Most people agree that personal trainers help one achieve fitness goals fast and effectively. Trainers offer helpful advice, fitness knowledge, and motivation and support. As most of us already know, personal trainers can be rather expensive, ranging anywhere from $60 to $250 per hour. Unless you have money to spare, you are probably trying to figure out a way to keep the cost down while, at the same time, achieving those desired fitness results. Here are some tips for sacing money on a personal trainer.
- Create a Budget
Ask yourself how much you can afford to spend each month and stick to your financial plan. Your budget is a key part to your success. You do not want to spend more than you can afford. Then you'll be ignoring your financial goals for the sake of your fitness goals! For example, don't spend your rent money on a personal trainer's fee. Total up your monthly expenses and then figure out what you have left over. - Shop Around
One way to get the most out of your budgeted cash is to schedule an information session with a couple of trainers you are interested in working with. Do your research and ask them some questions. Find out their fitness background and what goals they have in mind. Utilize the information meeting as a way to set up a great relationship with your trainer. This will help you understand the level of financial commitment you should expect, for example, how many sessions you should plan to pay for. - Schedule Your First Sessions
At first, only spend money on a couple of sessions. This step is crucial because you want to ensure that you actually enjoy working with your new trainer. More importantly, you want to make sure the trainer is ready to work toward your fitness goals. After you decided that your personal trainer is a good fit, you should schedule several fitness sessions in advance. Many trainers will offer a discounted price when purchasing several sessions at one time. This is a great way to save money if you are confident in your trainer and like working with this person. - Look For Deals
Savvy shoppers can find deals on anything, personal training included. For example, at certain times of the year, your local gym may offer discounted training packages. A personal trainer who is new to the area may offer discounted training while they build up their client base. Do you live in a college town? If a university has a kineseology or personal fitness program, they may offer cheap sessions with a trainer. Check your local newspapers, health food stores, and websites like Groupon or Living Social to see what's available near you. - Consider Group Training
Semi-personal training is typically a workout session with two or three other individuals and one trainer. This method is a great way to save money while still having access to the wisdom of a personal trainer. Group personal training is an even more effective way to save money. Although you might not have as much of a personal relationship with your trainer, you still can get a great workout (which is your ultimate goal). Many gyms and college fitness centers offer group fitness sessions as a part of your regular membership fee, which is a great way to save money. -
Skip the Professional
Finally, if your budget is very tight and you have concluded that high-end personal trainers simply aren't affordable, you might want to find a friend or colleague that is highly motivated and knowledgable about personal fitness. We all know family members and coworkers that work out regularly, right? Link up with these people and ask to tag along during their workouts. They can give you a few pointers to get you started.
It is important to do your research and to experiment with the various approaches outlined. If done correctly, you will find a valuable personal trainer and you will achieve your fitness objectives. Don't let a discount draw you to an unqualified trainer, though. Safety is the most important thing in a new workout.
