There are very good trainers and then there are bad trainers. The fitness industry (however, fit you might want to be!) can actually be quite a roller-coaster, especially if you do not get the right direction and guidance. In this era of fast track everything, getting a personal training qualification or certificate is no big deal. Honestly.
So when you've finally decided to bankroll for a trainer, you're really at the threshold of making a huge decision on what could probably change your life. Guys, your trainer can really make or literally 'break' you. So, make sure that you understand the fine line of difference between making a sane investment in your future fitness success story or candidly throwing money out of the window on something you’ll probably regret after a couple of personal training sessions.
Without a doubt, a PT is supposed to keep you motivated, help you slay your daily workouts, keep you injury free, and help you optimise your time at the gym as well as maximise your gains.
However, sometimes it isn't that easy to pick the right trainer. But we've got this one sorted for you.
Make sure to checklist these questions before you sign out your first paycheck to the awesomest fitness grind you're about to encounter.
1. Do they have any credentials to show you?
Really anyone can become a PT, or at least claim to be one. Fitness certifications here are mostly unregulated, and TBH, the overall picture is not as bright as it may seem. However, there a couple of things to keep in mind when you're choosing a trainer for the first time.
Firstly, find out whether or not your trainer is a graduate and has a University/College degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or something along those lines. This makes sure that he’s got the basic knowledge of personal training.
To become a legit PT, one must pass an exam through certified and authorised organisations such as the American Council on Excerise (ACE) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Personal training sessions aren't cheap, so you want to make sure you're getting your money's worth. Don't forget to ask what were the last two courses he attended or the training books he reads. You want a trainer who knows his sh**, even before he starts to train you.
2. How many references can he provide?
Ask your potential PT for two or three references you can possibly call. Or better still, go up to someone who's already training under him to get some honest feedback, especially if you're working out at a gym.
I don’t really trust online reviews or the reviews posted on the gym site and page, so definitely do not fall into that trap. Those before and after progress pictures and testimonials aren't always as authentic as you might like them to believe.
3. How much is it going to cost you per session?
My suggestion before beginning the quest for a PT would be to sit down and think about the budget. Hiring a PT is no easy work; it definitely has the potential to change your life, but in lieu it may leave a huge hole in your pocket. Spend a couple of weeks working out by yourself first, spend time watching other trainers work with their clients, and believe in your instinct.
Usually solo personal training sessions tend to be more expensive; but don’t worry, trainers also offer semi-private sessions and discounted rates on purchasing bulk sessions. However, be wary while signing any contract and do not commit to bulk PT sessions without a refund policy.
4. Is the distance convenient for you?
Are you okay with driving 30 minutes to your gym everyday? Or do you need a place that's 5-7 minutes walking distance from your crib to keep yourself motivated?
Some people prefer getting their training sessions in a gym, others may prefer one-on-one sessions at a Crossfit box or a fitness studio set-up; while some prefer to get trained in the privacy of their homes. The good news is that the market is saturated with PTs and there’s a new trainer for every location of your choice.
5. Is he fit enough to be a personal trainer?
Any sane person usually first judges the potential PT by his looks. Does your future trainer have to be in great shape? Maybe. However, don’t judge a PT solely on his appearance. If he's jacked, you have to consider the fact that it has probably taken him years of hard work and dedication to reach that level of fitness. All of this can only be achieved by maintaining an intense diet and lifestyle.
At the end, it’s the experience you'll have with your trainer that actually matters the most; he should be able to guide you to achieve your fitness goals.