Regular physical activity helps you stay healthy physically and mentally. Exercise promotes cardiovascular fitness, improves strength, and enhances coordination. It can also help alleviate stress and minimize your risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. While some people work out solo, others prefer to enlist the help of a personal trainer.
How can you know if personal training is right for you? Read on to find out.
Signs it's time to hire a personal trainer
There are a few key indicators that could mean you'd benefit from one-on-one personal training. First, if you simply lack the motivation, having a trainer to hold you accountable can be a big boon. Your personal trainer will be your very own cheerleader, keeping you going on days when you don't want to get off the couch.
If you have trouble meeting the minimum exercise requirements for adults, it's also a good idea to go for a trainer. According to the Mayo Clinic, the average adult should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Adults should also do strength training at least twice per week, targeting all major muscle groups.
If motivation isn't the issue, you may still want a personal trainer to help you meet certain fitness goals. For example, you may not be seeing the gains you want in terms of muscle growth—or be experiencing troubles reaching a personal best in your running times. A professional can provide expert advice on how to progress past such stagnation.
Benefits of hiring a personal trainer
Unlike an exercise class, which is generalized, all the attention is on you in personal training. Your trainer can help you set unique goals that are specific to your physical abilities and aspirations. Active recommends setting lifetime, intermediate, and daily goals, for example. Some trainers can also provide nutritional guidance to help you meet these goals.
Working out with a pro can also help you avoid injury. For instance, when it comes to activities like weightlifting, proper form is important. Your trainer will ensure that you aren't lifting in a way that could cause you harm. They can also provide practical support, like spotting you when you lift a particularly heavy set.
Personal training can also be customized in terms of the format. For example, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and related social distancing requirements, online fitness has become popular. As a result, many trainers now offer sessions either in-person or online, giving you the flexibility and freedom to choose when, where, and how you want to work out.
Choosing the right trainer for you and preparing for your first session
If you want to explore personal training, it's important to find a fitting professional who can help you reach your goals. Ace Fitness provides tips for finding a fitting trainer, like pinpointing individuals with an appropriate specialization and asking for references. Many professionals, like Kai Boyer Fitness, post testimonials on their websites.
You also want to consider the trainer's general service offering. For example, some trainers also provide nutritional guidance. Maintaining a healthy diet can be a critical component of meeting your fitness goals, so having someone create diet plans for you can be a worthwhile add-on on top of your regular training.
Once you've found the right trainer, you can prepare for your first session. Make sure to have a good pair of athletic shoes and comfortable workout clothes. Find exercise clothing that's tailored to your body's unique needs. For example, Kindred Bravely offers maternity and postpartum support leggings specifically for women who have recently had a baby.
A great personal trainer can provide the encouragement you need to exercise regularly and stay healthy. Consult the tips above to determine whether personal training is right for you.
Want more content about living your happiest, healthiest life? Check out the Kai Boyer Fitness blog.
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