Body By Kit: How To Choose A Personal Trainer

Body by Kit

"How To Choose A Personal Trainer" by Kit Rich

Have you ever looked down at a man’s shoes and were so turned off by them that you gave him the axe before you even saw his face? Guilty as charged.

Whether we want to admit it or not, first impressions are powerful and can affect the choices we make. That's why it doesn’t surprise me when a woman seeking a Jennifer Aniston physique might run for the hills when she sees that her new trainer is the female version of Arnold Schwarzenegger—regardless of the pro's qualifications. That's because I would never expect to see a polo shirt wearing prepster getting a haircut from a stylist with a purple mohawk. Because opposites may attract in the name of love, but when it comes to beauty and aesthetics, "like sticks to like."

However, the question is whether this prejudice should hold true when it comes to hiring a trainer? Is it enough to seek out a professional whose "perfect body" looks the part you want to play? Or should you trust a trainer whose own physique is the opposite of the one you desire? 

In my experience as a fitness professional, I have found that a trustworthy trainer—buff, cut or lean—is someone who is highly educated, motivating, and well-seasoned. Personal training is a science and requires a certain intelligence that isn’t necessarily reflected in the size of a person’s biceps. A trustworthy trainer is malleable and versatile in his or her expertise and can create a personalized fitness regime to suit a client’s specific needs, in the same way that a plastic surgeon can sculpt the perfect nose for a particular patient.

Quite honestly, too many times have I seen a naturally skinny trainer get booked just because the client's goal is to slim down. But if the trainer is inexperienced and only knows what works for her own body, the client will never get the proper guidance or the best results. When judging your trainer’s shape, remember that genetics play a huge role in determining the look of muscle definition. Proper nutrition is also important, which may not be every trainer's area of expertise.  Two people can do the same amount of pushups—exactly same way, for the same amount of time—and have the same level of strength. But because of genetics and diet, they will still look completely different. So although cliché, the old saying “don’t judge a book by its cover” absolutely holds true in this particular case of choosing a proper trainer.

Look deeper when you are seeking out your trainer. I would hate to think that you passed up the perfect one just because of a bad first impression. And, even more painful, I would really hate to think I passed up the next Bill Gates, who would treat me like a queen, just because I didn’t like his Birkenstocks.  

HOW TO GET THE PERFECT TRAINER

1. Do a trial session

This will give you a good idea of whether or not you like his/her style. The trainer can also give you a clear cut idea of what to expect when you train with them. After the first session, or a few more sessions after that, you can then commit to a whole series.

2. Ask about training philosophy and experience

Get to know your trainer. Learn where they studied, what motivated them to get into the industry and learn their views about health and fitness. If it resonates with you, all the more reason to stick with them. But if not, seek out another trainer that holds a similar philosophy to yours.

3. Like and feel comfortable with your trainer

If you don’t feel comfortable or if they make you feel bad about yourself, find another trainer immediately. It is so important to get along with your trainer and feel motivated by them. This is hopefully someone you will have a long-standing relationship with and will see frequently.  You will have moments where you will not want to work out, but if you like your trainer’s company, it will help keep you consistent which is a huge key to success!

Kit Rich is Los Angeles-based fitness trainer with endless exercise and nutritional know-how. Hollywood's hottest stars are addicted to Kit's unique, multi-disciplined approach that combines cardio, yoga, Pilates, and weight training. Kit's clients are immediately taken by her funny and honest approach to health and fitness. She treats her clients as she treats herself, "with a hard challenge, sensibility, sensitively, and a good laugh." Follow Kit on Twitter @kitrichfitness