Custom Fitness Plans

So you have decided that you may need a personal fitness trainer, but where do you start? In almost any big city there will be many trainers to select from, but identifying the good ones may be a challenge.

You need to take your period to find the correct trainer. Hiring a bad trainer might be worse than no trainer at all, particularly if s/he puts you off training. As a result, just when you would when hiring a trades-person to fix your roof or mend your drains, shop around to discover a person that knows what they can be speaking about.

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

If you can get a personal recommendation, this really is the best starting place. However... do not simply assume that because your friend adores her trainer Joe Bigpecs, and sings his comment is here praises from the rooftops, that he will be suitable for you. Everyone has different needs once 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 heart disease and must take it slow, then a trainer who specialises in sports-specific training may not be suitable for you.

So - take all recommendations with a pinch of salt.

If you cannot get a personal recommendation, try local forums for example the East Dulwich Forum in London or use Google Maps to seek out web pages for private trainers in your area.

The style of a trainer's website can tell you a whole lot about the style of the trainer - look for web pages which show pictures of real people and real results - anybody can post a library pic of a big beefy body builder on their website, it doesn't mean they get results!

Watch out for testimonials from clients on trainers' sites. They can be a good way to get a feel for what a trainer is really 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 additionally good) will be published.

Another place to look is the local gym. In the event you aren't a member, find out if you may 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 the best, available.

Once you have 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 first meeting whether that 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 the conditions or problems specific to you, e.g. diabetes, back problems, post-natal training. A couple 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 and also a friendly smile really can tell you a great deal. And check they have the best familiarity with diet and general health concerns, not only workout programmes and exercising.