Are you currently asking the question, “is a personal trainer what I need” or “is my personal trainer giving me what I deserve”? If you find yourself asking either one of these questions then let me share some simple advice that may help you along the way.
First of all you want to make sure that the personal trainer has a nationally recognized certification that is accredited and that has been around for more than a couple years. I would also recommend visiting the particular website of the trainer’s certification to investigate the certification’s legitimacy.
Second, when you meet with a personal trainer for the first time he/she should always sit down with you to discuss at length your fitness, and health history. This will allow the trainer to fully understand why you are pursuing a trainer, and how he/she can best design an exercise program to best fit your needs. There should also be a health waiver and disclosure form present to protect you and the trainer from potential legal issues. These forms also show that the trainer is most likely insured, and it is ok for you to ask the trainer if he/she is insured. If the trainer begins to train you as soon as you walk in the studio without this consultation time, be careful. This is a sign that the trainer expects you to mold to their routine and not a routine that best fits your needs.
Third, even if your trainer is nationally certified and does not hold a nutrition certification he/she should still discuss nutritional content with you. Understanding client’s nutritional habits is crucial to helping them reach their fitness goals. If your trainer has made it clear to you that he/she does not assist in any nutritional guidance and you feel that you can handle this aspect of healthy living, go for it. However, if you do not eat healthy and do not understand the elements of healthy eating, then working out with a trainer and not getting adequate nutritional guidance will hold you back from results. Working out without nutrition can still provide benefits in the form of muscle endurance, and stamina but will not show good results in the form of weight loss and physique improvement.
Last but not least, the trainer should always change your workout routine to challenge your body in different forms. The body reacts best when surprised with a routine it is not used to, and there are many styles of training that your trainer should be exposing you to.
In conclusion, your personal trainer should be reshaping your idea of healthy living. Personal trainers are not meant to just provide individuals a good workout routine, but to encourage, coach, teach, and push you to your limits safely.
Timothy Bridgers, CPT
www.BodySculptTraining.com
So what is happening at Shape Fitness Group? As you all have seen our state of the art mobile training facility is complete and in action around Wilmington, N.C. The mobile facility trains single and double sessions with a nationally certified personal trainer at your doorstep or at your office. Yes, you really get in the truck and workout!
