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The Dangers and Risks of Playing Pickleball: Injury Prevention Tips from a San Diego Personal Trainer

Mar 7 2025

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., especially in San Diego, where its popularity continues to soar. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball is an accessible and fun way to stay active. However, like any sport, it carries inherent risks of injury, especially for players who aren’t physically prepared for the quick movements the game demands. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, it’s essential to understand the dangers and risks of pickleball—and how to prevent them.

As a personal trainer in San Diego, I work with many clients who play pickleball and have seen firsthand how important it is to be proactive about injury prevention. In this article, we’ll explore the common injuries in pickleball, key statistics, and injury prevention tips to help you enjoy the game safely.

The Growing Popularity of Pickleball in San Diego

Pickleball’s popularity has surged across the United States, and it’s no different here in San Diego. With our beautiful weather and outdoor lifestyle, pickleball is the perfect sport to stay active while enjoying the sunshine. The Sport & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) reports that over 4.8 million people play pickleball in the U.S., and this number is rising every year. Pickleball is especially popular among older adults because it’s easier on the joints compared to high-impact sports like tennis, making it a great option for active seniors.

However, even though pickleball is considered a low-impact sport, it’s not without risks. Let’s take a closer look at the most common pickleball injuries and how you can prevent them.

Common Pickleball Injuries

While pickleball is often promoted as a sport that’s easy on the body, it’s still possible to sustain injuries. The game requires quick movements, sudden stops, and frequent lateral shifts, which can put strain on the body if you’re not properly conditioned. Here are some of the most common injuries in pickleball:

  1. Sprains and Strains: Sudden movements and quick changes in direction are a recipe for sprains and strains, particularly in the ankle, knee, or shoulder.

  2. Ankle and Knee Injuries: Pivoting and rapid lateral movements can lead to ankle sprains or knee injuries. Twisting your knee or rolling an ankle during a fast-paced rally can result in injury.

  3. Rotator Cuff Injuries: The repetitive overhead motions used in pickleball—especially while serving or executing power shots—can put a strain on your shoulder joint, leading to rotator cuff injuries.

  4. Elbow Injuries: “Pickleball elbow,” a form of tendinitis, is a common injury in players who use improper technique or overuse their arms during the game. Overhead serves or constant backhand shots can cause this issue.

  5. Back Injuries: The constant bending, twisting, and reaching in pickleball can strain the lower back, especially if you don’t maintain proper posture or warm up effectively or you sit a lot or workout a lot before playing. One scenario your back is not prepared and the other it is overworked.

  6. Head Injuries: Though less common, falls or collisions with the net post or other players can result in head injuries. Always be mindful of your surroundings when playing pickleball.

Injury Statistics for Pickleball Players

While pickleball is relatively new compared to other sports, there is a growing body of research on injury rates. Several studies and reports have sought to quantify the risks of playing pickleball. A survey conducted by the Pickleball Forum in 2022 revealed that about 25% of respondents had sustained some form of injury while playing. Among these injuries, the most common were ankle sprains, knee problems, and shoulder injuries.

  1. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2018 looked at injuries in pickleball players and found that 13.4% of pickleball players suffered an injury over a one-year period. The majority of these injuries were musculoskeletal, with sprains and strains being the most common.

  2. A 2021 study from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) found that pickleball-related injuries have increased by 50% from 2017 to 2021, with many of the injuries occurring in players aged 65 and older. This age group is particularly vulnerable to falls, bone fractures, and strains.

  3. In a survey of over 1,000 pickleball players conducted by the Pickleball Forum in 2022, nearly 25% of respondents reported having experienced some form of injury while playing. Among those who were injured, the majority cited ankle sprains, knee issues, and shoulder injuries as the most common problems.

  4. A study from the American Journal of Sports Medicine (2023) found that pickleball players in their 50s and 60s experienced a higher rate of injuries compared to younger players. This highlights the need for older players to be especially cautious and proactive about injury prevention.

Risk Factors for Pickleball Injuries

Several factors contribute to the likelihood of injury in pickleball. As a personal trainer in San Diego, I emphasize the following risk factors to my clients:

  1. Age and Fitness Level: Older players or those who aren’t physically fit may be at greater risk of injury. If you haven’t been active for a while or have a history of joint issues, it’s important to work on strengthening your muscles and improving flexibility before playing pickleball.

  2. Inadequate Warm-Up: Failing to warm up properly can leave your muscles and joints unprepared for the rapid movements and sudden stops in pickleball. A good warm-up increases blood flow to the muscles and helps prevent strains.

  3. Court Conditions: The surface of the court matters. Cracks or uneven surfaces can cause slips and falls. Always check the condition of the court before you start your game to minimize the risk of injury.

  4. Improper Technique: Using improper form, especially when serving or hitting powerful shots, can lead to injury. Overuse or poor mechanics place unnecessary stress on your joints and muscles.

