Personal trainers: yay or nay?

Zowiesb

ive decided to get a personal trainer because I have no clues when it comes to adequate exercises and trying to learn about it online and from magazines just confused me. Sadly this isn't a cheap decision which I don't mind so long as it works. Has anyone used personal trainers or have one? Personal experiences? Did you find it helped having support and knowledge from someone being paid to help?

Angelfire365

I love my personal trainer. I only see her once a week, but she's helped me to develop a workout routine for the gym, and she tailors everything to what I need, or can/can't do. I never would have started lifting without her help; I would have been to scared. Shop around and get references, I've heard stories about some bad trainers, but once you get a good one they're priceless!

CoffeeNBooze

Well, I can't afford one regardless. But I was really disappointed with the ones I met at my gym. They tried SO hard to sell me on packages even though I told them not to waste their time because I had no money. It felt like talking to a couple of used car salesmen. One even calculated my calorie intake relative to my goals incorrectly and I had to correct him... that's pretty bad. I think it would be helpful to have one show you how to use the equipment and for motivation, but I wouldn't expect much more than that. That being said, they are not all bad. I think you just have to find someone who clicks with you, truly understands fitness and not just marketing, and understands your goals.

CSARdiver

Depends on the individual. If you're getting results, work well with your trainer, and communicating back and forth - then yes, worth every penny. A good trainer will be able to help you specifically target your exercise regimen and accomplish your goals.

sixxpoint

Personal Trainers are kind of like Tax Specialists... Either hire someone qualified if you don't know what you're doing, or simply learn as much as you can and do it yourself.

jemhh

I used a trainer last summer. I signed up for a 3 session package. My gym had a binder with bios of the different trainers available. I picked the 2 or 3 whose specialties seemed to align with my goals and then they connected me with the one who had spots available, and who happened to be my top choice. I found it very helpful to have somebody help me with form and design a program for me. We did one session setting up a workout A, one for workout B, and then I waited a few weeks to do the last session so that I could do each workout a few times. At the last session he helped me with a few questions that I had come up with and tweaked the programs a bit based on the progress I had made. I haven't used a trainer since then but am considering doing it again sometime this summer.

cwolfman13

Like any profession, there are good trainers and bad trainers. If you are a total novice in the weight room a trainer can be beneficial in showing you how to use the equipment, how to establish a routine/program, etc. The biggest issue I see is that many people seek out the help of a trainer but their goals are very vague...so often their "results" don't line up with what they have in their head.

Don't expect that a trainer is actually going to help you lose weight...ultimately, that's up to you. A trainer can help you put together a program, but ultimately your weight is going to be about what you're eating and unless your trainer is going to run around with you 24/7 and spoon feed you, that's really all on you.

I currently work with a trainer/coach who specializes in Olympic lifting. I sought him out for that specific purpose. I was already well versed in the weight room and had already lost all of my weight...I just wanted to get more into Olympic lifting as well as get some fresh perspective on lifting in general and improve on what was already a pretty high level of fitness. I went to him with some very specific goals in mind and we have done well working together to achieve those goals.

kimlight2

I have a trainer I meet with ever other week. She sets up a program for me to follow until our next meeting and modifies it based on my progress. She also helps me with my running goals and is available for any questions or issues I have. I don't think I would have gotten as far as I have without the accountability she provides or the support. She also helps track my progress by doing measurements 3-4 times a year including blood pressure and heart rate.

Ready2Rock206

It depends on the trainer. I go to a big gym so they tend to leave. I had one recently who was absolutely fabulous!!!! I love love loved him! He was great. But he moved on with life - and now I have a new trainer. I think I'll like him - just don't really know him yet since tonight will only be my 2nd time with him.

There is one trainer at my gym who is terrible! She looks like Jillian Michaels a bit so I expect her to be an *kitten* kicker like she is but nope. That trainer is way to easy - not worth my time.

rawstrongchick

If you've no idea what you are doing then it's probably worth it to stay safe.

