Are you ready to get fit and lose weight? Have you hit a fitness plateau? Are you really maximizing your efforts at the gym? Or have you recently got injured and need to need to gain strength in certain areas to rehabilitate? Whichever scenario fits you, you need to hire a personal trainer…

Hiring a personal trainer can be extremely overwhelming and if you don’t know the right questions to ask, then you won’t get the answers you need!

Here are the top 10 fitness questions you should ask to make that tough decision:

Are you certified? Do you have experience?

Proper education and certification is crucial for a quality experience, as well as staying safe while keeping fit. Experience is equally important. It’s one thing to learn about training from a book, however delivering what was learned to a client is a completely different experience. You want to make sure that if you have any injuries or would like to achieve certain results that the trainer is well versed in modifying your program to suit your specific needs (this only comes with experience)!

In what areas do you specialize?

Look for an area of specialty beyond the basic training certification. If you’re looking to shape up after baby, seek out a post-natal fitness specialist. For someone wanting to train for a competition, find a trainer that is well versed in offering guidance for contest prep.

What are the results I can expect?

Your desired results might include…

• fat loss,
• increased strength
• cardiovascular endurance
• more energy
• improved mood and health
• smaller waist line

If you have specific goals or a set date for which you would like to hit certain marks with your efforts, the fitness consult is the perfect time to share it. Are you shaping up for a wedding, slimming down for a high school reunion, or lowering your heart rate per doctor’s orders? Let your prospective trainer know, so the two of you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Does the pricing change, or is it fixed after initial sign up?

Ask about future pricing. Some trainers offer incentive sign up rates or promotions that may be subject to change in the future. Or even find an understanding if sign up includes a contractual agreement for a certain length of time or an auto draft of some sort. This will allow you to know exactly to what you are agreeing before signing on the dotted line.

What are some of your recent client successes?

You want a trainer that will get you the results you want. The best proof is in the pudding!  Ask the trainer to share success stories, this will give you a chance to understand how the trainer works. Don’t hesitate to read their glory stories online and to look for reviews on other platforms.

Do you incorporate nutrition into the program?

All the hard work in the world won’t change things if you’re not getting proper nutrition. Of particular importance, find someone who is confident recommending the appropriate amount of protein, carbs and fats for your body weight to ensure your results are achieved.

Are you able to work with injuries?

Many people experience back pains, shoulder problems, knee issues, etc. If your program isn’t executed correctly it could severely irritate these areas or worst yet further injure them. If you have a pre-existing problem, discuss this with the trainer immediately and ask them how they will manage your program due to these issues.

How do you continue to stay up-to-date on best practices?

Just like every other field, the world of health and fitness is continually evolving. Ask your potential trainer how they get continuing education to stay current in the field.

What’s the best way to prepare for the first session?

Definitely get a good night’s rest and eat simple carbs—such as a banana, apple or strawberries—for energy beforehand. Otherwise, you may become light headed during the introductory session. Also, dress appropriately. You will be most likely asked to move around and perform some exercises, so that the trainer may properly assess you.

Most importantly, do you like the trainer?

Hire someone with whom you click! Physical fitness can be tough, so it should be enjoyable. If you don’t enjoy your sessions, then your more apt to now show up and to eventually fizzle out! Hire a person who seems to practice what they preach, has the ability to get you results and show you that you can have fun and enjoy your workouts in the meantime!

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