A personal trainer (PT) is a fitness professional who, via exercise prescription and instruction, motivates clients by setting goals and help to achieve them. Trainers generally measure clients’ results by fitness assessments that can be performed before or after exercise programs
The scope of practice for a personal trainer is to enhance the components of fitness for the general, healthy population.
Personal training is a good idea for those people who want to achieve their goals. However clients should take care on choosing the right PT in order to get the best “value for money” service.
I have been browsing a bit on internet lately to check which qualities a good PT should have.
– Passion for fitness seems to be that one which comes more often. Obviously those trainers who like their job are more likely to transmit their passion over their clients, and by consequence the clients will show passion and determination in achieving their goals. Being fit is not a “must” to be a trainer however a trainer with a fit body is a good selling point, and at least show passion and determination to potential clients.
– Knowledge and know-how is another important quality for a PT. In this I am 100% positive with my little research. Ongoing knowledge is nowadays a must for a good PT. I am been working in the fitness industry for almost 20 years and lots has changed. The days where it was enough to follow a program are over. Now with the new fitness trends like cross-fit, calisthenics, preparation for Tough Mudder, marathons, 10K races, a good PT has keep updated his/her educational portfolio to understand how to set up a proper training program suitable for clients needs.
Also a good understanding of the basics of injury and trauma mechanisms would be a good bonus in a PT knowledge portfolio. For those who are still not at that level a simple rule should apply: refer the client to a specialist or at least advise a medical check.
– Another quality for a PT to have is good communication skills. PTs need to listen to clients and understand their needs. PTs who communicate effectively will be able to instruct and motivate their clients with the result of delivering an exhaustive and effective training program maximizing client results.
– Last but not least a special mention is for the quality of empathy. PTs need to know when pushing clients out of their comfort zone and when pulling them back in order to deliver a safe training regime without setbacks and injuries.
Happy training to everyone.
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