A New Take on Training

Julie was a real gym pro. She had been strength training for more than 10 years, knew the equipment and machines, and was comfortable with her routine. She had never considered hiring a personal trainer; she assumed that only novices needed our help. But her progress had stalled, so Julie signed up for a month’s worth of training sessions, in the hope that it would jump-start her workouts.

Julie soon realized the value of having someone observe her form, challenge her with new exercises, and develop an overall fitness program. That was two years ago and I still see her twice a week, every week. During that time she has lost five pounds and is now in peak condition with just 20 percent body fat. She was recently the star of a bachelorette party during a spur-of-the-moment contest, executing 50 push-ups without blinking: skirt, high heels, and all.

Personal trainers aren’t just for dedicated exercisers. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with accomplished athletes, lifelong couch potatoes, and arthritics seeking a life with less pain. I have trained women through their pregnancies, and helped them recover postpartum. Here are a few good reasons to hire a trainer:

Where Do You Go From Here?

These organizations can help locate a certified trainer in your area.

The American Council on Exercise (ACE): http://www.acefitness.org; 1-800-825-3636

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM): http://www.acsm.org; 1-317-637-9200

The National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA): http://www.nsca-cc.org; 1-888-746-CERT

The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA): http://www.issatrainer.com; 1-800-892-ISSA

Rehabilitation: Some of my most rewarding work has been with sufferers of sciatica and arthritis. Personal trainers help clients recover from injuries, such as torn rotator cuffs and ACL injuries. When physical therapy insurance coverage runs out before the patient is completely rehabilitated, a trainer can serve as a bridge back to total health and fitness.
Event Training: As we’ve seen with Julie, personal trainers help all levels of athletes hone their training regimens. A qualified trainer can improve a competitor’s speed and endurance, or for recreational athletes, help them balance muscle strength to guard against potential injury.
Discipline: Most people find it hard to trade the comforts of home for a sterile atmosphere filled with weights and machines. Knowing that someone is meeting you at the gym is a prime motivator. If you historically quit exercise programs because you lack motivation, a trainer can provide varied workouts, a complete program—and a reason to get out of the house.
Weight Loss: Lifestyle changes are never easy, especially with the barrage of conflicting information about fitness and diet. A personal trainer can sift through the snake oil and find a plan that works for you. Then he or she can monitor your progress and offer support through the rough periods.

Okay—you’re convinced and ready to sign up with a trainer. But before you ink a contract, remember that the field of personal training has exploded in popularity during the last 10 years (thanks, Madonna!). One unfortunate byproduct is the growing number of trainers that are uncertified, uninsured, or practice potentially dangerous techniques. I recommend interviewing at least two or three trainers before making a final decision. Here’s what you should ask:

Are you certified? Work with someone certified by a nationally recognized organization, such as ACE, ACSM, NSCA, or ISSA. When were they certified? Is the certification current? Most programs require continuing education and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for all members.
Are you insured? A trainer who doesn’t have liability insurance is grossly negligent. Insurance is a sign that they take the job seriously and understand the potential risk involved.
Could you describe a typical workout? I’ve worked with some clients for over three years, and we’ve never done the same workout twice. If your trainer spends the hour walking from machine to machine and recording numbers on a sheet, you will soon be bored. Fitness should be fun, serving as your escape from the rigors of everyday life. Find an enthusiastic trainer who can demonstrate a wide variety of exercises. Ask to purchase one “trial session,” to get a better sense of what they offer.
Do you work for the gym, or do you have your own business? You get what you pay for. Trainers who work for the gym only receive a portion of your fees, sometimes as low as 10 percent. An independent trainer receives all the money, so for about $50 per session, you get someone that’s worth every penny.

A good trainer should inquire about previous workout experiences, past or present injuries, and specific goals. Your personalities should mesh well. If you can’t imagine spending two hours a week with this person, don’t hire them. How often you train depends on what you can afford and how much free time you have. I recommend strength training twice a week, and some form of cardiovascular exercise two to three times per week.

A final note: Unless you hired the trainer to be a walking companion, they should not be working out with you. Trainers are there to observe your form and spot you during more difficult exercises. For them to be alternating sets with you is unprofessional and inappropriate.

Hiring a trainer can seem expensive, but my clients swear it’s one of the best decisions they ever made. I see it as a way to add years to your life, and who can put a price on that? By following these guidelines, you can find the right trainer for you.