Whether you’re looking to increase your strength, lose weight or just feel more confident about exercise, personal training may be right for you. Personal trainers can help you set fitness goals and develop an exercise routine that fits your personality, schedule and fitness level. Certified personal trainers (CPTs) work independently or in gyms, fitness boutiques and private studios. They sometimes travel to clients’ homes for a fee.
Working as a personal trainer requires an extensive amount of education and training. Depending on the CPT certification program you choose, the curriculum can include classes in anatomy and fitness theory, how to develop a workout plan for an individual and how to build trust with clients. Most programs offer a test and a certificate. The exam is usually multiple-choice and can range from 120 to 150 questions.
You may also be required to take continuing education credits to keep your CPT certification up to date. Continuing education helps ensure that you’re up to date on best practices and safety.
The type of people who hire personal trainers are typically those who are serious about changing their lifestyle and achieving their fitness goals. They may have a hard time making these changes on their own, which is why a personal trainer is often the key to success.
Many trainers are also mental health experts, meaning they understand how to help their clients get past the many mental roadblocks that can stand in the way of reaching a healthy lifestyle. This can be especially helpful for clients with eating disorders, self-doubt or other issues that can make it difficult to change their lifestyles on their own.
Personal trainers also work to educate their clients about proper exercise techniques, including proper form and how to prevent injuries. They can teach them new exercises or modify existing ones, and they may provide nutritional advice. In addition, they can help their clients develop good habits to maintain their results once they’ve reached their fitness goals.
Some personal trainers specialize in a specific area of fitness, such as weight loss or muscle building. This is important because it can affect the types of workouts a client will do, which in turn can impact their results. For example, a trainer who specializes in weight loss will probably recommend different diet and exercise plans for their clients than a personal trainer who focuses on muscle building.
Before you begin working with a personal trainer, ask them about their credentials and work experience. Look for a trainer who has a similar fitness philosophy to yours and is committed to helping you reach your goals. You might also want to ask a trainer about their availability. For instance, you might prefer to find out if they’re willing to meet at your workplace or in the evenings and weekends. This will be particularly important if you have other commitments, such as family or work.