We all need a regular exercise routine, but some of us struggle sticking to something on our own. We need that extra kick in the backside to keep us accountable to reach our goals faster. That’s why people reach out to personal trainers. They want someone to tell them exactly what to do and how to do it. Not all personal trainers are the same. Here are five things to look for in a personal trainer:

1. Proof of Certification: Before you rest your health into the hands of someone else, you need to see evidence of certification from a reputable source. Do a little research before jumping on board with a trainer. Even if they have glowing reviews and a perfect physique, that doesn’t mean that they know what they are doing. A haphazard movement could place you at risk for injury, or at the very least, could lead to you seeing little to no results. You wouldn’t go to an unlicensed doctor, so why would you go to uncertified personal trainer?
2. Experience: Book knowledge isn’t the same as real world experience. To be a great trainer they need to have both. You’ll want to work with a personal trainer that has a few miles under their belt, unless you are ok with being a guinea pig. It’s important that they practice what they preach and participate in the same activities that they recommend for you. It’s also good for a personal trainer to have experience with a variety of clients to know how to interact with everyone’s nuances.
3. Personality: Before choosing a personal trainer, meet with them face-to-face and watch them with other clients to see how they interact with others. See if you think that their personality is going to mesh with yours. Do you want someone to yell at you to keep moving, or would you rather encouraging statements while working out? While you are asking them questions, see where their motivations lie. Are they looking to get rich off of this, or are they genuinely concerned about the health and wellness of their clients?
4. Methods: Ask them what their methods of fitness are. Will you be exercising outside? Will you do heavy lifting? Running and cardio? Or using free weights or machines? Ask why they use the methods that they do, and see if it lines up with the type of exercise you want to do. If you are training for something specific, then search out a trainer who specializes in your goal. If you’re looking to complete your first triathlon, then look for trainers who do triathlon training.
5. Availability: Lastly, do they have hours that fit in with your schedule? Are they free the times of the day that you are? If aren’t able to find times often enough to visit the trainer, then it’s simply not going to work out. If you like them, then ask for a reference from someone they know.

A good personal trainer is worth their weight in gold. They will take you past your plateaus to help you reach your personal goals, and have you feeling better than ever before. Be careful about whose hands you trust with your health. Be thorough as you do your research to find the perfect personal trainer for you.