Joe Mahoney © The Rocky There are lots of trainers out there, and not all of them know what they’re doing. So how do you pick the right one? Personal trainers Lauren Condell and Jason Spurlock advise finding a trainer you feel chemistry with.

There's a personal trainer to meet every need

February 27, 2007

The people who need a trainer the most are the ones who think they need one the least.

Everybody needs a trainer. Even trainers need trainers.

The average rate is about $50 an hour, which can add up fast. But it's important to realize that even one or two sessions with a good trainer can make a profound difference in your approach to health and fitness. You might be toodling along, doing what you think might work (even though it never has), and suddenly you realize just how much you don't know.

When people ask me what makes a good trainer, I tell them that good trainers educate and motivate. They're optimistic but realistic. They push you when you need it and praise you when you deserve it. They listen as much as they talk - and when they talk, they know what they're talking about.

Good trainers are people you like - but not too much. If you love them, they're not working you hard enough.

Good trainers give you tools you can use every day of your life, not just when you're in a session. Good trainers focus on good health, not pounds lost. Good trainers have patience. Good trainers get results that last.

Good trainers empower people. Good trainers believe in their clients and know how to make clients believe in themselves - maybe for the first time in their lives.

There are lots of trainers out there, and not all of them know what they're doing. So how do you pick the right one?

I put that question to a group of trainers, all of whom embody what I consider the right stuff. They weighed in about what you should look for in a trainer and what to ask one. They also had some thoughts on how clients can make the most of their training sessions.

There's a trainer out there for everybody. Here's how to find one:

Jason Spurlock/Lauren Condell

Body Shop Fitness, DTC Greenwood Village

• Experience: 10 years

• Specialty: all ages and fitness levels

• Philosophy: Make fitness a way of life.

• Look for: A trainer you feel chemistry with. One who makes proper form a priority from the first session. Someone who makes your workout fun and also teaches you what he's doing and why he's doing it.

• THE question to ask: Are you nationally certified?

• Client's best bet: Eat a snack beforehand. Show up early enough for a brief cardio warm-up. Be open-minded. Ask questions.

• Reach Condell/Spurlock: 303-653-4255, bodyshopfit.com

Here is a list of respected certifying organizations for personal trainers

•National Academy of Sports Medicine

•American College of Sports Medicine

•American Council on Exercise

•National Strength and Conditioning Association

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