Benefits of Having a Personal Trainer

By Duston Morris, Ph.D., ABD, M.S., ACE, USAT

Many people don’t realize what a Personal Trainer does. I hope that this article helps answer some of your questions. A few popular questions for trainers sometimes include 1) What weight should I start with? 2) What exercise will help me reach my goal? 3) Should I eat before or after my workout? By having a trainer, you have the confidence of knowing that you are doing the best workout for you and maximizing your time in the gym or during your training sessions.

People think having a trainer is expensive. Depending on the area you live and the program you choose, trainers can actually be less expensive than paying those advance fees at the gym and then never going to use it. With a trainer, the program is designed especially for you. Your program is made to fit your goals and ability. Your strength, cardiovascular, and flexibility programs are specially designed for you. The trainer should demonstrate each exercise and refresh your memory each time. Your form, reps and weights are monitored and increased as your strength and ability allows. There is no guess work on your part.
Working with a trainer also means no waiting on machines. Being able to move from one exercise to the next, without a long break waiting for others to get finished with the machines, gives you an aerobic workout right along with your lifting program. Having a scheduled appointment with a trainer can help you keep your exercise commitment and accountability for your own health. At some fitness clubs an instructor, not a certified trainer, may show you how to use the equipment the first time but then you are on your own. The next time you go, it is hoped you will remember how to use the machines. You may not be sure when it is time to increase and if you push yourself too fast, that’s when injuries occur.

If you’ve been thinking about starting an exercise program, remember the benefits a trainer can add. Some of these benefits can include 1) a personalized program just for you, 2) guidance for proper form to prevent injury, 3) confidence of knowing your progression is monitored and advanced properly, 3) support for questions, 4) a scheduled appointment for motivational and current fitness assessment, 5) personal attention for your needs and other benefits you can only get by working with a trainer.

Many of my clients tell me they wouldn’t stick to it without the appointment and how much better they feel after their workout, both mentally as well as physically. Let a trainer guide you to better health for yourself and your family. Give me a call and let’s get started on your healthier future.

For more information about the benefits of a personal trainer, feel free to contact me.