Training Your Eye for a Good Personal Trainer
Did you ever daydream about having that healthy body and lifestyle, but just cant seem to find the right plan? Does your weight go up instead of down? Jogging or facing the treadmill everyday just isnt your thing? Hope is on the way. With the fitness boom, personal trainers are taking action and ready to mold your body and shape your lifestyle no matter what your goal.
The good? Gone are the days when only a certain financial status could afford a spandex-clad trainer. Today, personal trainers are accessible and affordable for everyone. The down fall? With every craze, many unqualified salespeople try to take advantage of those who are just looking for a motivator and partner.
Here are some guidelines for planning your search for the right personal trainer. Think of it as shopping for your new healthy lifestyle:
1. The Difference Between a Personal Trainer and a Sales Consultant
A personal trainer is an educated professional who is certified to help clients meet fitness and lifestyle goals, educate them on specifics like strength and endurance training or nutrition, motivates them for a progressive plan while tracking progress and stands accountable for his or hers client's success. A consultant may see you once and not follow up with your plan or just pushes you into buying a program.
Know what your getting, says Rocco Castellano, Personal Trainer of AskRocco.com. There are so many trainers out there, its important to do your homework. Find someone who knows what do do with the information you give them and sets a plan.
2. What to Look For in a Personal Trainer
You found a prospective trainer through a referral or Internet, now its time to interview. Dont be afraid to ask questions. Its your pocketbook, but even more importantly, your body.
- Education: The resume doesnt cut it. We all know these can be beefed up by fancy words. Check out the certification. Respected associations include the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Your trainer should have a continuing education and frequent practice. Notable organizations, such as, ACSM require certified trainers to have a formal education in an exercise science or related field. In addition, ask about their knowledge of specific training, such as, strength or endurance or nutrition.
- CPR: A trainer must be able to perform CPR and present the updated certification.
- Liability Insurance: Can they provide proof of insurance to cover any injuries?
- Experience: A professional should be able to prove results from former clients and the proper plan based on experience and knowledge.
- Good Listener: Make sure your prospective trainer asks specific questions on your goals, background, family history, medical conditions and current fitness activities. Do they offer a plan? Do they give you attention or talk jargon? If they ignore your questions or neglect to follow up with a plan-move on.
- Appearance: Yes, appearance in this case reveals a successful trainer. Can they talk the talk or are they full of fluff? A trainer should exhibit a well-toned body and healthy lifestyle with a plan they followed personally.
3. Your Financial Investment:
According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association in a recent study, the average price of a personal trainer costs $50-$100 per hour. Make sure a trainer is within your budget. Is there a cancellation fee? Get everything in writing and compare it to your income. You dont want to be stuck making payments and not seeing results. No fun on this one.
4. Your Plan:
Come prepared not only with the right questions, but also know what your goals and objectives are. Do you want to lose weight, gain strength or endurance, look like a dancer? Write down everything. Follow up with research on your medical history or important information. A visit to the doc isnt a bad idea before getting started with your trainer.
Remember for any plan, its about you and your happiness. Stay consistent and dont expect miracles in a day. With the help of a motivator and professional, youll get there with the lasting results.
