As an individual who is seeking to improve their fitness and strength, a personal training session from the professionals can help you kickstart your exercise program and get the results you are looking for. By participating in a personal training program, you have access to expert trainers, the best exercise equipment, and step-by-step guidance throughout your fitness journey.
If it’s your first time with a personal trainer, it can feel intimidating. You might not know what to expect. However, you can rest assured that personal trainers are there to motivate you to reach your fitness goals no matter what obstacles you are facing. The best way to prepare for your first personal training session is to follow these important steps:
Know Your Health History
Your current state of health and fitness level are important criteria to determine what types of exercises are safe for you and what potential barriers you may encounter. Start by taking notes of any history of diseases, medications you are taking, and injuries you’ve sustained in the past. You can be confident in sharing these details with your trainer, as he or she will more than likely ask you directly. You may also be asked to fill out a questionnaire.
Set Your Fitness Goals
A personal trainer can develop your fitness level, but it’s recommended to set some personal fitness goals for yourself and what you want to accomplish with your body. The most common are weight loss, muscle gain, and strength conditioning. By identifying what you are looking for in a personal training program, you’ll have a better mental focus on accomplishing that goal.
To get the most out of your first personal training session, you should come prepared.
Your Checklist:
- Schedule a session with your personal trainer and put it on your calendar
- Purchase gym clothes that are breathable and comfortable to wear
- Don’t eat too much before your training session (if you’re hungry, eat an hour before)
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during and after your workout
- Be prepared to discuss your injury history (if any)
- Research the location beforehand and arrive on time
Hydrate and Dress Comfortably
Two factors that determine how smoothly your exercise program will be are keeping yourself hydrated and wearing the right gym clothes to keep yourself comfortable. Your first session will likely involve a general fitness test that includes evaluating weight, body mass index, body fat, endurance, and strength, so wear your workout gear. On the day before your training session, drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages. For gym clothes, the more comfortable you are with what you are wearing, the better you can perform exercises.
Prepare Questions for Your Trainer
Since it’s going to be your first time, your personal trainer will do their best to assess your fitness goals and create a plan that best aligns with your current fitness level. Remember that you are investing your time and finances in a person, so you want to ensure that your training sessions will be worthwhile. Be prepared with any questions you want to ask your personal trainers, such as their workout experience, training style, nutrition recommendations, schedule availability, and success stories of other clients. This may offer you motivation to stick to your training program for the long term.