Whether you are struggling to sustain a healthy eating and exercise habit or not sure how to get started on an exercise programme, you may be asking yourself the question: Should I get a personal trainer? 

There’s no doubt that having a personal trainer can help you set realistic health and lifestyle goals, create a plan for achieving them and hold your hand every step of the way.  The search for your perfect trainer may seem like a daunting task but when you find someone you click with, the rewards could change your life. Knowing about yourself first could help make your search easier.

Here are 9 questions that will help you find a personal trainer who is a good match for you. 

1.WHY DO I WANT A PERSONAL TRAINER?

This question can help you decide whether you actually need a personal trainer. Maybe you’ve never exercised before and so need to learn basic exercise technique to prevent you injuring yourself.  Or you have unhealthy habits which you are struggling to change by yourself. Keeping to a regular routine may be a challenge at the moment so having a regular appointment with a trainer can keep you on track.

2.WHAT ARE MY SPECIFIC GOALS?

Be clear about what you want to achieve and why.  Your goal could be to have more energy so that you can enjoy walking holidays with your friends. Or you may want to lose some weight so that you feel amazing and confident in your clothes. Maybe you’ve had a health scare and want to ensure your health doesn’t deteriorate and stop you enjoying your life. Knowing your goals will help a personal trainer devise the right action plan specifically for you to help you achieve those goals.

3.WHERE WOULD I WANT TO WORK WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER?

Personal trainers work in a variety of places. If you tend to feel self conscious about other people looking at you, then a small intimate studio gym where there is just you and your personal trainer would suit you better than a large, busy gym. Or you may prefer your personal trainer to come to your home or your place of work, if you have the space, so you don’t have to factor in travel time.

4.WHY HAVEN’T I ACHIEVED MY FITNESS AND HEALTH GOALS IN THE PAST?

Your answers to this question can help you and your personal trainer develop a programme that addresses your stumbling blocks.  Was lack of time an issue? Did you feel embarrassed to ask for help in a big gym?  Did you have specific health issues and worried in case you made them worse?  Did you have emotional issues that caused unhealthy habits?  Did you enjoy your exercise regime?

5.WHAT TYPE OF COACHING STYLE WOULD WORK FOR ME?

To help you find the right personal trainer it is important to understand your own learning style and what motivates you. A gentle approach with patient explanations and positive encouragement could feel less scary than a shouting sergeant major type.

6.AM I READY AND WILLING TO COMMIT TO DOING THE WORK?

Be honest with yourself.  A personal trainer can plan great fitness and nutrition programmes but ultimately it is up to you to do the work. 

7.WHAT AM I GOOD AT?

Knowing what you are good at in your career or in life can help define your strengths.  A personal trainer can then develop a programme that uses those strengths to help you achieve your fitness and health goals.

8.HOW IMPORTANT IS IT THAT A PERSONAL TRAINER’S PAST AND CURRENT CLIENTS ARE SIMILAR TO ME?

You may have specific issues such as recurrent back problems or sore knees. Knowing that your personal trainer has experience in dealing with these issues will help to reduce any anxieties you may have about injuries.

9.WHAT ARE YOUR FEARS ABOUT WORKING WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER?

The answer to this question is important for your personal trainer, so they know how to put you at ease. Are you anxious that the sessions might be too hard?  Are you concerned you might sweat too much and then look awful.  Do you worry the personal trainer could get frustrated with you?  

If you are struggling to find the right person to help you achieve your health and fitness goals, lets chat. You can book your Free Getting to Know you Call HERE