lift weights, do a squat, or stretch a hamstring, you could really benefit from that in-person attention that the online trainer may not be able to give you.
The same goes if you know that you’ll go to the gym with a plan, but you’ll barely push yourself and you’ll take breaks after every crunch you do. An in-person trainer can keep you moving through your gym session so that you’re constantly being challenged and getting your money’s worth.
On the other hand, if you cannot stick to a regular schedule and you often keep people waiting, an in-person trainer may not have the flexibility for your tardiness. Most trainers have multiple clients back to back so every minute counts. Similarly, if your life takes you away from the gym more often than not, you may not want to work with an in-person trainer since your gym sessions will be few and far between.
Ask Questions
Still, don’t know which type of trainer is right for you? Don’t be afraid to ask. Hit up an online trainer who you’ve been eyeing on Instagram and find out how their programs work. Look for regularly scheduled check-ins and see how communicative they are. And of course get those credentials! Same goes for your favorite trainer at your gym.
Find out what they’re about, and how they plan to motivate you. For any trainer, make sure you like them as a person because you’re in for a long relationship that will have some ups and downs! Getting through your workouts will be much easier if you vibe with them.
Sharita Jennings is a fitness and travel enthusiast and creator of Get Fit Like That, LLC. She is a health policy attorney and ACE certified group fitness instructor and fitness nutrition specialist. She provides online fitness plans and leads group fitness classes in Washington DC. Check out her fitness tips and workouts at GetFitLikeThat.com.