Looking for a Personal Trainer?
Questions To Ask Before You Finalize Your Decision

by Michael George

With today's health-conscious society looking for a higher-quality lifestyle, seeking out the services of a personal trainer is becoming more and more of the norm. For many years, people have relied on their own instincts about fitness or turned to the latest crazes on the late-night infomercials. Yet, today's fitness enthusiasts are realizing the benefits of fitness experts and welcoming their input in their workout routines.

Personal trainers are everywhere, and for good reason. Often, an experienced trainer can coax results from your body that simply could not be achieved on your own; however, the decision to consult with a trainer should be made for the right reasons--and that person should be chosen carefully. It is important to realize that not all personal trainers are created equal. You can't gauge a trainer's knowledge or experience simply by the size of his or her biceps. Before you entrust a stranger with your health and safety and shell out $40-$150 per hour, be sure to ask the following questions.

Do you have any certifications or degrees to assure me that you are qualified to train?

Your trainer should have some formal education. After all, would you entrust your well-being to a self-taught doctor? Respected trainers usually posses a certification from organizations such as The American Council on Exercise (ACE), the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

If your trainer says he or she has obtained a certification, don't be afraid to ask for the membership number. You can call the organization to verify legitimacy as well as to see if the trainer has ever been reported for not following guidelines. Keep in mind that certified trainers are more likely to carry liability insurance because they qualify for lower insurance rates.

A certification also will assure you that your trainer probably has basic knowledge of anatomy and key safety issues to prevent injury. Although some proof of formal fitness training is important, it is still not a guarantee that this person can help you achieve your goals.

May I check with some of your former clients for references?

Personal trainers who take their profession seriously should provide you with references of people who have been pleased with the results. A trainer who has the body image you desire is not necessarily a sign that he or she will know how to help you. The trainer could be genetically blessed or may be doing harmful things to his or her own body to get the desired results. References are an excellent way to check their knowledge before you spend money and suffer frustration and possible injury.

Don't accept a list of references without phone numbers or e-mail addresses. Clients who really like their trainers seldom mind sharing their enthusiasm with others. Actually contacting the people on the list will help comfort you in making a final decision.

How long are your training sessions, and what are your rates?

Most training sessions last one hour. If the prospective trainer operates his or her own training facility, find out how many people they train daily. If you are the fifth client in as many hours, your trainer likely will be burned out by the time you are ready to workout.

Remember, you get what you pay for. More experienced trainers will charge higher rates, and rightfully so. Experienced trainers take less time learning about you and find a method to provide results more quickly, whereas newer trainers may have the same program for every client.

Sport-specific trainers also will vary in technique and pricing. If you have a specific goal in mind, such as improving your tennis game or running a marathon, it is wise to search for trainers who specialize in these specific techniques. If your goal is to stay in shape through pregnancy or post-pregnancy fitness, there are trainers who specialize in this area as well. If you are serious about your goals, taking the time to shop for the right person will pay off in the long run.

What is your training and nutrition philosophy?

Quality trainers should clearly articulate their methods and techniques. They should take time to conduct a preliminary fitness screening to gauge your fitness level, and discuss with your goals, health and fitness history.

Since diet and nutrition play such a critical role in achieving and maintaining fitness results, your trainer also should be able to offer you solid, sound advice. A well-balanced trainer will speak not just of body image, but also of health and wellness. It is important to remember that just because a person has good communication skills and can make you believe that what he or she says is factual, you must listen and check out the facts for yourself.

If you have questions, never be afraid to ask or compare research. Your trainer should be able to back up his or her advice with facts and research if you ask.

Finally, trust your own power of observation when choosing a personal trainer. Good trainers also are good role models who practice what they preach. Although the appearance of a trainer can be misleading, he or she should look healthy and should not be eating candy bars between clients. You want a trainer who has a sincere passion for what they do and the personality that can motivate you to achieve your goals--after all, is that what consulting with a personal trainer is all about?

Michael George is an ACE, AFAA and CPFTC certified personal training consultant whose celebrity clients include Meg Ryan, Reese Witherspoon and Christian Slater. George specializes in using boxing, martial arts, and yoga to make his workouts fun and effective. For more information log on to www.michaelgeorge.com.