How to pick the right personal trainer

It's important to get real references from people like you, who have achieved what you'd like to achieve.

A trainer can help you with a plan to get stronger, get thinner or meet other reasonable fitness goals. And a trainer can motivate you. But you have to do the work. They can open the door for you, but it's up to you to walk through it.

Check newspaper ads and local fitness magazines for leads.

Best of all, of course, is word of mouth.

What do I look for in a trainer?
Certification, for starters. There is no national governing body, so comparing letters after a trainer's name can be an apples-oranges thing.

If certification isn't enough, what else should I do?
Interview your potential trainer. Ask what kind of clients they normally take - to see if you fit in and gauge if they're interested in your health history and goals.