Image by: Living Fitness
By Jake Bradshaw
Hiring a fitness trainer isn’t just for an elite crowd anymore. Nowadays it’s easier than ever before since most gyms offer special deals for their members. But tempting as it may be to hire a trainer to achieve your goals, are they truly worth the money?
The fact of the matter is, like all professions, there are pros and cons you must take to heart. If you want to see genuine results, sometimes a trainer might get in the way of seeing them through. However, if you’re like me, a trainer can be just the thing you need to help you achieve them. But first you need to know the basics on how to spot the good ones from the duds:
#1) DO: Find Someone Who Pays Attention To Data
A lot of men who haven’t been gym buffs their entire lives need a fitness trainer that focuses on data to manage what’s working, while monitering which areas you need to target. When a trainer keeps a thorough record of your improvements, you stand a better chance at meeting your goals.
#2) DON’T: Settle For A Chatter-Box
Nothing is worse than spending half your workout listening to your trainer talk about his/her weekend escapades. Not only will this take away precious time from your workout, but it also distracts you from getting the most out of it. Chances are, a chatter box enjoys listening to themselves more than achieving your goals.
#3) DO: Hire Their Enthusiasm
Tennessee Williams once said that enthusiasm is everything. When your fitness trainer is enthusiastic about the process, trust me, it will rub off. Fitness is all about confidence. Without it, you will never believe in yourself.
#4) DON’T: Hire Their Cockiness
Many trainers feel like their God’s gift to health and fitness. Not only does this kind of energy have the potential to make you feel insecure when you’re in such a vulnerable state, but it also makes them want to overwork you. This is a lack of empathy on their part, and such an attitude will probably cause more damage to your progress.
#5) DO: Ask Questions
If you don’t ask questions you are likely to be dependent on trainers your entire workout career. One of the main tasks in their job description is to be a vessel towards a better understanding of how your body works. Take a day to write down all the questions you’ve ever wanted answered and ask your trainer about them. A good one will answer them accordingly and accurately.
#6) DON’T: Settle For A Dictator
Many unsuccessful fitness trainers take pride in the fact that their clients do exactly what they say, when they say it. The problem with this is that it doesn’t allow a safe environment to speak up. Everyone’s body is different, and some workouts work better than others on some people. This is why it’s important for them to keep a close eye on data reports.
#7) DO: Consider Your Schedule First
A good fitness trainer will fit themselves around your schedule, not the other way around. Some will operate in actual gyms while others are able to meet in an outdoor location. Whatever it may be, remember, you’re the one who’s paying them.
#8) DON’T: Tolerate A Flake
There have been times when a trainer is late or never seems to available when you are. This is unacceptable. If they aren’t dedicating themselves to your well-being, there is no way in hell that they care about it. A trainer, in a way, is like a counselor. If your well-being isn’t on their agenda, then they’re not doing their job.
#9) DO: Check For References
Taking the time to find an excellent trainer is worth the effort, and trust me, most good ones will have no reason to hide their ex-clients’ testimonials. Do some searching and be sure you feel comfortable with them before you ever make the initiative for the first session. This will save you a lot of cash and disappointment down the road.
#10) DON’T: Hire The First One You Find
Sometimes it takes a while to find a good trainer. Most guys don’t want to be pushed to their limits so they will hire a submissive-like trainer who doesn’t offend their ego. This is the worst thing you can do. Never settle for the first one you find, unless you’re 100% sure they will deliver results. There are plenty of trainers throughout your city who are willing to take you on. Don’t ignore them.