Overview
In their quest to offer you the ultimate workout solution, most gyms and fitness centers offer personal training. Walking into a gym can be overwhelming with the plethora of machines, free weights and classes. A personal trainer can get you started with a routine that is tailored to your needs and goals.
Availability
Not all fitness centers offer personal training, but most do. Some gyms employ trainers; others allow independent trainers to use the facility in exchange for a fee or monthly rent. Either way, many fitness centers offer one or two trial sessions as a perk to joining the gym. You should take advantage of this free session: The trainer can show you how to properly use some of the equipment, and you can determine if you want or need more sessions.
Certifications
Personal trainers are not licensed by any government agency. You do not have to have any type of certification or license to be a trainer. However, reputable fitness centers generally require their trainers to be certified through a reputable organization, such as the American Council on Exercise or the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Inquire about the gym's requirements for its trainers. Speak to a trainer and ask for her credentials and experience.
Specializations
If you are given a free training session, you do not have to use this same trainer if you decide to purchase more sessions. If you have special needs or medical conditions, ask if any of the trainers specialize in serving that population. Most fitness centers select trainers with a variety of specializations, so they can serve the majority of their members. Trainers may specialize in sport training, functional training, rehabilitation and other special populations.
Cost
The cost of personal training at a fitness center varies widely based on many criteria, including location, experience and number of sessions. Location is a large determinant of cost. A session in New York City will likely be significantly more than one in a rural area in the Midwest. Some fitness centers have different levels of trainers. Newer, less experienced trainers cost less per session than more experienced trainers. Many gyms offer discounts for volume purchases. Your price per session is less if you buy a package of five or 10 sessions than if you buy just one. Check several fitness centers in your area and compare prices. Talk to some trainers; a trainer that you click with may be worth a little more per hour.
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