So, you look in the mirror and you see those extra pounds or maybe daily tasks just aren't as easy as they once were. You know it is time to do something about it...but what next?
Maybe you tried all the diet and workout trends and nothing seems to work for you...or at least only works temporarily. Perhaps you are still doing the same routine for several months or even years and are still gaining fat and losing strength.
The truth is, most people give up at this point. They are simply spinning their wheels but going nowhere. Most people forget that there are certified, experienced, compassionate coaches and trainers that use years of experience, failures, successes, and education to help guide you and direct you to get the results you desire. The really good ones do it with empathy, safety, motivation, and performance in mind.
Before you reach out to a trainer, it is important to understand why you want or "need" one. It is time to do some honest soul searching here.
Do you lack the self discipline to work on your own? Do you lack the understanding and knowledge to begin an exercise program by yourself? Do you want to improve your daily quality of life? Do you want to finally beat your buddy in tennis? Are you preparing for a major life event like starting military service boot camp or want to look your best for a wedding?
Once you have that external motivation, it is time to find a trainer. Before you make a call, be sure you understand that a relationship with a trainer is just like any other relationship...there must be honest and open communication. Here is were we must wear our heart on our sleeve and keep an open mind to facilitate the most benefit for your exercise program.
Once you understand the importance of honesty and rapport with your trainer and you have spilled your guts exposing all your fitness and health hopes and dreams, it is time to ask the trainer some questions about how they plan to get you to the promised land.
Does your trainer have a program to sell, do they know "this one weird trick" to magically achieve your goals, do they protest that they are the only ones that can save you? If this is what you hear...run away. Do they have an individualized clear cut program for at least the next 8 to 12 weeks with specific goals in mind at steps along the way? No?...then get out fast.
Your trainer should be experienced and knowledgeable. If they can't translate that into a coherent program designed just for you with the ability to adjust, correct, and improve, then why are you paying them? There must be a plan of action and it must be designed for each individual for it to be worth your time and money.
Your trainer will do their best to motivate and cheer you along as you move through this fitness journey but any trainer worth their salt must help to improve self efficacy and internal motivation. This is one of the most difficult jobs and one that requires a good trainer to be as much a counselor as a drill sergeant.
Finally, It may not be the best business model but a good trainer should be confident enough to teach fully and completely everything they know so you may fly from the nest one day and be strong and confident enough to continue on your fitness journey alone.
Once you understand these fine points, the first steps won't seem so daunting and the fear should subside long enough for you begin the journey to a better, stronger, more fit, healthier you with a smart, caring certified personal trainer by your side. Find a fitness trainer and let the gains begin.
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