Over the years, we have encountered both excellent and not-so-great personal trainers. These experiences have helped highlight some key behaviors that can annoy clients. Let’s delve into the seven major mistakes personal trainers make that drive clients crazy.
1. Failing to Keep Appointments
There’s nothing more frustrating than a personal trainer who can’t honor their commitments. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation or perpetually showing up late, it’s unprofessional and disrespectful to the client’s time. Imagine warming up at the gym, only for your trainer to stroll in 10 minutes late with a casual apology. Things happen occasionally, but if this becomes a regular occurrence, it might be time to find a new trainer who values punctuality.
2. Neglecting to Keep Records
How can a trainer possibly remember all the details about a client’s health, goals, and progress without taking notes? Keeping charts and records is essential for tracking improvements and tailoring workouts to the client’s needs. Trainers who skip this step are doing their clients a disservice and risking ineffective or even unsafe sessions.
3. Eating During Sessions
We all get hungry, but eating during a client’s session is unprofessional. Whether it’s a protein bar or a bag of trail mix, the personal trainer’s focus should remain solely on the client. After all, clients are paying for undivided attention and expertise, not snack breaks.
4. Talking to Others During Sessions
A trainer chatting with other trainers or familiar clients while working with someone is a clear breach of professionalism. For that one hour, the client’s health and safety should be the trainer’s sole priority. Even if an old friend walks into the gym, the trainer must stay focused on the task at hand.
5. Allowing Children in the Gym
Children don’t belong in the gym, whether they’re the client’s or the trainer’s. The gym environment demands focus and concentration, especially during complex exercises. Distractions caused by children can compromise safety and the quality of the workout.
6. Using Cell Phones During Sessions
Few things are more irritating than a trainer using their phone during a session. Whether they’re texting or taking calls, it shows a lack of respect for the client. Unfortunately, some clients are guilty of this too, chatting on their phones mid-workout. Both trainers and clients should commit to being present and engaged during sessions.
7. Lack of Creativity in Workouts
A trainer who lacks variety in their routines can make workouts feel monotonous. Even worse are those who seem to make up exercises on the spot without a clear plan. Clients come to the gym for guidance, motivation, and structure. Trainers should provide well-thought-out, diverse workouts to keep clients engaged and progressing.
For Gym Owners: A Note on Facilities
It’s not just the trainers who have responsibilities—gym owners must ensure their facilities are clean, well-maintained, and equipped with up-to-date machinery. Locker rooms should be spotless, equipment should be functional, and carpets should be cleaned regularly. At $50 to $75 per session, clients have a right to expect high standards.
If you’re shopping for a personal trainer, use this list to evaluate their professionalism and the facility they work in. There are countless excellent, diligent, and qualified trainers who avoid all of these pitfalls. This article is a result of observations made while warming up or working out with an exemplary trainer who exemplifies professionalism in every way.
R. Adam Shore writes about physical fitness from a consumer perspective. F
