• Credentials– But This Doesn’t Necessarily Mean a “Personal Training Certification”. There are MANY Personal Training Certifications that are simply tests available online with no hands-on experience. Make sure the Certification involves actual hands-on training, such as a Diploma Certificate at a school. If their Certification doesn’t have a hands-on element, make sure they have experience shadowing or working with a top tier trainer. A Certification test with no hands-on, as well as no experience… we’d say this is a No-No.

  • Someone That Practices What They Preach. Your trainer should exemplify health and wellness in their own lifestyle- but this doesn’t mean they have to look like a fitness model! Eating whole foods, taking care of their body & mind, and getting some work-outs in is important.

  •  Someone That Doesn’t Push Supplements On You. While some supplement recommendations can be helpful- most (if not all) are not regulated by the FDA. If your trainer is making money or receiving a discount/commission on something they recommend you take (such as an MLM company)- that is a red flag and something to be weary of.

  • Professionalism –A session with a trainer is not cheap, and the time they are training you is YOUR time. They should dress the part, show up on time, and take your session seriously.

  •  Performs A Fitness Assessment On You– How would someone write a program for a client individualized for you if they haven’t assessed you? You should have filled out and answered questions from a Health History Questionnaire. Your trainer should have a good understanding on your current diet, typical daily regimen, and your general lifestyle. They should have assessed how you move, if you have any pain or injury, and of course- your goals. If needed, measurements should be taken. Your assessment should be extensive and thoughtful.

  •  Continuing Education- Your trainer should always be learning and perfecting their craft. This is with any industry! Not only is it motivating for a trainer to learn new things, it keeps them current. As the fitness industry grows, there’s more and more information that comes out.

  •  Makes Sure Your Workout Is Helping You Achieve Your Goals – Your workouts should progress with you, be planned ahead of time, and help you achieve your goals. Your workouts shouldn’t always be the same as their other clients, and they shouldn’t be for some cool Instagram content. If you asked your trainer “why are we doing this today”, they should have a clear answer for you.

  •  They Don’t Use Big Words Just to Sound Fancy- Sometimes we will overhear (or see on Instagram) a trainer who will tell you all the muscles you are working, but when listening closely, we realize they aren’t making any sense. Trainers should be able to communicate in layman’s terms to make sense to the client. Just because the trainer knows all the big words, it doesn’t mean they know what they’re talking about. Make sure you ask for clarity if something doesn’t make sense to you.

By Chris C & Amy R