Gyms can be intimidating to some—the vibe, the machines and the muscular people walking around. We get it. Just getting through the door can be difficult enough, but then there is knowing what to do once you get inside. Where are the towels? How do you clean the machinery you just used? Heck, how do you use the machinery? Where is the locker room?
After you get past the newness of the gym itself, you have to figure out what your body needs. What are your goals and how do you meet them? How do you use this machine without looking like a dummy? We understand how overwhelming it can be. Here are some pointers if you are making a decision on whether or not to hire a trainer!
9 Reasons Getting a Personal Trainer Can Make a World of Difference:
- Confidence
Having a knowledgeable professional by your side lets you rest assured that all of your questions will be answered and you won’t be accidentally using a machine backwards. - Goals
A trainer can help you make concrete and realistic goals. If you create a goal that is too difficult or simply impossible, you’re more likely to give up. - Nutrition
Exercise is only half the battle. Nutrition is the other half! You have to fuel your body well in order to reap all the benefits of your workouts. A trainer can also tell you what your diet should look like based on your body type and your goals. - Avoiding Injury
Lifting weights and working out in general can be tricky business. Correct form and weight proportion is vital to preventing injury. With a trainer, your risk of injury becomes substantially lower. - Education
Utilizing the expertise of someone that has formal training can yield more results than trying to figure it out on your own. - Changing it Up
Doing the same few workouts over and over gets boring. A personal trainer can provide ever-changing workouts that still focus on the skills and muscle groups you need to focus on. - Pushing Past Plateaus
It’s so easy to give up when you aren’t seeing results. With a trainer, you can lean into those challenges and have their expertise by your side to push through plateaus and see success. - Mental Health Benefits
Exercise has been proven to improve mood and symptoms of depression. Having a personal trainer to ensure you are benefitting from all of the natural endorphins is key! - Lasting Habits
It takes 21 days to form a habit. When you have an accountability partner, like a trainer, you’re more likely to stick with your goals and form long-lasting habits.
What to Look Out for When Choosing a Trainer
- Certifications
Make sure to check out your potential trainer’s certs. It’s important that they have been properly educated and trained so you get the most out of your money and don’t fall into the hands of a scammer. - Gym Affiliation
What gym is your trainer affiliated with? Is the location convenient? Is it a well-kept and updated facility? Does it have childcare, if that’s something you need? - Social Media Presence
Do a few quick searches on your favorite social media platforms to see if you can find your trainer. See what you can find out and assess how you feel about their ability to train you well. - Reviews
Reviews are always vital to making any kind of consumer decision. Google your potential personal trainer and see what you can find out.
3 Things to Discuss With Your New Trainer
- Cost
Right up front, ask about the cost of each training session and any unexpected fees. Be open about what you can spend so they can adjust the quantity and length of your sessions to fit your budget. - Commitment
Speak up about the flexibility of your schedule. Don’t over-commit. Set yourself up for success by being realistic about what you can dedicate yourself to. - Goals
What are you looking to achieve? Tell your trainer your goal weight, your visual goals and your internal goals concerning health and mood!
Products to Help You Along the Way
- Fitness Watch
There are lots of great options out there for fitness trackers—and very affordable ones at that. If your budget is tight, a lot of phones can track your steps and record workouts if you keep it in your pocket! - The Ideal Water Bottle
Get yourself the perfect bottle—make it your favorite color, make sure it fits in your cup holder, get it engraved or put some fun stickers on it! Remember: You should drink between one-half and one ounce of water every day for every pound you weigh. - Electrolytes and Flavor
You may love the taste of plain water, or you may need a little pop of flavor to make sure you are hitting your hydration goals. Figure out if you like it cold or room temperature. Try citrus or a flavored electrolyte powder to make it pop! - Nutrition App
Check out the app store and download an app that can help you track your calories, protein, macro- and micronutrients.
Getting fit can be an overwhelming process. Be kind to yourself and remain realistic. At the end of the day, if you’re eating whole foods and moving your body for at least 30 minutes each day, you’re headed in the right direction! Always consult with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet or exercise regimen.
Sources: Shape, Rockwell Fitness
Not a member?
Join for FREE!
Enjoy encouraging, motivating, uplifting content created just for women like you, all from the health care name you trust: Franciscan Health.
