Article Rundown

• Warning signs of a “personal terrorist”
• Frequently employing jargon to impress you
• Bragging about clients they have had
• Using cookie-cutter approaches
• Never say “I don’t know.”
• Not providing you with reasoning

Red Flags From Your Personal Trainer!

In this video, I’ll discuss the warning signs to look out for when selecting a personal trainer. Whether you’re a top athlete or a weekend warrior at your local gym, you must be aware of these red flags to avoid trainers I like to call “personal terrorists.”

I recall giving a talk in 2018 at the Red Rock in Las Vegas to NFL strength coaches alongside Dr. Stuart McGill, Dan Pfaff, and other esteemed specialists. Our discussion focused on injury resilience for NFL athletes, emphasizing core work and movement strategies. During this time, I reconnected with Buddy Morris and met Tom Myslinski, the head strength coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars. It was here that I first heard the term “personal terrorists” used to describe trainers who mishandle athletes during the off-season. This shocked me initially, but it quickly made sense: not every trainer possesses the knowledge or the athletes’ best interests in mind. Poor programming and improper exercise selection are among the leading reasons I see clients suffering from back pain.

1. They Use Big Words

If your trainer frequently employs jargon to impress you, it’s a red flag. A competent trainer should communicate in a way you can understand, whether you’re a beginner or an expert in exercise science. They should adjust their explanations based on your level of knowledge, ensuring you comprehend the training process.

2. They Brag About Clients

Does your trainer constantly boast about the athletes they’ve worked with? While testimonials can be significant, a good trainer should focus on you and your specific goals. If they spend more time discussing their past successes than on your needs, it’s a sign to reconsider your choice.

3. They Use a Cookie-Cutter Approach

If your trainer follows the same program for multiple clients or conducts group workouts where everyone does the same exercises, beware. While group fitness can benefit some, an effective trainer should tailor their programs to your individual needs, considering your injury history, experience level, and specific goals. Training should never be one-size-fits-all.

4. They Never Say “I Don’t Know.”

No one knows everything and a good trainer should be honest about their limitations. If your trainer always claims to have the answer to every question or insists they can handle every aspect of your fitness journey without referring you to specialists, it’s time to find someone new. A qualified trainer will recognize their limits and connect you with other professionals when necessary.

5. They Can’t Provide Reasoning

It raises a red flag if your trainer can’t explain why you’re doing specific exercises. Clients should feel empowered to ask questions, and a knowledgeable trainer should provide clear, informed answers. If they can’t justify their methods, they may rely on a generic program they found online that isn’t tailored to you.

Conclusion 

Unfortunately, many personal trainers earn their certification through weekend courses, relying on shady exams and online resources to claim expertise. A well-defined or otherworldly strength and physique don’t equate to knowledge or capability. If your trainer exhibits any of the traits I’ve described, it’s wise to seek someone who genuinely understands training principles and has your best interests at heart. Finding a qualified trainer can make all the difference in achieving your fitness goals and maintaining your health.

BRIAN DOES ONLINE AND IN-PERSON COACHING!

Back Injured Average Mary or Joe who wants their life back

Back Injured Athlete Wanting to Return to Sport

Lift and exercise coaching & cueing to troubleshoot form

Program adherence & accountability coaching