Take Charge of Your Body

For those fortunate to visit us at H3, you are very familiar with our wonderful program interns.  They are full of energy and are great motivators!  Here is a guest post from one of our current H3 program interns, Laura. 

 

You’ve made the decision and taken the first steps to lead a healthy lifestyle.  Now it’s ultimately up to you to continue to exercise and to consume a healthy and balanced diet.  If you choose to hire a trainer to assist you along your journey, why not make sure you are receiving the best, most knowledgeable help? 

 

Many people are unsure of what makes a fitness professional worthy of their time and money.  Just because they call themselves a “personal trainer” or “group fitness instructor” does not necessarily make them qualified.  You are already taking charge of your body by choosing to exercise; some simple research can enhance your experience in and outside of the gym. 

 

So what does make an individual qualified to be your personal trainer?  Here are three components that make a fitness professional fit for you.

 

Certifications:  Nationally Recognized Organizations

 

ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine)

-  HFS (Health and Fitness Specialist)

-  CPT (Certified Personal Trainer)

 

NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association)

-  CPT (Certified Personal Trainer)

 

ACE (American Council on Exercise)

-  CPT (Certified Personal Trainer)

-  Group Fitness Instructor

 

AFFA (Aerobic & Fitness Association of America)

-  CPT (Certified Personal Trainer)

-  Group Fitness Instructor

-  Kickboxing, Step Certified

 

CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist)

 

CPR and First Aid Certified (American Red Cross)

Why are certifications important?  In order to remain certified, each of these organizations require those who are certified to accumulate a certain amount of CEU’s (continuing education units) or CEC’s (continuing education credits) each year.  These credits can be obtained by attending workshops, lectures, and/or taking online classes; resulting in continually staying up to date within the fitness industry. 

 

Bachelors or Masters Degree:

Look for a trainer with a degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology, or other health related fields 

Although there are experienced and qualified trainers without this component, it is a definite bonus knowing your trainer has a wider, more in depth knowledge base than simply being certified. 

 

Creativity:

Nobody wants a boring exercise program.  It is important to keep exercise exciting and fun.  Not only will variety keep your body from reaching a plateau with results, it will also assist you in adhering to the program. 

 

The staff of H3 are thrilled that you are back at home, eager to continue your exercise habits!  Don’t be afraid to do a little research in order to maximize your healthy living experience.  Get out there and take charge!