Custom Fitness Regiment Options

So you've decided that you may need a personal fitness trainer, but where do you start? In any big city there will be many trainers to choose from, but identifying the great ones can be a challenge.

It's vital to take your time for you to find the correct trainer. Employing a bad trainer might be worse than no trainer at all, particularly if s/he puts you off training. So, just while you would when hiring a trades-person to fix your roof or mend your drains, shop around to discover somebody who knows what they can be discussing.

So... do not just plump for the personal trainers who have glitzy sites or celebrity endorsements, and definitely do not assume that the most costly ones will be the best!

If you can get a personal recommendation, this really is an excellent starting point. However... don't 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 need to get your body back after having a baby, or you're recovering from cardiac arrest and have to do it slow, then a trainer who specialises in sports-specific training may 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 seek out websites for personal trainers within 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 - anyone can post a library pic of a big beefy body builder on their view website, it doesn't mean they get results!

Watch out for testimonials from clients on trainers' web pages. They are a great way to get a feel for what a trainer is really like. Even better, look on listings sites such as Qype.co.uk or Yell.co.uk. They contain independent reviews from clients, and bad reviews (and additionally good) will be published.

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

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

Check that the trainer has experience of the conditions or problems specific to you, e.g. diabetes, back problems, post-natal training. A number of well chosen questions should reveal whether or not the trainer knows his/her stuff or is simply 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! A great physique as well as a friendly smile really can tell you a great deal. And check they have a great understanding of diet and general medical issues, not only workout programmes and exercising.