~4 min read
It’s January 2024. This month, millions of people will Google something to do with “gym,” “personal trainer,” “fitness,” “weight loss,” and others.
For the beginner, it will be an overwhelming feeling of standing on the precipice of change. Trying to imagine a future where they are the version of the person they want to be, with a confusing tangle of doubts, limiting beliefs, and fear laid out ahead of them.
For the experienced athlete or enthusiast, they may be searching for a new challenge, a new environment, or a new professional who can help them get past a plateau and provide more insight into how to proceed to the next level.
Because there is no national licensure or single professional standard for fitness coaches and Personal Trainers out there, let’s dig into how to find a Personal Trainer to fit your needs. This blog aims to make the process simple as well as give you things to ask for, be aware of, and to avoid. In future blogs, we’ll aim to discuss what to expect when you start training, and dive into the different training credentials coaches can have.
Steps to finding the best Personal Trainer for you:
Review who you have access to based on your location.
If you want to work in-person (which I would always prefer, if possible), you’ll want to view the websites of multiple trainers in your area. A simple google search of “Personal Trainers near me” OR “Gyms near me” with your location turned on.
Consider skills and styles FIRST, before budget.
I know that finances are a huge stressor. But don’t rule out a trainer just because you think they’re out of your budget. Wasting money on a sub-par coach is much worse than investing in a trainer that blows your mind and changes your life.
Look for a trainer that checks the boxes that are important to you. Consider your goals, schedule, and overall vibe you want. Do NOT let intimidation limit your options.
If you can’t answer all your questions from their website, that’s ok. Address that in the next step
Reach out to a few promising options and schedule a free consultation
If a trainer doesn’t offer free consultations - it’s a NO! I charge $75 per hour for Personal Training. I’ve been coaching for over a decade. I’m busy. I want a return on my investment when it comes to my job. I still offer FREE consultations for potential new clients. If they don’t, it’s bullshit. No one should have to pay for an interview. Every good trainer will want to ensure a good fit before demanding a transaction.
Try to meet with more than 1. Doing so will help you understand the differences among trainers and give you the power to determine a good fit and make comparisons instead of making choices on ignorance and scarcity.
The free consult is where you can also gauge the trainer’s communication style and skill, expertise, and your compatibility.
Once you find a trainer you like, you’ll need to decide if you want to pay per session, pay for a package, or pay for a monthly rate and frequency (not everyone offers these options, but these are the common).
Paying per session is usually the most expensive but also gives you the most freedom and is low-risk. If you end up not liking the trainer, something comes up for you, or other issues occur, you don’t lose any money. I often encourage my new clients to try one session before deciding to pay for a package. Paying for a package is typically cheaper (per session) so if you KNOW you want at least a certain number, it’s a great option. The downside is that they typically have an expiration date and are non-refundable (ask about the trainer’s refund policy. I only offer refunds if my client becomes seriously injured and can’t return within the expiration date). Lastly, paying a monthly fee (example: 2x per week membership) is typically going to offer the most savings, but will have the most restrictions. A monthly set of sessions will typically not roll-over. It’s a use it or lose it style. This options works best for people who know they will be very consistent and will miss very few sessions.
Don’t be afraid to calculate or ask for the price-per-session breakdown of all the above options so you can see what you’re looking at.
Once again, if you find a trainer with a ton of knowledge, very good coaching skills, and a practical, intentional approach to teaching, that is invaluable compared to a trainer who is cheaper but dumb. I’ve seen a lot of horrible coaching over the years. You get what you pay for. I would never pay for the cheapest trainer out there.
Stay engaged.
Your trainer is there to facilitate YOUR growth. They cannot grow for you. One of the biggest reasons people fall off their fitness journey is because they think signing up is enough. Now it’s time to become a “gym person.” Health and fitness is a life-long endeavor. So be ready for change.
Hopefully this blog has helped you wrap your head around taking this step for yourself. You should be proud of yourself for searching, and proud of yourself for seeking the knowledge to help you adopt a positive change in your life. I wish you the best of luck in this process, and I’m manifesting the absolute best outcomes for you. Go kick ass!
