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Are you frustrated with your training progress? If so, you probably can use some help in creating an individualized fitness routine. Exercise is a science that requires extensive knowledge and skill-a process that takes many years to develop. By seeking the assistance of a qualified fitness professional, you can benefit from the knowledge and experience that he has acquired, ultimately expediting your ability to achieve results.

More and more, people are beginning to regard a personal trainer not as a luxury, but as a necessity. They are realizing that, without proper guidance and support, it is very difficult to initiate an exercise program. Unfortunately, virtually anyone can hang a sign on their door and call himself a "fitness professional". There now are more trainers than ever-substantially increasing your chances of making a bad choice.

So how do you go about finding a trainer that is right for you? Not only is there a substantial financial commitment involved, but also there is a large amount of time and effort invested. In order to facilitate this chore, it is imperative that you systematize your approach to the selection process. Accordingly, there are five fundamental criteria that you should take into account in order to make an educated decision on this matter:

1) Evaluate the credentials of the trainer. At present, there is no licensure required to become a personal trainer. Consequently, literally anyone who has ever set foot in a gym has a green light to give advice on the subject. This has led to an abundance of trainers who are unqualified to practice their craft.

Although not mandatory, the majority of competent trainers elect to become certified as a fitness professional, which requires passing a detailed written examination on exercise and fitness. There are several organizations that certify personal trainers, the most prominent being the National Strength and Conditioning (NSCA), the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Trainers who are Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialists (CSCS) have to pass a particularly rigorous exam to become certified.

However, one must realize that simply because a person is certified does not mean that he is an expert in the field of fitness. Certification implies that the trainer displays a basic knowledge of exercise, stretching and nutrition, but does not take into account many factors that ultimately determine a trainer's competence. There are many trainers who possess book smarts and can pass a certification exam, but often are not able to communicate their knowledge to others in a clear, concise fashion. Just as many of the greatest athletes do not make the best coaches, don't be fooled into thinking that anyone with a certificate is necessarily a good trainer. Hence, while valuable as an initial screening tool, certification only has limited utility.

2) Evaluate whether the trainer possesses a physique that you admire. A personal trainer should serve as a fitness role model. If you are inspired by the physique of your trainer, it can serve to motivate you to stay on a proper course. The ability to work with someone who has achieved an enviable physique through fitness can be a terrific source of inspiration and can keep you focused on your fitness goals.

While it is true that someone with a great body is not always a capable trainer, one should look skeptically at a trainer who is overweight or unfit. A trainer who is out of shape does not serve as a positive fitness role model. One has to question either the knowledge and/or dedication of fitness professionals who do not practice what they preach. Moreover, if the trainer cannot achieve a satisfactory level of conditioning, how can you expect that he will be able to help you achieve your goals?

3) Evaluate whether the trainer has a personality that you can identify with. A good trainer must possess more than just knowledge-he has to relate to the needs of each individual trainee. People have diverse personalities and a trainer must be able to deliver positive reinforcement as well as constructive criticism. He must be able to sense when to be forceful and when to be compassionate, when to push for that extra rep and when to pull back. While some people respond to a hard-driving, militaristic style of training, others need to be gently prodded and coaxed for maximum results.

Spend some time talking to the trainer and get a feel for his ability to communicate with you. Ask direct questions about the style that he employs and determine whether the style fits your own personality. If you are not comfortable with the trainer's persona, there is a good probability that you will not be satisfied working with him on a professional level.

4) Evaluate several references from the trainer. Any established trainer should be able to provide the names of several clients who can attest to his competence as a fitness professional. You should ask for the names of people who are about the same age and sex, and have similar fitness goals as yourself. This will ensure that you can accurately assess whether he is skilled in dealing with your particular needs.

When you call the references, do not hesitate to ask any questions that you feel are pertinent in respect to the trainer. During your consultation, a trainer will likely be on his best behavior. You often can get a better insight into his aptitude by asking a client about such factors as temperament, knowledge, flexibility in scheduling, honesty, etc. Also, make sure to ask if the person is satisfied with the results that they have achieved. You would be surprised at how many people continue to visit the same trainer simply because it is inconvenient to switch!

5)Evaluate the fee structure of the trainer. Fees can vary greatly when it comes to personal training, ranging from as little as about $35 per session and going as high as $150 per session or more. Do not be fooled into thinking that a low priced trainer is a bargain or that a high priced trainer has some magical formula for success. There are many things that will dictate fee structure including competition, location, reputation, etc. As a rule, be wary of trainers at either end of the fee spectrum. A very low priced trainer probably needs to keep fees low for a reason-usually because he simply is not a very good trainer and only can get clients based on price. Conversely, a very high priced trainer will often have exorbitant fees due to external factors (i.e. lack of competition, "celebrity" clientele, etc.)-not necessarily because he is better at his craft. Thus, when comparing fees, use discretion but don't be penny wise and dollar foolish. Remember that your time is money and your ultimate goal should be to get optimal results in the shortest period of time possible.

By taking the aforementioned criteria into account, you will have the basis to make an intelligent decision as to whether a personal trainer is right for you. Remember that, individually, each one of the factors mentioned above should not determine whether a trainer is appropriate for your needs. However, by taking each factor into account and evaluating them as a whole, your chances of enjoying a successful relationship with a trainer will be greatly enhanced.

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