How to Find the Right Fitness Professional – for YOU!

So, its Monday morning and you’ve told yourself that this is THE DAY you are going to start becoming healthier, or get chipping away at that weight loss goal you set for yourself in January, or hit the pavement and start training for your first running event. Monday comes around and you get off to a bad start so you say forget about it, I’ll start next Monday. THAT will surely be the day. And now you’re stuck in June still pushing your goal off that you set for yourself back in January, to the next Monday, AGAIN. Rest assured: You. Are. Not. Alone! Starting your journey in fitness is just that – a journey, where you see results, hit roadblocks, see some more results, then indulge in a cheat week, then spend another weekend in self-pity knowing that you just wasted another week – until you remind yourself… there’s always Monday.

One of the best ways to see results in your fitness journey is to hire a fitness professional. Not just a personal trainer, but a professional in fitness who works for you, learns for you, wakes up early for YOU, stays up late for YOU, encourages YOU, empowers YOU, motivates YOU, and guides YOU to success. See the trend here? But you may be asking yourself “how do I find a fitness professional who is right for me?” I’ve listed some criteria that should appear in everyone’s “Quest for a Trainer” list.

Start with where you are familiar. Go to the gym you’ve been a member at since your goal start date back in January. Familiarity with your environment will open the doors of trust toward the staff. Inquire about their personal fitness training services.

1. Set up a consultation for training. Now, remember that this does not necessarily mean you are committed to working with this particular fitness pro. This is your journey and you should not only be able to converse well with this person, you should be able to fully trust in their guidance, feel safe knowing that this person will help you see results without a high risk of injury, and feel empowered. With all that should come the motivation to continue your work after every session on your own time.
2. This fitness professional should be addressing your needs. From your goals, to previous roadblocks that kept you from moving forward, to injuries that need special attention, to apprehensions you may have in any form. Be as open as you can. This will only help your future fitness pro guide you in the right direction and accelerate your results, or refer you to someone who is a better fit for your personal needs. (Hint for any fitness professionals who may be reading: Not every lead will turn out to be a good fit. Our job is to help others see results – even if that means referring to a more specific qualified professional. Don’t worry, the right client will come in soon!)
3. Lastly, maybe you aren’t comfortable in a public atmosphere. That is also OK. Be honest about any insecurities you may have. In the right environment, they will have an answer for you. Your second option is to seek out a facility that offers a private atmosphere. Do a quick google search for “private fitness training” in your area and it’s likely you’ll find a more appropriate place to call home.

Remember, this is YOUR journey. Be as specific as you can be and take your time finding the right professional for you. It will pay off in the end when you’re actually excited for your next session to come around – it happens. Trust me!

In Good Health,

Dominic Vicari, CPT
Owner – Motivate Personal Fitness Academy

P.S. Remember, a year from now, you’ll wish you had started today. Get moving!!