Introduction - How it works:
The IDEA Personal Trainer Recognition System and Locator are really two New programs. The recognition program is designed to get the most out of their degree, certification and or certificate.
The PFT Locator is a tool to help consumers find a quality, trainer in their area, and to help trainers attain more business.
How do the IDEA-PFT Locator listings work?
The listings can be created in different ways by using different search methods, such as zip code and or city, level of recognition, and other parameters. The more specific the search criteria, the shorter the list will be. The area in which the trainer resides is on the left, followed by the trainer's name, contact information, area of emphasis and their level of recognition in the IDEA Personal Trainer Recognition System.
How are personal trainers evaluated?
Personal trainers are evaluated based on their education, certifications, certificate programs, training experience, liability insurance, contributions to the fitness industry, and adherence to a high standard of ethics.
How does someone know if hiring
a personal fitness trainer is the right choice?
Persons considering hiring a personal fitness trainer should keep in mind the following things a personal trainer can help them do:
Improve Overall Fitness. A trainer will monitor clients' progress and fine tune the program, helping clients work their way off plateaus.
Reach or Maintain a Healthy Weight. Body fat reduction, weight reduction or management, body shaping and toning can all be achieved with the aid of a qualified trainer.
Learn to Stick to It. Qualified personal trainers can provide motivation for developing a lifestyle that places a high priority on health and activity.
Focus on Unique Health Concerns. IDEA surveys show that 50 percent of personal trainers' clients have special medical needs, such as arthritis, diabetes or obesity. A personal trainer can help you with these or other issues, including low-back pain, rehabilitation from injury and pre/postnatal training
Find the Right Way to Work Out. A personal trainer teaches the correct way to use equipment, and appropriate form and technique for cardiovascular work and free weight training.
Stop Wasting Time. Clients get maximum results in minimum time with a program designed specifically for them.
What qualities should one
look for when choosing a personal trainer?
Anyone can say he or she is a personal trainer but not everyone can perform the important functions of a trainer. With dozens of certifications available in the United States today, and with each certification organization having different standards and methods for testing a candidate’s knowledge, consumers can easily be confused. When selecting a personal trainer, IDEA recommends asking the following questions that will help to assess the trainer’s credentials and level of expertise:
1) What is your exercise and educational background? Do you have a bachelor's or master's degree in a fitness-related field? Are you certified by a nationally recognized organization? Are you part of the IDEA Personal Trainer Recognition System?
2) Are you a member of a professional association with a commitment to continuing education? Do you adhere to a code of ethics and professional standards? Fitness is a fast-moving field. Clients rely on their trainer for current information on fitness, exercise and healthy lifestyle activities. Membership in a professional organization is one way to tell that a personal trainer is staying abreast of the latest information on a variety of important topics and is aware of a professional code of ethics and standards.
3) Are you certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid? While emergencies during training are extremely rare, a trainer should know precisely what to do should one arise.
4) Do you require a health screening or physician's release? Many medical conditions or past injuries can affect a person's participation in a training session and program parameters. A trainer needs to know relevant details of medical history, including any medications the client may be taking, before an effective workout. If a client is under a doctor’s care for certain conditions, a quality trainer will discuss any exercise concerns with the client's physician.
5) Can you provide references from other clients and industry professionals familiar with your knowledge and abilities? People hire a personal trainer for many reasons, including weight loss, sports conditioning, and injury or illness rehabilitation. It is important to hire someone who has the appropriate experience. Calling references can help a person gauge a trainer's expertise in specific areas.
6) Will you keep track of my workouts, chart my progress and update my medical history periodically? A trainer will help clients establish realistic short and long-term goals and assess your progress towards these goals. A trainer might chart areas such as weight, percentage of body fat, body measurements, cardiovascular improvements, strength and endurance. Updating medical history from time to time, enables a trainer to adjust the client's workouts as necessary to reflect your abilities.
7) Do you provide clear-cut, policies on cancellations, billing, etc. Having all policies clearly stated in writing helps avoid any misunderstandings or confusion and protects consumers' rights.
8) What is your rate per session? Do you offer any discounts or package deals? Trainers who are experienced professionals with a high degree of expertise, expect to be compensated as such. Clients should expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour-long session, but should ask about any discounts available for multisession purchases, for higher frequency (three times a week instead of two), and group training.
10) Will you help me focus on reasonable goals, not unattainable results? No reputable trainer will promise that a client will lose 30 pounds in 30 days, for example. It is vital for a client's health and motivation to set realistic, achievable goals. This prevents disillusionment and disappointment, raises the chances of success and is a proven technique to keep clients moving toward their goals.
11) Do you have a network of professionals such as physicians, dietitians, physical therapists and other fitness/health professionals? To provide the best possible service, a quality trainer will have established sources for specialized questions and referrals.
12) What is your communication style? A quality trainer motivates clients through positive, not negative, reinforcement, and never makes clients feel incompetent or inadequate. A trainer should listen carefully to determine each clients goals and needs, and explain why the program that has been designed is appropriate. The trainer should also ask for the client's input on the program, and be prepared to put in writing the principles and reasoning behind exercise program decisions.
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