A physical trainer is someone you hire to help you set and reach your fitness goals. Together, the two of you will assess your current level of fitness, and then you will develop an individualized workout plan based on your goals. Working with a personal trainer can be a great experience, especially if you haven’t done much exercise or strength training before, but you have to take your time in choosing the right personal trainer for you.
Where to Find a Trainer
The first step in hiring a personal trainer is, of course, finding one. The best place to start looking is at your local gym – most gyms have several personal trainers on staff, and they often offer discounts on personal training packages. You can also look online or check the Yellow Pages for independent trainers in your area. If you know someone who has worked with a personal trainer before, ask for a referral.
Tips for Choosing a Trainer
Before you choose a personal trainer, you should know what to expect. A 1-hour session generally costs between $50 and $125, depending where you live and how experienced the trainer is. Do not shop for a personal trainer based on price alone – you want to make sure that you make your choice for the right reasons. Take the time to speak to several trainers and ask them about their experience. Choose a trainer who has experience with the type of workout you want and who has the skills needed to help you achieve your personal fitness goals. Some trainers have a more hands-on approach while others serve more as an accountability partner or spotter for your workouts. Decide what you are looking for in a trainer before you hire one.
Hiring a personal trainer is an excellent option if you want to get started on the right foot with a workout plan. You do not necessarily need to keep working with the trainer forever, either – you can pay for a few sessions to get started and then branch out on your own once you learn the proper form and get a feel for the workout plan.