Personal Training

So you have decided that you'll need a personal custom fitness regiments trainer, but where do you start? In almost any big city there will be many trainers available, but identifying the excellent ones may be a challenge.

It's important to take your time for you to find the right trainer. Hiring a bad trainer could be worse than no trainer at all, particularly if s/he puts you off training. As a result, just as you would when hiring a trades-person to fix your roof or mend your drains, shop around to discover someone who knows what they're discussing.

So... do not just plump for the personal trainers that have glitzy web pages or celebrity endorsements, and definitely do not assume that the most expensive ones are the best!

In the event you can get a personal recommendation, this really is a good beginning. However... do not simply assume that because your friend adores her trainer Joe Bigpecs, and sings his praises from the rooftops, that he will be suitable for you. Everyone has different needs when they embark on a training programme, and trainers specialise in several areas. If you would like to get your body back after having a baby, or you're recovering from cardiac arrest and have to take it slow, then a trainer who specialises in sports-specific training might not be right for you.

So - take all recommendations with a pinch of salt.

If you can not get a personal recommendation, try local forums such as the East Dulwich Forum in London or use Google Maps to discover web sites for private trainers in your area.

The style of a trainer's website can tell you a great deal about the style of the trainer - look for websites which show pictures of real people and real results - anybody can post a library pic of a big beefy body builder on their own website, it will not mean they get results!

Watch out for testimonials from clients on trainers' sites. They're a good way to get a feel for what a trainer is actually like. Even better, look on listings sites for example Qype.co.uk or Yell.co.uk. They contain independent reviews from clients, and bad reviews (and good) will be published.

Another area to look is your local gym. If you aren't a member, check if you can get in for a trial session. Then ask around - but talk to the people training, not the staff. Most gyms offer personal training but this might not be the cheapest, or even the best, available.

Once you've short-listed 2 or 3 personal trainers who look promising, arrange to meet them in person. You may need a rapport with your trainer - it should be pretty obvious from the very first meeting whether which is likely. Does s/he listen to your preferences and come up with some ideas? Does s/he inspire you?

Check that the trainer has experience of any conditions or problems specific to you, e.g. diabetes, back problems, post-natal training. A number of well chosen questions should reveal regardless of if the trainer knows his/her stuff or is just making it up as he goes along.

Personal appearance is important, it may seem obvious but s/he needs to look fit and healthy - not all trainers practice what they preach! An excellent physique as well as a friendly smile really can tell you a whole lot. And check they have a good understanding of diet and general health problems, not only workout programmes and exercising.