Digital Exercise Plan Hints

So you have decided that you'll need a personal fitness trainer, but where do you start? Within any big city there will be many trainers available, but identifying the great ones can be a challenge.

You need to take your time to find the right trainer. Employing a bad trainer may very well be worse than no trainer at all, particularly if s/he puts you off training. For this reason, just as you would when employing a trades-person to fix your roof or mend your drains, shop around to locate someone who knows what they can be talking about.

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

In the event you can get a personal recommendation, this is an excellent starting place. 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 right 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 an infant, or you are recovering from heart disease and have to do it slow, then a trainer who specialises in sports-specific training might not be suitable 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 locate sites for personal trainers within your area.

The style of a trainer's website can tell you a lot 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 website, it will not mean they get results!

Be aware of 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 such as Qype.co.uk or Yell.co.uk. They contain independent reviews from clients, and nutritional recipes bad reviews (as well as good) will be published.

Another area to look is the local gym. In case you aren't a member, find out if you can get in for a trial session. Then ask around - but talk to the individuals training, not the staff. Most gyms offer personal training but this might not be the cheapest, or perhaps 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 fairly obvious from the first meeting whether which is likely. Does s/he listen to your requirements 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 couple of well chosen questions should reveal whether the trainer knows his/her stuff or will be 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 and also a friendly smile really can tell you a great deal. And check they have a great understanding of diet and general health problems, not just workout programmes and exercising.