10 Things You Should Know Before Hiring a Personal Trainer

Hiring a personal trainer can be a game-changer in your fitness journey. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, gain strength, or improve endurance, a trainer can provide the structure, accountability, and expertise needed to maximize your results.

But before you sign up to work with your local Personal Trainer, there are some key things you need to know. Too many people hire a trainer without understanding what to expect, which can lead to frustration, wasted money, or even injury. 😖

To set yourself up for success, here are 10 crucial things to know before working with a personal trainer.

1. Not All Personal Trainers Are Created Equal

Just because someone has a personal training certification doesn’t mean they are the best fit for you. Certifications are important, but experience, communication skills, and client results matter just as much—if not more.

Some trainers specialize in weight loss, while others focus on strength training, bodybuilding, athletic performance, or injury rehabilitation. If your goal is to improve endurance for a marathon, you probably don’t want a trainer who primarily works with bodybuilders. 

Do your research before committing. Read reviews, ask for testimonials, and don’t be afraid to interview multiple trainers to find someone who aligns with your goals, learning style, and personality.

2. Results Take Time—There’s No Magic Formula

Too many people expect rapid, dramatic changes after just a few sessions with a trainer. The reality? Fitness is a long-term game.

A great trainer will help you progress faster than if you were training alone, but they aren’t magicians. You won’t lose 20 pounds in a month or gain 10 pounds of muscle overnight. Sustainable results come from months (and years) of consistent effort.

Instead of looking for shortcuts, focus on steady improvement. Small wins, like lifting heavier weights, improving form, or increasing endurance, are all signs of progress. A good trainer will help you recognize and celebrate these victories to keep you motivated.

3. You’ll Still Have to Do the Work

Hiring a personal trainer doesn’t mean they do the push-ups for you. You still have to show up, give your best effort, and follow their advice outside of your sessions.

A trainer can create the best workout plan in the world, but if you don’t follow through, you won’t see results. If you’re skipping workouts, not pushing yourself during sessions, or ignoring their nutrition recommendations, don’t expect dramatic progress. Of course, a coach should have the right coaching skills in order to make sure you are not overwhelmed and help you through it step by step.

At the end of the day, your success also depends on your willingness to put in the work—not just when you're with your trainer, but every day.

4. Diet Is Just as Important as Exercise

You can train as hard as you want, but if your diet is all over the place, your results will be limited. Nutrition and exercise go hand in hand.

If your goal is fat loss, you need to be in a calorie deficit. If your goal is muscle gain, you need enough protein and calories to support growth. A great trainer will help guide your nutrition, but ultimately, it's up to you to make smart choices when they’re not around.

Think of it this way: If your car runs on premium fuel, you won’t get far if you’re filling it with junk. Your body is the same. Treat it right, and you’ll see results over time. 

Also, your coach should customize it all for you. Since no one has the exact same life, thoughts and challenges, a plan should reflect those nuances.

5. It’s an Investment—Not an Expense

Personal training can be expensive, but it’s one of the best investments you can make in yourself. Think of it this way: You’re paying for knowledge, accountability, and a structured plan designed for your success. The goal (at least my goal) is to help you build the skills and habits so that you can keep the results later by yourself.

Sure, you can find free workouts online, but they won’t be tailored to your needs, experience level, or limitations. A personal trainer ensures you train effectively, avoid injuries, and stay motivated—saving you time and frustration.

Your health is priceless. (and life's short)

6. Accountability Is a Game-Changer

The biggest reason most people fail in fitness? Lack of consistency. A personal trainer eliminates excuses and keeps you accountable.

When you train on your own, it’s easy to skip a session, cut corners, or go through the motions without pushing yourself. But when you have a scheduled session with a trainer, you’re far more likely to show up and put in the effort.

Beyond just showing up, trainers also hold you accountable for nutrition, sleep, and overall lifestyle choices that affect your results. This accountability can be the difference between reaching your goals and staying stuck. Always ask how a trainer does this with their clients.

Want to find out if I could be your personal trainer or online coach? Book a call below to ask all your questions. (not a smart marketing strategy, but it is probably a great idea to apply to multiple coaches)

➡️ Personal Training Discovery Call

➡️ Online Coaching Discovery Call

7. Expect to Be Challenged (But Not Destroyed)

A great trainer will push you outside of your comfort zone, but they won’t break you. Some people assume personal trainers will yell at them like drill sergeants or leave them so sore they can’t walk for days. That’s not the goal. And if that is the goal, run for your life.

The best trainers challenge you in a structured, progressive way. They ensure you work hard, but in a way that’s safe and effective. If you leave every session feeling completely wrecked, something’s off. (either with training, recovery and/or nutrition)

Fitness is about progress, not punishment. A good trainer helps you find the right balance between pushing limits and allowing proper recovery.

8. Communication Is Key

Your trainer isn’t a mind reader. If something doesn’t feel right, if you’re struggling with motivation, or if you need extra guidance, speak up.

Trainers adjust workouts based on your progress, energy levels, and physical condition. If a certain exercise hurts or feels ineffective, let them know so they can modify it.

Likewise, be honest about your nutrition and habits outside the gym. If you’re struggling with food choices, sleep, or stress, a good trainer can offer solutions— but only if they know what’s going on.

9. Consistency Beats Intensity

One hardcore workout won’t make up for weeks of inconsistency. The real results come from showing up regularly and sticking to the plan over time.

Some people think they need to train at maximum intensity every session to see results, but that’s not sustainable. It’s better to train at a moderate intensity multiple times per week than to go all out once in a while and then burn out.

Consistency with workouts, nutrition, sleep, and recovery is what leads to transformation. Your trainer will help guide you, but it’s up to you to commit long-term.

Always ask yourself: "Is this the right time and place in my life to prioritize these goals." If you have a lot on your plate, of course focusing on your health can help but it could also add 'even more on your plate'.

10. The Best Trainer for You Is the One You Actually Click With

Sounds cliche, but it is most definitely true. Results don’t just come from training hard—they come from working with someone who understands you, motivates you, and makes fitness enjoyable.

A trainer could have all the certifications in the world, but if you don’t vibe with them, your experience will suffer. Training should be something you look forward to—not something you dread.

Personality, coaching style, and communication all matter. If you’re not comfortable with your trainer or don’t feel motivated by them, it’s okay to find someone else who’s a better fit.

SO...

Hiring a personal trainer can be one of the best decisions you ever make for your health and fitness. But to get the most out of it, you need the right mindset, expectations, and commitment. Your trainer can teach, instruct and help you develop the skills to do this, but ultimately it is also up to you.

Do your research, choose a trainer who aligns with your goals, and be ready to put in the work. Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint— but with the right trainer in your corner, you’ll be on the fast track to success.

👉 Thinking about starting? Book your intake to ask your questions and find out if I can help you towards your goals!

➡️ Personal Training Discovery Call

➡️ Online Coaching Discovery Call

I hope you got a good idea on how to choose your personal trainer. Good luck! And who knows, see you soon!