR knowledge, functional anatomy, human movement science, kinesiology, nutrition fundamentals, physiology and weight management.
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Specializes in what your needs are. Some trainers are perfect for teaching their clients to bulk up and gain weight. Others have knowledge in shaping and toning muscles. Make sure you understand what your goals are---and that should be reflected in the trainer you pick.
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Schedule an interview. Besides making sure the trainer knows the technical knowledge, an interview allows you to gauge his personality to see if it meshes with yours.
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Get information on the person's background. Did they play any sports? Do they have medical training? What is their college degree?
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Ask for references. While a client will likely give a positive recommendation for the trainer, it's still useful. For example, someone might think one training method is the greatest thing and rave about it, but you don't feel comfortable with it.
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Tips & Warnings
Interview a few trainers, even if you like the first person you speak with. You'll be able to get different prices and check if you're being charged fairly.
Be honest with the trainer, telling him all of your medications and conditions like arthritis. He'll then be able to make a plan that works for you.
Workout with a friend. You might be able to save money, plus having company sweating next to you could make it more fun.
Commit for a short period initially. Instead of signing up for a year, go for three months or six weeks or pay per session. That way, if you don't like the trainer you won't be stuck for a while.
See if the trainer will accept input when designing a routine, and will re-adjust the routine based on your results.
Make sure you know exactly what services you're getting for the price given. A trainer could quote a number, and then later try to nickel and dime you for things like nutrition tips.
Be careful if a trainer talks too much about himself and his personal accomplishments. The emphasis should be on how he could help you, not the other way around.
If you have a membership in a gym or health club, make sure you're allowed to bring your trainer with you. Some clubs provide their own trainers and won't allow outsiders in.
Get suspicious if a trainer urges you to take a supplement or vitamin. He could have paid ties to the company. Plus, you should always ask your doctor before taking anything.
