How to Choose a Personal Trainer
Things to Consider Before Making the Investment
-- By Jen Mueller, Certified Personal Trainer
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Personal trainers are not just for the rich and famous. If you lack the motivation to workout on your own, like variety but don't know how to create your own program, or you have very specific training goals, you might benefit from hiring a trainer. If you're still unsure, take our Do You Need a Personal Trainer? quiz.
If you decide that you need a trainer, how do you get started? Here's a guide that takes you through the process.
Where Do I Find a Trainer?
There are a number of different ways to find a trainer. The most common is through your local gym or fitness center. These facilities typically offer personal training packages for an additional cost (on top of membership fees). The gym you belong to may also allow you to bring in an outside trainer (not affiliated with the gym), but this is the exception to the rule as most gyms have exclusivity contracts with the trainers who work at their location. If you don't belong to a fitness center, you still might be able to train at one. Not every gym will require you to be a member to use their personal training services (although the cost might be higher for non-members). Contact the facility to learn more about their policies.
