5 benefits of a personal trainer

Author Sherry Perez is a personal trainer/fitness instructor/fitness program developer at the YMCA of Greater Toronto.

"I can plan my own workouts, why do I need a personal trainer?"

"Why see a personal trainer at the gym when I can listen to one at home on a fitness DVD?"

"I'm so out of shape, I don't want to embarrass myself in front of a personal trainer."

I have heard statements like these dozens of times since beginning my career as a personal trainer more than 15 years ago, but I'm always quick to point out that personal trainers offer unlimited benefits that go beyond basic fitness-related goals. Below I've compiled the top five benefits to exercising with a personal trainer.

Personal trainers are . . .

Goal setters

Personal trainers often set goals based on the SMART principle (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timely). SMART goals are tailored to you as an individual, helping you stay accountable for your actions and motivated to do better. We also continue to tweak your SMART goals to push you through plateaus so you continue to progress in your fitness journey.

Experts

Have you always been a little intimidated by all the machines at the gym? Your personal trainer will teach you proper form and technique so you learn how to execute exercises safely and effectively – thereby avoiding injury.

Mix masters

We are constantly exposing our clients to new and different types of workouts, which keeps your fitness journey both interesting and fun. New workouts pose new challenges, but we make sure they're never too tough – our secret is finding a form of exercise that is just tough enough to keep you motivated, but not tough enough that you'll become discouraged.

Motivators

Your personal trainer will inspire you to set new goals and push yourself further during your workout than you could on your own.  An weekly appointment with a trainer will keep you committed to fitness, so you stick with your healthy lifestyle plan.

Educators

Personal trainers provide their clients with ongoing education and support surrounding all facets of maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. We help you work through fitness and nutrition deficits to give you all the tools you need to make positive choices. We also connect you to other health and fitness programs that would benefit your plan, such as nutrition programs, group fitness classes, swim or dance lessons, etc. Lastly, we open your eyes to strengths and abilities you didn’t know you had –resulting in an enhanced mind, body and spirit.