4 Ways to Find a Personal Trainer

So, you've run out of excuses why you're unable to workout.

You also don't want to just hang out on the treadmill watching your favorite cooking show on the Food Network at the gym.

You believe the best route to achieving your goal is by hiring a personal trainer to get you into shape, advise you on nutrition, and create an overall wellness strategy.

Good for you. Now what?

How do you know what to look for in a personal trainer? How do you know what questions to ask a trainer before you hire she/he? How do you know if a trainer has the appropriate credentials?

Where to Look for a Trainer?

The obvious answer to this question is an online search. Are they legit or just all show and no experience? One way is to make sure they have a credible website or they're affiliated with a credible fitness center. It also helps if they have online reviews so you can gauge their customer service.

Of course, the best (or worst) form of advertising is word of mouth. Ask friends, family, or coworkers if they've worked out with a personal trainer, and if so, about their experience. If they love them, get their contact info and call them with questions or schedule to meet in order to discuss their process and your fitness goals.

Are They Qualified?

Just because you have muscles doesn't necessarily mean you're qualified to train others. One of your questions to a trainer should be where did they receive their trainer's certificate. A few impeccable trainer organizations include the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise. Having a certificate from either of these ensures the trainer has learned about biometrics, anatomy, and physiology, form, and fitness training techniques. Not sure if she/he is certified? Check here.

Are They Paying Attention?

Another important factor is she/he paying attention to your individual needs or will you be placed on the elliptical and forgotten? You may want to ask if the trainer would mind if you could sit in on a session (that is if their client won't mind, either). This may be a good way to learn about their training style. Are they looking at their text messages or their watch? Are they a Drill Sargent or warm and fuzzy or motivating and inspiring? A good combination of all would be ideal, but not everyone responds to a Drill Sargent in a positive way and not everyone is about finding their inner inspiration and just prefer to workout without the positive affirmations. Just like everyone has different personalities, all personal trainers will have their own way of training. It's all about finding the right fit. And once you find them, make sure you discuss your health history and any previous injuries so they're able to customize a plan tailored to your abilities and needs.

Are They Worth The Money?

Sometimes the most important question of all is how much do they charge? Although you may think hiring a personal trainer is something that only celebrities do, you'd be surprised at how affordable a trainer maybe. It can run as low as $25 per hour or as high as $250+ per hour. Keep in mind these numbers are based on several factors including experience, gym affiliation, geographic location, and certification. If you're serious about taking your health and wellness to the next level, a trainer should be considered an investment, not an expense.

Still weighing the fitness options? Contact us for a complimentary personal trainer consultation to ask questions, meet our trainers, and find out if F3 is the right fit for you.