  5. Playing Beyond Your Limits: Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, playing too aggressively or pushing your body too hard can increase the likelihood of injury. Take breaks, listen to your body, and rest when needed.

  6. Dehydration: Often, we assume we’re properly hydrated, but that’s not always the case. When muscles are dehydrated, they can’t contract or relax properly, leading to weakness, cramps, fatigue, and soreness. This happens because dehydration impairs blood flow and disrupts electrolyte balance, both of which are vital for muscle function. As a result, you may experience painful muscle spasms in areas like the quadratus lumborum, multifidi, or spinal erectors, which can become debilitating.

  7. Physical Weakness or Imbalances: Let’s face it—our bodies don’t function the same way as we age. Along with weight gain, the wear and tear on joints, particularly in the lower back, ankles, shoulders, and knees, makes us more vulnerable to injuries.

Injury Prevention Tips for Pickleball Players

As a personal trainer in San Diego, my goal is to help you prevent injuries and enjoy pickleball safely. Here are some injury prevention tips to keep in mind:

  1. Warm Up and Stretch: A proper warm-up is essential to prepare your body for the physical demands of pickleball. Focus on stretching your shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. Dynamic stretches like leg swings and arm circles can help improve your range of motion and flexibility.

  2. Strengthen Your Core and Legs: A strong core and legs provide stability and support, reducing the risk of injury. Incorporating exercises like squats, lunges, and planks into your fitness routine can help you build the strength needed for quick lateral movements and sudden stops.

  3. Use Proper Footwear: Wear shoes designed for court sports, which offer the right combination of support, cushioning, and grip. Proper footwear helps prevent ankle sprains and knee injuries by providing the necessary stability on the court.

  4. Focus on Technique: Learning the proper form for serving, hitting shots, and moving around the court can reduce the stress on your joints and muscles. If you’re unsure about your form, consider working with a coach or trainer to refine your technique.

  5. Play at Your Own Pace: Know your limits and don’t overexert yourself. If you start to feel fatigued or experience pain, take a break. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to injury.

  6. Hydrate and Rest: Staying hydrated is essential for muscle function and recovery. Additionally, rest is crucial to prevent overuse injuries. Avoid playing for extended periods without taking breaks.

Conclusion: Stay Safe and Enjoy Pickleball in San Diego

Pickleball is an exciting and accessible sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and fitness levels. However, like any physical activity, it comes with the risk of injury. By staying mindful of the potential risks, warming up properly, using proper technique, and following injury prevention tips, you can reduce your chances of injury and enjoy pickleball safely.

If you’re in San Diego and looking for personalized guidance on how to improve your fitness, prevent injuries, and take your pickleball game to the next level, reach out to a certified personal trainer. Together, we can help you build the strength, flexibility, and endurance needed to play pickleball with confidence and enjoy the sport for years to come!

Optimize Your body with Personal Training:

Are you feeling weak, tired and just not yourself? Are watching your health & Fitness slip away? Maybe it’s time to enhance your Strength, Agility, Stability & Flexibility through exercises. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with John Turk, San Diego’s top personal trainer for aging professionals wanting to get their body back. Whatever your fitness goals are, we’ll create a customized plan that works for you.

Call 858-877-1370 

Visit us at www.PersonalTrainerSanDiego.com to Get Started

Category: Aging professionals, anti aging, Cardio, General Info, View All, womens health

The Mindset of Healthy, Fit People: Unlock Your success with Personal Training

Dec 31 2024

When it comes to achieving long-term health and fitness, success isn’t just about having the right workout routine or diet plan. The key lies in mindset. Healthy, fit people cultivate certain mental habits and attitudes that set them apart. As a personal trainer, understanding and adopting this mindset is critical—not just for your own success, but for helping your clients reach their full potential.

In this article, we’ll explore the mindset of healthy, fit individuals and show you how it can help you transform your fitness journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your fitness to the next level, adopting these mental strategies will boost your success.

1. Growth Mindset: Believing in Progress, Not Perfection

One of the most powerful qualities of fit, healthy individuals is their growth mindset. They don’t expect to be perfect—they expect to improve over time. They understand that fitness is a journey, not a destination.

  • Key Takeaway: Embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities to learn. With a growth mindset, you understand that every workout is a step closer to your goals.

As a personal trainer, I work with clients to develop this mindset, helping them break through mental barriers and move past obstacles. Customized personal training programs can help you embrace the process and make measurable progress toward your fitness goals.

2. Consistency Over Perfection

Fit individuals understand that consistency is far more important than perfection. It’s not about doing the perfect workout every single day; it’s about showing up and putting in the work, even when it feels tough.

  • Key Takeaway: Consistency builds results, whether it’s hitting the gym, staying active, or sticking to a nutrition plan. Your effort compounds over time.

