I have received several questions about how to choose the best personal trainer and/or fitness instructor for you.

The good news is that this means that you are serious about become fit. The bad news is that personal trainers and fitness instructors are not all created equal, and even the good ones might not be the best choice for you.

So, in this article I will give you suggestions on how to achieve success in your quest. You must realize, however, that a good bit of what I write is my opinion and comes from my observations during 20 years of "working out."

Where do I find a Personal Trainer and/or Fitness Instructor?
Most of the fitness centers employ personal trainers and fitness instructors. The bigger and more well known the center is, the more choices of trainers/instructors are available.

You will also find advertisements in local magazines and newspapers along with ads on the fitness certification sites (an example is www.acefitness.org, click on "Find a Fitness Pro").

Another good idea is to ask people you trust to recommend a trainer or instructor.

What factors should I consider before a final choice of trainer/instructor?

What are the person's professional qualifications?
Even though a fitness center may be large and well-known, the trainers and instructors employed there may not be certified, and those who are, may have what I feel are "fly-by-night" certifications.

The three top certifications (in my opinion and the opinion of other trainers/instructors) are from ACE (American Council of Exercise), NFPT (National Federation of Professional Trainers) and AFAA (Aerobics & Fitness Association of America).

Also, a trainer or instructor with a college degree in the physical sciences, and especially an advanced degree, should have the knowledge, credibility and dedication that give a trainer/instructor that extra edge.

Personally, I would be hesitant to work with someone without strong qualifications or someone who hasn't continued growing and learning in the field (which certification requires).

How long has he or she been training/teaching?
Of course, someone who has been working hands-on in the field for several years should have more mastery of programming, process and procedure.

Does the trainer/instructor have experience working with people like me?
If the fitness class is filled with skinny teeny boppers jumping around, it may not be a wise choice for the more mature and/or less-than-in-perfect-shape adult (probably not a good choice for anyone, actually). If the personal trainer is more in tune with football players or boxers who want to be "pushed" he or she might not realize that a more temperate workout can also work (note: this is not always the case. Some wonderful trainers work well with a wide demographic.)

Personality is important.
This may be one of the most important considerations when picking a trainer/instructor. No matter how knowledgeable and well-schooled a trainer or instructor is, if he or she can't establish rapport with you, you will not enjoy your workout - the biggest reason people stop exercising.

Whether you are working with a trainer or attending a group fitness class, it is a personal experience - after all, it is your body we are talking about - so relating well with the trainer/instructor is imperative.

Ask for a trial session. Most trainers and fitness centers will let you have a free introductory session try out a class before joining. Whether this is true or not, I suggest that you visit the club you are considering and, at least, observe a group fitness class at the time you would usually be coming to work out.

If you are seeking a personal trainer - and if necessary - pay for one session. In both cases, ask yourself (and others in the class) the following questions:

• Did I like the trainer's/instructor's approach?
• Could I understand and follow what he or she was telling me to do?
• Did he or she appear to really care about me - not about what I would pay for?
• Is he or she obviously fit and injury-free?

Remember, choose a trainer/fitness instructor with care - it is not only an investment of your money, but also your time. But, do take action and get started. Go for it!