Comments on: How to choose a personal trainer

By: Poul Nielsen

Poul Nielsen — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:56:21 +0000

I think you have made excellent points – not only does the client need to be properly assessed, but it also essential to fit their new fitness habits into sustainable lifestyle.

By: Mistress Krista

Mistress Krista — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:59:54 +0000

Lisa:

Can-Fit Pro: Personally I have found it to be inadequate. I’m sure some of those certified are good trainers, but it is not by definition a mark of quality instruction in the same way as, say, the CSCS.

You can EASILY become a personal trainer if you’re smart, dedicated, and willing to learn (which you clearly are). Even high-level certification bodies offer lots of options for distance training, and many are flexible around the degree — some demand only a university degree, not something like a BSc. Check them out. Also many coaches will be willing to mentor you if you develop a relationship with them.

By: Lisa

Lisa — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:14:00 +0000

Hi Krista,
I’m wondering if you consider Can Fit Pro one of those inadequate certification bodies? I have been training for over 10 years myself, but I do not have a degree in a fitness related field. However, I have worked with a trainer for many years and constantly educate myself on fitness etiquette, proper technique and industry updates and findings. I am also in excellent shape and am extremely passionate about helping others. Is it hopeless to think I can become a Personal Trainer, in your opinion?
Thank you.

By: Kas

Kas — Tue, 05 May 2009 19:46:27 +0000

Thanks for this article – I finally got one of my friends into the gym, and now it falls to me to train her. This pointed out a lot of things I’m going to have to keep in mind while she gets into it.

By: Mistress Krista

Mistress Krista — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 19:08:35 +0000

Hi Brandon, you bring up two good points: evidence of results, and using other clients as referrals.

1. Ask a prospective trainer what kinds of concrete, measurable results they’ve gotten. (A good trainer should keep records and be able to speak at least generally about this.)
2. Ask for references — past and future clients.

By: brandon

brandon — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:58:11 +0000

I’m a USAW Sport performance Coach, Nesta SAQ Coach, and USAW Weightlifting Coach. Your forgeting some good certs like USAW.
It also comes down to the indiviual if they are good or not I know that I’m a great trainer although I don’t have a CSCS, anyone with a degree can get a CSCS but that does mean they can help a athlete run faster or jump higher. I have done that with out a cscs and produced a state 100meter champion.