Saturday 2 February 2013

How to chose a Personal Trainer

So you have decided to get fit, lose weight or just want some added motivation.  You have decided that a personal trainer is the way forward but have no idea where to start, sound familiar

There are vast number of trainers out there with a variety skills, training, expertise and interests.  This all makes the process of choosing a trainer more difficult.  However, there are some simple rules to follow that will ensure you get the most from your money.

1) Don't choose on price.  Just because someone charges more does not indicate they are better at what they do.  Prices vary depending on location; whether or not they are paying rent for facilities as well the trainers own belief as to what they are worth.
2) Make sure you ask what qualifications they have.  All personal trainers should be registered on REP’s (Register of Exercise professionals).  By logging on you can see for yourself what qualifications they have and whether they are suitable for you.  All personal trainers should be a minimum of level 3 REP's.
3) Try and find a trainer with the same interests.  If you enjoy running but your trainer is a rower you may not be compatible.  Don't use this as the only basis as they may be more than capable but it is worth being trained by someone with a genuine interest in your chosen activity
4)  Meet your trainer before you buy.  Have a coffee with them whilst they discuss your goals.  You will know in the first meeting whether your trainer will be able to inspire you.  Being compatible with your trainer is as important as the knowledge they possess.  Some people like the army style hardcore training, others find this too much. Don't be afraid to say no and keep looking.  You want to look forward to each session and not dread the hour.
5) Make sure the trainer discusses what "YOU" want to achieve and how "YOU” would like to achieve it.  It’s not about them but you.  Whilst you want your trainer to provide the guidance and the expertise, you should be involved in how that programme should look
6) You should be doing things you can't do on your own.  It’s pointless a trainer putting you on a treadmill for 30 minutes and watching you train.  You can do that for yourself!  You want a programme that involves interaction with your trainer that involves them working hard mentally to ensure your raining is different and exciting
7) Make sure your trainer appears to have planned your session.  If they are making it up as they go, bin them.  You are paying for their time to not only train you but to put thought into your goals and how to achieve them. 
8) Be prepared to work hard.  "NO PAIN NO GAIN".  Whilst a slightly outdated view the basis behind it still stands.  You have to be willing to put the effort in for your trainer to be able to work their magic

Finally, you should feel like you are going to have fun.  Training should be hard work physically to get results but should never be hard work mentally.  You should want to be there, you should want to achieve results and be enjoying the experience.  If you are not, don't stop just change your trainer.

Find the right trainer and you will get the results you want. Everyone has it in them to have the body and the results they crave.  Just remember personal trainers are not miracle workers and it takes effort and determination on your part as well






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