How to Pick a Personal Trainer

Finding a good personal trainer shouldn’t feel like dating in the dark. Yet somehow, it does. So before you hand over your credit card and your lumbar spine, here’s what actually matters when choosing a trainer.

1. They know their lane, and it’s the lane you’re in

If you’re training for a powerlifting meet, you don’t want someone who specializes in postnatal rehab. And vice versa. Experience isn’t just about years in the gym; it’s about how many clients like you they’ve successfully coached.

2. You actually like them

You’ll be sweating, swearing, and occasionally weeping ( :wink: ) in front of this person. If their personality grates on you now, it won’t magically improve under a loaded barbell. Rapport beats aesthetics every time.

3. They interrogate you (in a good way)

A real professional asks about your goals, injuries, health history, stress levels, sleep, and what you actually enjoy doing. If they start counting your macros before asking if you have knees that work, walk away.

4. They have a plan, and can explain it

You should never hear “We’ll just see how you feel today” every session. A good trainer can articulate why you’re doing what you’re doing, how it fits into a bigger picture, and what progress looks like. If the plan looks copy-pasted from a fitness subreddit, it probably is.

5. They’re qualified (and can prove it)

Certifications don’t guarantee brilliance, but a lack of them guarantees risk. Look for credible, recognized organizations, not something printed titled “Elite Muscle Technician.”

6. The price makes sense

Trainers in Berlin, London, or Vienna don’t charge the same as those in a small town. Price depends on their experience, session frequency, and what’s included. If it’s suspiciously cheap, ask what corners are being cut. If it’s suspiciously expensive, ask whether you’re paying for expertise or Instagram followers.

7. They adapt, not snap

Bodies have moods. Some days you’re ready to PR, others you’re a human croissant. A good trainer adjusts, modifies, and keeps you moving safely. If something hurts and they say “push through it,” that’s not grit, that’s negligence.

8. They listen more than they talk

The best trainers view programming as collaboration. They’ll take your feedback seriously, explain changes, and evolve the plan with you. You’re not a prop in their content calendar.

9. Red flags to run from

• All-or-nothing language: “NEVER squat like that” or “ALWAYS train fasted.” • Buzzword soup: “muscle confusion,” “toning,” or anything that sounds like it came from a late-night infomercial. • Blind enthusiasm for whatever the latest supplement brand is paying them to promote.

10. They genuinely care

The difference between a rep counter and a coach is enthusiasm. You’ll feel it. It shows in how they track your progress, how they celebrate your small wins, and how they adjust when life gets messy.

The bottom line

A good trainer helps you build strength, confidence, and autonomy, not dependency. Ask questions. Read reviews. And remember: if their main credential is “trust me bro,” you’re the experiment.