Oct 8, 2013 3 min read

There are a number of reasons people work with personal trainers. Some want an individualized program so they can lose weight or get in shape, while others simply need to be held accountable for their workouts. Wherever you are in your exercise journey, a personal trainer may be just what you need to take it to the next level.

Here are the Top 10 reasons to hire a personal trainer:

1. Are you inconsistent?

Do you find yourself visiting the club five times one week, once the next week, and then not again for three weeks? Scheduling regular workouts with a trainer will help you stick with your plan, and help you achieve results faster.

2. You need a motivator.

You need a personal trainer if you’re famous for going through the motions, or only do what you have to do. Just showing up and meeting with a trainer will give you the motivation and the extra push to keep your commitment to yourself and your health.

3. When was the last time you exercised?

While you may have been in shape in high school or college, if you have been sedentary for a while, it can be dangerous for you to jump right back into an exercise program. A trainer can help you understand your body and how to use the science of exercise to help you achieve your fitness goals.

4. You’re starting a training program.

If you never have had a strength-training program, many of the exercises and much of the equipment can be intimidating. Are you training safely and efficiently? Will you attain the benefits you want? When should you change the mode of exercise? How often? Let a trainer teach you the proper use of the equipment, proper form, and provide encouragement to keep you working toward attainable goals.

5. Let a trainer help you slow the aging process:

a. Improve your cardiovascular condition

b. Gain strength

c. Increase bone density

d. Increase flexibility

e. Increase energy

f. Improve appearance

g. Decrease fat percentage

h. Improve balance

i. Stress reduction

j. Monitor results

k. Correct progression of exercises

6. Let a trainer assist you in developing attainable and realistic short-term and long-term goals.

7. Working out with a trainer can increase adherence.

You will have fun while working out. You will notice results. You will achieve your goals.

8. Safety and injury prevention

There is so much to know regarding exercise and the proper exercise and correct progression. Working with a trainer will minimize your chance of doing exercises incorrectly, maximizing results.

9. You have diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, are ready for rehabilitation or have some other medical condition that may affect how you should exercise.

Exercise is THE No. 1 recommended method for most of today’s more common health concerns. A trainer will draw on his or her knowledge of medical conditions and the science of exercise to help design a program that is appropriate to your individual needs.

10. You do not have time.

With today’s hectic lifestyles, squeezing an hour or so into an already busy day to work out can be a difficult task. A trainer will help you keep your workout effective and efficient. Get the most out of every minute by tailoring your workout with appropriate exercises at the necessary intensity to get you in, get you out, and get you on with your day. And be sure when hiring a personal trainer that they have a science of exercise degree and current national certifications with ACSM, NSCA or AFAA. n

Kimber Waldorf is fitness director of The Health Club at Southpointe. Call her at 724-597-0014, extension 104, for more information.