Strike a Match

Finding the right trainer for you can be trickier—and more important—than you think. Here are the keys to finding the best trainer to help you achieve your goals.

Just signing up with a trainer won’t help you meet your fitness goals. Finding a good match for you and committing to the program are the keys to getting there. Josh Lyon, Manager of Fitness Operations for 24 Hour Fitness, delivers the most direct approach to finding your trainer soul mate. “One of the keys to finding a trainer that will bring the best out in you is finding a personality match,” he says.

Keep your eyes peeled.

While you’re sweating on the elliptical or lifting free weights, pay attention to trainers working out with clients. Take note of their interactions and the trainer’s approach. “It’s not so much focusing on the specific exercise or program style—it’s more of the level of service,” says Lyon. “Ask yourself: is this person going to motivate and inspire me? Maybe you want someone who is not so high energy. You can tell from a distance—is that trainer someone I would enjoy working with.”

Know your goal.

Trainers have a broad set of skill sets. Whether you’re looking to train for your first marathon or lose 20 pounds by summer, there’s a trainer at your gym that has the expertise to meet your needs. “Most people have general goals: building muscle, getting ready for a wedding—most trainers can do that because they understand the science to getting there.

Ask around.

Don’t be afraid to ask gym members or the fitness manager for suggestions or opinions. “The [fitness trainer] knows each one of the players on their team and their level of education, personality, expertise, training philosophy,” Lyon says.

Request a test drive.

You don’t buy a car without giving it a spin. If you think you’ve found a trainer you might really click with, set up a free appointment. “Most trainers will take an hour to meet with you, talk about your goals, and take you through a workout,” he says.