Discussion Board

I met with a personal trainer at my gym today (I get an assessment/workout as part of my membership). I've watched other trainers work people and I've never been very impressed, but this one was different and seemed to really be interested in customizing the workout for my specific problems/goals. I see him again Monday to see what he came up with, but after that, I'd be on my own to hire him and although I don't know the details, I'm sure it's costly.

I'm seeing a physical therapist to help w/some injuries, but I only see her about once a month. My question is: are you allowed to bring a trainer into a gym, or do gyms not allow that? I was thinking of asking my phys. therapist if she had any suggestions for trainers, but I don't know how that normally works in a gym, or if it's common for gyms to have different rules.

My gym is in a Community Center and trainers working with people have to be employees there; you can't bring someone in from the outside. Although individual sessions are pricey, many gyms have group classes for aerobics, weight lifting, Pilates, etc. which cost less. If you want a trainer to create a workout program for you, it sounds like that's in the works & will be available on Monday. When that's done you can just do the program alone for a few months until you need a new one, which by that time you might be able to create by yourself. If you'll be working
with free weights and don't know proper lifting techniques then a trainer can be helpful for a session or two, but your physical therapist can provide that knowledge also. Good form is essential for free weights so as not get injured.

Bottom line: what do you want the trainer to give you? That'll help decide whether and for how long to hire the person.

After a car accident, and toward the end of my physical therapy I had my PT show me moves that I could use with weights.

The gyms around here do not allow outsiders to come in and Personal Train. That's a good money maker for them.

Most gyms do not allow outside trainers. Here are some things I would look for in any trainer: College degree in health and/or fitness, Nationally recognized certification and experience. If they don't have those things I would steer clear.

A bad personal trainer is a potentially dangerous waste of money.

A good personal trainer is a wonderful thing to have. 90% of the people who achieve their fitness goals work with a personal trainer in some capacity.

I hope this helps.

Thank you all for your replies!