Being in a public environment, gyms can be pretty hectic. Especially during peak hours when everyone has just gotten off work. You often have to queue up for equipment and you lose your rhythm waiting. The hour you set aside before you leave for home can be over before you do everything you planned. It sounds stressful, but it shouldn’t be. The time you set aside to train shouldn’t be rushed or spent coordinating with the clock to cram in a few extra sets before you blast out of the parking lot. This scenario happens far too frequently and has led a number of my clients to opt for in-home personal training.

So where do you start? How do you find the right trainer and what qualities and characteristics should you be looking for? I have compiled a list of considerations and questions you should be asking to find the right trainer.

1. One of the most important things to determine is a trainer’s credentials. Your trainer should have a reputable certification and preferably, a degree in kinesiology or exercise science.  The National Strength and Conditioning Association, the American Council on Exercise and Can Fit Pro are the most common, reputable certifications that trainers seek out to learn their trade. Your trainer should also have current CPR and First Aid certifications. Don’t be afraid to ask to see a copy of their certification cards to be sure that they have kept current.

2. Any reputable trainer will offer a free consultation. You should have the opportunity to spend 30 to 60 minutes with a prospective trainer to find out if their approach and personal style are a fit for you. And you should not have to pay a fee for it because this is your trainer’s opportunity to sell him or herself to you.

3. Find out about the financial details. Typically, the fewer sessions you buy, the more each will cost. If you decide to use the trainer, you are generally better to buy more sessions, saving as much as 25% in some cases. Find out about their refund policy. If you happen to get sick or injured, will you be able to get a refund for the sessions you purchased? Can you use them when you are healthy again? Ask how long you have to use the package you purchased. Make sure that it doesn’t expire before you have the opportunity to use all the sessions you paid for and that the hours both of you have available to train are congruent. A reasonable time frame is 6 months. If it’s any less than that, be wary.

4. Can they provide you with references? A credible trainer should be able to provide at least two references from current customers. I would recommend you get the contact info for one male and one female customer. Make a point of calling those people and have your questions ready to ask before you make the calls.

5. Your trainer should look the part. It is not imperative that they look like a fitness cover model, but he or she should exercise regularly and practice a healthy lifestyle. If I’m looking for a trainer, I am certainly not going to trust the advice of someone who isn’t in better shape than I am.

6. Certifications, degrees and book smarts will only take you so far, regardless of your field. Ideally your trainer should have a minimum of 2 years experience in the field. There is no substitute for practical, on-the-job experience. A personal trainer should be in the industry because of a passion for helping others live healthy active lives. If you are new to exercise, it is only natural to be out of your element when you start a training program. An experienced personal trainer will put you at ease and provide a nurturing environment you can train in.