It’s not exactly a secret that I’d rather run any day than hit the gym. When I do hit the gym, I’d rather take a spin class or jump on the elliptical. I’m not sure when this started – I used to weight train 2-3 times a week before we had kids. I think it’s because I don’t get quite the endorphin “high” from weight lifting that I do from cardio. And, as a mom, I need that high. Really.
Anyways, after I ran Marine Corps Marathon, my body was begging for a break from running. I joined a gym and on a whim, took them up on a personal training deal. The five sessions were amazing and I really wish it was in the budget to continue. Here’s why I think you should hire a personal trainer…
- Accountability – this is huge if you are good at making excuses NOT to work out. I personally don’t have a problem getting in my cardio, but I’ll use every excuse in the book to avoid weights. Hiring a trainer not only means that there’s someone there waiting for you, but that person cost you money. You don’t want to waste money, do you?
- Push your limits – I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who will eek out one more lift/pushup/jump/etc for a trainer even when I don’t think I can. And I know that my trainer pushed me out of my comfort zone a lot. (I learned that I may be able to run a marathon, but a few rounds of 30 second sprints make me want to puke.)
- Learn some new moves – Prior to working out with the trainer, I’d never used a kettle bell or a medicine ball or a TRX. I had the opportunity to use them all and learn the correct way to do things.
- Target your weak areas – While I felt like I got a whole body workout, my trainer was great at finding my weak spots and making me work them. My legs were perfectly capable of carrying 50 pounds of weights up and down the stairs. My shoulders? Not so much. Cue more upper body workouts.
- Encouragement – My trainer was awesome with the post workout “way to go’s” (and an amazing post workout assisted stretch/massage). I walked out of the gym every time feeling like I’d accomplished exactly what I set out to do, even when I didn’t know what I planned to accomplish when I got there. Even when I couldn’t complete a set, I knew that I’d given it my all and felt encouraged to come back and try again.
My experience with a trainer was awesome, but it’s key that you find someone who is not only qualified, but is also interested in helping you reach YOUR goals. If a financial windfall comes my way I will definitely hire a personal trainer again!
I’m linking up with Cynthia, Courtney, and Mar for Friday Five. Stop by the link up to see what everyone else is talking about today, since it’s free Friday.
Oh, and make sure to follow me on Instagram this weekend while I instagram the big blizzard. ;o)
Linking up with Jill Conyer as well.
Those are great reasons to hire a trainer! I haven’t used one yet but it would be a great way to learn new moves and find weak spots.
Sherry recently posted…Five Great Running and Motivational Quotes
Yes! Awesome reasons. I’ve also found that working with a trainer gives me that extra push.
Love this! I’ve been going back and forth about getting a PT for a while, because I for sure need help with all 5 of these. But, like you said, it’s just not in the cards money-wise right now. Hopefully I can figure something out soon though, because my gym game could use some work.
GiselleR @ Diary of an ExSloth recently posted…Orange Kale Quinoa Smoothie Bowl
Glad you enjoyed your experience! I have two personal trainers in my family and have yet taken them up on any offers….lol
Ummm
so
I read that as TARGET YOUR WEAK A$$.
A few times!
Which may be a hint I need to work on my glutes with a trainer?! 🙂
CARLA recently posted…There’s beauty in being stuck (guest post).
I started working with a trainer last week and absolutely love it. While I am dedicated at doing my runs on schedule, I am kind of a slug at the gym. The accountability thing works for me too!
Pam recently posted…5 Reasons to run the Great Wall Marathon
I really should hire a trainer… I need to target my weak areas so bad. The problem is figuring out where those weak areas are and I know a trainer could help me.
Rachel recently posted…5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Doctor Appointment
Great post! But as a personal trainer, I have to say, the picture of that ladies squat form makes me cringe, haha!
RFC recently posted…Inspiration for Adventures: Cairn January Box
I opted to use the gym’s personal training program when I was getting back in to shape. I already knew how to use the machines, but it was good to have someone know when to increase weights, reps, plyos, and stretching. When I felt I was good to go, I ended the program, but it was a great guide.
