Will you get a Personal Trainer?

[GGalcantara]

Hi everyone.

I've been a fitness enthusiast since high school. I've been asked by friends to be their personal fitness trainer for a long time. But I've been afraid to do so - because what works for me - might not work for everyone else.

I'm not enrolled in any gym. I usually work out at Elorde Sucat or Gilmore (I'm a part-owner of this branch) - I do a lot of body weight, free weight and medicine ball exercises that I know. So, now since I am a fitness nut - I am studying to take the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) Personal Trainer Certification exam. I'll take it in November and hopefully I'll pass it then.

My question is would you get a Personal Trainer to train you outdoors (at a park somewhere) or in your home? Or would you get a Personal Trainer in a gym?

Your feedback will be greatly appreciated.

By the way, I'm a 32 year old female. Married and Mommy to a 17month old boy. This is a poll to know if I can just get clients or work for a gym.

www.glutac.com (http://www.glutac.com)
Glimpsesofmyeveryday.blogspot.com (http://glimpsesofmyeveryday.blogspot.com)

[blakedaddy]

Here's my 2 cents worth:

Certifications would only be valid if the gym (or the clients) would acknowledge them.

What would weigh more is your experience and that you can produce results.

I started by training my friends, observing and analyzing the results they got and worked my way up from there.

many of the world renowned strength coaches aren't even certified.

Now, are you really interested in working in a gym? if so, let me know and let' see if we have slots open at the gym where I work.

Hope this helps.

Feel free to ask if you have any more questions

[GGalcantara]

Hi Blakedaddy. Thanks for the reply. Yes you're right - as long as I could produce results and that's what's important. And I've been thinking of working for a gym - at least part-time while studying for the ACSM-CPT.

Do you think your gym will be open for that? You see, I'm a mom to a hyperactive 17 month old. And it will be great if I can just work mornings for three times a week in the meantime - it will be great to learn on hand too.

[blakedaddy]

Hi Blakedaddy. Thanks for the reply. Yes you're right - as long as I could produce results and that's what's important. And I've been thinking of working for a gym - at least part-time while studying for the ACSM-CPT.

Do you think your gym will be open for that? You see, I'm a mom to a hyperactive 17 month old. And it will be great if I can just work mornings for three times a week in the meantime - it will be great to learn on hand too.

If you have a science background or enough gym time, the exam would be a breeze for you.

I'll check if we have slots in the mornings since AFAIK, we have openings for afternoon and evening shifts.

Pm me and I'll give you more details

[GGalcantara]

Hi Blakedaddy, Thanks so much for the time.. But, Shaw or Mabini might be a bit too far for me to drive from home. When I finish my ACSM CPT exam maybe. Thanks again :D

[swole_stevecc]

Hey, how did I miss this thread!

I have come across the idea of taking certifications as well. How's the preparation going?

In my case, I personally prefer coordinating with a coach via e-mail/internet. Well, that's how I do with Layne Norton (www.biolayne.com). I'm pretty advanced in terms of knowing the basics, so I don't need anyone to guide me (actual execution, etc.).

However, in my case, to answer your question. I prefer training in the gym. The trainer should be both knowledgeable (theories/concepts) and should actually apply these. If I want to be a good bodybuilder, then he himself should be one. He should also 'undergo' and do the things which he himself is imparting to me. Just the way things should really be. It's about holistic credibility.

[freedom2surf]

i agree with you.

although it is not fair to say that coaches that are not fit or ripped do not know the theories, some may even be well versed. but the credibility and integrity of that particular coach is questioned when he himself does not practice what he preaches. i know of a particular coach who is really good and the results show in his loyal clients. he himself looks like a former bodybuilder who let himself go. people keep saying things behind his back. he is such a good person pa naman. oh well.

it is quite different if the person i question is loud. what i mean is if one proclaims to the world that they are this and that and you don't even see a shred of evidence to support it. or that person needs some coaching himself. to these people, i have no respect at all. maybe they just need the money or the attention or both.

i can stomach the former rather than the latter.

[GGalcantara]

I agree with both of you. I am aiming to train both indoors (in a gym) and outdoors. I am not a body builder - I'm just well - toned and fit. I've been mistaken for a Personal Trainer a good number of times. But I don't want to provide fitness advice yet or work yet - until I get certified and I feel confident with my skills.

And yes, I do believe in "Practice what you preach." Sure, some trainers may have a small pouch or love handles sometime. But, going letting yourself go - and you still teach fitness - echoes something about your credibility.

So far, so good in terms of my review. I'll do a practice exam by the end of August to gauge my knowledge base and skill. And try to do some part-time work for a gym nearby.

Hey, how did I miss this thread!

I have come across the idea of taking certifications as well. How's the preparation going?

In my case, I personally prefer coordinating with a coach via e-mail/internet. Well, that's how I do with Layne Norton (www.biolayne.com). I'm pretty advanced in terms of knowing the basics, so I don't need anyone to guide me (actual execution, etc.).

