Hiring a personal trainer is one of the smartest investments you can make in your health.
However, hiring the wrong trainer can leave you out of shape, out of pocket, and—worst of all—out of action due to injury. With that in mind, it’s always worth thoroughly researching a personal trainer before you commit. If possible, observe a trainer in action on the gym floor or book a free trial session before hiring to get a genuine sense of their style and how they engage with clients.
It could save you a considerable amount of time, money and effort in the future.
Red flags to watch for when hiring a personal trainer in London:
- Unprofessional conduct: Being late to sessions, neglecting proper gym attire, or leaving equipment out all signal a lack of professionalism and respect—for both you and the gym environment.
- Unstructured sessions: If sessions are delivered off the cuff, without prior planning, tracking, or a clear progression strategy, it signals a lack of commitment and expertise.
- High client turnover: A steady loss of clients often indicates dissatisfaction, unmet expectations, or a lack of genuine connection—all critical red flags when choosing a trainer.
- Out of shape: This suggests a disconnect between what a trainer preaches and practices—raising doubts about their credibility, discipline, and ability to lead by example.
- Poor results: Consistently disappointing outcomes often point to ineffective programming or a lack of accountability—meaning your investment could be going to waste.
What should you look for in a personal trainer?
A good personal trainer is qualified, experienced, and can demonstrate their results through testimonials and before-and-after photos.
They are friendly, professional, and communicate clearly and effectively.
Still unsure what to look for?
Check out my article, What to Look Out For in a Personal Trainer.