What benefit am I going to get from a personal training program?

Invariably, the first question we get asked! The fact that you have come through to this page means you are probably thinking about the benefits of a personal trainer. But, what do you think you need help with? Improving your fitness levels; rehabilitation after an illness or operation; losing a few pounds; improving your general health; or even training for a marathon?

The benefit of personal training with experienced and qualified trainers is that he/she will:

* assess your current level of fitness

* consider your goals; and then

* devise an individually tailored regime to help you achieve those goals quickly and safely

Take a look through all the advice to help you think about whether you want a trainer and consider talking to a few trainers before deciding on one - as you will be working together closely and should feel at ease with them.

Remember, a good instructor will motivate and encourage you, and a good programme will be both fun and challenging.

Why should I use a Personal Trainer?

Some people are happy to follow their own programme in their own time and place; for those who lack the time, or the motivation, or the energy to train effectively on their own, a Personal Trainer can be the answer. The support, advice and encouragement comes with safe exercise technique to help you avoid injuries.

When do I need a Personal Trainer?

When you are overweight, when you are underweight, when you are unfit, when you want to get fitter, when you have just had a baby, when you are in training, when you are bored with training, when the kids have left home, when the Jeans don't fit, when you are too busy to keep fit, when you are going skiing, when Christmas has happened, when Summer is about to happen, when aerobics has got boring, when you can't avoid the mirror, when you always avoid the scales, when you want to!

How often should I train?

Three times each week should be sufficient for you to start feeling and seeing results. Although, like anything, you will get more out of it if you put more in. Whether you work out with a Personal Trainer every time is up to you, and how motivated you are, how often you can afford to train, what you schedule is like every week.

What happens during a Personal Training session?

A personal training session will normally last for one hour. This will follow along the lines of a brief warm-up followed by your main training programme where you will focus on your goals using cardiovascular, strength or flexibility exercises. Finally there will be a cool down or relaxation period. Any programme may vary from one session to the next according to the clients' needs and progress.

Does a Personal Trainer ask questions about your lifestyle?

The nature of personal training is such that it incorporates your needs, goals and preferences. The trainer will need to ask some initial questions during the consultation, which probe the demands that are placed on you from your job or lifestyle. Typically the first session will include questions about :

* Basic personal details

* Medical background

* Fitness background

* Lifestyle factors (e.g. smoking or drinking)

* Nutritional habits (you may be asked to keep a diary)

* Personal goals and objectives in relation to fitness

So as you can see a trainer looks at more than just the fitness or exercise component of your life. Any professional trainer should be able to provide information and advice about nutrition, stress management, motivational techniques and then be able to refer you on to others where the need may arise

Can I set the time I work out?

You are the client and so should be able to train when you want. However, do remember that trainers will have existing clients and so your first choice may not be available so it's best to be flexible. If your trainer consistently arrives late or starts cancelling at the last minute you should question whether they are right for you. If you're changing your training time, always give at least 24 hours notice - otherwise you'll be charged.

What sort of people are Personal Trainers?

Energetic, committed, motivating, enthusiastic, bright, sympathetic, dedicated, understanding, busy, interested, professional, healthy, intelligent, flexible, knowledgeable, approachable, confidential, trustworthy, friendly, ordinary people....