Whether you are looking to hire a trainer or are currently working with one, here are my five tips on getting the most out of your training session.
1. Set Goals
Before beginning your training program, speak with your trainer about your specific goals. Your time and money are valuable. As a trainer, I've seen many people at the gym with and without a trainer wasting their time on fun exercises and classes that do not align with their goals. Remember, the pro about hiring a trainer is that they will design a program personally for you.
2. Be curious and ask questions.
Your training session is to get information on how your body moves, how to improve your form, and why you are doing a specific exercise, not just be told what to do. My most successful clients show up to a session now and then with a pen and paper. They asked me to send them additional information on fitness topics and videos on a specific exercise they needed clarification on. On their off days, they practice the movements so that I do not have to waste their time showing them again at our next session.
3. Communicate with your trainer.
When you feel uncomfortable about an exercise, are experiencing pain, or had a hectic day, communicate it with your trainer. If an activity is too difficult or painful, your trainer can scale it back. Conversely, when a movement is too easy, tell your trainer. They can advise you to do more reps or go up a weight. To see changes in your physique, you must constantly challenge your body.
4. Incorporate activities outside of your training program.
You must be active 5-6 days per week to see changes in your physique. Most people work with a trainer 2-3 days a week. More activity is required to see changes. I am not implying adding more sessions with your trainer, but here is where you may need to take some accountability. I recommend that you strength train at least three times per week with your trainer, and on the remaining days, you can incorporate cardio, yoga, or pilates. However, if you can only work with a trainer twice weekly for your third day, you can take a strength class, find a workout video or venture out to the gym alone.
5. Prioritize your rest and recovery.
A good night's sleep will allow you to put more effort into your training session. Besides getting a good night's sleep, you must let each muscle group recover 24hrs before training that muscle group again. If you train with a trainer 2-3 times a week, your trainer will probably take you through a total body workout. So, that means you must allow your entire body to recover before strength/resistance training again. If you do not, you risk injuring yourself during your next session or own during simple things like taking out the trash. An injury may keep you from exercising for days or weeks.
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