So you’ve decided it’s time to work with a professional. The problem is, a professional isn’t always easy to identify! Walk into any gym and you’ll see a number of trainers on staff. But just like any other area of life, an expert isn’t chosen because they were the first one you met. Your body and health is one of the most important assets you have, so don’t risk it to just anyone.
Here are five tips to finding and working with a trainer that will help you meet your goals:
- Do your homework. It doesn’t take long to google personal trainers in your area. But don’t stop there! Read reviews, check their websites, blogs, and social media accounts. Are they established? Have they taken the time to create or share educational and motivational resources? Looking through what they share with the world will help you know exactly what type of person you will be meeting during the interview phase.
- Ask around for referrals! Working with someone that others know and trust helps you know that this isn’t a new trainer who has received their certification yesterday. Ask people what they liked and disliked about anyone they’ve worked with.
- Conduct interviews. Once you’ve identified a couple of candidates, set up in person meetings to talk to the trainer personally. Ask about their education and background. Look for someone with a college education in the physical sciences field. Training improperly can cause damage and injury. Don’t trust your body to someone who doesn’t use science and fact to back up your workout or diet plan. And if you ask a question about a specific movement or reason to perform an activity and can’t get a clear answer, run.
- Try a workout! If you’ve done your homework, asked for referrals and verified your potential trainer is educated then there’s only one more thing to do and that’s try a work out with them! Look for someone who can be firm to keep you accountable but creates an interesting and fun environment so you’ll want to continue. You should leave your first session sore but not incapacitated.
- Finally, measure results! Training should occur three times a week on average along with diet changes when necessary. With that regiment, results should be happening in the first four weeks! So don’t wait, get started and closer to your goals. I happen to know a great trainer if you need a referral!
