What to Look For In a Personal Trainer
Hiring a personal trainer in Oakville, Mississauga or Toronto can sometimes be a tricky thing. These days it seems that everybody and their uncle is a personal trainer. The following are a number of points you should consider when hiring a personal trainer:
1. Experience. Like most skills there is no substitute for experience. A good personal trainer will have at least two years experience working with clients (not just reading about it) and the best trainers have many more.
2. References/Testimonials. Success leaves clues and the best trainers will leave a trail of happy, satisfied customers. Follow this trail and you will find a great personal trainer.
3. Certifications. This is always important but never make the mistake of assuming that just because someone is certified that they will be a great personal trainer. Some certifications can be acquired through the mail or by a simple weekend course. Here are a few certifications to look for:
I.S.S.A
Can Fit Pro
ACE
ACSM
CSCS
Poliquin
4. Communication Skills. Personal training is all about teaching. If your trainer is not a good communicator he or she will probably not be the best teacher.
5. Appearance. While I have met some great personal trainers who did not look the part I have met many more who do. A great personal trainer will practice what they preach and their bodies should be a reflection of this. In addition, who wants to work with a trainer that is in poor physical shape- how inspiring would that be?
Last of all, you should look for a trainer who you feel comfortable with. After all, clients will oftentimes see their trainers more often than their friends. If your personalities are constantly clashing it’s going to make for a VERY long workout!