Choosing a personal trainer can be tricky; there are a lot of trainers in the area, and most of them are making the same claims. To help you make a decision you won’t regret, I’m sharing with you the seven mistakes I see people making time and time again.
Making a decision based on price
The old adage ‘buy cheap buy twice’ applies to personal training. Be very wary of choosing the cheapest trainer; in order to make a decent living they will have to be working a lot of hours. You will not get the attention you deserve, and the trainer will struggle to support you outside of the sessions.
Going with the person who claims to do it all
Anyone claiming to be able to do it all is not a specialist; that’s someone who just wants your business. Choose a trainer who has defined their specific niche, and isn’t afraid to turn down the opportunity to work with someone who doesn’t fit their profile of an ideal client.
Not asking for testimonials and case studies
Any good and reputable trainer will not only have case studies and testimonials on their website, but they will also offer you the chance to speak to clients so you can hear their experience first-hand. Some will insist upon it, to make sure that you are their target client, as well as the other way round.
Going with the trainer who offered their time for free
It’s vitally important that whoever you work with places a high value on their time. When a trainer sets a reasonable price for their services, they are making a statement to the client that they value what they do, and are committed to delivering a high quality of service. They will also restrict the number of clients they work with because they don’t need to work long hours to make a decent living.
Not asking what the selection criteria is to sign up
A good and reputable personal trainer or company will have selection criteria. If they don’t, then the implication is they’re happy to work with anyone, which means they’re probably just trying to scrape by as opposed to really making a difference for their client. Look for someone who clearly states on their website what type of person they are looking to work with.
Not screening for a strong and relevant google presence
I very rarely go to meet anyone for the first time without running their name through Google. It’s fascinating what you find. A decent and reputable personal trainer will have blog posts, testimonials and recommendations, quotes, online videos, interviews and possibly even a book, all of which you can find on their website or Google.
Signing up for packages of five or ten sessions
The days of selling packages based on a small number of sessions are long over. Making a major decision about your health and fitness is a long-term commitment and a conversation with a personal trainer should reflect that. It takes time to effect a change when working with any client; look for a trainer who offers monthly packages or is willing to create bespoke packages.
Leanne Spencer
@BodyshotPT
www.bodyshotperformance.com
www.bodyshotperformance.com