FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
My journey to becoming a personal trainer actually started in high school. I was 250 pounds at about 30 percent body fat as a sophomore. I had a lot of self image issues and I really didn't know how to fix it. I researched a ton in the library and on the internet and I finally came up with a a workout program to help me with my issues. I graduated as a senior at 205 pounds and 12 percent body fat. In my first year of college I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do with my career until I took some kinesiology courses and decided that I wanted to help other people with their own health related goals.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
My most common types of clients are people who are 20 or more pounds overweight who have grown frustrated at their attempts at healthily losing the weight. These clients can differ in ages from young professionals all the way up to people deep in retirement. There is a commonality among these clients in that they don't have the whole picture when it comes to fitness and nutrition. I work to improve their education on fitness and nutrition and I create a client/trainer bond through that education along with results I provide.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Make sure that your personal trainer tells you come first and that you will be held accountable. The number one reason that people hire personal trainers is for accountability. In addition, a competent and fair personal trainer will always offer a free consultation/session up front without a necessary commitment. Finally, make sure that the the results you are seeking are realistic and that your personal trainer doesn't promise you anything that might seem like it could be unrealistic. It is realistic to tell a client that they can lose 50 pounds. It is unrealistic to tell that client that they can lose 50 pounds in 3 months.