Thursday, April 8, 2010

Finding the Perfect Trainer

If you're becoming bored with your workouts or find yourself at another frustrating plateau, consider investing in time with a personal trainer. While you might feel intimidated at the mere mention of hiring someone to whip you into shape, know that trainers are working to ensure you reach your ultimate goal. Trainers also provide the necessary education about fitness and nutrition, help track your fitness progress, offer guidance and give you a reason to show up at the gym.

Here are a few things to look for when identifying an ideal trainer:

Education or Certifications: Before you begin working out with anyone, check to ensure they're properly accredited or certified through a well-known fitness organization, like the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). While it isn't required that a trainer have a college-level degree, the more education they have, the better equipped they are to train you.

Experience: Identify a trainer that can use his or her experience to help you accomplish your goals. For instance, if you want to focus on weight-loss, check to see if the trainer has experience in that area. Working with someone who has only designed exercise routines for bodybuilders might not have enough experience to properly assist you. Additionally, ask for references so you can contact previous or current clients and find out if they would recommend him or her.

Personality: Identify a trainer who will fit your personality the best. Do you need a cheerleader to consistently motivate you or a drill sergeant who pushes you to the limit? Also, make sure you get along with your trainer. If you don't, chances are you won't want to spend the limited amount of time you've set aside and paid for to exercise with him or her. Follow your instinct and find someone you can both trust and respect.

Once you find a trainer that you trust and like, you'll look forward to your time together even more, overcome workout boredom AND defeat those pesky plateaus!

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