Not all personal trainers are created equal.  Across the nation, there are no requirements for being a personal trainer.  In the state of Washington, the person who cuts my hair needs a state license, but personal trainers do not.  I have never heard of someone dying from a bad hair cut, but people can be seriously injured and even die during a personal training session.  I find this disturbing, because most people hire a trainer assuming that the trainer knows what he or she is doing.

When looking for a personal trainer, you should look for three main certifications: the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).  These three are the top certifications in the fitness industry and require continuing education to recertify, which helps to make sure that trainers are current on the latest scientific findings, as well as what's new in the fitness industry.

What this means for you is that your trainer is well-trained and well-informed, which is very beneficial for you.

Last updated on October 28, 2008 by Jennifer Malocha