Former personal trainer Steve Maxwell says he's surprised by the kind of behaviour clients tolerate in personal trainers - especially considering they're paying them. Below is a list of indicators that you should kick your trainer to the curb:
1. Your trainer is a poor match.
Personality is even more important than credentials or knowledge.
2. You're getting injured.
Recurring injuries are a sign that your trainer isn't teaching proper form and technique.
3. No record-keeping.
Your trainer should take measurements at the start of your relationship and periodically assess your progress.
4. Not paying attention to your stated goals and needs.
Goals should be set during the first meeting and your trainer shouldn't veer from them.
5. You're in a constant state of fatigue from your workouts.
If you frequently feel ill, have aching joints and heaviness of the limbs, your trainer needs to ease up.
6. Using negative reinforcement.
You're not in the army, there's no need the drill-sergeant routine. Studies suggest positive encouragement gets better results anyway.
7. Your trainer is a Don Juan.
You're paying your trainer to get you in shape, not to flirt with you or others during your sessions.
8. Poor personal health and workout habits.
Your trainer shouldn't be sitting down and scarfing pizza during your sessions if he's trying to teach you proper nutrition and exercise.