Thinking about getting a personal trainer? - 5 things to consider

So perhaps you've made the decision to get fit for summer and are looking for that extra kick to get started. Perhaps you are a relative veteran of a few months who has discovered the difficulties of getting results through training independently. Either way, personal training could be for you but how do you know where to start?

One of the biggest changes in my life was discovering weight training. If you aren't sure where to start then I recommend looking at getting a Personal Trainer. I'm rather fortunate, my Husband just so happens to be one! (you can check him out here: https://www.jezza-pt.co.uk)

Personal trainers are easy to come by which is both a good and a bad thing. While the trainers you find in a commercial gym will no doubt be fully certified, the difference in quality and experience amongst them can be tremendous. So how does this help you? Here is a list of 5 things to consider that could determine whether it will be the best investment of your life, or money down the drain...

What motivates you?

Trainers come in all kinds of packages and the right “match” is vital if the coach/client relationship is going to work. Do you want to be pushed to the limit at every step, are you looking for more of a technical approach with guidance on form or technique, or are you looking for a a gym buddy who’ll hold your hand and have a laugh with you? A select few trainers can even be adaptable to these different needs, before signing up you should have a trial session to make sure their style is a sensible match.

This is my Husband :o)

Check out the shop window!

In most cases, the trainers in large fitness chains are self employed which means upon checking qualifications and charging a weekly rent, most gyms will take on any self professed “trainer”. Quality control is not their responsibility or concern.

What kind of shape is your prospective trainer in? As simplistic as it may sound, if the trainer isn't in good shape, how can you trust them to help you achieve your fitness goals? It’s more than just what’s on the outside (a 6-pack doesn’t automatically equate to a great trainer) you should be able to ask them about their training regime and how they keep fit. A personal trainer should practice what they preach.

Spy on them at work!

Watching a trainer at work is relatively easy in a public gym. How is the rapport with the client? Are they in control of the session and motivating them to the right degree? Is there a structure or are they “freestyling”? Are notes being made or is the mobile phone proving a distraction? During your trial session they’ll be focusing on impressing you to close the deal so it’s worthwhile paying some attention to how they are with their existing clients to see what it is that you are paying for before committing.

Alternatives to a Personal Trainer

In the modern fitness world, there are numerous alternative sources to help in the gym. Most chain gyms offer group classes, there are various workout apps as well as online training plans and social media fitness celebs. Though these things have helped people make improvements, it is important to question how much motivation and “push” you will get from following a routine on your phone or even a sheet of paper by yourself in the gym. Often the face to face “kick up the backside” simply cannot be replicated and shouldn't be under estimated. This can be achieved in group classes, though these are very generic and not tailored to an individual’s goals or ability. These are important factors to bear in mid when considering alternatives, and trial and error will reveal what is right for you.

Are you ready?

Perhaps the most fundamental question to consider is whether you are ready to make personal training work for you. Assuming a good trainer has been found, do you have the commitment yourself to make the investment worthwhile? The odd session once or twice a week in the hope of quick results will leave you frustrated when it doesn't happen, you need regular sessions with your trainer, along with a suitable nutrition plan. In reality, nothing ever comes easy, but believe me the benefits you’ll get from it will be worth it.