How to hire a trainer

1. Credentials
At Least One High Level PT Certification from one of the top 4 certifying bodies of Fitness Professionals:
• National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
• National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• The Cooper Institute

What are the differences?
• NASM focuses on individual program development. NASM also has two higher level certifications; Performance Enhancement Specialist and Corrective Exercise Specialist.

• NSCA is more about resistance weight and cardiovascular training. The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist is their higher level certification.

• ACSM is geared towards testing and evaluation. Although the program is not designed to teach resistance training and conditioning, they are well versed with special populations.

• The Cooper Institute is the leader in exercise science research and study.

All of the above mentioned organizations are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). There are other organizations that are also certified by the NCCA, but their requirements and testing procedures are not as stringent as NASM, NSCA, ACSM, or The Cooper Institute.

2. Education
A college degree shows that an individual is a true student of their profession. It means they spent a lot of time and money to learn as much as possible about what they do. But…fitness changes very rapidly. Some of the information obtained in college just ten years ago is antiquated or forgotten; however, the basic physiology, biomechanics, and anatomy have not changed. In other words, it helps, but real experience and current certifications are more important.

3. Continuing Education
To maintain a certification, each organization has continuing education requirements. Knowledge of the body and fitness changes rapidly as new technologies allow a greater in depth understanding of the how the body works. If a trainer has a current certification it means that he or she is keeping up to date with current information and trends. This is vital to the safety and well being of their clients.

4. Experience
Obviously the more the better. Most skilled trainers have their own practice and will meet you in your home, office, or their studio. They are versed in a number of different aspects of fitness and nutrition and work with a variety of clients. Professional trainers look and act like professionals; not a workout buddy and not a meathead.

5. Personality
Not only does a trainer need to know what they are doing and how to get you results, you need to find someone you like. If there is a personality conflict, you will not stick with it.