Get Fit 1 ON 1

With so many options in today’s saturated (& unregulated) fitness market, people tend to get overwhelmed (& misinformed) and select a personal trainer like they are picking out the color of a shirt.  They unfortunately do not put in that same thought process, energy and research one applies when choosing a Doctor or Physical Therapist.  Keep in mind, a personal trainer deals directly with your body as well.  If not qualified he/she may not only make it harder for you to reach your fitness goals but even worse can potentially lead to injury. 

In this article I will address the basic rules of thumb for selecting a Personal Trainer. 

Rule #1:  Pay close attention to his/her credentials.

·        What type of certification does he/she hold?  Today, you can easily Google the Certifications & look them up

o  Are certifications nationally and internationally accredited or given by an unknown institution? 

o  Level of difficulty: were certifications done in a home study and/or online examination or controlled environment?  Do they include practical exams or just theoretical?   

·        Always look for a personal trainer that holds several certifications and a degree since this requires him/her to complete more continuing education courses and thus be more informed of fitness protocols and on top of his/her game 

·        Make sure he/she is CPR certified and that the certification is active

·        Look closely at how many years they have been working as a trainer?  Where have they worked?  Do they have a diversified list of clientele? 

Rule #2:  Ask for references.

Rule #3:  Make sure his/her program includes an evaluation before they begin to train you.  Only after an in-depth analysis & orientation can a personal trainer start drawing an effective workout regime that maximizes the client’s potential and safety

 

·        In order to draw an effective and safe workout regime, the personal trainer must know all of the variables like: demographics, medical history, fitness history, diet history, short mid & long term fitness goals, lifestyle, etc.

·        The Personal Trainer must also test and evaluate your current fitness level, body composition and basic medical values

·        An in depth evaluation & reconstruction of a nutrition plan that is easy to follow & maintain should be provided in order to help you a achieve an overall healthier lifestyle

·        A periodical reevaluation must take place; it gives feedback to both the client and the personal trainer as for the progress that has been made. It also supplies the personal trainer with new necessary data to apply changes into the routine preventing plateau and keeping the client motivated