How To Change PTs...Diplomatically

cortesd
cortesd Posts: 58 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi all! Got a question about how to change my PT, but in a diplomatic way. I've been using a trainer for about 8 weeks and he's been very helpful getting me started on progressive lifting. However, today I met another trainer at the gym that I really "clicked with" and I think he can help me get to the next level.

I'm not quite sure how to do the switch since the gym I go to is very, very small and there are only two trainers on staff. I don't want to offend the first guy, since I'm going to see him every time I'm working with the new one.

Replies

  • Sued0nim
    Sued0nim Posts: 17,456 Member
    Hey John, I'm going to switch trainers for a while ...thank you so much for your help so far
  • besee_2000
    besee_2000 Posts: 365 Member
    Sometimes the things that matter involve uncomfortable moments. Say exactly what you just said to all of us. If the PT can't accept it it isn't your problem anymore. If you feel it would be a good move just rip that band-aid.
  • usmcmp
    usmcmp Posts: 21,219 Member
    Be honest. Say you've enjoyed the last few weeks, but you'd like to try out training with the other trainer for a while. You may find that while you click with someone on a personal level you might not click on a training level.
  • Azdak
    Azdak Posts: 8,281 Member
    "Personal Training" means just that--you're in charge and you get to "have it your way". You can go ahead and be a good guy about it--that's the polite thing--but it's your choice and you don't have to feel badly about it.

    If the trainer is any kind of professional, he will react professionally. I've been on both sides of the switch--I've gotten clients from other trainers and have had one or two who wanted something different. We all have egos, so I won't deny it's not fun to lose a client. But I always responded in the most positive way possible--both at the time and every time I see them in the club-- so that the client would not feel uncomfortable.

    It's part of the business, so don't hesitate to do what you think is best for you.
  • Working2BLean
    Working2BLean Posts: 386 Member
    usmcmp wrote: »
    Be honest. Say you've enjoyed the last few weeks, but you'd like to try out training with the other trainer for a while. You may find that while you click with someone on a personal level you might not click on a training level.

    ^^^^^

    This is the best thing to remember.
  • cortesd
    cortesd Posts: 58 Member
    Thanks for all the feedback. I did have a chance to do one brief training session with the new trainer and that's when it "clicked." He's a bit obsessive about form, which is what I really liked.

    The original PT was not too assertive and only corrected me when I asked for feedback. Nice guy, just very shy but got me started on this new amazing path to lifting heavy! :p
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 48,968 Member
    As a PT, I'm NEVER offended if someone wants to switch. If we don't click, we don't click. It's not personal, it's just business.
    I had it happen a couple of months ago. She asked me about one of my peers and I talked her up. She switched to her and I offered her a smile and "keep going strong" response. It's happened for me as well.

    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
    9285851.png

Categories