Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Choosing a Personal Trainer

If you ever decide to take the plunge with a trainer, here are a few points you may find helpful. (These are based on my client feedback.)

• Ask your trainer to describe a sample workout. Remember, there are five key points to being fit: muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility and a healthy body mass index. (Personally, I also think balance should play a part.) A good trainer should have all the bases covered. Also, be sure your trainer talks about a warm-up and cool-down period as part of the routine.

• Ask for references. I have had three different clients tell me they had trainers in the past who did not help them achieve their fitness and weight loss goals. Not all trainers are equal, and knowledge is not everything. Your trainer should listen to your needs and design a program based on desired goals.

• Ask for dietary guidelines. Trainers should have them handy; if not, they should be able to suggest resources where you can find plenty of information. If your trainer starts suggesting supplements, be cautious. Most results can be obtained naturally with proper guidance.

• When looking for a trainer, be sure to ask friends and relatives if they can refer one. Chances are good that someone you know has had an experience with a trainer.

If this (or any other article on this blog) brings up some thoughts or questions, we would really enjoy hearing from you. Just click on the comment section under each article.

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