Ask about their experience with people like you, how they build a plan, how they handle injuries, what a session looks like, what it costs and what happens when you cancel. Their answers show you how they think. Good trainers answer clearly and do not get defensive.
Use these fifteen questions in a call, a message or your first meeting. Together with how to choose a personal trainer, they make a good filter.
About experience
1. How long have you been training people?
You want a straight answer, with specifics. Years of experience are not everything, but they give you a sense of how many people and situations they have seen. For reference, Garrett has been training for 20+ years, including 17+ years training high-end clients.
2. Who do you usually work with?
A trainer who works with busy professionals will plan differently from one who trains athletes. Look for someone whose usual clients look something like you. Garrett already works with busy professionals who value their time.
3. What certifications and training do you have?
Ask which certifications they hold, from which organisations, and whether they are current. Reputable trainers are happy to share this. Do not take a claim on faith; ask to see it, and check it with the issuing body if you want to be sure.
About process
4. What happens in the first session?
A strong answer includes an assessment, a conversation about your goals and history and some training, not just a sales pitch. At Ruca Fit, the first session is an assessment of where you are today and where you want to go. See what to expect from in-home personal training.
5. How do you build my plan?
Look for words like assess, customise, adjust. A template handed out to everyone is a red flag. Read about custom programming for an example.
6. How will we track progress?
Good answers include logging workouts, reassessing movement and setting realistic milestones, not just the scale. See the progression guide.
7. How do you coach form?
You want real-time correction, clear cues and patience. The basic patterns, squat, hinge, push and pull and carry, should be taught carefully.
About safety and fit
8. How do you handle injuries or pain?
A good trainer asks about your history, works within your limits, adjusts exercises and refers you to a doctor or a physical therapist when something is outside their scope. They should not diagnose or promise to fix an injury.
9. What do you do if I am a total beginner, or very out of shape?
Look for patience and a plan that meets you where you are. See our beginner strength training guide and beginner personal training in Venice.
10. Do you give nutrition advice?
Trainers can offer general guidance. They should not prescribe medical diets. A healthy answer is practical, whole-food-based and willing to refer you to a registered dietitian for complex needs. See whole-food nutrition for fat loss.
About logistics and cost
11. How much does it cost, and what is included?
Ask for the full picture: session length, package pricing, travel, programming and nutrition. At Ruca Fit, a single in-home hour is $175, the 5-session package is $825 and the 10-session package is $1,500. See personal training packages explained.
12. How long are packages valid?
Packages should have a clear window. Ruca Fit packages are valid for 6 months, which gives room for travel and busy weeks.
13. What is your cancellation policy?
You want clarity. Ruca Fit's policy: cancel with 24 hours notice and the session is rescheduled. With less notice, Garrett talks through options.
14. How flexible is your schedule?
If you travel or your calendar changes, flexibility matters. See flexible scheduling and a plan for a busy work week and travel.
15. Where do you train, and do you travel?
If you want training at home, ask about the service area. Garrett comes to clients in Venice, Marina del Rey and Santa Monica, within about 3 miles of Venice. Further travel can be arranged. Check out in-home personal training in Venice for more.
How to read their answers
Good signs
- Clear, specific and calm answers
- Questions back to you
- Honesty about what they do not know
- Willingness to put things in writing
- No pressure
Warning signs
- Guaranteed results
- Vague answers about credentials
- Medical claims or diagnoses
- Urgent sales tactics
- Bad-mouthing other trainers
Bonus questions for your first session
- Can you explain why we are doing this exercise?
- What should I feel, and what should I not feel?
- What should I do between sessions?
- How will we know the plan is working?
What to do next
Write your top five questions, send them to two or three trainers and compare the answers. Then do a trial session with your favourite. Remember the point of this is to find a person you will keep showing up for; see chop wood, carry water. To compare options at a high level, read personal trainer vs gym vs app.
When you are ready to talk to Garrett, book a session. He trains at home in Venice, Marina del Rey and Santa Monica.
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.