If you’re thinking of making some fitness-based lifestyle changes, be it for an upcoming holiday, wedding, or simply to feel great in your body, the process of finding the right Personal Trainer can be daunting.
The health and fitness industry is saturated with Fitness Instructors, Personal Trainers, gyms and studios, all gearing their marketing towards people just like you; so how do you know which one is going to be the right fit?
You may have already decided that one-to-one training is going to be best for you, but then you’re left in an even deeper sea of choice. So here are a few things to consider when you’re looking for a Personal Trainer (PT):
Is This Personal Trainer Qualified?
This is the first and most important question you should be asking and don’t be afraid to ask it!! There are so so many self-proclaimed ‘fitness experts’ on social media these days, sharing workouts and even writing guides. Not all of them are qualified and their advice, though it may work for them, could be misleading or even dangerous for someone else.
A qualified PT will also have the appropriate insurance, for themselves and for you. There are specialist courses PT’s can take too; lower back pain, kettlebells, suspension training etc, so if you’re wanting something specific, dig a little deeper to find someone who specialises in what you need.
Where Do They See Their Clients?
A PT can work in so many ways. A mobile PT will come to you, but bear in mind their equipment might be limited. They might work in local parks, if you love the fresh air, and you’re happy to train in all weathers, this might be the one for you. Other trainers work from a gym, so if you’re already a member of one, it might be worth starting your search there.
Bear in mind that independent PT’s, not working from a gym will keep 100% of what you pay them. If you’re seeing a PT in a gym setting, it’s likely they’ll be putting a good chunk of their fees into paying rent on the gym space.
Does Their Ethos Match Yours?
If you’re living a plant based life, with a strong aversion to a loud studio ‘bootcamp’ setting, then a PT sponsored by a meat company, whose day job includes hardcore spin classes, may not be the right fit.
They might be the best PT in the world, but if you’re going to argue over your values and principles, your sessions are not going to be enjoyable. Remember, you might be seeing this person three times a week!
Likewise in their training practices, do they agree that a couple of treats each week are acceptable? Or do they have an ‘all or nothing’ attitude.
Do You Have a Good Rapport?
Most PT’s will offer some sort of consultation or initial meeting, where a) you can ask all the questions above, and b) you can see whether you have a good connection. This is almost as important as their qualifications as chances are you’ll develop a close bond with this person.
They’ll know your measurements, see you on your good days and on your bad days. PT’s can even sometimes become a confidant!! If you don’t gel, laugh at the same jokes, have a similar belief system, then the risk is that you’ll not look forward to your sessions, and end up straying away from your new regime.
These are just a few things to think about if you’re on the hunt for a Personal Trainer. I cannot emphasise enough that social media followers does not equal expertise!!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask for proof of qualifications, or even an example of a success story of a past client of theirs. After all, you are parting with your hard earned pennies, and there will be a perfect PT out there just for you!!
Natasha is a Personal Trainer – find her on social media @natashawynn_pt
Great post. I found this really useful 🙂
That’s great to hear Rebecca! Thanks for stopping by!