Don't want a drill sergeant? Personalize your trainer
By Jay Blahnik
When it comes to personal training, not everyone responds to the “Drop and gimme 20!” drill-sergeant approach. Some people want a kinder, gentler push from their trainers, and others want something in between.
A personal trainer can provide motivation, expertise and individualized attention — all important factors in helping you reach your health and fitness goals. But not all personal trainers are the right fit for you. They can vary greatly, not only in experience, costs and availability, but also in approach, philosophy and personality.
If you take the time to check out different trainers, though, you can find one who clicks with you. Here are some tips to help in your search:
*Consider what you really need and can afford
Trainers charge anywhere from $25 to $125 an hour, but do you really need a trainer for every workout? Or would seeing one on just one day a week help you stay on track with your own program? Maybe you only need a trainer to perform an assessment and then design a workout regimen tailored to your needs. This would allow you to just check in with your trainer every couple of weeks.
*Check qualifications
There are hundreds of certifications for personal trainers, and not all are created equal! Your best bet is to look for a trainer who is certified by one of the following nationally recognized organizations:
American College of Sports Medicine
National Strength and Conditioning Association
National Academy of Sports Medicine
American Council on Exercise
Cooper Institute for Aerobics Research
Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
Beyond certification, practical experience is important too, especially if you have special needs or goals. Some trainers have extra experience working with athletes, older adults, pre- and post-natal clients or people needing injury rehabilitation. Ask to see the trainer’s resume and look carefully for experience that indicates an ability to meet your needs. Some trainers also have Web sites that you can peruse to learn more.
*Meet them
Give careful consideration to personality. Make sure your trainer’s approach matches your style. You will get better results if you are comfortable with and energized by your trainer. Don’t be afraid to buy a few single sessions with different trainers and then pick the one you click with most. After all, you will be spending good money, so you want your trainer to exhibit practical expertise and a personality that is compatible with yours.