However, in my case, to answer your question. I prefer training in the gym. The trainer should be both knowledgeable (theories/concepts) and should actually apply these. If I want to be a good bodybuilder, then he himself should be one. He should also 'undergo' and do the things which he himself is imparting to me. Just the way things should really be. It's about holistic credibility.

i agree with you.

although it is not fair to say that coaches that are not fit or ripped do not know the theories, some may even be well versed. but the credibility and integrity of that particular coach is questioned when he himself does not practice what he preaches. i know of a particular coach who is really good and the results show in his loyal clients. he himself looks like a former bodybuilder who let himself go. people keep saying things behind his back. he is such a good person pa naman. oh well.

it is quite different if the person i question is loud. what i mean is if one proclaims to the world that they are this and that and you don't even see a shred of evidence to support it. or that person needs some coaching himself. to these people, i have no respect at all. maybe they just need the money or the attention or both.

i can stomach the former rather than the latter.

[flisha]

Hey I don't know if this is rude to ask... but... how much does a personal trainer cost? Is it better than just going to a gym?

I'm terribly unfit... but I just seem to have no will to change myself... :(

[swole_stevecc]

GGalcantara, good input.

What made you decide to take the ACSM certification?

There are other certifying organizations out there, like NASM, etc. I'm really confused as to what each has to offer.

[blakedaddy]

Hey I don't know if this is rude to ask... but... how much does a personal trainer cost? Is it better than just going to a gym?

I'm terribly unfit... but I just seem to have no will to change myself...

it depends on the gym you go to. Some gyms charge up to 1t/session.

In eclipse, the average if about 5t/month

[bobetgarcia]

no, i won't... but i could use a spotter to rack/unrack the bar when things get heavy.. i hope they won't charge me for that.. LOL

[Bchemist]

Hey I don't know if this is rude to ask... but... how much does a personal trainer cost? Is it better than just going to a gym?

I'm terribly unfit... but I just seem to have no will to change myself... :(

Part of your question was asking if it's better than just going to a gym...so I'm assuming you would want to be trained in your home?

This is also possible and at least one of my lady coaches has a female client that she trains at her home. I think that she charges Php10,000 per month for 12 sessions but I'm not sure if there is a seperate per diem or travel allowance.

Some trainers or coaches have home gyms and schedule clients to come and train with them one-on-one.

The price also ranges on what quality of service or type of coach you want to hire. In the States most personal trainers cost about $35-50 per session while experienced strength coaches range from between $150-500 per hour and you must retain them for at least 3-4 months as a minimum with a minimum number of sessions.

Here in the Philippines, like the States, the price also varies based on the experience of who you are hiring and a portfolio of clients (preferrably before vs. after pictures or statistics of wins and losses or athletic improvement if you are training teams) or referrals is the most important factor to consider. A certification is basically meaningless since most only cover basic theory with very little practical application value.

[GGalcantara]

GGalcantara, good input.

What made you decide to take the ACSM certification?

There are other certifying organizations out there, like NASM, etc. I'm really confused as to what each has to offer.

Thanks! There are so much certfying bodies out there. I narrowed it to the following: ISSA (International Sports Science Assn), AFPA (American Fitness Professionals Assn) and NSCA-CPT (the same certifying body for getting a CSCS)... But I decided on reviewing for the ACSM-CPT because:

1. I've been familiar with their organization because I'm actually a Physical Therapy grad in 1998 (I never got to practice it though) - and most of my books back then on Human Kinetics, KInesiology, etc.. we're researched by the ACSM.

2. ACSM (from what I've researched and heard) is one of the toughest certification to pass - and so far - I like the structured/medical way of Personal Training.

3. It's convenient. I just bought the needed materials online. Came in through FEDEX in a week. And it's an easy read for me. After I feel that I'm confident to take the exam. I can take it in any Pearson Vue accredited centers in the Philippines. There is about 8 in Makati and Ortigas area.

4. The certification is really not that important when you start having clients. One may get certified - BUT they don't have the passion for it - the certification will be meaningless if that is the case.

5. The Cost is doable for me. US$125 + 40.00 for the ACSM Personal Trainer Study Kit (3 books) and I added another book that is not included, but it seemed helpful for me. And when I do decide to take the exam it's US270 and I can take it here in Makati.

[GGalcantara]

Part of your question was asking if it's better than just going to a gym...so I'm assuming you would want to be trained in your home?

This is also possible and at least one of my lady coaches has a female client that she trains at her home. I think that she charges Php10,000 per month for 12 sessions but I'm not sure if there is a seperate per diem or travel allowance.

Some trainers or coaches have home gyms and schedule clients to come and train with them one-on-one.

