Train out of your home – The trainer comes to you.
How To Choose A Personal Trainer
By Houston Personal Trainer Matt Bench
Here’s what might matter to you set out to enlist the help of a professional for your fitness:
– CAN I OPEN UP TO THIS PERSON?
Imagine being able to verbalize your struggles comfortably and having someone who is reliable consistently inquire into you habits and decision-making. Example: “Why did you feel it was worth it to skip cardio this weekend?” or “How do you feel now that you made the tough but right decision.”
– CAN HE/SHE DELIVER THE APPROPRIATE COACHING STYLE FOR YOU?
Are they stuck in drill sergeant mode? Do they over-sexualize instructions? Can they adapt to the kind of encouragement that works best for you?
– DOES THIS TRAINER INTEND TO KEEP ME AS A CLIENT AS LONG AS POSSIBLE?
Some trainers are motivated to keep their clients dependent upon them and make sure to not give away and teach skills necessary to maintain health for the rest of their clients’ lives.
– DO THEY HAVE A MAJORITY OF POSITIVE ONLINE REVIEWS?
Is their brand and philosophies consistent with what you believe and value?
– WHAT ENVIRONMENT WILL I BE WORKING OUT IN?
In-home fitness trainers exist (I am one), but not everyone is excited to workout where they also relax. Keep in mind that an outdoor park without covered areas can get tricky on hot or rainy days. Some independent trainers have a wide network of both indoor and outdoor facilities to go to (myself included).
3 STEPS
1) Ask around and get at least 2 recommendations to a person, not a company.
2) Call and chat. See how you get along with them. After describing your goals and expectations and after he/she elaborates how they can be of services then…
3) Schedule a no-obligation initial assessment and first session; they will almost always be willing to make it discounted.
From there use your intuition. Do you feel physically good during/after the session? Were you encouraged/motivated? Is the trainer trustworthy and can they articulate 1 3 and 6 month milestones confidently? If yes, then good job and good luck!