Six Tips for Finding a Personal Trainer
- Check the certifications. Make sure your personal trainer holds a nationally accredited certification or a degree in exercise/kinesiology. This information should be available upon request, or contact the certifier if you are unsure or would like to check a certification of a trainer.
- Discover your goals. Try talking with the trainer, or take advantage of a free consultation, to discuss your goals and see if the trainer is able to work with those goals. Doing this will help to make sure both parties share a mutual understanding as to what is expected from training.
- Look at your trainer. Sounds simple, but try to find a trainer that represents what you are looking for in life.
- Ask for references. If you trainer is seasoned they will be able to provide references, but do not be afraid to try a new trainer. New trainers deserve a chance, but do not be afraid to ask management about the trainer.
- Ask others who they recommend. Word of mouth is powerful at a gym. It is important to see what others are saying about what trainers are able to help. I recommend this towards the end of the list because it is a good place to get started, but not an “end all” for choosing a trainer.
- Go for personality. If you meet a trainer and the personalities do not click and you do not feel comfortable working with that trainer—find another one.
Remember to find a good trainer takes work, but the work will pay off. Training is an investment in both your physical and mental wellbeing.