The price also ranges on what quality of service or type of coach you want to hire. In the States most personal trainers cost about $35-50 per session while experienced strength coaches range from between $150-500 per hour and you must retain them for at least 3-4 months as a minimum with a minimum number of sessions.

Here in the Philippines, like the States, the price also varies based on the experience of who you are hiring and a portfolio of clients (preferrably before vs. after pictures or statistics of wins and losses or athletic improvement if you are training teams) or referrals is the most important factor to consider. A certification is basically meaningless since most only cover basic theory with very little practical application value.

I actually have no idea how much a Personal Trainer charges. I've been asked by friends a lot of times and I am enthusiastic when it comes to helping my friends get fit. I just chose to get certified because I wanted a structured approach when I prescribe an exercise program.

The certification doesn't matter if the Trainer doesn't have the heart to improve himself and his clients too.

[swole_stevecc]

Thanks for the answers!

Update us along the way!

[freedom2surf]

about the charges, yeah it varies. if the gym you work out in takes a cut, the rate increases dramatically.

as long as you can afford it, why not. but i guess the real goal of the trainer is to teach you the proper form and that you would be weaned away from needing a trainer. i know of a trainer who charges 4k for 4 sessions. he teaches you the exercises and expects you to be able to do it on your own. he provides the program and you execute. you hire him again after about two months and he teaches you new things to do and so on.

although i know this, i still get a trainer regularly because i am damn lazy to go to the gym and have no gym buddy to push me to work out regularly. the trainer is there to make sure that i go regularly since i already paid for it. sayang pera. lol.

one should be wary of trainers who harm you by not knowing what he is doing. so one should also ask around and read up. i don't believe that everything should just be left to the trainer. one should be open to discussions.

stay away from unprofessional trainers. when you hire them, they should be on time. if the client is late by ten minutes or so and this is acceptable, a trainer should not be late. what more if the trainer is regularly late? or is late by an hour or 30mins at least once a week. or those trainers who answer calls or would send sms while the session is on going? how about trainers who attends to 2 or more clients when the agreement was a one on one session.

my answer to this is ditch the trainer and look for a better one or do it on your own. unprofessional trainers are a waste of time and resources. whether or not they know how to train properly.

[GGalcantara]

swole_stevecc: No problem! I'll keep you updated when I do my practice exams in the end of August/September.

freedom2surf: I totally agree with you! That is also one reason why I am reviewing now... I don't want to injure anyone! And I don't want a client to stay with me forever. I want them to have the skill to exercise most especially when I'M NOT THERE.

[blakedaddy]

I don't want to injure anyone! And I don't want a client to stay with me forever. I want them to have the skill to exercise most especially when I'M NOT THERE.

being certified doesn't mean you'll reduce injury risks.

I know of certain people who have certifications like people have calling cards, yet have injured a lot of clients.

What would be better is if you study in practice the proper form and special cases, this would make sure you know exactly what you're doing.

And I don't want a client to stay with me forever. I want them to have the skill to exercise most especially when I'M NOT THERE.

I said this before as well when i was new to the industry. if you do a good job, you'll be surprised that a lot of clients would still want you to train them evn if they are self sufficient

[freedom2surf]

i thought i was the only one who would be loyal to my trainer. i'm actually loyal to anything (restos, stores, etc.), a creature of habit until they p*ss me off.

so blakedaddy, how long have you been training clients? how long has your most loyal client has stayed with you?

what makes them stay?

my former trainer has told me before that it is rare that people stay very long because of many factors. i was one of his longest na before i transferred to another gym.

[blakedaddy]

so blakedaddy, how long have you been training clients? how long has your most loyal client has stayed with you?

what makes them stay?



I started training people, for fun about 6 years ago. As something that makes me income, about 2 years already.

My very first official client started about november 2006 and is still with me, even if he is ironically also part of the clipse staff. he just likes someone to write his programs and push him.

What makes them stay? hmm good question... For most I think it would have to be the results they get in training. I have 2 clients who were being trained in their former gym and they barely got anywhere. When I started training them, they have improved a lot, one of them is still amazed at what he can do now but he still has a lot of potential to tap.

my former trainer has told me before that it is rare that people stay very long because of many factors. i was one of his longest na before i transferred to another gym.

that really depends. I know some guys who have had clients for years and counting.

[blakedaddy]

I just chose to get certified because I wanted a structured approach when I prescribe an exercise program.
\

just saw this now. You'll actually be surprised that this very crucial and integral part of training isn't really given much emphasis in any certification exams.

If you wanna get good reading material, try practical programming by Rippetoe and look at some verkhoshansky books.

[swole_stevecc]

freedom2surf, good insight actually.

I think the length of personal training depends on a lot of factors - client's dedication, the trainer's skill/real motivation to help you, etc.

Takes both ways, I guess...

[GGalcantara]

Hi Blakedady! Thanks for the comments and advice... I'll look for that book you advised.. THANK YOU!