What are the benefits of hiring a personal trainer?

Many people simply do not know how to start an exercise program at the right intensity and frequency for their goals. They may over-do or under-do. A certified personal trainer has been educated, trained, and certified to assess current health status, set realistic goals, and design an appropriate program for each individual. Many people find that the assistance and motivation provided by the trainer helps them stay focused on their goals both during the workout and between sessions.

What is a “Customized Personal Fitness Program?”

There are as many different fitness programs as there are individuals.  Each individual has his or her own dreams and goals for physical and emotional well-being.  At My Personal Fitness we assess each client’s goals and abilities as well as their current physical condition and lifestyle.  We work together with each client to ensure that each fitness program is enjoyable and safe, effective but realistic, and most importantly, leads them to their physical and mental goals.  We include physical exercise as well as stress reduction techniques to maximize physical well-being and performance.

We understand that “reality” sometimes gets in the way of the “perfect” fitness program and we provide instruction on simple exercises that can be done at home, work, or even while in the car.  Physical well-being does not have to be sacrificed to a busy schedule.

What if I already belong to a gym or health club?

Our trainers have years of health club experience and can both supplement and complement your gym workouts with in-home sessions.

Is strength training appropriate for youth and teens?

Some strength training is good for anyone. Our trainers use body-weight exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups and crunches to get our youngest clients fit. The most important benefit of any youth fitness program is an improved attitude toward lifelong activity. According to the American Council on Exercise, youth age 11 and up can benefit from some resistance training, as long is it is done conservatively and progressively.

How can exercise improve my mental health, ie, stress, anxiety and depression?

Medical professionals agree that stress, anxiety and depression are becoming increasingly common problems in our society. With these conditions, certain chemicals in our brain are reduced below normal. The reduction of these “feel-good” neurotransmitters, including serotonin, causes the symptoms sufferers complain of. One of the physical effects of regular exercise is to cause the body to produce endorphins, including serotonin. Regular exercise can increase endorphins, including serotonin and other neurotransmitters, to normal or near-normal levels, thereby making us feel emotionally uplifted and balanced.

How much should I eat or drink before and after my workouts?

Research and experience have shown that consuming a small amount of both carbohydrates and proteins about 1 hour before exercising, will improve performance and sustain energy levels. Consuming another small meal or snack consisting of both carbohydrates and protein within 15 – 45 minutes following a workout will speed recovery and reduce fatigue and soreness by replenishing the muscles.

Should I drink a sports drink before or during my workout?

Sports drinks such as Gatorade, Powerade, and others, contain water, which is essential for pre and post workout, as well as during. These drinks also contain electrolytes which are essential for replacing those lost in prolonged sweating, such as running outdoors for several miles, or exercising for a period of more than 1 hour, indoors or outdoors. They also, however contain fairly high amounts of sugar. The benefits of these drinks should be discussed with your trainer as part of your individualized training plan.

I’ve heard a lot about Pilates exercise and core strengthening. Should I be doing these?

These forms of exercise focus on development of the deep muscles of the back and abdomen to support good posture, thereby preventing back pain, and creating length, strength and flexibility in the muscles. We do not know of anyone who does not want to incorporate these principles into their fitness plan!

If you have any questions not answered here, or would like to talk to a fitness and wellness expert, please contact us for a free consultation.