How To Choose a Personal Trainer?
Posted on November 8, 2013
Here is what we think people should look for when selecting a personal trainer.
Working with a personal trainer is a great way to get in shape, exercise safely, stay motivated and achieve your goals. There are a lot of great trainers out there but unfortunately there are also some not so great ones. So how do you avoid the trainer who yells in your face or doesn’t pay attention to you during your sessions? Here are some questions that you should ask before deciding to work with an exercise professional.
What is your training background and experience? What credentials do you have?
Ideally, you want to look for someone who has a university degree or college diploma that is health and fitness related (i.e. Kinesiology, Physical Education, Fitness and Health Promotion etc). Kinesiology is now a regulated health profession and Registered Kinesiologists are held to high standards of practice so they are good professionals to look for. The Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) are also nationally recognized organizations that require their trainers to have an educational background as well as further training in order to be certified. What you want to avoid is the person who only did a weekend course. There are a lot of different certifications out there so ask what the training involved if you do not recognize their certification.
Do you perform a pre-screening or initial assessment before starting a program?
Every good trainer should sit down and discuss any past or current medical conditions with you before starting a training program. A good trainer will also help you identify specific, attainable goals for yourself and then develop an individualized plan to help you achieve those goals. Additionally a trainer should perform an initial assessment or fitness evaluation to determine areas of strength and weakness. If none of these things are being offered to you as part of a personal training package, then move on to someone else who is.
What are your training fees and available training times?
Prices for training can vary depending on whether sessions are one-on-one, with a group, at a gym, private studio or in your own home. What is important is that the trainer is up front with you about the session prices or packages available. Make sure you are provided with a contract outlining the service fees, length of sessions and cancellation policies. Many places will charge you for a missed session if you cancel within 24 hours of your scheduled time slot so make sure you are aware of this. On the flip side, you do not want a trainer who is always canceling on you. Be sure to discuss the trainer’s availability so that you can book sessions at time slots that are convenient for you.
Ultimately the two most important factors are your safety and enjoyment. Choose a trainer who is knowledgeable and can modify exercises for any special needs you have. Also choose someone who you enjoy working with and who motivates you to achieve your goals.
