my planning lists logo
Header Image

Choosing a personal trainer

< Back to Health & Fitness
Print
A personal trainer can help you achieve your goals, and safely exercise. If you have a fitness club, recreation center or gym where you belong, there are probably trainers there you can hire. Or you might find to come to your home. The trainer should be educated and certified through a reputable fitness organization. A trainer will determine your fitness level, establish an exercise program for you, answer questions and keep you motivated. They will push you, all while training you to exercise safely. It is important to ask questions before hiring a trainer, so that you find one that you are comfortable with, and that has the skills necessary to train you. The trainer should be able to help you reach your goals, educate you about strength training, cardio and nutrition. They will hold you accountable, and track your progress.

  • Are the sessions transferable to another client?
  • Are the sessions transferable to another trainer at the same facility?
  • Are you a good listener?
  • Are you certified by the ACSM, ACE, or NSCA?
  • Can you help me reach my goals?
  • Do the training packages have an expiration date?
  • Do you (or the company you work for) have liability insurance?
  • Do you continually update your education?
  • Do you have an updated CPR certificate? Other first aid training?
  • Do you have education in the specific medical conditions or injury I have?
  • Do you have references from other training clients?
  • Do you keep current with your research?
  • Do you keep up with latest trends and equipment?
  • Have you worked with other clients at my same level? Age? Medical condition? Goal?
  • How long are the sessions?
  • Is there a trial session available?
  • What are your professional credentials?
  • What days and times are you available?
  • What is the cost of training? What is included?
  • What is your appointment cancellation policy?
  • What kind of program do you promote?
  • What other education do you have?
  • What was the last seminar you went to?
  • What will the average session consist of?
  • Why did you become a trainer?
  • Will you be focused on me during my sessions?
  • Will you be giving me a workout plan that I can do on my own?
  • Will you be tracking my progress? How often?
  • Will you work on my fitness training only, or nutrition as well?