Blog: Choose Your Fitness Professional Wisely

When it comes to your health and physique, you ought to put the same amount of effort into choosing a fitness coach as you would choosing a financial advisor, doctor, or therapist. Think about it. You are basically seeking guidance from someone who is going to help you not only get into shape, but also help you stay healthy, reduce injury, and keep you out of the emergency room. So you better make sure that the person who is going to train you has the ability to do so in a safe and effective manner. Otherwise, you're just throwing money out the door.

Fortunately for Arcadia residents, there are many fitness organizations and fitness coaches in the area that can help you achieve your goals. Unfortunately though, unlike most other professions, fitness training is not regulated by the state. So, the qualifications can vary quite a bit. But there are a few things you can look for in a fitness professional that can lead you in the right direction:

1. Check if your fitness professional has a college degree in an exercise related field.  This isn't always the case, but many great fitness professionals usually have, at minimum a Bachelors degree either in Kinesiology, Athletic Training, Exercise Physiology, or Applied Exercise Science.

2. Make sure your fitness professional is certified by a nationally recognized organization. The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), The American College of Sports Medicine, and the National Strength and Conditioning Association are considered some of the most respected certifications in the country.

3. Make sure they have experience training with a variety of clients. Everyone has different needs and goals. You want to make sure that your fitness professional can do more than just create a hard workout for you. You want them to have experience in helping you meet your specific needs.

In the attached video, Brandon Dunn, Director of Fitness and owner of The Physical Edge in Arcadia, talks about his views on selecting a fitness professional.