Have you avoided starting a fitness program because you're not sure what or how much to do? Have you tried to lose weight using fitness programs, but have trouble staying motivated because you're not seeing results? If the answer to these questions is yes, hiring a personal fitness trainer may be the solution you need.

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However, as more and more people turn towards using personal trainers to help meet their fitness and health goals, they should be reminded to be cautious when making their choice. Anyone can call him/herself a personal trainer but in reality not everyone can perform the functions of a personal trainer safely.

When selecting a personal trainer, ask the following questions to help you assess a trainer’s credentials and level of expertise: 

• What is their exercise and educational background? Are they certified by a nationally recognized organization? To properly design a safe and effective exercise program, a personal trainer should have a good grounding in exercise technique, including exercise physiology, anatomy and injury prevention.
• Is the person a member of a professional association with a commitment to continuing education? You want to be able to rely on your trainer for current information on fitness, exercise and healthy lifestyle activities. Membership in a professional organization is one way to tell that a personal trainer is staying aware of the latest information on a variety of important topics.
• Is he/she certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid?
• Does the trainer require a health screening or release from your doctor? A quality trainer needs to know relevant details of your past medical history, including any medications you may be taking before they can provide you with an effective workout.
• Ask for references from other clients and industry professionals. Calling references can help you gauge whether the trainer has the expertise to properly serve your needs.
• Ask how the trainer keeps track of your workouts, plans to chart your progress and set both long and short-term goals. Your trainer should listen to you carefully to determine your goals and needs, and tell you why the program that has been designed is appropriate.
• What are the trainer’s fees and policies on cancellations, billing, etc.? Having all policies clearly stated in writing helps avoid any misunderstandings or confusion and protects your rights as a consumer.