Should I Continue with Personal Training?

I have a decision to make.


The company that provides my personal training has ended its contract with my gym and essentially with me as well. I have been utilizing the trainer for 4 weeks and I have about 2 weeks left on my contract. I’m trying to decide if I should employ a new trainer or go it alone. The company is actually opening a new fitness facility so there is another option: quit my gym and follow my trainer to her new destination.

I’ve proven to myself that I can work out alone but will my workouts be just as effective? I mean, I worked out with Amanda today and right now I feel amazing. Last Friday I worked out on my own and the results were not as good. Maybe it’s something I can work up to. I’m torn.

I found this article regarding the topic and I thought it might help me to make a decision. I’ve listed the ten reasons why people should hire a trainer according to the article (click on the link for full article):

1. You’re not seeing results – years ago when I attempted strength training on my own I wasn’t seeing results. I have seen results albeit small over the last 4 weeks. I could continue on my own and continue to see results.

2. You don’t know where to start – Not applicable. I’ve already started.

3. You’re bored with the same old workouts – All my workouts are new to me and I could do additional research to discover new ones.

4. You need to be challenged – I definitely need to be challenged.

5. You want to learn how to exercise on your own – Eventually, I will have to exercise on my own. Why not start now?

6. You need accountability and motivation – I love the accountability and motivation that I get from a trainer.

7. You have a specific illness, injury or condition – Not applicable

8. You’re training for a sport or event – Not applicable

9. You want supervision and support during workouts – I appreciate the support and encouragement I receive from my trainer

10. You want to workout at home – I have no desire to work out at home

So out of the 10, there are 3 reasons that really speak to me: being challenged, being accountable and receiving support. I also receive helpful diet and nutrition information from my trainer.

I have some time before I have to decide. The idea of saving money and going it alone is appealing but “you get what you pay for”. I hired a trainer for a reason: I want to transform my body and I’m not qualified to do it on my own. That still applies but part of me wants the challenge of going it alone.

Thoughts?