Get a recommendation if you can for a trainer rather shooting in the dark. Insist on having an 'introductory session' or at least a PAYG period where you can test out how you get on together and whether you like their style - don't get sucked into big packages before this point. I often think once they have your money some can lose motivation - let them set the bar from the start! You might also find that you don't need that many sessions to get off and running anyway. If you want a workout plan to do around training sessions then you need to work that into the deal before you sign on the dotted line as many PT's actually charge extra for that. Also make sure they are only selling you what they are qualified to do, if they offer extras (sports massages, nutritional plans etc) then make sure they have additional qualifications at the appropriate level before agreeing to anything else.

kerrilvdb

I met my trainer when I joined her beginners boot camp. I enjoyed her boot camp that I spoke to her about my situation and that I was looking for a personal trainer and she took me on. I must say she is a body builder herself she came highly recommend so I was worried about cost but $50 for an hour plus $10 to come into gym. I used her twice a week to make sure I was using the equipment then I call her when I want to see if anything needs to change.

randomtai

I am too cheap to pay for someone to tell me how to work out. The Google machine is free.

lushers80

It really depends on what you need help with...
If you have goals then you can find a routine that will fit with your schedule and assist you to meet the goals. (Remember lifestyle changes are needed ie diet, not just training)
If you have goals and a routine but need motivation then a trainer can be an expensive choice, but if you don't have a friend that you can train with then it is an option.
If you don't know how to perform exercises and can't understand Google or are to nervous to ask others, then a trainer can be a big help and can also assist you in staying injury free and building competence.

Cherimoose

Here are some perspectives on choosing a good personal trainer:

body-improvements.com/articles/industry-articles/how-to-select-a-personal-trainer/

stumptuous.com/how-to-choose-a-personal-trainer

dailyburn.com/life/fitness/personal-trainer-break-up-signs/

If you want a program to do on your own, ask them to write you one.

meeyuh

I used to have a trainer back in high school when they paid for one (AND my gym membership!), and I loved her. She helped motivate me and figure out exactly what I needed to do back then. Most recently, I started going to this guy I happen to know from high school who opened his own gym. He's also been very helpful and got me a bit of a discount (otherwise I wouldn't be able to afford it either). He knows me and my strengths and weaknesses but was incredibly helpful. He also texts me throughout the week with different tips and tricks for getting the most out of my workout.

That being said, I'm sure there's definitely some shoddy trainers just like in anything else. Best of luck!

BenjaminS_Fitness

unless you are trying to compete i don't see a point. if a certain excersize confuses you, you can generally ask a regular trainer. for routines: There are a lot of proven, effective routines out there (starting strength, icecreamfitness 5x5 to give you some examples.) which are better than 99% of the trainers in regular gyms can write.

For diet questions. use myfitnesspal guided calorie calculator, see how your body reacts, adjust accordingly. it is not rocket science. You are losing weight to fast? up the calories. You are not losing enough? lower the calories. You are not losing enough but you don't want to lower your calories any more? up the cardio.

Emily3907

randomtai wrote: »

I am too cheap to pay for someone to tell me how to work out. The Google machine is free.

Haha! This is so me. I google the heck out of workouts and videos when I need some inspiration. However, I did have my husband make sure I was using correct form with weights and stuff just to make sure I was not going to injure myself, but you can even google that stuff too.

Charlie003

If you have never trained with weights before, get one for a few sessions so you learn proper form, once you have this, then use internet to get programs. Bodybuilding.com has lots of people who post what they do. That's just one resource available to you. I got a personal trainer because my work benefits covers it. Score....right?! But if it was coming from my pocket, 4.95 for M&F would do just fine.

Of_Monsters_and_Meat

My wife and I have a personal trainer. He is great. I sat down when we started and went over what the plan would be.

We do a program built around the main basic lifts. Squat, Deadlift, Bench, Clean and presses.

Of_Monsters_and_Meat

My wife and I have a personal trainer. He is great. I sat down when we started and went over what the plan would be.

We do a program built around the main basic lifts. Squat, Deadlift, Bench, Clean and presses.

neaneacc

A great trainer is a great tool for a beginner. I definitely think it is worth the money if you can find a good one. I strongly recommend you taking the time to find a good fit for you. Here are a couple of pointers about finding a good one:
1) ask lots of questions....when are you available, what are your policies about cancelling or rescheduling training time, what is your background for training and so on. The more you know about your trainer the happier you will be with the arrangement.
2) a good trainer will take measurements and track progress....inches, body fat, and the scale are all necessary to look at overall progress
3) personality is key....who wants to workout with someone who is dull and boring all the time
4) another good trait is they will ask you about your goals and target your training to meet this goal
5) be prepared to work because a good trainer will push your limits in a good way.

Zowiesb

Thanks peeps! This has been really helpful and given some great tips which I will be keeping in mind and using. The lady I approached was nice enough to do a free taster session. She checked my heart rate the whole way through and if it got too high she made me take a break. I liked her style of encouragement and choice of exercises and she talks about nutrition as well which I think will be a great help.

