But personal training has its fair share of unqualified people who claim they can train, yet put clients at risk. The problem? There are no state or federal safety regulations a person has to meet before he or she can claim they are qualified in the health and fitness field. What’s worse, at some gyms – big-name health clubs included – all you need is a high school diploma to get hired. So as a consumer, it’s important to know how to hire a personal trainer and avoid the ones that are potentially hazardous to you health.
Beware of dangerous personal trainers
Most trainers are qualified and competent, but there are those who are underqualified or may be qualified but not cut out for the job. Listen to your gut when working with a fitness professional. If something just doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. But there are also some signs that can indicate you may be working with a personal trainer who could harm, rather than help, your health.
How to find a qualified personal trainer
If you do the research before hiring someone, finding a personal trainer that’s qualified is easy. Here are some simple suggestions.
Get referrals
We listen to the advice of our friends and family when they suggest a hairdresser or doctor, so why not a personal trainer? Their suggestions could point you to a gym or fitness club that offers the kind of training you’re looking for.
Watch personal trainers at your gym
By watching how a trainer interacts with clients, you’ll get a pretty good idea of how he would work with you. In particular, look for trainers who are working with people who share your fitness goals.
Check out professional organizations
The ACSM, ACE and NSCA all offer listings for personal trainers in your area.
Book a trial appointment
A good personal trainer should be able to sit down and talk with you before you sign on. She should also be able to walk you through a typical training routine. Many health clubs offer complementary personal training sessions as part of the membership.
Talk to the fitness director at your health club
If your health club has a long list of trainers, it may be difficult to choose which one is right for you. Talk to the fitness director about your health and fitness goals and have her pair you with a good match in a personal trainer. And don’t be afraid to ask for another referral if you don’t hit it off with that particular trainer.
Don’t expect miracles
One of the common complaints from trainers is that some clients expect miracle results, then blame their trainer for not being qualified enough to help them reach their unrealistic goals. Even the best personal trainers can’t deliver overnight results like losing 30 pounds in a week or dropping six dress sizes in two weeks; they really can’t help you reach your goals if you are overeating, drinking too many calories or rarely exercising outside of your appointments. Be reasonable about your goals and take responsibility for your part of the program. Make sure you follow a healthy diet, hydrate properly, get adequate sleep and round out your personal training sessions with workouts of your own.
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