What to Look for in a Personal Trainer

There was a time not too long in the past when only the rich and famous could afford to use a personal trainer. Today, personal trainers are much more available to the general public as gym and fitness center use has become popular. Even though a gym or fitness center might have a personal trainer or a staff of personal trainers, you should still use good judgment in selecting the personal trainer that is right for you. It is up to you to investigate the qualifications and make sure you are comfortable with the trainer you select.

There are several things you need to ask about when looking for a personal trainer. Be careful when asking whether they are certified. There are hundreds of companies that will certify personal trainers and not all of them are reputable. The three that are recognized as the best are the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Counsel on Exercise. They should also be certified in CPR and first aid. These certifications only guarantee that they have met the minimum qualifications for that organization. Get a list of at least three references. Ask how much they charge. Do they charge per session only or do they provide package rates as well. Have a good discussion with them about qualifications because you need to develop a sense as to whether you feel comfortable with them. You need to discuss their training philosophy and how it might relate to you and your conditioning needs. You want to see if they inquire about your physical fitness levels and any medical problems with which you may have been diagnosed.