The Muscle Couple back again with our “Op-Ed” piece on hiring the right personal trainer.

Personal Trainers Can Make a Huge Difference If Chosen Correctly!

This is a very thorny and sensitive issue for Jay.  Nothing bugs him more than watching half ass PT’s “go through the motions” with their clients.

We believe the easiest way to offer sound advice is by providing a list of criteria necessary to make an informed decision.

• Licensing and Certification

In our opinion, your trainer should be licensed with one of the following governing bodies:

NSCA(National Sport and Conditioning Association)-ACSM(American College of Sports Medicine)-ACE(American Council on Exercise)

These organizations ensure your trainer has adequate knowledge of Anatomy-Nutrition-Kinesiology-Biomechanics and Exercise Science by making them take and pass a standardized test under time.

• Interviewing your trainer

Ask them the right questions. Do they record everything? Are their programs based on Progressive Resistance-Periodization-Goal Setting/Modification? Do they have a specific “training style/discipline” they adhere to?

• Accessibility

Is your trainer accessible to you by email and phone?  Are they responsive to your inquiries/requests in a timely fashion?

• Observation of your trainer with Clients

Do they ensure correct form at all times?  Are they hands on and involved with their client thru each set and rep?  Are they cordial and able to communicate effectively?

• Nutritional advice and Diet Programs

Does your trainer provide this as part of his/her solution? If separate, what are the additional costs?

• Costs-Cancellations and Refund/Makeup Policy

Does your trainer off single session vs multi-session discounts? Do they have an effective cancellation/make up policy in the event of “life getting in the way”?

• Does your Trainer “Look the Part”?

Does your trainer “practice what they preach”?  Make sure your trainer is fit and teaches and instructs from a point of achievement/accomplishment.  You will rarely find a dedicated and quality trainer who isn’t in great shape themselves.

And finally a Bullet Point list that automatically rules out any prospective trainer.

• Poor form by a trainee in a set with trainer watching
• Trainer using a cell phone/PDA with a client
• Trainer who chats with others while training client
• Trainer not paying attention to his client in any way
• Trainer having a de-trained/un-trained newbie performing an advanced lift on an unstable surface
• Trainer not recording or taking notes on his trainees progress

We think this list gives you a leg up when considering hiring a trainer to aid you in your workouts.

We do believe GOOD TRAINERS are an awesome resource for anyone regardless of fitness level.

Just choose wisely and use this article to make an informed decision.

MIHWCS