Choosing a personal trainer can be difficult, especially when you’re deciding between appearance and knowledge. Is one better than the other? As a personal trainer myself, here are my thoughts.
I was at a networking event last week and someone said to me “it’s so important to have photos of yourself up on your website and social media”. I fully expected them to finish that sentence by saying “so that you become a familiar face and can build connection” etc. but no, instead they continued with “because I’d want to make sure my PT looks ‘in shape’.”
I felt so insulted! Not only because there term ‘in shape’ is so subjective, but what they were saying was that how I look trumps how much knowledge I have. The on going commitment to continue learning, dedication to keeping up with the latest research and years of experience within the industry are all second best to my appearance.
Sadly society has associated fitness with a specific “look.” Many personal trainers embody that image because their lives revolve around fitness so it’s easier to get to the gym or have the motivation to move. But here’s the thing: just because someone looks a certain way, doesn’t automatically make them an expert. It’s not as simple as picking a trainer based on their appearance and expecting to magically transform into their carbon copy within a few months. Nope, sorry, it doesn’t work that way 😓
Genetics play a massive role in our physical appearances. Even if you were to mimic someone else’s training plan, you would still end up looking completely different. Factors like nutrition, sleep, stress, and lifestyle choices also contribute to making us all unique.
So, if you’re on the lookout for a personal trainer, forget about judging them solely by their appearance. Instead, focus on the things that truly matter. Check out their qualifications, expertise, and understand their ethos. These are the elements that will make a real difference to your life.