Whether you want to become the next Demi or Arnold, or just get back in shape, working with a personal trainer will do the job. Trainers’ expertise and workout styles vary enormously: Here’s how to find the best person for you–and that six-pack just waiting to be discovered.

Instructions

Step 1: Determine which fitness activities are most likely to keep you feeling happy, enthused and committed: Kickboxing, spinning, free weights, Pilates, walking, step aerobics, dance, rock climbing, gospel aerobics, circuit training or cardio-focused training. Doing what you love will keep you doing it.

Step 2: Get a referral from a satisfied (and buffed) friend or call nearby fitness centers, gyms or studios and find out what programs are offered by their personal trainers.

Step 3: Find out if the trainer is certified by a nationally recognized body such as the American Council on Exercise (acefitness.org) or the American College of Sports Medicine (which requires a health-related academic degree). Check if dance or martial arts teachers have had proper training as well.

Step 4: Schedule a trial workout to see if a trainer is suited to your personality and shows a genuine interest in you and your goals.

Step 5: Choose a trainer or teacher with a good grasp on your workout level–and limitations. You want someone who motivates and challenges you without setting impossible goals or pushing you too fast or too hard. Creative workout planning will help avoid burnout.

Step 6: Some gyms employ trainers who only have a college degree in physiology or kinesiology. However, there are lots of graduates of weekend programs or, worse, home-based or Internet classes, out there claiming to be qualified. Standardized fitness certification guidelines for the industry are imminent; meanwhile, check credentials carefully.

Tips & Warnings

• Check on your trainer’s cancellation policy to avoid wasting money on classes you can’t make.
• Look into mobile gyms if you’ve got more money than time. Some personal trainers can drive a gym on wheels straight to your house, but it will cost you.

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