3 Personal Trainer Characteristics That Signal It’s Time for a Change

In the United States, personal trainers make, on average, about $70,000 per year. Clients typically pay $40 to $70 per hour for an in-gym training session; rates can increase to $100 or more per hour for in-home sessions. With some clients seeing a trainer for three to four hours per week, the monthly expense can run between $480 to over $1,600 per month.

Clients willing to spend money on a trainer must research and compile expectations. You are paying for a service, and you deserve quality and respect. An excellent trainer will have certifications, compassion, and a passion for their field. Unfortunately, all trainers are not equal, and several warning signs signal it's time to switch instructors.

1. They Are Too Demanding or Controlling

The style of training that motivates you is likely different from your friends or family members. Some people prefer the tough love approach to the hand-holding style.

Regardless of the training style you prefer, no trainer should demand more than you are capable of or control every aspect of your life. Unfortunately, some trainers expect too much of their clients, risking injuries or burnout. Others expect clients to count every macro or micronutrient and track every physical movement they make.

Physical fitness is vital to healthy living, but you should find some joy in the activity. If your trainer is too controlling or demanding, find someone else.

2. They Do Not Incentivize or Motivate

Motivation is one of the main reasons people seek and pay for a personal trainer. Many excellent personal trainers attempt to incentivize clients, either through tangible rewards or recognition through client competitions. Other trainers merely motivate the individual with praise and personal acknowledgment.

If you are working with a trainer who offers little or no encouragement, reconsider your relationship. Offering inspiration helps propel people forward. Clients can push themselves past their reservations to meet fitness goals through motivation and support. The relationship between a client and trainer is a productive and positive one; if yours isn't, find a new trainer.

3. They Do Not Customize Your Training

Training is not a one-size-fits-all approach to physical fitness. Every client is different. Some people have disabilities or restricted movement; others are more or less advanced. A skilled and qualified trainer understands the differences in clients and creates a unique plan to suit individual needs.

Trainers who attempt to use the same regimen with every client are potentially lazy and unscrupulous. In their haste to build their reputation and client base, they forget the importance of customization.

A custom fitness program is paramount to individual safety and success. Attempting to use one plan for multiple clients is often ineffective and potentially hazardous for some.

If you want a one-size-fits-all approach, join a fitness class. If you want a custom training plan, hire a capable trainer.

People pay good money on personal trainers in the U.S. You deserve to get the service you pay for. While some dishonest characters are out there trying to make a quick buck as supposed fitness experts, do yourself a favor and check their qualifications. Also, if a trainer is unwilling to customize a plan and shows no interest in supporting or motivating you, find yourself a new instructor.