Find A Personal Trainer

Easy Ways To Find The Right Personal Trainer For You

By Janet Smith, PEERtrainer Health and Fitness Writer
If you are looking to jump-start a new fitness routine, or you are are unsatsified with the results of your current workout, hiring a personal trainer may be the answer. Personal trainers are certified fitness professionals, educated in many aspects of healthy living, and can offer not only help in developing a fitness routine, but tips on safety and injury prevention, nutrition and more.

Personal trainers can help you figure out the most effective exercise routine, based on the results that you are looking for. They will also teach you the right way to do these exercises, which will maximize the effectiveness of your workout, while also reducing the chances of injury. One slightly less tangible but equally important job of the personal trainer is motivating. According to Cedric Bryant, PhD, chief exercise physiologist at the American Council on Exercise (ACE) recent studies show that personal trainers help people stick to their exercise routines more than they would on their own. Having someone encourage you to exercise and offer positive feedback helps to build confidence and motivation.

Trainers can be seen in a commercial health club or private studio setting, with the former being the more economical option. Sessions may range anywhere from ½ hour to 2 hours, and will be tailored to your individual needs. Before you rush out and find the first trainer in the phonebook, however, you need to do your homework. It can be very difficult to decipher exactly what a trainer’s credentials mean, as so many different organizations offer some type of personal trainer certification.

Among the most respected organizations for personal trainer certification are the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the American Council on Exercise (ACE). All of these organizations have strict requirements including mandatory testing and periodic re-testing in practical and ‘book’ skills and continuing education. Before booking a session with any trainer, confirm that they are certified. You may search online through any of the organizations above for certified trainers in your area.

Any legitimate personal trainer will welcome your questions and encourage you to choose a trainer who will best meet your needs. Don’t underestimate the value of having a good relationship with a trainer who you are comfortable with. Consider whether you think you would feel more at ease with a member of your own or the opposite sex, among other factors. If you do end up having a session with a trainer whose style simply isn’t a match to your needs, don’t despair. There are as many different personal trainers as there are clients, so keep looking. A good personal trainer can make a huge difference in the outcome of your exercise program.