Is your New Year resolution to lose weight? Get it better shape? Put on more muscle? Are your workouts boring? Has your body reached a plateau? Do you dread going to the gym and/or exercising? Do you know how to use the different types of resistance training and/or cardio machines? Have you any idea how many reps and sets you should do for each body part?
If you feel you need help with any of the above questions, you should look into hiring a certified personal trainer. Now you may be saying, ok, I will, but how do I know if they are qualified to help me with my fitness goals?” The following are items I feel every individual should take into consideration when hiring a trainer:
1. Do they have certification and/or degree related to exercise? If not, run! Just because someone has a “nice” physique and knows hoe to transform their body, it doesn’t mean they can help you achieve your fitness goals. Always ask for credentials. Three of the most popular certifications are: NASM, ACE, and ISSA. There are several other quality certifications out there, but just make sure they have one.
2. Talk to their clients. Ask them what type of person the trainer is. Are they on time? Does the trainer miss appointments on a regular basis? What goals have they helped the client achieve?
3. Observe the trainer while they are working. Are they on their cell phone? Are they checking out other members instead of watching the client? Chances are if they are not paying attention to that particular client, they won’t pay attention to you.
In my next article, I'll share three other tips for choosing the trainer that's best for you.
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