What Does Personal Training Include?
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Personal training is a type of fitness instruction in which you receive guidance for working out directly from a fitness expert. Oftentimes, personal training is performed one-on-one, with just the trainer and their client. In some cases, however, training can also be conducted in a small group.
If you’re thinking about hiring a personal trainer to meet your fitness goals, you’re likely curious about what their services will entail. So, what should personal training include? Here’s a closer look.
What Services Can You Expect from a Personal Trainer?
A Personalized Program
First and foremost, your trainer should get to know about your goals for working with them, your starting point and current fitness levels, and how much time you have to dedicate to your workout regimen. They may also want to know what types of exercise you enjoy, what you’ve done in the past, and whether you have any injuries or other barriers that may prevent you from doing certain types of exercises.
With this information, they should be able to create a detailed, personalized workout plan catered to your specific needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness. While trainers may have a general framework in mind and a foundation that works well for most clients, no two individuals are exactly alike. For this reason, any reputable trainer will provide a program exclusively for you as part of their basic service offering.
Equipment
If you’re working out with a personal trainer at the gym, they’ll likely utilize the gym’s free weights, cardio machines, and cable machines during your sessions. One downside to this approach is that not all gyms allow equipment to be reserved for personal training clients, so if a machine you need is in use, your trainer may have to modify your workout. On the other hand, personal trainers who come to your home will provide all the equipment you need.
Instruction
Of course, it’s not enough to just provide the equipment and tell you what to do with it. Most clients learn best from demonstrations. A great trainer will explain how to perform a move, and break it down in steps so you can repeat it safely and effectively. They’ll walk you through the exercise as many times as needed until you feel comfortable.
Guidance
Learning an exercise and doing it a few times is one thing. Mastering the movement is something else entirely. It takes time and practice, and your trainer is there to guide you through the process. Additionally, keep in mind that your form may suffer as you become fatigued. That’s okay – and it’s one of the many reasons why your trainer is there to guide you. They’ll correct your form as you’re going through the exercise. Remember, their goal is not only to help you work out in a way that’s effective (so you’re targeting the right muscle groups), but also in a way that prevents you from getting injured. Doing reps incorrectly or too quickly could put you at a risk of injury. The best personal trainers will guide you in a way that minimizes these risks.
Physical Support
As you get stronger, you’ll also need to challenge yourself consistently to continue making progress. Whether you’re doing a chest press with a weight you never thought you’d be able to lift before or you’re trying to complete your first pull-up, having someone nearby to brace you can provide peace of mind. Think of your trainer as a built-in spotter. Of course, this is also a major benefit of working out with a trainer who gives you their undivided attention throughout your whole session.
Moral Support
There will be times when you want to give up during your training sessions — that’s normal, and in fact, it’s a sign you’re being challenged effectively. Having a trainer who encourages you in the right way can be an important make-or-break factor for whether you persevere or give up. Some trainers may be tougher than others, but you’ll likely know within one session whether their approach is right for you.
What Do They Teach You in Personal Training?
As mentioned above, trainers teach you how to work out in a way that will help you reach your goals, while also guiding you through movements to perform them safely and effectively. Depending on the nature of your program, some trainers may also teach you principles in physiology, nutrition, and overall wellness. They may also teach you how to “listen” to your body so you know when to quit and avoid injury, versus when you should push through.
Is It Worth Paying for a Personal Trainer?
Many people find themselves asking, “Is a personal trainer worth it?” Simply put, there’s no right or wrong answer. Many people do find that the guidance, encouragement, accountability, personalization, and structure they provide is well worth their money. Others may feel that they’ve already mastered principles of physical fitness and know what works for them, so they don’t need the extra support. Still, even experienced athletes continue to work with fitness experts to continue evolving their performance. All that said, there’s really no way to answer this question until you’ve worked with a personal trainer firsthand.
Are you ready to find out if personal trainers are worth the hype? Don’t start with just anyone. Turn to Mobile Trainers for an experience that’s convenient and catered to you. Our trainers will bring all the equipment and expertise to your home so you can work out without having to leave.
