Personal Trainers

prettyfitchick

Are they worth it??
I work with a girl who has one she also competes in those fitness model stuff but I was wondering What do they teach ya that you cant already learn from the web but I have never had one do they just motivate you ? What exactely do they do??

Italiano7

I have a trainer now. He motivates me and my man. He knows what excersizes to do to target certain areas of the body. He switches back and forth from weight training and cardio. plus he is a great motivator. Definitely worth it! you will see a difference within a cpl weeks if they know what they are doing. Try it out for a month and see.

knittingwitch

Well a good one can motivate, give you a workout made for your needs, watch to make sure your doing it right so you don't get hurt, and bug you if you think your just going to skip this day.
As long as you fined a good one then yah there worth it, I think.

foxyforce

they are so expensive.

scorpiotwinkles

Look at me. My PT did that. Well worth it. Oh, and he is a HOT fitness model too.

With regards cost, yes it can work out expensive, but I figured that my life was worth it - In January I was contemplating using crutches or motorised wheelchairs to get about due to me needing a knee replacement. I am a new woman and not a walking aid in sight!

smaschin

I had a personal trainer the other day in the gym telling me there was a better exercise for my Traps, seeing as his shoulders looked like a broken coat hanger and he had no idea what i was trying to achieve at the time i told him to jog on, eat some chicken and go play with himself over muscle and fitness magazine and keep dreaming.

Most of the ones i know have no real gym experience, and have very little worth listening to especially at their over inflated prices.

There are of course exception to the rules of course.

Peace

P.S I am qualified myself I have just never bothered to use it, I did ACE ages ago, it was easy, needed little study from what I already knew, always useful to have an extra cert though.

;-)

dad106

I'd say they are.. With the help of my 3 trainers, I've lost over 30 pounds and 6 sizes.

Websites are great and all, but when it comes to form, you really need someone there who knows what they are doing. When I lift, I know my form is correct because I've had someone there watching me and telling me what I am doing wrong.

Plus, I'm just lazy. I don't want to spend hours sitting on the internet sifting through weight lifting routines or websites with a bunch of exercises, then figure out which ones I want to do, how many reps/sets, etc. I'd much rather pay someone however much to come up with it for me, and then I can just go when I'm at the gym.

My current trainer has been in the business for 5 years and has 3 certifications.. so I trust what he has to say... and so far he hasn't steered me wrong!

SideSteel

I had a personal trainer the other day in the gym telling me there was a better exercise for my Traps, seeing as his shoulders looked like a broken coat hanger

^ HAHaahahhahah

nz_deevaa

... With the help of my 3 trainers, I've lost over 3 pounds....

I know that's meant to say 30lbs, but reading as it stands made me snort coffee out my nose :laugh:

ltkasmala

It depends on what you want. Someone mentioned they are expensive, which usually they are. My gym has a free service and the girl is very competent, but she's not the type of trainer that will customize a workout for everyone in the gym. Those are the ones that cost.... Make sure they know what they are talking about. I've had them approach me in other gyms and act like everyone there doesn't know that exercise helps lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. No kidding, really? Or the ones that say "fat turns to muscle and vice versa..." Those ones don't know what they are talking about, and so, will be a waste of time and money. At one gym the one trainer was actually a medical student (how she was working and going to school, no idea!) but everyone wanted her because obviously she was on top of the game. But that was before the Internet... I'd just search for some information first. I follow a bunch of "accounts" on Twitter that always post good exercises for all body parts and types, pre and post workouts, how to eat well, etc. I wouldn't hire one of them even if I had the money, honestly.

andeey

Edit: need more coffee before posting so I can be coherent.

Are they worth it? Yes, depending on your needs. For me, best decision ever.

Lina4Lina

My personal trainer is on MFP (but he doesn't post here). I went to a personal trainer because I needed motivation and consistency. I needed help getting back on track basically. Having a set appointment once/week helps and having someone rooting for me also helps.

