With social media taking over, more and more self-proclaimed personal trainers are popping up out of nowhere. Someone loses 5 lbs on their own and all of a sudden they are capable of being the next Gunnar Peterson or Jillian Michaels. Don't get sucked into the hype. Searching for a great personal trainer is like trying to find the perfect hairstylist: their talent isn't the only thing that matters. Keep the following in mind as you hunt down your fitness coach. It will save you a lot of energy in the long run!
1. Check Their Credentials
Would you go to a doctor who had no degree, or a hairstylist with no schooling? Finding a personal trainer is just as important of a task, and making sure you are dealing with a knowledgeable individual is key. There are plenty of reputable companies that fitness trainers can go through to get certified and checking out their credentials should be your first priority. Fitness is a part of health care and if done under the wrong supervision it can be harmful. Don't be afraid to ask for proof of certification! I mean come on now, they aren't going to be afraid to ask for that hefty payment at the end of each session!
2. Motivational
A good trainer is flexible in their approach. Everyone is motivated in different ways. Some love to feel like they are getting pushed by a drill sergeant in the military, while others would prefer a bit of positive reinforcement. Making sure that your needs will be catered to is important. If it's not a good fit, don't be afraid to keep searching.
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3. Proof
What is their track record? Do they have client success stories they can share or reviews? Do they have a testimonial of their own? Unless you are getting a great deal to be someone's guinea pig, don't waste your time with a newbie.
4. Education
Seek out someone that is not only going to give you direction, but that is going to teach you how to make fitness a part of your everyday life. They should be offering advice on how to be more active and how to change your eating habits to better mesh with your new healthy lifestyle.
5. Professionalism
Personal training is a service, and therefore, it should be treated as a business exchange. Many times, people offering high demand services such as this forget about professionalism. Make sure the trainer understands the importance of this and respects you, your time and your goals. Don't let them fool you into believing that you need them more than they need you...unless of course they are offering you their services for free.
