Selecting a Personal Trainer
Questions to Ensure Your Trainer is Qualified to Meets Your Needs
Jan 31, 2009
Starting a fitness routine? Does it feel as if you’re trying to shed a one hundred pound gorilla from your back? Maybe it's time to look into getting a personal trainer. Personal trainers, although they can’t do your workout for you, do provide invaluable and significant benefits to desirous individuals. When selecting a personal trainer make sure you have answered the following questions regarding your trainer:
Is he or she certified by a recognized certifying organization?
Various certifying organizations require different levels of training and education. Although the certification isn’t the single most important aspect of a trainer credentials, knowing he/she is certified by a nationally recognized certifying body will ensure they have acquired a level of training that meets health and safety standards established by the certifying body. Additionally, some of the nationally recognized organizations require continuing education classes and re-certification.
Does he or she have liability insurance?
It’s important to know that if unforeseen circumstances occur, you and your trainer will be covered financially. No trainer would intentionally injury a client, but if injury does occur having proper coverage will ensure treatment is be paid for.
Is he or she CPR certified?
CPR certification equips your trainer to handle the unlikely occurrence of a heart attack. Most nationally recognized certifying bodies will require CPR certification as a part of their certification process.
How long has he or she been training?
As with most occupations, experience plays a large role in an individual’s ability to understand and deliver services and information. Training experience is no different; as trainers serve more clients they gain valuable experience. However, love and passion for what one does can produce quality service as well.
What types of clients does he or she work with?
Does your trainer specialize in one genre of clientele such as senior citizens, athletes, or children or is he/she comfortable working with a broad range of clients?
Can he or she provide references?
Can you trainer provide references from current and previous clients? References speak volumes about an individual’s knowledge, communications skills, personality, and successes.
Does he or she perform a health screening?
Before any training takes place your trainer should schedule a consultation to ascertain all pertinent information from you. Included should be a health history, past and present activity level, past or current injuries, weight, body fat and fitness goals. You should also be instructed to have a physical before beginning any fitness program.
If necessary, can he or she refer you to other specialist?
Sometimes your needs may be beyond the realm of your trainers expertise; does he/she have a network of therapist, nutritionist, and physicians he/she can refer you to?
How much will it cost?
Personal training sessions will vary from trainer to trainer and also demographically. Research 4 or 5 trainers in your area for cost associated with their services. This should give you an idea of the average cost per session. Ask if there is a fee for cancellations or re-schedules, some trainer charge for missed sessions.
How long is a typical session?
Most training sessions are an hour in duration. Some trainers may also offer a half-hour rate as well.
What is his or her availability?
Working out a schedule conducive to both parties is the ideal situation. One reasons for having a trainer is to ensure training is accomplished regularly, safely and efficiently.
Is he or she sensitive to your specific needs?
Everyone is an individual and as such will have specific needs associated with their conditioning program. Your trainer should be able to take these needs into consideration as they develop your personal training program.
"Yes you can" - Barack Obama
Reference: National Strength and Conditioning Association
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