Regular exercise improves the physical and mental well-being of individuals. Some of the benefits include the following:
- less risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes
- better mood and mental clarity
- stronger muscles and bones
- better cardiovascular fitness
- increased energy levels
- better sleep
- reduced stress and anxiety
- enhancement of overall quality of life
When access and resources are created with inclusion at the forefront, people with disabilities can also experience the benefits of regular physical activity. And a personal trainer is a great resource who can ensure that exercise is done in a safe, sustainable manner.
Starting a fitness program can be a challenging task, especially for individuals who are embarking on the fitness journey for the first time. If you are just starting out, a fitness professional/trainer can make helpful recommendations and provide expert guidance. Using a fitness professional or trainer also ensures that you are creating, achieving and maintaining fitness goals in a safe and supportive environment.
Starting a fitness program with a personal trainer can be a transformative experience. By considering the following factors, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and set yourself up for success. Here’s what to consider and how to get started.
Credentials/Qualifications
Verify that the prospective trainer has certifications from reputable organizations. Trainers may hold accredited credentials from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council of Exercise (ACE) and American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), just to mention a few. These organizations provide training based on scientific knowledge to ensure that trainers have all the expertise needed to prescribe physical activity/exercise.
Specializations
Knowing your trainer’s specialties will help you ensure they can meet your goals. Find a trainer whose expertise matches your needs, such as weight loss, strength training or rehabilitation. Not sure what your goals are? You can ask a trainer to help.
Defining Your Goals
Before finding a trainer or program that is right for you, determine whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, decrease inflammation, rehabilitate or enhance overall fitness. For your trainer to know the best course of action and plan, create SMART goals. SMART is an acronym that stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time bound. Using this framework can help ensure you can create an actionable plan, monitor progress and achieve results.
Communication
When choosing a fitness program/trainer, clear and effective communication is important. Communicating clearly about your needs, such as fitness goals or medical conditions, can help a trainer provide you with a program tailored to you and prevent further complications from arising. Communicate clearly about your past fitness history or mobility limitations/injuries. This can help ensure your programming is safe and appropriate.
Trust the Process
Every person’s fitness journey is different and unique. Goals and results are not achieved overnight. You must set expectations and timelines with your trainer and with yourself. Setting realistic goals will help motivate you to put the work in. Maximize your motivation by being mindful of your choices: this will help you stay focused and committed.
Financial Considerations
Personal training can be an investment – and rates can vary. Make sure you understand the cost or how much you are willing to fit into your budget. Before starting a program, ask the trainers for any discounts or packages that might be available.
Prioritize the Fitness Environment
Training sessions can take place in a variety of settings, including a public facility or park, at home, or in a gym or fitness facility. Each setting has its advantages. For example, a public facility or park can help you connect with the outdoors, at-home workouts are more private do not require transportation, and a gym or fitness facility has more equipment and opportunities for social interaction.
- Resource: Choosing a Fitness Center
Be Open to Trying New Things
Personal trainers are qualified professionals who will encourage you to do things that might be physically and mentally demanding. During your first few sessions, be open to trying new exercises and techniques. You might feel uncomfortable, but a trainer will ensure that you are safe.
Fitness Expert Directories
Visit these websites to search for fitness experts in your area.