Not all personal trainers are created equal. Do NOT underestimate what I’m saying here. If you’re thinking about setting up some private training (which is one of the best gifts you can give yourself… ever) you need to make sure the trainer you end up hiring not only knows their stuff, but that the have the right education, insurance, certifications, personality that will fit you, and more. So… what should you be looking for in a trainer?

While the quest for selecting a personal trainer is not as simple as it seems, the task can be made easier by listening to me, Cat Kom, and my trustee sidekick Bethany. I’m the founder of Studio SWEAT onDemand and I’m here to tell you the facts on this topic.

There’s one thing you shouldn’t forget about personal training, Personal Training is an industry with barely any regulatory oversight. This means your 80 year old grandmother or that guy sitting across from you on the bus playing games on his Android can both become “trainers” in a week. With so many personal training certification options, it can be impossible to compare certificates or distinguish between someone that calls himself/herself a personal trainer and someone that actually is a qualified personal trainer. Remember, just because someone claims to be “certified,” it does not mean they’re qualified.

Certifications

When you ask your potential trainer for his or her certifications, make sure you hear at least one earned certificate from an accredited company. In the United States, companies with high and credible status in the physical training department include The American Council on Exercise (ACE), NASM, ISSA, and ACSM. Not to say that’s it, but those are good ones. These certifications are designed to supply trainers with the knowledge, expertise and training techniques necessary to succeed in the physical training field. Also, note if that cert is up to date. It matters, things change.

Additionally, ask if they are a registered dietitian (R.D.) to validate whether they are formally trained in giving your nutritional advice. Not to say you have to be, like I’m not, but it sure is a bonus. I know A LOT about nutrition, and I can call myself a nutritionist, but a nutritionist and a R.D. are 2 different things. And, just like you can call yourself a personal trainer and not be qualified to be one, you can also call yourself a nutritionist and not have a clue what you’re saying.

Although certifications are imperative, a simple certificate will not prepare a trainer for training clients and having exemplary people skills. Trainers can have textbook knowledge, but real human beings aren’t going to behave identically to an application. In reality, physical training is just like any other profession since in order to satisfy various clients, trainers will need plenty of practical and relatable skills and experience.

Other Considerations

When looking for a trainer also make sure conversation flows, and that they really seem dedicated and passionate about assisting others. Are they going to be able to help you? I think you’ll know based on what questions they ask YOU! They should ask about your nutrition, your family, other support, your goals, your schedule, your life! All that matters when it comes to helping a client succeed. And to be honest, it should help them know if they can help you, because if you’re not ready, REALLY READY, you might be wasting your time (and theirs) and your money. I hope you are ready though, because working with the right personal trainer can be a life changer.

To sum it up, don’t just settle. Be smart. Be picky. Ask the right questions. Ask for references! Do all that and everything else I mentioned above and watch the full video to find out more tips on finding the ideal trainer. And, of course, for all those body sculpting, fat torching workouts… check out more videos on Studio SWEAT onDemand!

~Cat Kom