How to Choose a Personal Trainer

It's not hard to find a personal trainer, but it is well worth your time and effort to find a qualified trainer who can help you safely reach your fitness goals.

Whether you want someone who will work with you in your home or at the gym, examine these three important factors:

1. Training and Certification

Ask where they received their training and certification. Check to make sure the certifying body is legitimate. Some of the most prestigious certifications for personal trainers include the American Council on Exercise, The American College of Sports Medicine, and the National Academy of Sports Medicine. The National Athletic Trainer's Association also certifies athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and exercise physiologists.

Ask potential personal trainers if they participate in continuing education courses. Look for someone who knows first aid. If you have a health condition, lift weights, or participate in high-intensity training, seek a trainer who is also certified in CPR and knows how to use an automated external defibrillator.

2. References

Always request references when searching for a personal trainer. Contact former or current clients to see if they are satisfied and if they offer a recommendation.

3. Cost

If you are working with a trainer at your gym, the gym will offer specific packages from which you can choose. It is usually more cost effective to sign up for a package deal rather than to schedule individual sessions. It is generally less expensive to work with a small group of people than for one-on-one sessions. The gym may offer a few free sessions to begin.

Prices vary for a personal trainer who comes to your home. Much will depend on how much training you desire and how much time you are willing to invest. You may pay anywhere from $75 to several hundred dollars per session.

Other questions to ask a potential personal trainer:

• What are your specialties?
• How do you handle scheduling and cancellations?
• What form of payment do you accept?

What your personal trainer should ask you:

• Do you have any health conditions?
• Have you had any recent surgeries or injuries?
• What are your short-term and long-term goals?
• Are you training for a specific athletic endeavor?
• Are you trying to lose weight or beef up muscles?

With your own time and effort, the support of a professional personal trainer can help you lead a stronger, healthier life.