3 Tips for Working with a Fitness Trainer
Finding a professional to work with can be a daunting task, no matter what kind of service you need. There’s a lot to consider in terms of personality, location and cost. But, while 2020 threw a wrench in a lot of things, it did open up the realm of options for whom we could work with (and when we could work with them).
If you are looking for some help in the fitness realm, working with a trainer can be a great way to put strategy behind your goals and get some accountability at the same time. Plus, you get the added benefit of letting someone else do the work of figuring out the workout and knowing your form is on point!
Here are a few tips if you are on the lookout for a fitness professional to work with:
Find someone you vibe with
Like a good date, a trainer is someone you should be able to connect with fairly easily. You should feel comfortable talking with them about your body (good, bad and ugly) without feeling judged, shamed or uncomfortable. A good rule of thumb: you should leave your training sessions feeling better than you did going in (and we’ll put that post-workout soreness feeling in the “good” category!).
Work out the way you want
Do you love lifting heavy weights but loathe cardio? Do you love a long bike ride but hate making the time for stretching? A mix of exercise is always important, but there is not right way to get it all in. Look for someone who is open to your likes and dislikes and who can find creative ways to integrate the types of exercise that might not be your favorite into the kind that is. This is about you, after all.
Make sure your goals are heard and revisited
Goal setting can be a motivator or one of the most challenging parts of personal training. Your trainer should help you to set goals (yes, there can be more than one) that are challenging enough to motivate you but not so broad they feel impossible. You should check in on your goals often and always revisit them if things change - maybe you got pregnant? Maybe you were sidelined by an injury? A readjustment should always be made for any big changes to your body. And, changing goals because you want to is OK too.
Above all, remember that you’re in charge. If you’re not getting what you need from your training relationship, have a conversation. A good trainer should want to make sure you feel good and on track to meeting your goals. This is your journey after all.
And you know I wouldn’t leave you without a shameless plug! I am currently taking on a few new 1:1 or 2:1 (you, me and a friend!) personal training clients. If you’re interested in working with a professional, hit the button below and let’s chat!
