If you’re getting back into fitness—or starting it for the first time—it’s normal to wonder about the value of hiring a personal trainer versus simply joining a gym. Here’s the short answer: Hiring a personal trainer and joining a gym are two very different things.

The first option means you’re hiring someone for their expertise and qualifications so that you can have a customized workout plan tailored to your needs and goals, as well as one-on-one (or two-on-one or three-one-one, in some cases) instruction and training.

The second option gives you access to varied amenities offered at your local gyms – weights, group fitness classes, a pool and sauna, etc.

So Which Option Is Better?

It depends on your goals and your own experiences and background. Hiring a personal trainer is a smart move for several reasons:

• It keeps you accountable.Forking over money for a personal trainer means you’re more likely to show up, especially when you begin developing a relationship with your trainer. (While the same can be said for a monthly gym membership, you aren’t standing anyone up if you don’t get to the gym).
• It removes the guesswork. Sure, you can hit up a few machines at the gym, maybe do something similar to that guy in the corner, but do you have a plan in mind? When you follow a personal trainer’s instructions, you’re following a plan that’s been designed to get you from point A to point B so you aren’t just spinning your wheels.
• It keeps things fresh.A good trainer will challenge your body with a varied workout, which can help keep you from getting bored.
• It makes your workouts a priority.When you’re scheduling time with someone, it becomes a priority on your calendar too. Consistency is key, and a trainer can help you stay focused and consistent.

For some, a personal trainer seems cost-prohibitive. But it’s worth pricing out, certainly, and Paul offers free consultations if you’d like to learn more. If the fringe benefits of a gym membership appeal to you – access to a pool, maybe, the social aspects of working out in a crowd, all the equipment and options – and you have the experience to work out effectively while minimizing risk of injury, then by all means, join a gym. Any exercise is better than no exercise. But if you’re serious about changing your body and your health, we invite you to schedule a free consultation to learn the many ways Paul can help you do just that.