1) Coming to the gym and exercising is a new experience for you.
If you are new to the weight room, all of the machines and equipment may seem a little overwhelming at first. A personal trainer can put your mind at ease and ensure you get a good understanding of equipment set up, and proper execution.
2) You’re bored and need some new moves
If you are an experienced exerciser, you’ve probably never considered hiring a personal trainer. However, a trainer can add some variety to your workouts and offer new ideas to challenge your body and mind. A trainer can help you overcome a plateau, and even if you just do a few sessions, or meet every few weeks, you will find it beneficial to have new exercises and equipment to master!
3) You need accountability and motivation.
Not only are you investing in a great program, your also investing time. Trainers are great motivators, and a regular appointment can get your ass in gear and keep your workouts consistent. A trainer also provides some accountability, even if you don’t have a session, your trainer will be asking if you did your planned workouts. Knowing this may make you think twice about skipping out!
4) Program design – Specific, individualized programs designed just for you.
Everyone is different, what works for one person may not work for another. A personal trainer will develop an effective program for you based on your current level of fitness and personal goals.
5) You have a specific injury, illness, or condition.
If you have specific issues like arthritis, heart disease, shoulder impingement, etc., working with an experienced trainer (who works with your doctor) can design a program to help heal injuries and avoid any further problems. It’s also a great idea to work with a trainer if you are pregnant and want a safe, effective workout.
6) Sports specific training.
Many amateur and professional athletes hire personal trainers during the off season to prepare them for the in season competition. Perhaps you want to move quicker on the ice, or improve your golf swing; a trainer can design a program to improve athletic performance.
7) Safety and supervision.
Personal attention while training is the primary function of a personal trainer. Need a spotter? How about feedback on your form? It’s a personal trainer’s job to observe, assist, and correct if necessary.
8) A trainer is an excellent resource.
Besides providing education in the field of anatomy and physiology, a good trainer usually has a network of other specialists in the area of nutrition, massage, etc. A trainer may be able to help you with your other non-exercise health needs.
9) Its less expensive than you think.
Let’s face it, most things worthwhile cost money. Different gyms will have different prices when it comes to personal training. You can usually expect to pay 40-100$ per hour depending on the location and the trainer. However, you’ll receive an individualized program, motivation, supervision, education, resources, and much more. Perhaps you can cut expenses in other areas of your life (i.e. Dining out, buying coffee or pop everyday); investing in your health is investing in your future. Plus, think of all the doctor trips and prescriptions you won’t need by living an active and healthy lifestyle!
10) Ego boost!
It’s a fact-feeling good makes you look good and vice versa. While helping you achieve your goals, a trainer will provide positive feedback on your performance and may help raise your confidence to take on new challenges.
Before You Commit
Before you commit your time and money towards training with a trainer, make sure it will be worth your while. Whoever you choose should be certified from a reputable organization and have experience training clients such as yourself. Feel free to ask as many questions as you’d like to ensure you’ll receive the best bang for your buck. Also, a personal trainer should practice what they preach; they don’t have to be fitness models, but if they aren’t fit how will they motivate you?
Committing to training regularly with a personal trainer could be the best decision you’ve ever made, but please keep in mind that a trainer can only care as much as you do. If you constantly cancel, or half-ass your workouts, don’t point the finger at your trainer (as long as they have been doing all they can to help). Also, nutrition plays a HUGE role in weight loss/gain, and overall health. If you struggle in this area, your trainer may be able to help, or refer you to someone who can.