I get this question asked allot!           

I remember a few years ago when I was training myself I knew allot about training and nutrition, but for some reason was hitting a plateau and felt I wasn't getting anywhere with my training program.  I spoke to a friend about my concerns and she suggested that I hire a personal trainer.  I thought she was crazy to suggest that, because I knew what I was doing, and to be perfectly honest, my ego was a bit bruised by her comment.  I took a step back though and really thought about her suggestion.  It occurred to me then that no matter what level I was currently at, getting help from a professional who knows more, could help me, push me, and introduce to me to a few new ideas in switching up my program and diet.  Then I thought, don't professional athletes  have coaches?,  don't professional bodybuilders (who many are trainers themselves) have a trainer helping them when they are getting ready for a show?  Olympic athletes, who have been training in their sport for many years, have a trainers themselves too! 

What made me so different?

Absolutely nothing!  The only thing that stopped me, as it does with many people who are thinking of hiring a personal trainer, is procrastination, money and the thought "I've tried so many things, could a trainer really help?".  Procrastination wasn't an issue with me, as I was already training, and I did know that a trainer could help me get out of the plateau I was stuck in, the issue was money.  That thought quickly left my mind as I knew it was an investment in myself, one well worth it, and I knew it was the only solution to my problem.

So back to my question, why do I need a personal trainer?  Here just a few.

• Motivation
  Perhaps the single, biggest benefit of hiring a trainer is motivation. On their own, people lose motivation to stick with a consistent exercise program. A Certified fitness trainer can provide structure, direction, accountability and a friend who is interested in helping you succeed.

• Individualized program
  Too many people shy away from the gym, or from any sort of exercise because of chronic health conditions or injuries. A trainer will work with you and your health care provider to construct a safe and effective program to reach your health goals.

• Efficiency
  The job of a personal trainer is to keep you focused on results. No wasted, ineffectual workouts. A personal trainer will devise a plan to will help you get maximum results in minimum time.

• You are new to exercise
  If you are an absolute beginner, a personal trainer is the ultimate fitness coach. Save yourself allot of wasted time and ineffective effort and frustration by having a program designed by a trainer. Not only will you gain strength and lose fat more quickly, but you will do it safely and with an understanding of what you are doing each step of the way. You will be able to go into any gym with confidence that you know what you are doing.

• Break through plateaus
  Perhaps you are in fairly good shape already, but you haven't been able to progress beyond a certain point. If you are stuck in the same routine and want to break out of a rut, a trainer is the perfect solution. A trainer will jump start, not only your motivation, but your routine as well.

• Learn how to do it alone
  If you ultimately want to learn to be able to workout on your own so you don't need to use a trainer, going for a few months may be all you need. All good trainers will teach you the basics of building and modifying a fitness program to achieve maximum results.

• Workout Safely
  A trainer watches your form, monitors your vitals and can provide objective feedback about your limits and strengths. Most of us tend to ignore some of the subtle signals our body provides. We either push through pain or give up too soon. Because a trainer watches what you are doing while you are doing it, they can help push you or slow you down as necessary.

• Workout at home
  Many trainers make house calls. If you don't have the time or interest in going to a gym, but have a hard time knowing what to do on your own at home, a personal trainer can bring fitness into your living room.

• Weight Loss
  The number one reason people hire personal trainers is to lose weight and get into shape because, well...it works. If you made a resolution to lose the fat and build muscle, a trainer can keep you on track and help you realize that goal.

There are many reasons to hire a personal trainer and whatever yours is, is what makes the experience beneficial, fulfilling and fun!

Last Update: August 6, 2009