If you have exercised at one of our locations, you may have seen personal trainers out on the floor directing clients in a workout. There can be a variety of reactions to the idea of personal training.
Some beginners may think it is for those with particular athletic goals. Some gym veterans may believe they have been going long enough to know everything they need to without a trainer.
The truth is, a personal trainer can help a wide range of clients with various goals.
If you are new to exercise, a personal trainer can ensure you begin to work out using proper form and an appropriate intensity level for your specific needs.
If you have been working out for a long time, you may benefit from having someone evaluate your routine and make some suggestions to get you to the next level.
No matter who you are, personal training can help you in some specific areas:
Goal Setting
A personal trainer can help you brainstorm specific goals to set and map out the actionable steps needed to get there. Often, we may not know how to get to where we want to be or are so used to our routine we are unsure of how to mix it up. Having another person can help iron out the most effective plan.
Accountability
Many people may know what to do to reach their wellness goals, and they don’t do it. Having another person on your team to hold you accountable can help on those days when we just don’t feel like working toward our goals. Setting an appointment with a personal trainer, whom you have paid money, is a great way to ensure you get into the gym at least one time per week.
New Information
Here at the Y, our trainers must be certified through an accredited organization and maintain their CPR and AED training certifications. After an initial certification exam, they must partake in continuing education to maintain their status. This means that they are consistently learning up-to-date information on human physiology, behavior change, proper mechanics and form, and practical approaches for different populations and goals. In an age where anyone can post online, it is essential to know that you are getting information from someone who cares enough to take the time to get educated.
Personalization
Exercise is not a one-size-fits-all-all category. Workout routine approach can change based on your age, muscular imbalances, goals, and previous experience. An active older adult who wants to maintain independence does not need to follow the same routine as a high school soccer player wishing to play at the collegiate level. Individualized training can ultimately lead to better results and better adherence to the protocol instead of following a generic workout found online.
Personal training can offer benefits no matter where you are on your journey. Some people choose to see a trainer long-term because of the accountability. Some need a few sessions to get oriented toward their new goals.
Even though a relationship with a personal trainer can bring you all of the benefits listed above, each coach brings their personality and training philosophy into the equation. Feel free to talk with as many trainers as you can to get a feel for the best fit for you and your goals.
If you think personal training may be what you need, reach out to either of our locations to get set up with one of our trainers and see how far you can go with someone helping coach you along the way!
