9 Key Questions to Ask a Personal Trainer Before Hiring Them

A personal trainer can be a great asset to help you achieve your fitness goals. But how do you make that choice?
There’s a lot more to it than picking the trainer who is the nearest or most affordable. Referrals are a good start, but you also need to ask them certain questions to decide if they’re right for you.
Here we outline some important questions to ask a potential personal trainer before hiring them.

What You Need to Ask a Personal Fitness Trainer Before Hiring Them

Hiring a personal trainer is an investment in yourself because they’ll play a vital role in achieving your health goals. To make your investment worthwhile, here are a few questions that you must ask a personal fitness trainer before signing up.

1) How long have you been a trainer?

Experience counts, and a newly certified trainer, while enthusiastic, may lack the wisdom of a more experienced one.

2) What certifications do you have?

It’s important to know that your trainer has been educated in fitness and health. Although a certification doesn’t guarantee their excellence, it’s a significant indicator.

3) May I see your references?

A reputable and reliable fitness professional will be happy to put you in touch with their clients. (Hesitating to do so is a red flag.) Ask them if they achieved their fitness goals and how much did the trainer help. These questions are especially necessary for an in-home personal trainer as you’ll need someone trustworthy and with a positive track record.

4) Do you have a specialty?

Some trainers specialize in weight loss; others, sports performance and muscle development. Ask about theirs to find the perfect fit for your fitness goal. Make sure you hire someone who can help you work towards your goals and understand your specific requirements.

5) What is your style of training?

Every trainer has a different style, and theirs should match yours. For example, if you want to gain muscle and strength, your workout regime must include a lot of weight training. Or, if you’re preparing for a marathon, your trainer will focus instead on cardiovascular training. Asking about their training style will ensure that you’re on the same page.

6) What’s included in your program?

This is an important question because you want to know what you’re getting for your money. Will they create a customized nutritional plan? Will you be getting weekly weigh-ins or have measurements taken? Is there a trial session? How many appointments will there be weekly and how long are they?

7) Do you have a plan?

Knowing what your goals are is one thing but planning steps to achieve them is another. Ask them what they are planning for you. A pro will have concrete ideas about your fitness program. Note: the steps should be reasonable and attainable.

8) How long will it take to reach my fitness goals?

An honest and experienced fitness trainer won’t necessarily give you the answer you’re wanting to hear. After all, everyone is different and it will depend on your body type and the effort you put in. If the trainer makes promises that are too good to be true, immediately say ‘next!’

9) What happens if I don’t see results?

This is a significant question because you’re paying for results. Do they have a Plan B? A committed personal trainer may suggest changes to your diet or training for instance. This question will also help you understand their methodology. If they fail to give you a satisfactory answer, move on to your next candidate.

Don’t be afraid to ask your would-be trainer any or all of these questions. In many ways, this is a job interview. If their answers are vague, look elsewhere. If they inspire confidence, hire them right away.