(HealthDayNews) -- A personal trainer can help start you on an exercise routine or help move your workout up a notch.
But before you hire the first jock on the block, Harvard Medical Schools offers these guidelines:
- The trainer should have a background in exercise physiology, anatomy, injury prevention and monitoring of exercise intensity.
- He or she should be certified in CPR and first aid.
- The trainer should provide you with references from other clients.
- Expect your trainer to establish realistic short-term and long-term goals and to motivate you by assessing your progress.
- He or she must have liability insurance, in case you are hurt due to his or her negligence.
- The trainer should be willing to put workout methods in writing and explain the reasoning behind exercise decisions.
