Your Personal Trainer

One of the first questions people ask when they begin a fitness program is "do I need a personal trainer?". Many don't need a trainer but they surely could benefit from one. Studies have shown that working with a trainer does indeed produce better fitness results for the client.

There are a few reasons why having a trainer can boost your success. First, is the concept of accountability. A good personal trainer will keep detailed logs on your progress and you will find yourself accountable to the trainer. This is a big motivator. Motivation itself is one of the biggest reasons to hire a trainer.

By hiring an expert, you know you will be taught the exercise ropes correctly. Good trainers listen to you as a client and develop programs specifically around your goals. There's still a lot of hype out there in the fitness world. Getting a good trainer for even a few sessions will cut through that.

When looking for a trainer, first check out their education, certification, experience and ask for some references. Personal trainers should at least have a bachelor's degree in the sports sciences and be certified by a reputable accredited program. Today's certifications are a dime a dozen. Anyone can pay an internet site and get a certificate without reading a book or taking a test. The best personal training certifications are ACSM, NSCA CSCS, and ISSA. These are heads up above the rest.

Once you've found a qualified trainer, they should offer you a free initial conference to determine your needs. This also the time to find if you are compatible. In this initial meeting the trainer should cover:

* Short and long term goals

* Medical history

* Past exercise history

* Past participation in recreational or sports activities

* Workout availability and commitment

Once you've had your first consultation, here are other things to look for as you start your program:

* Can the personal trainer show empathy and awareness towards his clients?

* Does the trainer know when to modify a workout.

* Does the trainer ever have you do moves that seem too advanced, awkward or even painful? This should never happen.

* Can the trainer teach effectively, both verbally and by demonstration?

* Can your trainer adapt your workout on days you aren't feeling well or have an injury?

* Is the trainer motivating, positive and creative?

* Can you personally connect with your trainer.

* Do you have compatible schedules with the trainer? Workouts should be done at times that are best for you, not the trainer.

Wow! And you thought you just wanted someone buff to talk you through some inner-outer thigh machine work! Hiring a trainer has indeed been shown to improve people's fitness levels. It's also going to take some work on your part to find a knowledgeable, experienced trainer you feel comfortable with. It's well worth the effort to get accurate fitness information and a program designed especially for your goals and needs.

Dr. Lanny Schaffer is an Exercise Physiologist and the President of The International Fitness Academy. For more savvy information on exercise and training go to http://www.aerobic-exercise-coach.com