If you want to lose weight, get healthy, build muscle, or get toned hiring a New York City personal trainer can be a step in the right direction. A good NYC personal fitness trainer can help you set up a program that meets your goals, works around your busy schedule and teaches you the best way to exercise. Here's what you should know before you get out your wallet.
A personal trainer should be, at the very least, educated and certified through a reputable fitness organization (listed below). This person's job is to assess your fitness level, set up a program right for you and keep you motivated. He or she will push you past your comfort level, and know when too far is too far--something difficult to do on your own. A trainer also provides:
- Expert guidance on reaching your goals
- Real education about strength training, cardio and basic nutrition
- A reason to show up at the gym each week
- Personal accountability
- Tested ways to help track your progress
What to Look for In a Personal Trainer In NYC
- Education: A personal trainer should be certified through a reputable fitness organization such as ACSM, ACE or NSCA. An exercise science or other related college degree isn't necessary, but it helps and the more education your trainer has, the better your workouts will be.
- CPR: your trainer should have an updated certification in CPR and/or first aid with documentation to prove it.
- Experience: Make sure your trainer has several years of experience, especially in relation to your goals. For example, if you're a bodybuilder, you want someone who has knowledge in that area.
- Specifics: If you have a specific medical problem, injury or condition (such as being pregnant, heart problems, diabetes, etc.) make sure your trainer is aware of this and has education in these areas and will work with your doctor.
- A good listener: A good trainer will listen closely to what you say and make sure he understands your goals and your reservations, if any.
- Attention: A good trainer will be focused only on you during your sessions and will keep appointments.
- Tracking progress: A good trainer will regularly assess your progress and change whatever parts of your program if necessary.
How to Find a Personal Trainer in Manhattan
One place to look is your local gym. Most gyms have personal trainers on staff and offer attractive packages for personal training. You can also look in your yellow pages, Personal Trainer Finder or American Council on Exercise, to find a trainer in your area. The cost will vary depending on where you live and your trainer's experience and education. Typically, the cost will be anywhere from $30 to $70 a session. Ask friends, family and colleagues to see who they might recommend and be sure to check them out as carefully as any others. Good luck and get training!