Read This Before Hiring a Personal Trainer

Article By: Whittany Gibson, RDN

Whittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who specializes in bariatric nutrition counseling, and owner of Level Up Bariatrics, LLC, a bariatric lifestyle coaching program that provides pre and post-op support for weight loss surgery patients.

Are you tired of spending countless hours at the gym with no results? Are you overwhelmed by all the personal trainers out there and don’t know which one is right for you? Well, look no further! Finding a personal trainer is invaluable to your weight loss surgery journey as they can help guide you to what you should be doing for your body type and goals. Not only this, but they can help you do it safely and effectively. In this blog post, we will explore what factors to consider when choosing a personal trainer from qualifications, specialized experience, and cost-effectiveness to availability and location. Whether your goal is weight loss or just general wellness, investing in yourself starts with this list!

1) Qualifications. When choosing a personal trainer, it is important to make sure that they have the qualifications necessary to safely and effectively guide you through your fitness journey. Look for trainers who have certifications from accredited organizations such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE) or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Additionally, make sure that your trainer has experience working with clients similar to yourself in terms of age, fitness level, and goals. Experience working with bariatric clients is a plus but not a deal breaker if they don’t.

2) Specialized training. It is also important to consider whether your personal trainer has any specialized training or certifications related to the type of exercise you are looking to do. For example, if you are interested in weight lifting, look for a trainer who is certified in strength and conditioning or powerlifting. If you are looking for a more holistic approach to fitness, look for a trainer who has experience with yoga, Pilates, or other forms of exercise that involve both physical and mental components.

Looking to improve your energy levels after surgery? Did you know BariMelts B12 Plus is designed to support bariatric patients' mental clarity, energy, and mood?

3) Cost. Cost is another important factor when choosing a personal trainer. Make sure that you understand what services are included in the cost of each session, and ask about any additional fees that may be required. Some trainers may offer discounts if you purchase multiple sessions at once or sign up for monthly packages. It is also important to make sure that the cost fits within your budget so you can continue working with your trainer over time without breaking the bank!

4) Location. Location is another key factor when selecting a personal trainer. Do you prefer online appointments for virtual training? Or do you prefer in-person sessions? If online, you’ll need to ensure you have the space available at home and the tools they recommend (weights, resistance bands, yoga mat, etc). If you opt for in-person, you ideally want to choose a location convenient to you, whether that’s on your way to or from work or just generally close to your home to avoid traffic and other travel inconveniences.

5) Availability. It’s also important to make sure that your potential trainer is available during times when it’s convenient for you to train so that you don’t end up having to cancel sessions due to conflicting schedules. Ask about their hours of operation and whether they offer early morning or late evening sessions if those would fit better into your daily routine! You have to find what works for you and not the other way around.

6) Likeability. This one is a no-brainer. Exercising may be challenging enough in itself for you, so ensuring you find someone with a good rapport will be what makes the experience worth it all. Chances are, the more you like your trainer and the more you connect, the more comfortable you will be communicating with one another. Although it doesn’t feel like teamwork, you and your trainer are a team with both of you working toward your goals.

With the right research and preparation, you can make sure your personal training experience is one you like and are comfortable with. Spending time looking for a qualified trainer that suits your individual needs is well worth the investment. From qualifications to cost and availability, following this checklist will help you identify the trainer who works best for you. Make sure they are someone who is supportive, understanding, and willing to work with you to achieve your fitness goals. Once you’ve found the right trainer, it's time to get started on transforming your body, mind, and ultimately, your life.

BariMelts provides general recommendations, not to be construed as medical advice. Please consult your doctor.