When joining a gym you are offered a free personal training session or two in hopes that you will purchase sessions. Of course I think that working out with a trainer is a great idea to get you on the right path, but not all trainers at the gym are required of a certification! How do you know you are in good hands?
- Ask them what certification they have and how long they have been certified for. I know that you will not understand the different certifications, but you can read the trainers body language and confidence.
- Ask them if they are CPR and AED certified. I know this may seem irrelevant, but all trainers should be up to date with this for two reasons. 1.) It is usually required. 2.) It shows that they care about what they do.
- Test them on their knowledge. A lot of trainers are great a word vomiting fitness talk. Unfortunately, although it sounds good, not all of it is true. If you have pain n your leg or want better strength in your upper body ask them about the anatomy. All trainers should have a good understanding about where muscles connect and what their purpose is.
- While you are in that first free session the trainer should be helping you with your form and giving you exercises that are best suitable for your body type and goals. Don't go with a trainer who just stands there and counts your reps. You know how to count!
In the end you have to go with your gut. Choose a trainer that you feel comfortable with and that you feel will motivate you the most. If your goal is weight loss, find a trainer who specializes in weight loss. If you have knee problems, find a trainer who has experience with injury prevention and post rehab.
