Finding the Best Personal Trainer

You have made that decision – you want to work with a personal trainer. This is a big step as you have made the decision to improve your health and fitness. Personal trainers, like other professional, can be good or bad at what they do. Who do you choose? What makes someone the best personal trainer in Toronto or anywhere for that matter?

Here is a list of things to consider

1. Certifications – you want to ensure that the personal trainer you are going to hire is qualified to do the job. In Canada, many trainers are certified through CanFitPro which is recognized in Canada. Other excellent certifications include American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE). In addition to personal training certifications, you want to make sure that your trainer is certified and current with CPR and First Aid. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof of the certifications. This person is going to be responsible for your health.
2. Know your style – some people need a drill sergeant to push them while others need a more gentle approach with positive reinforcement . Your trainer should suit your personality and style. You will be spending a considerable amount of time with your trainer so you have to be suited to one another.
3. Ask for Proof – Have past clients of the trainer been satisfied with him/her. Are there testimonials of reviews from past clients. 
4. Special Needs – Do you have any orthopaedic or special issues that the trainer needs to be aware of? Is your trainer qualified to deal with these issues? Do they have special certifications like Bonefit for Osteoporosis or Heartwise? Have they dealt with clients who have special issues before? Are they comfortable consulting with your medical practitioners if need be? Exercise can help with many conditions but the wrong exercise could exacerbate things.
5. Courtesy and professionalism – This may sound odd but little things, like punctuality or calling if they are going to be late for an appointment, matter. You also don’t want a trainer answering their phone while working with you. The focus needs to be on you. You may get a sense of how polite the trainer is from your first consultation.

Questions For Your Trainer

1. What certifications, credentials do you have?
2. Do you do ongoing education?
3. What kind of clients have you worked with in the past, with what results?
4. Do you have experience and confidence to address my special needs and health conditions?
5. Do you have liability insurance?
6. Do you offer a free consultation?
7. What are your rates, session lengths, and cancellation policies?
8. How can I pay you?
9. What's your schedule? Is it adaptable?