What Are the Essentials of Personal Training?

Personal trainers work with small groups of clients or one on one. Some trainers work at health clubs, others work for themselves and visit clients at home. They understand anatomy and human physiology and help clients achieve their health and fitness goals. Before you hire a personal trainer, you should look for essential elements such as their education and certifications. In addition, make sure your personality and the trainer's personality mesh.

  1. Education and Fitness Certifications

    • Look for personal trainers with an educational background in exercise physiology, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition and exercise psychology. According to the U.S. Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics website, most employers require that their personal trainers have bachelor's degrees; however, some accept employees with strong science and fitness backgrounds without a degree. Make sure your trainer has a certification with organizations such as the American Council on Exercise, or ACE; the National Federation of Professional Trainers, or NFPT; and the National Academy of Sports Medicine, or NASM.

    Take Medical History

    • Personal trainers take extensive medical history profiles of new clients. You must first complete paperwork with all of your medical information, including any health conditions or physical limitations. Personal trainers privately consult with you to make sure you haven't omitted any important health information. You can voice your personal health and fitness goals, as well as your trepidations about beginning a fitness program. Personal trainers at health-care facilities even measure your blood pressure, weight, heart rate, body dimensions and fat percentage.

    Determine Your Fitness Level

    • Personal training consists of more than just jumping on exercise equipment and working out. Personal trainers test your fitness levels to create individualized exercise programs according to your fitness level and goals. You might be evaluated include running on a treadmill, using an elliptical machine, riding an exercise bike and stretching. Personal trainers also check your flexibility and endurance levels. You might have to touch your toes and do push-ups and sit-ups. As the weeks progress, personal trainers modify your exercise programs as you improve or change your goals.

    Personality Compatibility

    • Personal trainers need to get along with you for you to feel comfortable and motivated to work out weekly. Each personal trainer has a different method of tackling exercise and motivating clients. Some trainers push you like drill sergeants. Other trainers use gentle commands to motivate you to accomplish your fitness goals. You might thrive under a strong, strict trainer, or you might need someone with a gentle touch. You might have to try different trainers before finding the right fit.