GiddyupTim

I think all of this advice is right on. A trainer can be a big help. A trainer can push you harder than you otherwise might train. But some are good. Some are not so good. You might have a rapport with one and not another. So I would say: Shop around. Try two. Maybe three. That will give you some perspective on what you want and whether you are working well with someone.

zoeysasha37

As long ad it's the right trainer, then go for it.
There's many that aren't nearly as qualified as they should be. I've had a few idiots for sure. But once you find the right person, it might be really helpful.

47Jacqueline

Well, I'm a personal trainer, so I'm in favor of us. lol But there are a lot of not so great ones and there are a lot more men than women, which is not always good for us.

My recommendation is not to rely on a PT for nutrition - it is outside of our scope of practice, even with nutrition training. Go to a licensed dietician for that.

A reputable PT may not give you a full free session, but should give you an assessment, which usually takes about a half hour. And, yes, you pay for what you get.

I've used a personal trainer myself on two occasions. Once for six months about three years ago through a big box gym when I started with MPP. I was highly motivated and saw her once a month. And this year for a refresher, once a week for six weeks, with an independent PT who came to my apartment building which has a small gym. Both were great for what I needed.

ninerbuff

Obviously I feel worth it if people spend the money for help that they need and don't want to put a lot of research or thought into. Many just want their programs designed and then implemented. Also lots of times, many people hire trainers because they know that they won't train themselves as hard as a trainer would. A mental block? Possibly, but kinda like a drill sergeant in boot camp, when the trainer gets you doing things you probably wouldn't do on your own, you'll do them because that's what you paid for.
A good trainer will help people get results. Results happen with the correct inspiration, direction and cooperation.

A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
IDEA Fitness member
Kickboxing Certified Instructor
Been in fitness for 30 years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition

yangt41

I have a great personal trainer that I see 2-3 times a week. It's about $50 for a 45 - minute session, which is really pricey but I think it's a great investment especially if you have no idea what you're doing or just need an extra set of motivation. The money is biggie, I agree! But the way I see it is that I'm investing in my health. Having that extra motivation is awesome too. I have a mindset where I don't want to fail him, because he works really hard right along side me during our sessions and he's told me that he's going to feel like a failure if he can't help me shed the weight. I want to make him proud! I enjoy working out with him and look forward to our sessions!

I've had 2 other trainers before settling on him and they did not seem as dedicated as him. My trainer is awesome and I wouldn't trade him for any other trainer! I say go for it! If money is a biggie, budget your finances and you'll be able to to afford it. I cut back on going out to eat 3-4 times a week, seeing a movie every other week and buying things that I really don't need. Good luck!

besaro

think you have to kiss a lot of frogs -

f14abc

Zowiesb wrote: »

ive decided to get a personal trainer because I have no clues when it comes to adequate exercises and trying to learn about it online and from magazines just confused me. Sadly this isn't a cheap decision which I don't mind so long as it works. Has anyone used personal trainers or have one? Personal experiences? Did you find it helped having support and knowledge from someone being paid to help?

dunadan

Totally worth it, especially if you are just starting out in the gym. A good trainer will design an exercise program to help you meet your goals, tell you why you are doing certain exercises, demonstrate proper form, encourage you, and make working out fun. A bad one does little of that, and spends his time trying to upsell you on expensive supplements that he is compensated to sell. You get what you pay for.

For me, having a training appointment twice a week accomplishes the most important part of my workout goals: getting my *kitten* out of bed at 6:30am in the morning when driving to the gym is the last thing I want to do.

All that being said, please realize that while a trainer can provide expert help, they can't make you lift those weights, run that mile, and they certainly can't prevent you from stuffing that donut in your pie-hole. Between working out and eating properly, the latter is far more important to overall weight loss and health. All of the usual disclaimers apply here: You can't outrun a bad diet, Abs are made in the kitchen, etc.

Cherimoose

Zowiesb wrote: »

The lady I approached was nice enough to do a free taster session. She checked my heart rate the whole way through and if it got too high she made me take a break. I liked her style of encouragement and choice of exercises and she talks about nutrition as well which I think will be a great help.

Exercise heart rates vary too much to be of use in that way. There is no "too high" of a heart rate unless either a doctor tells you, or you personally feel it is too high.

Which certification(s) does she have?

Does she have any nutrition credentials?