Find a personal trainer who will really work out

A good partnership with a trainer can be just the jump-start you need to getting fit.

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Feeling out of shape? Get motivated and take a run to a local gym or health club.

• Visit the gym
  
  Most gyms (find gyms on Kudzu.com) have relationships with qualified trainers or have in house trainers on staff. If you already have a gym membership, you may be able to get a trial workout or a consultation with a trainer free of charge.
  
  
• Interview the trainer, not the other way around
  
  Trainers can be intimidating. A good trainer should conduct a consultation by asking you questions about your goals and fitness level. But, before you get into what you hope to accomplish, make sure you ask them about their certification and experience.
  
  Look for certification from the American College of Sports Medicine, the National Strength and Conditioning Association and the American Council on Exercise. Be aware that there are many less-reputable "associations" granting certifications.
  
  Make sure any trainer you consider is certified by one of the three listed above, or that he or she can offer evidence of qualifications to earn your trust. Also, make sure your trainer is certified to perform CPR and first aid.
  
  
• Check your compatibility with the trainer
  
  Do you need a trainer to challenge and motivate you, taking you to task for sub par performance as a coach would? Or would you rather your trainer be a consultant, offering advice on nutrition and exercise and helping to establish a workout routine that you can maintain on your own?
  
  Whether you need a coach, a consultant, or a bit of both, it's important that you trust your personal trainer to deliver. It’s important for you to like your trainer and develop a good working relationship. With this kind of one-on-one work, you’re more likely to keep up with your workout schedule if the two of you have a good rapport.
  
  
• Money matters
  
  One hour with a personal trainer can range from $20 to $100, depending on the trainer's level of expertise and your needs. You should anticipate spending about $40 to $50 per session. If you plan on frequent visits, try to work out a deal with your trainer that's easier on your wallet.
  
  Most importantly, a good personal trainer can only deliver results to a client who is motivated and sticks with a program. So find a trainer who meets your needs and expect your hard work to pay off.