Another reason to go to a personal trainer is if you have never done weights, a personal trainer can help with your form and help set you up on a program.

Is my personal trainer worth it? Absolutely.

Capt_Apollo

i had a PT that ws very very good, but i also think that since i had a basic knowledge of fitness, and with some clear goals in mind, it helped him formulate a plan that was tailored to my needs, instead of a basic "get you in shape" plan that he does with others. i pretty much told him "no machines, only free weights," and that i wanted to compete in mud runs, triathlons, and learn olympic lifts.

as for them being expensive... yeah, they can be if you get one three days a week for 6 months. but i met with this guy once a month. it was good because i looked forward to it. he would show me things, and i'd ask questions about what i had learned over the last few weeks, and we'd work out.

consistently seeing a PT at a gym three days a week just seems like such a chore. you'd stop looking forward to the work outs because they'd probably keep being so tough.

my PT was worth every cent.

MyTime1207

I have a trainer now. He motivates me and my man. He knows what excersizes to do to target certain areas of the body. He switches back and forth from weight training and cardio. plus he is a great motivator. Definitely worth it! you will see a difference within a cpl weeks if they know what they are doing. Try it out for a month and see.

We are definitely motivators and help push you when you need it the most.

Flixie00

For me, having a personal trainer is well worth the expense, but you have to find the right one. My PT draws up programmes for me, taught me how to lift with correct form, motivates me and gives me good advise. I work out 6 days a week, sometimes more than once a day, but only 1 hour a week with my PT where we only do strength training.

BinaryPulsar

At my gym you can only sign up for 6 months (some trainers will agree to 3 months). It is too expensive for me. Also, I don't want some person following me around and hanging over me when I am trying to exercise and telling me what to do with my life. I like to be self-motivated and alone. However, I wish they would offer shorter packages that cost less and give me a few sessions so that I could get some expert help on making sure I have good form on some very key, specific compound weight lifting moves. They say they only give the training in large packages because you can't gain anything from a short amount of training. That's complete BS. I am a dancer and I studied all the stuff he studied in school about the body (anatomy, physiology biology, kinesiology). I just want a little guidance with setting some things up, knowing where some things are, and having an outside eye on my form when trying weights that are heavier than I have lifted before. Even one session with a trainer would be fine. But, no, they won't do that. Or if that's not good I could sign up for a smaller package, but no they won't do that. I have to pay 1000 dollars to be committed to 3 months worth of training. No, thank you. But, it does have many benefits, if it is affordable. I have some friends that are trainers (don't live near me since I moved).

DawnieB1977

I've got a personal trainer, and I think he's worth the money! I've lost 42lbs over the past year, but it's not all about the weight loss. I could've probably lost the weight on my own, but i'd have just done cardio at the gym and I wouldn't have lost the same amount of inches, and I wouldn't have toned up so much.

My PT does different things every session with me, focusing on different areas, which I wouldn't be able to do myself. I had a session yesterday and he designed a circuit for me, and we used the aerobics studio as it was free, so it was nice to have more privacy when I worked out. He also pushes me, whereas when I go on my own I don't think I push myself as much.

It's motivating to have someone with you when you exercise, and to measure you at regular intervals, and to give you a kick up the ar*e. I can now do up trousers that I haven't worn for 10 years, which is pretty good considering I'm 34 and I've had 2 kids quite close together (now 3 and 1).

m16shane

If you can find the money to spend its worth it in my opinion. My fiance and I have one, it cost $260 for 4 sessions fro both ($130 each). He seems to motivate us a lot when we work out. Plus after his "workout/routine" he gives us a sheet of what we did so we can work on that stuff until are next workout. He like to push us and motivates us but understands not to kill us. He builds on what we know and teaches us on other. Plus he helps with nutrition if we want.