Lesley recently posted…Winter Storm Jonas
I totally get the needing the high as a mom thing. I’ve never tried a personal trainer, but back when I was an athlete I
Miriam @ Sometimes Sporty recently posted…Randomness from my Thursday (ToL #2)
I used to have a coach and it was so helpful to have someone looking over my shoulder. Someday, when I don’t spend as much on daycare as I do on my mortgage I might try one. (sorry for having to break it up into two comments)
Miriam @ Sometimes Sporty recently posted…Randomness from my Thursday (ToL #2)
I think it’s a great idea. If I was a member of a gym, I think I would. I need someone to keep me accountable which is why I don’t currently work out.
Darlene recently posted…Friday Five: Why 13.1?
That’s cool that you got a deal on five sessions. I think you can definitely learn so much from a great personal trainer. Bring on the blizzard!
courtney @ eat pray run dc recently posted…Five Tips to Stay Healthy During Cold Season
I love body pump but I do think I miss out on the pushing myself aspect. I’m sure a trainer would help with that and it’s something I’ve been toying with.
Chaitali recently posted…Friday 5 – things I’m doing during the snow storm
Yes yes yes yes yes (five yeses, count’em). I have a similar post coming up soon about hiring a fitness or running coach. We (personal trainers and coaches) are so much more than just people dreaming up workouts for you–I truly care for my clients in a real way, and I’m often helping them unload their days, weeks, and worries.
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Fulfillment, Movement, Priorities (Friday Favorites)
I’ve been working with my trainer for the past 3 years and while he’s very militant in his style… well, I’m there 3 years so I guess that’s working for me! 😉 I definitely like having the standing Tuesday/Thursday morning date with him because I don’t know if I would get it done on my own. It’s great to have the accountability!
What a great post Erika and I so get where you are coming from. I go to the gym 5 minutes from my work twice a week to work with a trainer. She is my friend and it keeps accountable. I’ve been doing this since early last year and have gained muscle, which I love! We as runners need to strength train and do something else besides just running!
Tricia@MissSippipiddlin recently posted…5 Reasons Why I Might Sign Up For Another Marathon
I definitely cut it short when no one is looking…but with a trainer, there’s always a set of eyes on you 😉 I’ve started this new year out solely focusing on strength training and while some of my runs feel harder since I’m not running as much, I hope in the long run this helps me out AND I make more time for it once I pick running back up. I’m glad you had such a great experience!
I’m completely with you on a trainer! The key is finding one that works for you. I’ve tried so many personal trainers, and only one actually took an interest in my goals and life outside of the 1hr. His overall mentoring helped reach my goals.
This was over 5 years ago, and I haven’t found anyone since then that I’ve liked. I’d love one who was also an endurance athlete (runner/triathlete) and knows how to handle me during high mileage season.
Smitha @ FauxRunner recently posted…Friday Five: Fictional Characters I want to Train With
I totally agree with all of the above! I’ve really loved working with my trainer and finding someone who tailors a workout to you is key in not getting injured and staying on track.
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner recently posted…Loving Lately-January
completely agree in finding someone who is interested in YOU! My personal trainer is awesome. I’m not going to be able to continue after the few months I allotted but helping me get stronger and face my goals has been such a huge help.
Mar @ Mar on the Run recently posted…Friday Five: How a Runner Prepares for a Blizzard!
I am such a slacker when it comes to weights/strength training. I know it’s good for me, I just haven’t found a way to get myself to do it consistently.
Becky @ Ok, So Here’s the Plan recently posted…ALL the Cookies!
All great reasons to hire me! I started my health and fitness journey with a trainer. It was one of my best decisions ever!
jill conyers recently posted…17 Fitness Tips To Make the Most Out of Your Workouts
I would love to be able to hire a personal trainer. I have used them in the past and loved them for the accountability and really honing in on what I need to work on. Sadly just not in the budget at this point. Hopefully it will be again someday!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…Weekly Wrap: Mediocre runs and a savings plan
These are such great points, Erika. As a trainer, I love providing accountability AND encouragement. I think that’s key!
I have worked with personal trainers at various points throughout my journey and have had great results. It helped push me more than I thought I was capable of. Thank you for sharing!