Your personal trainer can be a major benefit to help you get into and stay in shape --- or she can be a major waste of money. Your trainer will never be worth it if you don't follow her advice or show up for the sessions. She can also be a waste of cash if she is not qualified, pushes you beyond your limits, cannot meet your special needs and concerns or otherwise is not the right trainer for you.
Picking the Right Trainer
Researching a trainer's qualifications, experience and certifications can help you select one that won't waste your time and money. A four-year degree in a health and fitness field is a good place to start, as are any personal certifications. The degree is best from an accredited college and certifications are best from a recognized, accredited organization, the American College of Sports Medicine advises. Since you work closely with your trainer, it's also imperative to select one who fits your style --- and whom you actually like. Training styles range from drill sergeant to educator and motivator. Don't pick a drill-sergeant type if you know the experience will torture you. Nothing is worth being tortured over.
Cost
Personal trainer fees can run anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on the trainer's experience, qualifications, the type of training, location and duration of your workout. General strength training can cost less than a highly specialized, elite athlete training program, for example. If you're an elite athlete, however, paying any amount for a general strength training program won't be worth it if you are looking for help with advanced training.
Showing Up, Following Instructions
Your personal trainer is definitely not worth it if you fail to actually show up for the sessions. If you have a hectic schedule that's subject to sudden changes, opt for a trainer with the flexibility to accommodate those changes. Check out the cancellation policies and ask for them in writing. You might end up paying for sessions you weren't able to cancel in advance, even if missing them was beyond your control. You'll also be fooling only yourself --- and wasting your money --- if you fail to heed your trainer's instructions. This applies to your workouts as well to any additional instructions, such as what to eat or lifestyle changes to make.
Considerations
A personal trainer that's worth it will be one who can tailor a workout to fit any special needs. A trainer should be able to modify exercises and equipment to accommodate any health issues and concerns, as well as your fitness level. One who pushes you too hard, works you beyond your capabilities or thinks extreme pain is the only way to gain fitness is probably not worth it, particularly if the over-exertion lands you in the hospital, exacerbates any existing conditions or creates new heath concerns. You should also consult your doctor to get a clean bill of health before beginning any new training regimen.
Member Comments