Perhaps you’ve hit a plateau in your fitness program, or you’re looking to re-energize your workouts. If so, hiring a personal trainer may help you reach your goals and transform your body.
While there are many benefits of working with a trainer, you may wonder if doing so is right for you. Here are five questions you should ask yourself before making the commitment.
1. WHAT ARE MY GOALS?
An important first step in the process is defining your goals, both for yourself and for your trainer. Your specific goals determine what you’re looking for in a personal trainer. For instance, you shouldn’t seek out an expert in bodybuilding when you’re trying to get in shape for a marathon.
When you choose goals, strive to pick goals that are:
- Realistic. If you can’t achieve your goal within a realistic timeframe, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.
- Measurable. It is much easier to stay motivated if you can actually see your progress. Measurable goals usually include specific numbers, like “lose 10 pounds in three months” or “run a mile in four minutes.”
The better your goals are, the greater the chance that your personal trainer will be able to help you reach them.
2. IS MY SCHEDULE OPEN?
Sticking with any fitness program requires more than just self-discipline; you will likely also have to make social and schedule sacrifices.
Hiring a trainer might mean that you’re no longer exercising with your usual workout buddies or that you’ll need to train at a different time of day than you usually do. Moreover, the new program may take more time, and you’ll need to work your schedule around your workouts.
Most workout programs are adaptable, but you will still have to take time out of your week to meet with your personal trainer. Take a look at your schedule to see if you have afternoons or evenings available once a week.
3. DO I HAVE A HARD TIME STAYING MOTIVATED?
It’s one thing to want to lose weight and get into shape. It’s another thing to make yourself hit the gym on a regular basis.
Hold yourself accountable to achieving your goals can be challenging. It’s easy to head home after work instead of to the gym, particularly after a long, stressful day.
If you have a hard time keeping an exercise routine that lasts longer than a week, working with a personal trainer may be a good solution for you. A trainer will provide accountability to keep your motivation in check. They will encourage you to keep your goals even on days when you’d rather just take a nap.
4. WHAT ARE MY MENTORS LIKE?
The ideal trainer will be like one of your favorite teachers, bosses or coaches. As a personal trainer, they function very similarly to a mentor. Mentors push you to better yourself in ways that you couldn’t on your own.
Think about the ways the mentors in your life build you up and help you reach your potential. Then, try to find a personal trainer who shares those motivational qualities.
You should also consider how coachable you are. Are you willing to listen to occasional criticisms and suggestions? Can you trust that the trainer has the expertise to help you reach your goals? Personal training is most effective if you’re willing to grow.
5. IS THE TRAINER CERTIFIED?
The world of fitness is always evolving and it’s important to work with a trainer who stays up to date regarding certifications and continuing education. You want to make sure that you’re getting fitness advice and guidance that isn’t outdated. Experts say the most reputable certifications for personal training are NASM, ACSM and NSCA.
Choosing the right personal trainer is crucial to achieving your fitness goals. If you’re looking for dedicated, nationally certified personal trainers who want you to succeed, meet the trainers at The Amarillo Town Club.
