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Finding the right trainer for you is key in reaching your goals. Some points to consider:
- Certification and Education
- your trainer should be certified by a nationally recognized
organization such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association
(NSCA), the American Council on Exercise (ACE), the National Academy of
Sports Medicine (NASM, or the American College of Sports Medicine
(ACSM). If your trainer has a degree in an exercise or health related
field, he or she should have knowledge of physiology, anatomy, and
exercise science.
- Experience and References
- find out from other members and clients if they were pleased with
their training session, and if their personal needs were addressed.
- Client Evaluation
- your trainer should perform a health screening or provide a health
history form, conduct fitness testing or evaluate your current fitness
status.
- Scheduling policies and procedures
- your training sessions should be convenient for your schedule, and
you need information about billing, scheduling, and canceling your
sessions.
- Trainer Rapport - your trainer
needs to be a person you feel comfortable talking to, one who motivates
you, one who develops a challenging, yet safe program that fits you and
your fitness goals.
Links to Articles on Selecting a Personal Trainer
Photos courtesy of Mary Waxmonsky