9C. CHOOSING A TRAINER

I decided to go with a trainer since I wasn't having a lot of luck hitting my goals on my own.

Here are some things to think about when looking for a trainer:

Education: A personal trainer should be certified through a reputable fitness organization such as ACSM, ACE or NSCA). An exercise science or other related college degree isn't necessary, but the more education your trainer has, the better your workouts will be.
CPR: your trainer should have an updated certification in CPR and/or first aid.
Experience: Make sure your trainer has several years of experience, especially in relation to your goals. For example, if you're a bodybuilder, you want someone knowledgeable in that area.
Specifics: If you have a specific medical problem, injury or condition (such as being pregnant, heart problems, diabetes, etc.) make sure your trainer has education in these areas and will work with your doctor.
A good listener: A good trainer will listen closely to what you say and make sure he understands your goals.
Attention: A good trainer will be focused only on you during your sessions.
Tracking progress: A good trainer will regularly assess your progress and change things if necessary.
Personality is important too since you'll be working very closely with this person. Make sure you get along with your trainer and feel comfortable asking questions.

Most of the health clubs have trainers on staff. Since they will, somewhat randomly, assign you to a trainer you may want to push back and interview a number of trainers before you sign a contract. Especially since training sessions can cost up to $50 or more each. Typically this price drops the more sessions you purchase.

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