How to Select a Fitness Trainer That’s Perfect for You (Part II)

Picking a personal fitness trainer can be difficult. But it should be a little easier if you’ve read the first part of this blog! Now, we’ll give you more terrific advice on how to choose a personal trainer that’s right for you.

What Type of Questions Should I Ask a Potential Trainer?

Keep in mind that you should think of the first meeting like an interview—after all, this trainer will be under your employment. You should question them on how they feel that their training can help you, their training philosophy and what particular things they’ll provide to assist you in achieving your goals. If you’re still stuck for questions to ask, here are some good ones to get you on your way:

What methods do you utilize to motivate your clients in reaching their goals?
Do you alter fitness routines and, if so, how often?
What are your credentials and how much experience have you had?
Since you now know what my goals are, what type of exercise program are you going to create so that I may achieve my goals?
Could I contact some of your present clients as references?

This consultation shouldn’t cost you a penny; if it does, search for another trainer that won’t expect you to be committed to anything before answering your questions. There’s an abundance of personal trainers out there, each one with their own style and personality; so before you make that all-important choice, you should interview several trainers so you know that you’re getting one that’s right for you.

Inquiring about package details is always a good idea too. Some terrific questions to ask are:

What are the types of packages you provide? Normally, a session will be more expensive if you purchase less of them. Request information on payment options—find out if it’s okay to pay in installments over a period of time or if a full payment is insisted upon at each session.
What type of refund policy do you have? You need to ask this question particularly if you’re interviewing a trainer that’s associated with your gym or fitness center. Find out if you’ll be allowed to obtain a refund for sessions you’ve paid for should your trainer end his employment at your gym; or if you’ll be pressured into continuing with another personal trainer. Another question to ask is: can I get a refund if I’m not pleased with my trainer?
Do I have a specific amount of time to use up a package if I purchase it? You don’t want the sessions expiring before you have the opportunity to utilize them all.
Do you conduct any fitness assessments and, if so, how often? Your trainer will be able to estimate your beginning fitness level with fitness assessments such as: blood pressure screening, body fat test and flexibility, strength and endurance tests. From these tests he/she can create a fitness program just for you. Over time, these tests should be given again and your exercise routine can be suitably altered.
Is it possible to purchase independent sessions? Rather than buying a package of many sessions, this is in reference to possibly buying one session at a time.
Is group training available? Exercising with some friends is not only fun but it’s a good money-saver and multiple-client sessions typically cost fewer dollars for each person.
What are your accessible training hours? You must be sure you’re hiring a trainer that will train you within your schedule.
What kind of cancellation policy do you provide? If you need to cancel a session, a lot of trainers instruct you to give a notice of 24-48 hours. Doing so will mean you won’t have to pay for that session.

What Must I Stay Away From?

While there are numerous personal trainers out there that are certified and know exactly what they’re doing, there are also some trainers that don’t have a clue as to what they’re doing. You should be on the look-out for two standard warning signs that’ll let you know if you need to avoid that particular trainer.

You need to seek a personal trainer that won’t try to pressure you into buying a lot of items. If a trainer attempts to sell you any type of supplements, that’s your first “red alert” that they need to be avoided. You ought to be able to receive the proper nutrition your body needs from a healthy diet and a daily multi-vitamin—the exception is, of course, if you’re trying to become a professional bodybuilder. To attain goals, a regular person doesn’t require energy drinks, protein powders and other supplements.

The second thing is to be cautious when you take advice about nutrition from a personal trainer. Being a personal trainer doesn’t mean that he/she is competent to give such advice even though they may call themselves a “nutritionist”. Simply calling themselves a “nutritionist” doesn’t mean that they’ve got the proper training or a degree in this field. It’s illegal for a trainer to develop meal plans for you which aren’t in accordance to the Food Guide Pyramid recommendations. In truth, a Registered Dietician is the only person legally able to provide you with personal diet advice; if you feel you need some assistance with your diet, you should speak with a Registered Dietician.

Usually, a good method to ensure your fitness program is aimed to your particular goals, effective and more enjoyable is to employ a personal trainer. It’s essential that you always make sure you’re going to have a trainer that’s an expert in his/her field. When you take the time to investigate, you’re going to be happier with your acquisition and you’ll be one step nearer to achieving your fitness goals.