Many people still think of personal training as an ongoing extravagance for celebrities and high powered CEO’s. However, there are very few individuals who could not benefit from at least a few sessions with a professional, and more and more people are realizing the value of such an investment.

If you’re a novice exerciser, it’s obvious why it would make sense to hire a personal trainer. Getting set up on the right program and learning proper technique will lower your risk of injury and help you get better results.

Experienced individuals can benefit by revising their current workout routine. Our bodies adapt to doing the same movements over and over, so changing your program can help you break through plateaus, keep you motivated and prevent boredom. For those who created their own strength training program from books, magazines, the internet or videos, a personal trainer can insure that the exercises are being performed correctly, in the proper order, and that all the major muscles are being worked. Exercising some muscles while neglecting others can result in imbalances and injury.

Busy professionals can utilize regular personal training sessions to help them maximize the efficiency of their limited time. Working with a trainer allows you to concentrate solely on the execution of each movement rather than setting up or adjusting equipment, recording information, etc. giving you more time to spend working out. You also have someone monitoring your technique and encouraging you to push yourself a little harder- both especially important if you’re regularly crunched for time.

Accountability is a huge issue for many people. Having regularly scheduled appointment for workouts helps prevent excuses and skipped sessions.

If cost is an issue or for those who prefer group training, a fitness boot camp is a great option. You get the instructional benefits of personal training along with the support and camaraderie of a group, at a fraction of the cost of individual personal training.

It’s hard for many people to maintain a consistent exercise habit on their own. Like personal training, boot camps offer accountability along with the motivation, encouragement and support of the group, Let’s be honest, most people don’t push themselves as hard when they exercise alone. Having friends encouraging you will help you work harder and get faster results.

If you’re interested in starting an exercise program, want to update your current regime or need some motivation or accountability, a certified personal trainer can help you safely get the most benefit from your time and effort.