So, you’ve made the decision to hire a personal trainer… CONGRATULATIONS! This is the first step to changing your life forever. But, how do you know which personal trainer to hire? With all of the options out there, it really can be overwhelming. Don’t let it discourage you. Find a few personal trainers in your area and use the questions below to help you make your decision. Be sure you ALWAYS interview a personal trainer before hiring them. This is such a personal journey that you want to make sure you have someone you like along with you for the ride. You’ll hit some rough patches every now and again, so it’s important this person is willing to understand you as a human being and motivate you during your struggles.

Here are some tips on what to ask and look for when searching for “the one”:

-References: Ask if you can contact past clients. You can learn a lot by asking questions about the trainer and their techniques. If the trainer is not willing to give you references, they probably haven’t had great history with their clients. On the same note, make sure they get permission from their past clients to give out their contact information. Would you like some random person calling you if you didn’t give your trainer permission to give out your information? Probably not, and neither would they.

-What organization are they certified through? Do your research online and find which organizations are good. Some of the most prominent are ISSA, ACE, ACSM, and NSCA, to name a few. Also, the trainer MUST be CPR/First Aid certified, but all valid certification organizations will require this before the trainer can actually be certified.

-Why are they doing this job? There’s nothing worse than a trainer who just wants to make the big bucks. Many people get into training thinking they can set their own schedule and make a ton of money. They soon realize this is not the case. Personal trainers that love helping others and really want to make a difference are the ones you want to work for you. They’ll give anything to help you reach your goals. If your trainer isn’t in it for you, drop ‘em fast! Trust me, you’ll know their real motives if you ask them this question…. a long pause is not a good sign…

-What are the costs and methods of payment accepted? You want this process to be as hassle-free as possible. The cost shouldn’t matter too much as long as the quality of service you are getting is worth it. Remember, medical bills will be more expensive in the future if you don’t shell out some dough now and hire a trainer! Make sure the trainer accepts a form of payment that is convenient for you. If it’s not, you won’t follow through with the program.

-How does the trainer look? I’m not saying they need to be rock solid, but they should have a generally good physical appearance. If they don’t, they probably don’t follow their own advice. Like they say, “lead by example.” If they aren’t being an example, they won’t be able to lead and motivate you.

-Do you feel comfortable when talking and interacting with the trainer? If not, get out the door ASAP. This is such a personal journey that you need someone with you that will make you feel comfortable, not nervous.

-How much is the trainer available outside of training sessions? Say you are having a rough day, or you need some help with part of your program. Can you email/call the trainer outside of training sessions? They may not be available all of the time, but they should be able to get back to an email here and there. If they aren’t willing to go the extra mile, find someone who will.

-Will the trainer address your nutrition? Nutrition makes up 80% of your results. It is critical to reaching your goals. If they have absolutely nothing to offer, including a referral, find someone else. Keep in mind, many trainers may not have a nutrition certification, but they should have general advice to give regarding nutrition.

-Do they offer free assessments and training sessions? I don’t think anyone should have to pay or commit to a trainer until they know they feel comfortable with the person, and they feel like this is something for them. If you are forced into it, there’s nothing but disaster to follow. Ask for a free consultation, and a free training session before committing to a program or signing a contract.

-Are they insured? If not, RUN!!!

-What is their normal training availability? You want to make sure they are able to help you when it’s convenient for you, not the other way around.

With your questions answered, you can be sure your trainer is in it for you. Good luck!

 www.goalfitnessandnutrition.com

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