What is a Personal Trainer?

A personal trainer is a fitness coach, guide or teacher for those who are just starting out, would like to improve their technique, advance to a new training level or those who aren't getting their desired results. A personal trainer helps you to learn the proper techniques which helps avoid wasted effort and discouragement and can reduces injuries caused from improper weight training.

What is involved in a personal training session?

The trainer will first assess the level of fitness you are starting with then teach the appropriate exercises using the correct weight and tempo to match your desired goals and lifestyle. Sessions can be at a negotiated time when it is most convenient for you, preferably at consistent times to develop a training habit. Our personal trainer begins with three, one-hour long sessions per week on a one to one basis. Since home programs usually aren't as effective at producing desired results, the training is best done in a fitness facility equipped with free weights and machines.  A personal training program can be tailored to your individual needs and modified as your fitness levels rise.

What should I do before beginning with a personal trainer?

All you really need to begin is a commitment to make yourself feel and look better. This may involve writing nightly goals or starting an "improvement" diary. Many people begin personal training hoping for a "quick fix" and are disappointed when they don't reach their desired goals within a week. Remember, change takes time. A firm resolve and commitment to allow that change to occur is your best ally. The most significant improvements will be seen approximately one month after beginning a training session. After that point, noticeable change will be drastic.

Will personal training help me to lose weight?

Yes. Correct weight training combined with some aerobic activity such as cycling, walking or jogging and small diet modifications will change your muscle-to-fat ratio and the rate at which your body burns calories. Since weight training increases your muscle mass and because muscle burns 90% of all calories, weight training results in the loss of inches and pounds without going hungry.

How can weight training help my back and other joints?

Since muscles move the joints of the body, proper muscle tone allows for more efficient and controlled movement. For instance, weak back muscles force the small joints, ligaments and discs of the spine to bear greater loads than they were designed to carry. Wear and tear degenerative changes results for poor tone and balance. Resistance training is a major activity that increases bone density. So if osteoporosis is a concern, pump that iron.

How do I arrange a session with the Clinic's personal trainer?

Just call 623-1413 and arrange an appointment.