Getting into shape often is easier and more effective when you are accountable to another person. This is why many people hire personal trainers or fitness coaches to help them meet their fitness goals. It makes sense, then, to invest time selecting a personal trainer that you will want to stick with for the long run. Consider these “top eight” things that make a great fitness coach: 1. EXPERIENCE – Ask your trainer for their resume – how long they have been a trainer, what did they do to become a trainer, how are they staying up to date. 2. KNOWLEDGE – Be sure your coach knows how to use all exercise equipment safely, how to increase the intensity of the workout, how to do other exercises and stretches. 3. AVAILABILITY – Your trainer works for you, so he or she should be available when you are, and at a gym or exercise facility that is convenient to you. 4. MOTIVATING – You want your coach to push you to have a great workout and reach your goals. He or she should have energy and be inspiring to keep you going through each workout. 5. CONSIDERATE – While you want results, you are not in boot camp and should not have to deal with a drill sergeant. Your trainer should not be judgmental or condescending, especially if you fall short of your goals. Instead, you should work with someone who is going to coach you to get back on track (and help you understand why you got off track in the first place). 6. CONSISTENT – You do not need to work with a trainer every day or even every time you exercise, but he or she should be available to you on a regular basis. You should meet with them to discuss your goals and achievements, make corrections, and stay on track. 7. KNOWS NUTRITION – Fitness plans should always include an eating plan along with exercise. So, if you work with a coach who understands diet and nutrition, you will reach goals faster (and healthier). 8. LOOKS GREAT – Yes, your trainer should be in good shape, too! Let’s face it, if they aren’t getting results for themselves, how can they help get them for you? Fitness coaches essentially help people change their behaviors towards diet and exercise so they can change how they look and feel. It helps when coaches understand nutrition, diet, and weight loss – along with effective exercise. These are all points of emphasis for coaches of the Curves Complete weight loss program, which has a proven track record for helping women across the country reach fitness goals. When you do make the move to work with a coach or personal trainer, be sure you give him or her a fair shake. Keep up your end of the bargain by eating right and making time to exercise. Then, when the time comes to assess goals, you can celebrate the great results together. By Jade Papageorge, trainer and owner of Curves of Killingworth and Haddam
