Wednesday, May 30, 2012

It's About To Get Personal



It is strange that after all this time talking about fitness and health that I never really talked about hiring a personal trainer.  Not all Sassy girls can afford a trainer, I know.  But for those who can drop a couple hundred dollars on a pair of shoes maybe hiring a professional for a few sessions just to be sure that you are doing things right is a good idea.  
If you are going to hire a personal trainer you need to understand a few things.  
As a personal trainer I am well aware that sometimes people hire me because they think that having a trainer is a magic bullet. After all J-LO has a trainer and every other sexy Hollywood celebrity has one so that must be the answer.  Some people think “If I hire a trainer I will look just like they do.” Well the truth is that you still have to do the work. Your trainer is there to guide you and help you get closer to your goals, but don’t expect magic to happen if YOU aren’t committing 100%.
Thinking that you can get in shape only because you hired a trainer is just as silly as thinking that a gym membership is the path to fitness even though you never go.

To make sure you are being a good client here are some things that will set you up for success
  • Pay attention to what you are doing and try not to chit chat too much. Honestly your trainer does not need to hear about the adorable song your three year old sang while going to the bathroom. She is also not a babysitter so don’t assume you can kill two birds with one stone. If you want a great workout make sure your child is with someone who can look after them while you sweat.
  • Give at least 24 hour notice if you need to cancel or reschedule and if you don’t realize that you are responsible for paying your trainer. The most inconsiderate thing you as a client can do is not value someone else’s time
  • If you have questions, write them down and bring them to your session--you'll spend less time talking and more time working out.
  • If you have a problem with your trainer, address it immediately.
  • Don't interrupt your trainer when she's with a client. Wait until she's finished before approaching her.
  • Come prepared and that means make sure you have eaten, have a towel, water and workout clothing.

Being considerate and not treating your trainer like she or he is a member of your staff will go a long way.  Your mom was right when she told you to “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”