How to find a personal trainer
Choosing a trainer is an important decision. You want to find a personal trainer you enjoy working with, who makes you feel comfortable and inspired, who can help you figure out how to make exercise pleasurable, who will help you work with your physical limitations, and who isn’t intimidating or overbearing. I recommend interviewing several potential trainers before scheduling the first workout. Take your time. Remember, you’re entrusting, not only your physical wellbeing, but possibly deeply held feelings and beliefs about your body to this person. She or he has the potential to help you toward your fitness goals, or to set you back again.
During the first phone interview, focus more on asking questions about the trainer’s experience and qualifications, rather than your own needs. Afterwards, take a few moments to consider what you heard and how you feel. When you have spoken to someone that seems like a good fit, take the next step and schedule a face-to-face meeting to discuss your specific goals prior to making a commitment.
Here are some questions to ask during a phone conversation and some thoughts to consider afterwards:
Experience
How long have you been a trainer? What type of clients (age, ability level) have you worked with? What type of client do you prefer working with?
Experience is an essential piece of a well-rounded understanding about how to instruct effectively. Length of time as a trainer also shows commitment to the work and may indicate their success in the field.
Education
Are you a certified personal trainer (CPT) and where did you take your initial training? What ongoing training do you do?
Any trainer that you are considering should be certified. Trainers are not licensed by the state; they are certified by private organizations. Certified trainers must maintain their qualification through continuing education and are also required to renew their CPR credential every 1 to 2 years. Certification from a reputable school indicates commitment to the work.
Full time
How do you feel about being a trainer? Is this your full-time career?
Be cautious of someone who works as a personal trainer in her/his spare time. You cannot expect a trainer to be 100% committed to you if they are not 100% committed as a trainer. Look for someone who loves being a trainer and wouldn’t want to be doing anything else.
Insurance
Do you have liability insurance?
It is not mandatory that trainers have insurance, however most career trainers with a high level of professionalism, carry it. Again, this is another indication of commitment to the work.
Logistics
Do you have room in your schedule for a new client? Can you come to my home (or gym or to an outdoor venue)? Do you do early morning (or evening) sessions? What are your fees and how do you accept payment (cash, check, credit card)? Do you offer a free or discounted first session to see if we work well together? Do you have discount package plans?
Without getting into details, find out whether this trainer can accommodate your specific needs and whether their fees fall within your budget constraints.
References
Can you provide references to two or three satisfied clients?
A successful trainer will be able to provide names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. You may want to ask specifically for a reference of someone that has addressed issues similar to your own.
After the phone interview, consider the following questions:
Whose Agenda
Did this person listen to you and answer your questions in a direct way or avoid them?
Sometimes trainers have their own agendas. While a good trainer makes suggestions, it’s important that she/he listens well to your wants and needs first. This is a team effort and you should be driving your own goals. You want someone who is on the same page with you, transparent about what they can offer, and honest when there’s something you need that they can’t deliver. They should not tell you what you want to hear; they should tell you the truth.
Personality
Did you like this person based on your initial conversation?
A trainer might be the most qualified person in terms of skills, but if they’ve got the personality of a wet mop, or a bulldozer, you will probably find ways to miss your appointments. Try to find someone you like, that you feel a connection with, and that is enjoyable to be around.
Attitude
Did you think this person would hold you back, or push you too fast?
Many trainers believe that people should just slow down at a certain age and this will affect how they train you. Conversely, some may push you beyond what you’re ready for. Look for someone with experience working with masters athletes and/or the attitude that people at any age are capable of reaching a high level of fitness.
If you feel positive about this person, call her/him back to schedule an initial face-to-face meeting. This is typically complimentary. Keep in mind that the trainer is assessing whether this is a good fit from their side as well. At this meeting, discuss your goals, and determine if the individual has good ideas about how to approach them effectively. Remember, you don’t have to commit to a start date, or a 10-session package on the spot. Leave the meeting with a promise to call within a day or two with your decision. Consider interviewing two or more trainers to compare their responses, and your reaction to them.
Deciding to hire a trainer to help you make your health a priority is a decision that will cost money and time, and deserves a thoughtful approach. There is a trainer that’s right for you; take your time to find the best match.