How to Choose a Personal Trainer
Choosing a personal trainer is, quite frankly a pretty personal decision. After all, this is generally a partnership, not a one-off transactional interaction. After all, you are entrusting your safety and fitness plan to this individual, so he/she better know their stuff! Here are some things to consider:
Credentials. Without question, a trainer should be able to show you a certification in their particular area of expertise. To become certified, personal trainers must pass an exam through accredited organizations such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). This ensures they've met certain standards of professionalism and competence from a trustworthy organization.
Experience. Practice makes (near) perfect, so a trainer who has been around the block a few times has likely tested and perfected his process for providing the best cues to help you get the most out of every single rep. So unless you're okay with playing guinea pig, it might be best to resist the urge to cut a deal with a freshly-certified trainer in favor of one who has some previous experience.
Personality. What motivates you? Some people do well with positive reinforcement peppered with cheerleading, while others like to get screamed at and scared into doing a few extra squats. Either way, talk to the trainer and get a feel for her style to see if it jives with what works for you.
Philosophy. This is a subtle -- yet critical -- point of differentiation because it can end up making or breaking your experience. How does the trainer develop his/her program, and on what beliefs will it be based? Ask about philosophy and see if it makes sense for your goals and preferences.
Specialties. Ever heard the saying, "Jack of all trades, master of none?" Well, if you're looking for something specific, you'll want to work with a trainer who specializes in that area. Not only will they have more expertise, but chances are he or she will be more passionate about it if he/she knows the nuances of the sport and has a vested interest in it, as well.
Cost. Just as experience, personality and philosophy can range vastly between trainers so can their hourly rate, depending on certifications, specialty and location. So before you begin your hunt, sit down and think about your budget. And if hourly solo sessions are currently beyond your means, don't worry, some trainers offer semi-private sessions or a discount for buying in bulk.
Availability. Because consistency is key when working with a trainer, it's a good idea to inquire about schedule. How many clients does he/she currently have -- e.g.,How far in advance will you need to book appointments, can you make up missed ones, and what is the cancellation policy?
Location. This is another area of personal preference, so consider your habits and tendencies carefully. Do you prefer in person? Virtual? At home? At a gym?
Progress. In addition to a personalized training program based on your goals and fitness level, your trainer needs a method for tracking your progress so you can see, incrementally, that your hard work is paying off. Benchmarks can help you not only stay on track, but also ensure that your trainer is doing his/her job.