Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes, I am a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach through the nationally recognized organization NASM. I am also CPR/AED certified through ASTI

There are many good reasons to hire a personal trainer. Here are just a few reasons:

• Get a training plan unique to your needs: For most first-time exercisers, figuring out which exercises to do and where to start can be the most intimidating part of getting more fit. Working with a trainer can take the guesswork out of it as we design a custom plan that works for you.

• Form and Technique: Personal trainers know how to properly perform exercises and can help make sure that you are exercising safely and with good form to reduce your risk of injury. It’s also a great way to get you feeling more comfortable to work out on your own. 

• Accountability: Knowing that someone is waiting for you at the gym and that you are paying for that time with them can be a great motivator to get to the gym for your workout. Your personal trainer can help to make sure you're successful during your sessions so that you get the most out of your time spent at the gym. 

• Try something new: If you're tired of doing the same exercises over and over a personal trainer can introduce you to new exercises and equipment to keep things interesting on your fitness journey.  

• Get out of the rut: Personal Trainers know how to appropriately adjust the intensity of your workouts in a safe and structured manner to keep you on track to your goals. As a bonus, you’re likely to push yourself a bit harder with a trainer than you might on your own!

The relationship between trainer and client is important. You’ll certainly want someone who is credentialed to help you, but you’ll also want to look for someone who is a good fit for you when it comes to location, personality, training style/training philosophy, and specialty.

Here are some important things to consider when choosing a trainer:

• Credentials: A qualified personal trainer will have a current NCCA-accredited certification in personal training. You may also ask the trainer what type of continuing education they take or other certifications they hold to learn more about their educational experience.

• Location: Trainers can work at home (yours or theirs), virtually (live or by writing a program for you to take to the gym with you), in a big gym, in a small studio, or even in a public venue. You should have an idea of what will work best for you (especially if you will be traveling before or after work when traffic tends to be at its worst), and which type of setting you prefer. Larger settings may provide more “perks” for its members, like classes included in the membership, while smaller settings offer more privacy for personal training.

• Personality: Finding the right personality fit will matter when you choose your personal trainer. It helps to find someone that you enjoy spending time with since it will make the experience much more rewarding and enjoyable. Need a cheerleader? A drill instructor? Is someone chatty, or quiet? You’ll get a feel for their personality when you meet the trainer, so be sure they're someone you can see yourself reaching your goals with.

• Specialty: Many personal trainers serve a specific population, such as adults over the age of 65, women between the ages of 30-50, athletes, runners, etc. The benefit to hiring a personal trainer who serves clients with goals like yours is that they will have experience in helping others reach those goals and are prepared to help you as well.

• The Bottom Line: Each personal trainer will vary by experience, location, personality, and training specialty. Many offer free consultations so don’t be afraid to shop around until you find the right fit for you.