How To Find A Personal Trainer In London in 7 Easy Steps
There are so many personal training options available in London. And whilst this is a good thing, it can make choosing the right personal trainer somewhat of a challenge. And the only challenge you want to be facing is the training itself!
But never fear, because we’ve put together this list of 7 easy steps to finding a personal trainer in London. And by using our simple to follow plan, you can be sure that every penny of money spent on your training plan will be working just as hard as you do to get that body beautiful…
Step 1: What are your goals?
The very first thing that you need to be sure of when searching for the perfect personal trainer is what you are trying to achieve.
Are you looking to lose weight and tone up? Or perhaps you’re training for a specific event, such as a run, triathlon or other competition. Do you want to bulk up by using weights, or perhaps you’re a swimmer who’s looking to introduce other exercise into your training plan?
Whatever your goal/s, be sure to identify them before you even begin your search for a personal trainer.
Step 2: Search for possible trainers
There are many different ways to find personal trainers. This can be broken down into three separate categories:
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Online: In today’s digital age, any business (or personal trainer) worth his or her salt will have an online presence. You can find a list of many trainers based in London on the National Register of Personal Trainers, and the Register of Exercise Professionals, both of which provide a comprehensive list of trainers who are both qualified and insured. Facebook, YouTube and Twitter are also used by many personal trainers to advertise their services.
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Local adverts: These can be found on the noticeboard in gyms, such as Virgin Active, Fitness First and LA Fitness. Alternatively, have a chat with the reception team who’ll be able to put you in touch with their personal trainers.
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Word of mouth: Probably one of the best methods in which to find a trainer. Use all your resources (work colleagues, friends, family etc.) to find out if anyone can recommend a trainer they already use.
Step 3: Check out credentials and ask for evidence
Once you’ve created a short list of possible personal trainers, it’s important to ask what their qualifications are and to see evidence of these. At a minimum you should expect a registered personal trainer to have the following qualifications:
It also bodes well if they are a member of one of the two professional organizations mentioned above (The National Register of Personal Trainers and/or The Register of Exercise Professionals). To remain on these lists the trainer also has to evidence that they continue to update their knowledge (Continuous Professional Development). A good trainer will be happy to show you evidence of this.
A trainer should also have public liability insurance and a first aid award that includes a cardio-pulmonary resuscitation certificate (CPR).
If you’re looking for a personal trainer to help you towards a specific goal, such as a competition, then it’s advisable to choose someone who has a good amount of experience in that particular genre.
In addition, a good trainer will be happy to provide you with details of past and present clients (although of course, you should expect them to respect client confidentiality). That way you can talk to people who have direct experience of the services they offer.
Step 4: Discuss your expectations
Ideally you should meet your prospective trainer face to face before you decide to part with your hard earned cash.
Be completely honest. If your goal is to ditch a few extra pounds so you look ok on the beach, then tell them that. If you’ve tried everything in the past with no success, let them know.
The more information you give as to what you want from your training, the easier it will be for them to put together a program that will work. And a good personal trainer will be able to manage your expectations into a program that (as long as you stick to it) really will see you hitting achievable goals.
Step 5: Know what motivates you
This is something only you can define. Does the thought of completing that marathon give you motivation? How about being able to drop a dress size and fit into those skinny jeans? Or perhaps it’s knowing that you’ll be in with a chance in that weight lifting competition next month? Whatever it is, tell your prospective trainer.
It’s also advisable to understand the trainer’s method of teaching. Do you respond best to being pushed to your limits, such as with military style training? Or do you respond better to the softly softly approach? Would you prefer to work out in a gym, your front room, the local park…? Does the fresh air help you to concentrate or does being in a gym atmosphere mean that you’ll put more effort into your workout?
Step 6: Listen to their plan
Once you’ve explained your needs, give the trainer a chance to explain how they intend to get you to their goal. This should be a two-way discussion, and don’t be afraid to ask if there’s something you don’t understand.
Step 7: Negotiate a deal
Many trainers will offer a free (or at the very least, a reduced price) first session. Prices in London range widely, from less than £30 an hour to over £150. Ask if they offer any discounts if you book a block of sessions.
Most importantly, you should feel happy with the plan your trainer has suggested and feel you’re getting value for money.
Compare a few different trainers – don’t just jump in with the first one you speak to. Take your time, because choosing the right personal trainer for your needs really can mean the difference between achieving your goals or not. It’s your money, so be sure that you’re comfortable with how you’re spending it.