Choose a trainer who listens, explains what they are doing, builds your plan around your goals, makes you feel safe to ask questions and fits your schedule and budget. Then do a trial session and see how it feels. The right trainer is the one you will keep showing up for.
Credentials and experience matter, but so does fit. You will spend a lot of time together, and trust makes the work easier. Use this seven-step checklist.
1. Know what you want
Before you search, jot down your goals and constraints.
- What do you want to change? Strength, fat loss, energy, mobility, confidence?
- How many days a week can you really train?
- Where do you want to train: at home, at a gym, outdoors?
- What is your budget?
- Do you have injuries or medical concerns? Talk to your doctor first.
If you are not sure what you want, that is fine. A good trainer can help you find it. Our beginner strength training guide is a decent place to start.
2. Check experience and background
Ask how long they have been training people, who they usually work with and what kind of results they focus on. Experience with clients like you is useful. Look at their website and social channels for how they talk about training. Be wary of big promises.
Garrett, for example, has been training for 20+ years, including 17+ years training high-end clients, and already works with busy professionals. When you talk to any trainer, ask for their specifics and decide whether they match what you need. If you want to know which certifications to ask about, see questions to ask a personal trainer.
3. Look for a clear process
A good trainer can explain how they work. Expect:
- An assessment of where you are today
- A plan built around your goals, space and schedule
- Coaching on form during sessions
- Adjustments as you improve
- Guidance on habits such as food and recovery
At Ruca Fit, the first session is an assessment, and the programming is customised for all fitness levels. See custom programming for an example of how a plan is built.
4. Pay attention to communication
During your first conversation, notice:
- Do they ask questions about you, or just talk about themselves?
- Do they explain things in plain language?
- Do they respect your limits and your pace?
- Are they easy to reach and clear about scheduling and cancellations?
You want a coach who can be honest and encouraging at the same time.
5. Compare cost the right way
Compare what is included, not only the hourly rate.
- How long is a session?
- Is there a package discount, and how long is the package valid?
- Is travel included?
- What is the cancellation policy?
- Are nutrition and programming included?
For reference, Ruca Fit in-home sessions are one hour. A single session is $175, the 5-session package is $825 ($165 per session) and the 10-session package is $1,500 ($150 per session). Packages are valid for 6 months, and cancelling with 24 hours notice means the session is rescheduled. We break it down in personal training packages explained.
6. Consider the format
Trainers work in different places and ways.
- In-home. Convenient and private. See what to expect from in-home personal training.
- Gym-based. More equipment, a shared space.
- Outdoor or small-group. Social, with less one-on-one time.
- Online. Flexible, with less hands-on form correction.
For a deeper comparison, read personal trainer vs gym vs app.
7. Do a trial session
The best test is to train together once. After the session, ask yourself:
- Did I feel comfortable?
- Did the trainer watch my form and explain corrections?
- Was the workout appropriate for my level?
- Did I feel challenged but safe?
- Would I look forward to doing this again?
Your first session with Garrett is an assessment of where you are and where you want to go, so it doubles as a trial. A single session costs $175, which is a modest way to find out if it is a fit.
Red flags
Walk away, or at least pause, if you notice:
- Guarantees. Nobody can promise specific results.
- Medical advice. Trainers are not doctors. They should refer you to a professional for medical issues.
- One-size-fits-all programs. Your plan should reflect you.
- Pressure to buy. A good trainer lets you think.
- Ignoring pain. If you say something hurts, they should adjust.
- Extreme diets. Strict plans and cut-everything rules are a warning.
- Always on their phone. Attention matters.
- Shaming. Coaching should not humiliate you.
Green flags
- They ask about your history and goals first.
- They explain the why behind exercises.
- They coach form patiently.
- They are honest when they do not know something.
- They celebrate progress without hype.
- They refer you to professionals when needed.
- They talk about consistency, not quick fixes. See chop wood, carry water.
Location and logistics
If you are near the Westside, check whether the trainer travels to your area. Garrett comes to clients in Venice, Marina del Rey and Santa Monica, within about 3 miles of Venice, and further travel can be arranged. Read about your area: Venice, Marina del Rey or Santa Monica, and nearby Playa del Rey, Playa Vista, Mar Vista and Culver City. Scheduling matters too; the flexible scheduling page explains how booking works.
A final test
Imagine meeting this person three times a week for a few months. Would you be happy to see them at your door? If yes, you probably found a fit.
Train with Garrett
Book an in-home session
One hour, one-on-one, at your home in Venice, Marina del Rey, or Santa Monica. Your first session is an assessment. Single sessions are $175, with packages from $825.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before starting or changing an exercise or nutrition plan, especially if you have an injury or a health condition.