What to look for in a trainer?

micheleb15

I am looking into getting a personal trainer. My main focus is learning to lift heavy with proper form. I don't really need the hand holding or someone to motivate me; I just want to learn. Without offending anyone, I feel like anyone can be a trainer. Anyone can spit back out information. I have my real estate license and you'd be an idiot to hire me just because I have a piece of paper. What are specifics that you look for in a trainer? Certifications? ACE, ACSM, ISSA? Should I look for a certain background?

I have seen some of the trainer bios at my gym, but a background in dance and being an athlete in college doesn't really help me decide. I guess I should just scope out the squat rack and see which trainers spend the most time over there. Tips anyone?

63hanson

I'm interested in finding out too. I really don't want to waste my money on someone that's not going to give me good information.

Showcase_Brodown

If you are mainly looking for instruction on form, there are so many youtube videos. All the knowledge is out there somewhere and there is no reason why you can't learn it and apply it yourself. There may be some benefits to having a trainer, but it seems like the cost would not be worth it unless they are very good.

micheleb15

I've read NROLFW and all about Stronglifts. I don't feel comfortable progressing to a heavier weight every week with something that I "hope" I am doing right. I can't see all sides from the mirror. For me, it's a good investment. Just have to find the right person.

ahmadfahmy

I am looking into getting a personal trainer. My main focus is learning to lift heavy with proper form. I don't really need the hand holding or someone to motivate me; I just want to learn. Without offending anyone, I feel like anyone can be a trainer. Anyone can spit back out information. I have my real estate license and you'd be an idiot to hire me just because I have a piece of paper. What are specifics that you look for in a trainer? Certifications? ACE, ACSM, ISSA? Should I look for a certain background?

I have seen some of the trainer bios at my gym, but a background in dance and being an athlete in college doesn't really help me decide. I guess I should just scope out the squat rack and see which trainers spend the most time over there. Tips anyone?

your best bet is to find a trainer from a training facility not a commercial gym. most trainers at these training facilities either compete in the sport or have done so in the past.

MikeDasTrainer

If you're really interested in proper form look for a trainer with a degree in Exercise Science and a certification by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) for Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). NSCA is a nationally recignoized group that has a larger focus on sport performance and strength training. I can tell you for myself, I currently have my certifications in NSCA and ACSM and NSCA puts way more stress on the proper lifting technique aspect of training. Also, as someone said before there are a lot of good youtube videos as well. The best way to learn a form is to practice it unloaded with a stick light weight. Worry about what muscles are suposed to be firing in the proper sequence before loading the movement.

Lastly, to go along with the NSCA thing, here are some videos they provide free to the public to help coach form:

http://www.nsca.com/Education/All-Videos/

NathanFronk

Keep an eye out for a personal trainer at your gym that looks like what you want to look like.

Then see how they interact with their client. Maybe ask for quick help on something in particular and if you feel comfortable with them, spring the "you're hired!" on 'em.

luckydays27

For me, I wanted a trainer that I could talk to and who would push me. And one I could afford. I found that. When I explained to my trainer that I wanted to start lifting heavier weights, he developed a program so we could meet those goals.

You need to find someone who will listen to you and help you with your goals, not theirs. Someone that will hand you a weight heavier than you have ever lifted an tell you to go for it. Help you get that last rep in when you just cant do it any more on your own. Spot you just to make sure you dont hurt yourself.

And just so you know, there is nothing wrong with shopping around for a trainer. You dont have to be stuck with the one assigned to you at the gym. Look for a few others and try them on for size.

18guyhornet

Go to your gym or training facility near you and spend some time watching the trainer instruct. That's how I found mine and I'm very happy. I narrowed the choice to two - a guy and a girl - and opted for the woman because her philosophy fit more with what I wanted and what I believed. I'm an attorney by trade and I agree - certs and papers don't make the best person for you. It's about personality most times.

micheleb15

I am looking into getting a personal trainer. My main focus is learning to lift heavy with proper form. I don't really need the hand holding or someone to motivate me; I just want to learn. Without offending anyone, I feel like anyone can be a trainer. Anyone can spit back out information. I have my real estate license and you'd be an idiot to hire me just because I have a piece of paper. What are specifics that you look for in a trainer? Certifications? ACE, ACSM, ISSA? Should I look for a certain background?

I have seen some of the trainer bios at my gym, but a background in dance and being an athlete in college doesn't really help me decide. I guess I should just scope out the squat rack and see which trainers spend the most time over there. Tips anyone?

your best bet is to find a trainer from a training facility not a commercial gym. most trainers at these training facilities either compete in the sport or have done so in the past.

I agree, however, the local training facility is $200 a month for group and $89 for one on one. The $89 doesn't include use of the gym when you're not training. I haven't completely disregarded it for just a month. Maybe a birthday present.

MikeDasTrainer

Go to your gym or training facility near you and spend some time watching the trainer instruct. That's how I found mine and I'm very happy. I narrowed the choice to two - a guy and a girl - and opted for the woman because her philosophy fit more with what I wanted and what I believed. I'm an attorney by trade and I agree - certs and papers don't make the best person for you. It's about personality most times.

Also this.

jbuck93

I don't know about in your area, but a lot of trainers around here offer anywhere from 2 - 4 sessions free. If not ask around and then try a few. Anyone can have a piece of paper.

I'm on my second trainer and I like him way better then the first.

micheleb15

I don't know about in your area, but a lot of trainers around here offer anywhere from 2 - 4 sessions free. If not ask around and then try a few. Anyone can have a piece of paper.

I'm on my second trainer and I like him way better then the first.

This doesn't happen in my area unfortunately.

luckydays27

If you dont know anybody, you can always try to see if there is a groupon type deal where you can try someone for a decent price to see if you like them.