Hiring a Personal Trainer in 2024
Table of Contents
Choosing a Personal Trainer
The benefits of a personal trainer are primarily found in the specificity of the training. Personal trainers can customize workouts to cater to a client's specific needs and goals. This one on one approach prioritizes form and technique, making workouts more effective and safe. It's particularly recommended for individuals who are new to the gym or have little experience with lifting weights, as the trainer can help prevent injuries and ensure you understand how each exercise will benefit you.
Working out alone, at home, or in a group setting doesn't offer this same level of personalized attention. People who work out alone often don't follow a structured training program. Home workouts can have the same problem, and group classes don't allow for the instructor to provide individualized guidance for the whole session.
Different Types of Trainers
Various types of personal trainers are available, including In-Home Personal Trainers, Outdoor Personal Trainers, Online Personal Trainers, and Studio Personal Trainers. These terms can be used as search keywords in Google to find trainers near your location. Typing "Personal Trainer CITY" into the search bar can yield location-specific results.
Personal Training Companies like Your House Fitness specialize in providing personal trainers for a range of settings, including in-home training, outdoor sessions, company events, and more. They usually provide a roster of trainers per area, allowing potential clients to choose one who fits their needs best.
There are third-party company that connects clients with personal trainers. Independent Personal Trainers also exist, advertising their services through organic search results or paid advertising on Google.
What To Ask a Potential Trainer During Your First Meeting to Ensure They're a Good Fit?
You should ask them if they have/are:
Are they certified by an organization? If so, does it include both a theoretical and practical component?
Do they have liability insurance?
Can they provide client references?
What is the trainer's availability for scheduling, and can they commit to the agreed days and times?
What is the trainer's training experience?
What is the trainer's cancellation policy?
Warning Signs to Consider When Selecting a Personal Trainer
Warning signs include:
If the trainer does not arrive early or prepare adequately for the consultation.
If they do not provide sufficient information during the session.
If they overpromise results.
If they do not provide an accurate answers for your fitness assessment results, or a realistic roadmap for achieving fitness goals.
How To Evaluate If Your Trainer Is Effective or Consider Looking for Another One?
A month is usually a good period to evaluate if a trainer is the right fit. This assumes that the client has followed through with all recommended personal training sessions, any assigned exercise programs, and nutritional advice.
Average Personal Trainer Cost/Rates
Personal training rates can vary widely, ranging from $30 - $300 per session, depending on the trainer's experience, different personal training packages, and what is included in the actual package (exercise program, etc).
Other Considerations Before Hiring a Personal Trainer
Before hiring a personal trainer, clients should verify references and reviews. Ensure the references come from actual clients who have experienced positive results, and that the reviews are genuine, not just copied and pasted onto the website.
Google Reviews is a reliable platform for assessing reviews. Evaluating the reviewer's history can be insightful; if they've reviewed multiple businesses, it's likely more credible. Be wary of reviewers with only a single review, as these can sometimes be suspect.
