The Personal Training Experience

Happy 2012 everyone!! I hope you survived the holidays and are now back into the routine. How are those new year’s resolutions coming along? If you are going to a gym, I’m sure you’ve noticed an increase in your company. Many people make health and fitness goals at the beginning of the year, but aren’t quite sure of the best way to approach them. So they hit the gym for awhile, wander around the equipment, perhaps mimic the workouts of others and hope for the best. They might wish they had a better plan when they get to the door. This is where a certified personal trainer may come in handy. Now this may seem a little self serving, but I get several questions about the advantages of using a personal trainer. The items I’ll address here are the reasons some of my clients train with me.

One big reason for utilizing a certified personal trainer is accountability. When you have an appointment with a trainer, it’s like a meeting in the calendar. Someone else is expecting you, and you are paying them for their services, so you are more likely to show up. This is similar to a doctor or salon appointment for many, the scheduled session is an appointment and therefore needs to be kept.

Another reason is the knowledge a certified personal trainer can impart, especially for those that are less than savvy at the gym. Personal trainers know how to utilize the equipment in a gym for an effective workout. They know how to adjust the machines to fit the body properly. They are also skilled in proper form for exercises, reducing the chance of injury while working out. Many have nutritional knowledge that can help you reach your fitness goals. Trainers that are certified through an accredited national agency are required to maintain their certification through continuing education. As a result, they are up to date on the latest trends and techniques (and hopefully the benefits and potential drawbacks of each).

Lastly, certified personal trainers are able to provide effective workouts for their clients. People who invest in a personal trainer tend to enjoy reaching their goals sooner than if they did it on their own. Typically, the client doesn’t have to think about the workout, since the trainer is guiding them through one designed just for them. The trainer uses their expertise to ensure that the workouts are balanced and stepping stones to the client reaching their goals. This reduces the opportunity for muscle imbalance, injuries from improper form and wasting valuable time wandering around the gym.

Certified personal trainers are able to provide accountability, impart expertise and provide effective workouts. They are there to coach you along to your goals, and will be by your side every step of the way. If you decide to explore this option, do your research and find the one that is the best fit for you. In the meantime, keep up the good work at the gym! See you there!!