Personal Training

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

It is important to take your time for you to find the correct trainer. Employing a bad trainer may very well 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 a person who knows what they can be discussing.

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

If you're able to get a personal recommendation, this is a great 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 right for you. Everyone has different needs once they embark on a training programme, and trainers specialise in different areas. If you need to get your body back after having an infant, or you're recovering from heart disease and need to take 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 cannot get a personal recommendation, try local forums such as the East Dulwich Forum in London or use Google Maps to seek out web sites 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 own website, it will not mean they get results!

Look out for testimonials from clients on trainers' web pages. They're a good 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 good) will be published.

Another place 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 may not be the cheapest, or the best, available.

Once you've short-listed 2 or 3 personal trainers who look promising, arrange to meet them in person. You'll need a rapport with your trainer - it should be fairly obvious from the first meeting whether which is likely. Does s/he listen to your preferences and put together 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 few well chosen questions should reveal whether or not the trainer knows his/her stuff or is just making it up as he goes along.

Personal appearance is essential, it may seem obvious but s/he needs to look fit and healthy - not all trainers practice what they preach! A good physique as well as sneak a peek at this web-site. friendly smile really can tell you a whole lot. And check they have a good familiarity with diet and general health issues, not only workout programmes and exercising.