6 Tips for Hiring a Personal Trainer

Personal trainers can charge anywhere from $25 to $200 an hour, so you can rack up a big bill in a matter of months, even weeks. Is it worth it?

Finding the Right Match

If you’re the kind of person who needs someone to strong-arm you into working out, a personal trainer can definitely pay off if you can afford one. If you’ve never worked out before, he or she can get you off to a good start. You don’t have to sign up long term.

Two or three sessions should be enough to help you design a program based on your strength, flexibility, balance, age, and equipment options. A professional trainer will devise a program that includes cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility training.

Here's what to look for if you decide a personal trainer is for you:

1. Seek Someone Certified

Someone certified by one of the major national groups: the Canadian Alliance of Professional Fitness Trainers, the Canadian Personal Trainers Network, the Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals, the Canadian Aerobic Instructors’ Association, or the National Fitness Leadership Advisory Committee is likely to be realiable. Another good sign is a college or university degree in physical education, exercise physiology, kinesiology (the science of muscle movement), anatomy, or sports psychology.

2. Make Sure Important Issues Are Addressed

A good personal trainer should ask lots of questions about your health. He or she should want to know all about your needs and limitations in order to design an appropriate workout. If you are under medical care, be sure the trainer is willing to discuss your exercise plan with your doctor. People with chronic illness or other special needs should seek trainers with experience addressing those needs.

3. Ask for References

Ask your prospective trainer for references. Reputable professionals are always happy to provide the names of other clients with health concerns similar to your own.

4. Ensure There’s Insurance

Finding someone who has liability insurance and clearly written business policies is important. A reputable personal trainer also should make sure you understand his or her cancellation and billing procedures. The best way to avoid confusion is to have such rules in writing.

5. Check Up On Fees

Make sure the trainer you choose is up-front about fees. Rates vary widely. Some trainers will work with up to four people at a time to cut costs.

6. Find Someone You Like

You want a trainer who not only can help you strengthen and tone your body, but who can also inspire you and give you positive feedback that will bolster your confidence to take on new challenges.

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