Why should I use a Personal Trainer?

When considering whether or not to hire a Personal Trainer, first ask someone you know who has used  personal trainers themselves in the past or presently. Ask what made them decide to use a personal trainer and if they are happy with their results. My guess is they will tell you they decided to try personal training because it works.

Personal training isn’t for everyone. If your goal is just to loose a few pounds and maybe firm up a little, and you already have a solid plan of attack, then a personal trainer may not be right for you. Most of us, though, could use the extra knowledge and motivation provided by a personal trainer in order to meet our specific goals and create a healthy lifestyle. Here are eight reasons a personal trainer may be right for you. 

1. Weight Loss
The number one reason people hire certified personal trainers is to lose weight and get into shape. If you’ve made up your mind to lose fat and build muscle, you have come to the right person. 

2. Motivation
Personal trainers can provide accountability and structure. Together, you and your trainer will develop a schedule for your workout routine. You will be more likely to adhere to your schedule if you know your trainer is waiting for you at the gym. 

Your personal trainer can also be your best cheerleader. When you feel tired or unmotivated, she will be there to encourage you and give you the extra push you need.

3. Customized program
A good trainer will determine and record your current fitness level (including weight and any physical injuries or chronic illnesses you may have). She will also work with you to define your specific goals. Using this information your trainer will create a safe and efficient fitness program tailor made for you.

Periodically, you and your trainer will go over your progress to be sure you are seeing results, that you happy with your program and to make any necessary adjustments stay on track.

4. Efficiency
A personal trainer has a plan to help you get maximum results in minimum time. Personal trainers help you to focus on results without wasting your time doing inefficient routines.

5. For the Novice
If you are an absolute beginner, a personal trainer is the ultimate exercise coach. A good trainer will introduce you to a very simple, effective routine and teach you to build it efficiently. Soon, you will have the knowledge and confidence to create a routine that is right for you. 

6. Getting over plateaus
So you’re in decent shape, but you still haven’t met your goal. If you are stuck in the same routine and want to break out of a rut, a personal trainer is the perfect solution. A trainer will jump start your routine and recharge your motivation.

7. Learn how to exercise alone
If you ultimately want to learn the mechanics of designing your own routines, using a personal trainer for a few months may be all you need. All good personal trainers will teach you the basics of building and modifying a fitness program to achieve maximum results.

8. Safety
A personal trainer supervises your form, corrects your technique and monitors your vitals. She can be objective with feedback about your limits and strengths. Some of us tend to ignore our bodies’ subtle signals. We either push through pain or give up too soon. Because a personal trainer can watch what you are doing while you are doing it, they can help push you or slow you down as necessary. 

Before you hire a personal trainer you should ask the following questions: 

  • What are your credentials?
    A qualified personal trainer has an education in physiology, health promotion, athletic training, kinesiology or a similar field. They should have first aide and CPR certification as well as certification from a reputable organization such as ACSM, ACE, IDEA, YMCA, NSCA or similar. 

  • What are your procedures and policies?
    A personal trainer should have a written policy documenting their services, costs, cancellations, length of contract, and emergency procedures. They should also require a medical clearance form to be completed before they work with you.
  • Do you have liability insurance?
    They should answer yes.
  • Most of all, you should feel comfortable with the trainer, his/her style of communication and the expectations of your time together.