Personal trainer checklist

When you're trying to find the right personal trainer, having the right information is crucial. Using our checklist will make that task much easier.

Key areas to check are:

1. Qualifications and insurance
   All personal trainers should hold a recognized health, fitness or exercise qualification and be first-aid qualified. If they are not fully qualified, don't employ them. Training routes can vary - some will hold a degree in sports science or a postgraduate award in exercise, while others will have qualifications from the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) or a personal training diploma awarded by a fitness training provider.
   
   
2. Experience
   Personal training is much more than exercise supervision. A good personal trainer should have knowledge and experience of dealing with a variety of exercise and fitness issues including cardiovascular fitness, resistance technique, core stability, nutrition, anatomy and physiology.
   
   You should ask to see their client listing, and speak to previous and current clients. Also ask the trainer questions covering cost, availability, experience of detailing with specific issues etc.
   
   
3. Health screening
   This should include:
   • A Pre Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PARQ).
   • Blood pressure and heart rate measurement.
   • Body fat measurement.
   • Discussion of your exercise aims and objectives.

   If the health screening uncovers any contraindications to exercise then you should see a doctor BEFORE starting an exercise program.
   
   

4. How much will a personal trainer cost?
   Good personal trainers will always be in demand, and their costs can reflect that. Most trainers will charge between $25 - $75 per hour, depending on their experience, knowledge, travel fees and equipment.
   
   
5. Personality
   A good personal trainer must be a great communicator and a consummate professional. They should be able to motivate you to achieve new fitness heights, but the experience should nonetheless be enjoyable, uplifting and rewarding.
   
   
6. Meeting a personal trainer
   It is best to meet a new personal trainer for the first time in a public place. Don't invite a new personal trainer to your home when you are alone.