Rediff.com« Back to articlePrint this article

QUIZ: Do you have the right trainer?

Last updated on: September 22, 2014 20:34 IST

How do you gauge if your trainer is good for you? Every trainer will have his or her own theory, specialisation and style of training, which can get you super results or may Not work for you at all.

Here's a quiz to find out!

1. Have you seen your trainer's qualifications?
1. Yes
2. No

2. On what basis did you hire your trainer? 
1. On a friend's recommendation
2. Advertisement
3. Gym's recommendation

3. Has your trainer asked you for your medical and fitness history?
1. Yes
2. No

4. 4. Has s/he explained how he is going to get you to your fitness goal?
1. Yes
2. No

5. Has s/he included cardiovascular training (walking, running, cycling, swimming, etc) in your plan?
1. Yes
2. No

6. Are you happy and comfortable enough with the fitness plan?
1. Yes
2. No

7. Is your trainer willing to accommodate some changes to the plan based on your request?
1. Yes
2. No

8. Is your trainer focussing on safety, your form and technique in every exercise?
1. Yes
2. No

9. Does s/he explain what each exercise is for?
1. Yes
2. No

10. How do you rate your trainer's motivational skills?
1. Just the right amount to make me work hard but not too hard
2. Poor, sluggish. Barely motivates
3. He doesn't know when to stop!

11. Does your trainer include various element of training like balance, functional training, agility, plyometrics, stretching, count variations and so on?
1. Yes
2. No

12. How do you rate his/her level of interest in training you?
1. S/he's really keen to get me to my goal; keeps the workouts interesting and motivating.
2. S/he's ok
3. S/he's got high expectations. Pushes me way too hard.

13. Are you happy to see and interact with your trainer?
1. Yes, s/he's great!
2. Sometimes
3. Not really! I just want to get the job done.

14. Does your trainer make sure s/he never misses her/his session with you and is punctual?
1. Yes
2. No

15. Are your workouts interesting and the atmosphere upbeat?
1. Yes
2. No

16. Your next session with your trainer is on Wednesday
1. I'm waiting eagerly
2. Oh no! I'd rather work out on my own.

Results

Mostly 1s: Perfect Trainer!

You got the right man/woman for the job! Your trainer understands you, is professional and technical while creating a fun atmosphere to work in. You are in for great results. Communicate if you feel a lack of something and you will get it.

Mostly 2s: Disinterested Trainer!

This sort of a coach leaves too many things wanting and will only make you hate working out. Scout for a better one right away!
When you answered the Cs: Depends how you see this. Super motivating or overwhelmingly loud. A lot of people love this to get them going: strict and loud instructions, tough goals etc. If this isn't your cup of tea, move on.

When you answered the 3s: Depends how you see this. Super motivating or overwhelmingly loud. A lot of people love this to get them going: strict and loud instructions, tough goals etc. If this isn't your cup of tea, move on.

Brinda Sapat