Azdak

"Value" is in the eye of the beholder. A good trainer can definitely help you see results faster and more effectively, however, each individual has to decide whether the service is worth the cost. Often, people can get good results on their own, or it might take a little longer to get there, so I would never say that a trainer is an absolute necessity. But it's no different that learning any other skill--you can often figure out a golf swing on your own, but I learned more in one 6-hour class with a PGA teaching pro than I did in 2 years at the driving range.

A good trainer will have the depth of knowledge and experience to listen to your goals, assess your ability and fitness level, and determine the best plan to meet those goals. Good trainers are not only motivating, but they are good problem-solvers. They also have the confidence and skill to use every exercise modality available, and not force people into one particular plan or one set philosophy. Good trainers will be focused on their clients during the session--not looking at themselves in the mirror, texting friends, etc. They won't let you slack off with bad form. To me, even more important than being "motivating", a good trainer will know how hard to push you to get the best results--and when NOT to push you, as well.

anemoneprose

Why do trainers lock you into contracts? Couldn't more flexibility around arrangements potentially mean more of a different kind of business?

A one-off 'intro to form' + program design session & maybe some reading recommendations would be well worthwhile. Maybe a check-in every couple of months, as needed (again, on a one-off basis).

I wouldn't pay for ongoing sessions.

smaschin

Why do trainers lock you into contracts? Couldn't more flexibility around arrangements potentially mean more of a different kind of business?

A one-off 'intro to form' + program design session & maybe some reading recommendations would be well worthwhile. Maybe a check-in every couple of months, as needed (again, on a one-off basis).

I wouldn't pay for ongoing sessions.

Because people give up and the trainer gets to keep the dosh ;-)

Also I imagine they have busy diaries so book in advance, I know I would

Azdak

Why do trainers lock you into contracts? Couldn't more flexibility around arrangements potentially mean more of a different kind of business?

A one-off 'intro to form' + program design session & maybe some reading recommendations would be well worthwhile. Maybe a check-in every couple of months, as needed (again, on a one-off basis).

I wouldn't pay for ongoing sessions.

I think it's more the club than the individual trainer. We do some similar things, but offer training in smaller packages as well.

Many of our members know they want to work with a trainer on a long-term basis, either 2 or 3 times per week. If they are willing to purchase 6 months or 12 months worth of sessions upfront, they not only get an additional 10% the lowest price per visit we offer, we waive their monthly dues. It's a win-win--the member (who would have purchased the sessons anyway) gets a great deal, and we get a good chunk of $$ upfront.

We also offer single sessions, 6-, and 10-visit packages, as well as other training/membership packages for those who don't want to buy 52 sessions up front. That way everyone has options.

Hestion

Edit: need more coffee before posting so I can be coherent.

Are they worth it? Yes, depending on your needs. For me, best decision ever.

Ditto this ^^^^ Mine is great, she is more than just an hour a week, always ready to give advice/help etc whenever I want to text/call/email her even when she's not at the gym, she is fantastic.

MandyJokl

I thought I would never use a trainer but my friend used one for a few months and she recommended him. You can pay for one session at a time when you want one or pay for four up front and get the fifth one free.

He has taught me different routines to do in the gym that I would never have worked out for myself. I get different routines every week and I get weighed every week and get my muscle fat and water levels measured. My weight loss has slowed a little but my body shape has changed and I dropped a dress size very quickly. I have had five sessions so far and I intend to keep having a weekly session for a few more months. I still have over 8 stone to lose.

TXGirl821

I never wanted a trainer. I thought I could do it on my own using whatever workout programs I found online. But somehow I was persuaded to sign up for a year of weekly training sessions. Let's face it, I'm a sucker for flattery and the guy who signed me up said I looked 25. It's more expensive than I probably should be paying at this point in my life, but let me tell you something - It's been worth EVERY. SINGLE. PENNY.

