Fitness: The Personal Trainer - What Can He/She Do For Me and How Do I Choose One?

Everybody says they are a personal trainer. Everybody that says this trains people in different ways. How do you know if you need one and which one to choose? I will answer both of these questions as much as I can.

What can a trainer do for me? A personal trainer can help you train safely, efficiently, motivate you, help you set goals, track your progress by recording your bodyfat percentage, weight, cardiovascular fitness, etc., and hold you accountable.

What can a trainer not do for me? A trainer cannot diagnose injuries or prescribe diets. A trainer may offer suggestions, but if you are suffering from an injury, you should consult your medical professional. A trainer may also offer tips and advice on eating habits, but they must have a degree and/or certified as a dietician or nutritionist to prescribe an exact diet.

How do I choose a trainer? Bigger is not better! Don't assume that since someone looks really good that they know anything other than how to train themselves. Showing everybody what you do personally or showing the same thing to every client is not "personal" training! You want someone who either has a degree in a related field (Exercise Science, Kinesiology, etc) and/or is certified by a national organization (A.F.A.A., N.A.S.M., A.C.S.M., A.C.E., etc). This shows that they have a certain degree of knowledge and competency for personal training. Ask about their background and experience. You really do not want anybody experimenting on you. Be wary of trainers that are certified by health clubs. Many health clubs have four day seminars where anybody who can study can pass their exam. Trainers at these clubs may have had no further experience and have no practical knowledge. Just check to see if they have any other credentials or experience.

Well, if you don't know if you are working out correctly, think you may be spending way too much time in the gym and not seeing any results, or can't seem to even get to the gym regularly, look into getting a Nationally Certified Personal Trainer. Note that this is a guideline! There maybe a certified trainer out there who has his own philosophy that is contrary to standard practice without scientific backing.