Qs to ask before hiring a trainer

Trish1c

I'm getting down to crunch time. I have 6 pounds to go before my self imposed deadline but can't get them off. I know my nutrition is poor, even when my calories are good. I could use more info about the right way to exercise. The "free" trainer at my gym just isn't enough. So I have decided to look for a personal trainer.

I want somebody who can teach me about exercise & nutrition. I don't need or expect to work out with the trainer every day. I am seeking some accountability.

I'm meeting with a prospective trainer on Wednesday (2 days from now). I already know her hourly rate. I also know she has a degree in nutrition but is not a registered dietician.

What kinds of things should I be asking her or talking with her about?

Cherimoose

Choosing a good trainer:
http://body-improvements.com/articles/industry-articles/how-to-select-a-personal-trainer/
http://www.stumptuous.com/how-to-choose-a-personal-trainer
http://dailyburn.com/life/fitness/personal-trainer-break-up-signs/

By the way, there is no one right way to exercise.

bebeisfit

I would bring in your food logs from at least a week and exercise logs for the last month so she can see what you're already doing, How much sleep do you get each night? She should be asking you your goals, how much time do you want your workouts to be, intensity, what your workouts have been, and what do you like to do in the gym. I would expect her to take your measurements and bodyfat %.

Ask about her experience with people in the same situation as yours. Ask what training and certifications she has, what makes her qualified to give you advice? What kind of degree? From a 4 yr University or online course? Depending on where you live, almost anyone can say they are a 'personal trainer'.

I'm sure you know that weight loss happens in the kitchen, do you do your own cooking or do you eat out? How accurate do you think your logging might be? She should be discussing all of that - if it's a "give me an hour a few times a week and I'll get you in shape" - I'd be wary. And if she starts selling you supplements/shakes/pills or snake oil - run out the door!

I read one of those motivational quotes once that really hit home..something like.. The hour in the gym is one thing, but what really counts is the other 23 hours in your day.

Good luck! I hope she gives you what you need!

linda212121

Thank you for writing

rhonpaul

I am a personal trainer and for all of the information I am able to give clients, the most important would be for the client to understand that effort level and adherence comes from the client. Ask her how she can help you with those for both food and exercise. But no matter what her answer, know that you are ultimately responsible for your success and how you fuel your body really matters. Good luck.

cwolfman13

I had very specific training goals in mind when I hired my trainer. For one, I wanted to learn Olympic lifts, so I had to have someone qualified to coach that...and two, I wanted someone with a cycling background who could help me get better on the bike.

kaizaku

The things you ask the trainer is exactly what you what from the training. Tell the trainer your goal and what is needed to achieve that. Do few sessions and see how it goes.