I've dropped body fat. I've built muscle. I mean, HONESTLY built muscle that I can feel in my arms and legs!! For a very big girl like me, that's amazing! He has motivated me so much. He's pushed me further than I would have pushed myself, but made sure that I have had fun and been safe in the process.

This past week was my last session with the trainer I've been with since June because he's going on to bigger and better things, and I'm starting with someone new, but I know that the new trainer will push me even more, and I can't wait!!

So yes... if you can afford it, get a trainer!

TXGirl821

Look at me. My PT did that. Well worth it. Oh, and he is a HOT fitness model too.

With regards cost, yes it can work out expensive, but I figured that my life was worth it - In January I was contemplating using crutches or motorised wheelchairs to get about due to me needing a knee replacement. I am a new woman and not a walking aid in sight!

You're amazing!! That's totally inspirational

nataliexxxx

Depends because if you know what workout to do and can do it yourself without needing motivation from others then you dont really need one, at my gym you can ask the people who work there for a fitness plan and they will write you one out and show you what to do once and then the next times you do it alone, they might do this at a gym near you if you ask:)
If I could afford one I would get one though

anemoneprose

Why do trainers lock you into contracts? Couldn't more flexibility around arrangements potentially mean more of a different kind of business?

A one-off 'intro to form' + program design session & maybe some reading recommendations would be well worthwhile. Maybe a check-in every couple of months, as needed (again, on a one-off basis).

I wouldn't pay for ongoing sessions.

I think it's more the club than the individual trainer. We do some similar things, but offer training in smaller packages as well.

Many of our members know they want to work with a trainer on a long-term basis, either 2 or 3 times per week. If they are willing to purchase 6 months or 12 months worth of sessions upfront, they not only get an additional 10% the lowest price per visit we offer, we waive their monthly dues. It's a win-win--the member (who would have purchased the sessons anyway) gets a great deal, and we get a good chunk of $$ upfront.

We also offer single sessions, 6-, and 10-visit packages, as well as other training/membership packages for those who don't want to buy 52 sessions up front. That way everyone has options.

That's smart (and fair!). It's a real shame that more gyms aren't run that way. Access to fitness improves quality of life in countless ways, and good, safe, effective instruction isn't always available at more affordable gyms. I guess that's not always what less stand-up owners might think about first, but, liability issues aside, why would anyone get involved in fitness if they didn't care about health? Plus, in this economy, not a bad idea to widen the demographic a bit, I`d think.

Even in terms of membership - one-month options are available, but they're often the most expensive. Some kind of discount on those (e.g., 20% off the third month in a year) would be good too. Community centres sometimes offer this sort of thing but aren't always equipped with basic strength equipment.

But I digress. Even for a self-motivated person, it takes time to learn just basic fitness principles, never mind enough to customize a program for specific goals. And it's easy to waste time or hurt yourself. Quality training absolutely has value.

prettyfitchick

Whats a resoanble prices to pay for a pt ?? I am thning paying per session would be the best option for me

MandyJokl

I thought I would never use a trainer but my friend used one for a few months and she recommended him. You can pay for one session at a time when you want one or pay for four up front and get the fifth one free.

He has taught me different routines to do in the gym that I would never have worked out for myself. I get different routines every week and I get weighed every week and get my muscle fat and water levels measured. My weight loss has slowed a little but my body shape has changed and I dropped a dress size very quickly. I have had five sessions so far and I intend to keep having a weekly session for a few more months. I still have over 8 stone to lose.

wazzanz

Depends on what you want to do. To get you set up with a weights programme and nutritional advise a good one well worth it.

Just as a motivator you can't go past gym classes. I've rejoined a gym after 5 years. Had never done classes before (excpet spinning) and doing them now and loving it. Some take a while to get into the swing but once you learn the moves a great all over cardio workout! Much better than slugging it out on the rowing machine, treadmill or bike machine.

If your gym offers classes then chances are you are paying for them. Go to the back of the room and no one will see you and to be fair no one gives a **** if you out of time anyway.