Why Should I Hire a Trainer?

           I get asked this question fairly frequently and I always have the same answer. While this one is clearly more detailed than if I were speaking to you in person, it is all the same, as equally important. When I became a PERSONAL TRAINER, I wanted to be just that. I went to the gym, I started at home, I Googled and watched videos. I did everything the same as you but the difference is I ended up wanting it more to the point where I earned a degree in it. I don't think this is necessary for everyone, in fact I feel the industry is becoming overly crowded with.... "trainers". But I do however think that EVERYONE should have a trainer for even a few sessions up to a full month of training. I am sure you're saying to yourself that you could never afford a trainer or they are a waste of money. In some cases you may be right on the latter.

             I became a trainer nearly five years ago, since then I have been in and out of working in and for other gyms. I watched co-workers, colleagues, bosses, and even my own subordinates at times become incredibly inattentive to their client. This is includes being on their phones, taking videos and photos without client permission, and ignoring a client who says they feel pain or discomfort. Listen, if you're in it for the money, that's cool we all need it. But I am in it for a totally different reason, fitness saved my life and I want to help others change theirs. This for me includes going through the proper motions, learning to listen and communicate with your own body, understanding that this requires patience because without it you will suffer one way or another in the end, and lastly that this is a lifestyle not a destination. Fitness is part of being healthy, whether you like it or not. You don't have to lift weights to be fit by the way, you just have to eat according to your body's needs and your personal body goals. Notice I said "body goals" rather than "weight"? This is because the majority of us don't need to watch our weight, we need to watch our fat. By this I mean, how many pounds of you is fat? There is a way to find out, go talk to a trainer because a good one will know.

          Before you read on, please don't take me wrongly. This post is not to bash on anyone or even speak negatively of anyone. Every trainer has their own style and reasons for being a trainer. This post is simply to express a personal opinion of what you should look for if you are going to pay someone to PERSONALLY train you in a world full of "trainers".

•  Okay, if you are going to spend money on the services of someone, you're not just purchasing their services. You are purchasing a piece of them. Make sure you click with your trainer, make sure that you like them. You don't have to be friends, but for the sake of spending an hour a week with them or more, you want to find someone who makes you feel comfortable. 
• If you're going to purchase the services of a trainer, you may want to make sure the contents match the exterior. In other words, make sure you aren't getting someone who just looks fit. Someone who can cater to all types of lifestyle and exercise goals is best. When you have a trainer who tailors the workout and regimen just for YOUR body goals and not a cookie cutter routine given to every one of their clients. 
• FOCUS! This is just for the trainee, this is for the trainer as well. Why pay for someone who isn't going to pay attention to you or educate you on proper form, why you are doing a particular exercise, or even explain how it works. These things are important for your own personal growth when embarking on a lifestyle change. Trainers who are always on their phones aren't training you, they are simply taking your money to talk to you and waste your time. Find someone who will educate you and motivate you enough that you could eventually do these things on your own. Now I'm not saying don't stay with someone you like, do. I am saying education in an area you are going to incorporate into your everyday routine is important.
• Watch a trainer before choosing. Watch how they interact with their clients. Watch how attentive they are to their clients. Watch them workout for themselves, are they utilizing what they went to school for? Proper form? Rest times? Stretching? It is okay to be incredibly picky about choosing someone who is going to help sculpt, mold and shape your body to the vision in your head.
• Don't waste time. This is a big one for me as a trainer. It seems as if the client doesn't always understand that we DO NOT get paid to always talk to you and give you tips. Most trainers only get paid for the sessions they conduct. If you go in for an assessment, make sure that you are ready to sign up and work with that trainer. There is nothing worse for us than potential business and all you wanted was one free workout and some advice. Honesty: WE LOATHE THIS. Business is a two way street. We don't eat if you don't hire us. A good trainer shouldn't have to twist your arm to get you to sign up. Be mindful and be READY to make that change. It is beneficial for both parties. 

    The next time you are shopping around for a trainer, I hope you take these things into consideration. Or if you are a trainer reading this I hope you utilize some of the information here. Maybe you already do, kudos then! Happy lifting!