Library : Year 2 | Session 7: Monitoring your Fitness Program
So you want to get started on the road to better health and fitness. You have read Dr. Tutko’s articles, and maybe some of mine, and you know exercise is good for you and you feel good while ‘doing it’ yet keeping it up is so very difficult. Maybe you have even asked your spouse to remind you and encourage you, but it always sounds like nagging.
The answer might be hiring a personal trainer or a coach. Athletes and movie stars have them so why not you? You wouldn’t try skiing without one; a tennis or golf pro can help your game, so why not hire a body pro to improve your fitness game.
The selection of a trainer is no easy task. The selection of the right trainer is similar to the selection of the right spouse or the correct automobile. Just as each person has individual preferences with regard to the color and make of a car, so it is with finding and keeping the right trainer. Your friend’s great trainer might be fine for her, but may not fit your personality and goals.
Unfortunately, all too often I see the wrong match of trainer and clients. This article will attempt to highlight some aspects that may assist you in the selection of the correct trainer for you.
Here are some of the most fundamental characteristics to the selection of the right trainer:
Do you want a female or male trainer? I watched some men train with female trainers and "push" themselves too hard in an attempt to impress the trainer. Some females don’t feel comfortable sweating or performing certain exercise moves in front of a male trainer.
Does the trainer’s personality match yours? Are you looking for a drill instructor of would a kinder gentler approach work best for you? Some people need a pusher while others enjoy a gentle encourager. Are you a talker or a listener? It is important to match your style with the right trainer; otherwise there will be some irritating moments.
Are you and your trainer on the same clock? If you are a rooster and your trainer is a night owl you may be sitting in the gym at 6:30 a.m. waiting for your trainer to arrive.
Does the trainer really care? Ask yourself, does the trainer really care about my progress? Do you get along with your trainer and does she respect your goals or just tell you what your goals should be? Is your trainer trained and interested in working with older adults or is he of the school one shoe fits all.
Common Questions to ask your trainer before you hire someone:
Hopefully, this article has shed some light on the selection of finding the right trainer. If you really wish to succeed, the right trainer for you can make a difference. Please remember that it is not like the old saying "Any port in the storm will do". If you have any ideas for future articles, please let the Fifty-Plus staff know. Stay Healthy!
Karl Knopf, (408) 450-1224, is President of Fitness Educators of Older Adults Association.
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