Your personal trainer might be the best, smartest and most professional fitness expert in the world. Or, more than likely he or she might not.
Sadly, in my experience working in gyms for years, there are more of the goons out there than the good ones. The problem with the fitness industry is that it’s filled with embarrassing people who self glorify, copy their competition, count reps instead of ‘train’ and of course well, the egos!
So, how can you be sure you are dealing with a professional trainer and not a goon? First of all, does your trainer meet any of these stereotypes?
The Drill Instructor
If your trainer wears dog tags and camouflage, but has never actually served any time in the armed forces, you’re in trouble! It’s a little silly to be dressed up in military garb screaming at housewives to do more burpees. Is there any reason for your trainer to wear a costume to work? Sir, no sir!
The Diva Trainer
Does your trainer go by a single name or initial, like Blaze or Hammer? This is a classic tool-move. Unless you’re singing the occasional power ballad between sets and costume changes (see above), stick to the name your momma gave you!
The Celebrity Trainer
Does your trainer plaster his or her face all over their gym, business cards, promotional material, etc… what does that have to do with your results? Take the headshot down ‘bro’, you’re not ready for your closeup.
The Stripper
And then there’s the trainer who applied for a job, lifted up his shirt and said, “This is what I’m bringing to the table.” True story. If you’ve ever seen your trainer’s abs and you weren’t at a pool party, you’ve seen too much!
The Wannabe Trainer
This is the trainer has been successful working with a trainer or exercise program in the past and thinks that they can do it better. Waitresses, bank tellers and hair dressers that make good followers, don’t necessarily make good leaders.
The Shirtless on a Motorcycle Trainer
There are no words for this guy
The Machinist
This trainer bounces their client around the gym from machine to machine, counting rep by rep to 10 each exercise. This is not training! There is no teaching involved.
What is the essential purpose of a machine? Any machine (a dishwasher, a chain saw, an automobile)?
The essential purpose of a machine is to simplify a task. To minimize the amount of effort you actually have to invest in an action.
Does that constitute exercise? If you answer “yes,” then you need to reconsider your view of exercise!
Technology has reduced the need for human movement so much that we are de-volving. Humans used to hunt, farm, gather, build and grow everything we needed to sustain life. Now, we do nothing. Don’t go to the gym and do more of the same.
This, of course, is just my opinion only.
You may have an amazing trainer who goes by the name of Rambo who wears camouflage, has his head shot on the wall, regularly rides his motorcycle shirtless and trains you safely, effectively and progressively. There are exceptions.
Otherwise, I have some bad news for you… your trainer is a goon!
If you aren’t happy with your fitness success, your personal trainers will help you lose weight, drop body fat and build lean, tone muscle. To ensure your best results, make sure your trainer provides you with these 5 important keys to success.
1. Accountability– help answer the unknowns of what foods to eat, what supplements help best, which workouts are most effective
2. Customized Program Development- have a customized roadmap that is tailored to your fitness goals. Fitness is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution. Food likes and dislikes, previous injuries and personal goals all need to be factored in to your custom program.
3. Critique, Perfect Technique and Execution- more than just counting reps, your personal trainer should be a 3rd set up eyes to keep you safe and teach perfect form for the ultimate body you desire.
4. Time Management- save time, save effort, save money! Work out smarter not harder. Workout and get home in UNDER 1 HOUR!
5. Evolve- if you want your body to evolve, your training, your diet and your program needs to evolve.
“How have I changed in the last 8 weeks?”
Ask yourself honestly. Too many people go into the gym day after day, counting rep after rep without ever achieving the look that they desire.
Get focused, get serious and commit to changing your life in the next 30, 60 and 90 days!
With a variety of programs and options available to you like Fitness Bootcamps (click to try 2 weeks for only $1) and Private Training, you really just have to pick something and TRY IT!
What do you have to lose?
Committed to your fitness success,
Derek Kuryliw, Certified Sports Nutritionist & Personal Trainer LiveFit Diet & Fitness, CEO/Founder
…for questions or comments [email protected] or 727.851.SLIM