As your personal trainer, I’ll help you create a sustainable workout schedule and guide you through any challenges that arise, keeping you on track and motivated.

3. Mindful of Nutrition, but Not Obsessed

Fit individuals adopt a healthy relationship with food. They don’t see nutrition as a restriction, but as fuel for their bodies. They understand that balance is key: nourishing the body with the right nutrients without becoming obsessed or fixated on “perfection.”

  • Key Takeaway: Healthy, fit people choose foods that support their fitness goals while allowing themselves occasional indulgences.

When you work with a personal trainer like me, you’ll not only get fitness guidance but also nutrition advice tailored to your needs, helping you make smarter food choices without feeling deprived.

4. Focus on the Bigger Picture

Healthy, fit individuals see the big picture. They aren’t focused on short-term results but on long-term health and fitness. They understand that fitness isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about building a strong, functional body that can support them for years to come.

  • Key Takeaway: Fitness is about more than looking good—it’s about feeling good, having energy, and improving quality of life.

With personalized fitness coaching, you’ll be able to set realistic, long-term health goals that focus on your overall well-being rather than just quick fixes.

5. Embrace Accountability and Support

Fit individuals know that accountability plays a big role in success. They often have a support system—whether it’s a workout buddy, a coach, or a community—that helps keep them motivated and on track.

  • Key Takeaway: Working with a personal trainer gives you the accountability and support you need to stay committed to your goals.

Having a fitness coach helps you stay focused and provides expert guidance, making your fitness journey more enjoyable and effective. As your personal trainer, I’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure you stay on track, celebrate victories, and learn from setbacks.

6. Positive Self-Talk and Mental Resilience

A positive attitude and mental resilience are essential traits of fit, healthy people. They believe in their ability to succeed and push through mental barriers that might hold others back. They replace negative self-talk with empowering, motivating thoughts.

  • Key Takeaway: Fitness is as much about mental strength as it is about physical strength. Cultivating a positive mindset will propel you toward success.

Through personalized training and mental coaching, I help my clients build the resilience to keep moving forward, no matter how tough things get. It’s not just about physical transformation; it’s about mental and emotional growth, too.

7. Prioritize Rest and Recovery

Fit individuals understand that recovery is just as important as the workout itself. They prioritize quality sleep, hydration, and stretching to ensure their body can repair, rebuild, and perform at its best.

  • Key Takeaway: Rest is essential for avoiding burnout, improving performance, and allowing your muscles to recover.

As part of a well-rounded fitness plan, recovery strategies are integrated into your routine. I’ll help you find the right balance of exercise, recovery, and nutrition to optimize your results.

How a Personal Trainer Can Help You Adopt a Healthy, Fit Mindset

As a personal trainer, my role isn’t just to guide you through exercises—it’s to help you develop the mindset and habits that will keep you motivated, consistent, and focused on your goals. With the right mindset, anyone can achieve lasting fitness success.

When you work with me, we’ll craft a personalized training plan that aligns with your unique goals, whether you’re aiming for weight loss, building strength, improving flexibility, or simply boosting overall wellness. Through expert coaching, accountability, and emotional support, I’ll help you cultivate the mindset of a healthy, fit person.

Start Your Journey Today

Are you ready to unlock your potential and transform your body and mind? Contact me today to schedule your first consultation. Together, we’ll develop a personalized fitness plan that empowers you to achieve lasting results. Click on the free consultation link on my website.

Ready to Transform?

Contact John Turk today for a FREE consultation and let’s start building the mindset of a healthy, fit individual together. Whether you’re in need of one-on-one training, group sessions, or nutritional guidance, I’m here to support your journey to health and fitness.

Optimize Your body with Personal Training:

Ready to enhance your training programs with grip strength exercises? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with John Turk, San Diego’s top personal trainer for aging professionals wanting to get their body back. I’m here to support your journey to health and fitness no matter what your fitness goals are, we’ll create a customized plan that works for you.

Call 858-877-1370 

Visit us at www.PersonalTrainerSanDiego.com to Get Started

 

 

Category: Aging professionals, anti aging, Bodybuilding, Corrective Exercise, Endurance, Fat loss, General Info, Health, Muscle building, Strength, Supplements, Weight Loss, womens health

Unlocking Strength with the 5×5 Program: A Guide for Personal Trainers

Jun 16 2024

Introduction:

In the world of fitness, helping clients achieve their strength goals is paramount. One highly effective method to build muscle and enhance strength is the 5×5 workout program. This tried-and-true system is straightforward yet powerful, making it a valuable tool in any personal trainer’s repertoire. It was originally used by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s mentor, Reg Park and as a young bodybuilder in the 1970’s, my friends and I used it with great success! In this blog, we’ll delve into the mechanics of the 5×5 program, its benefits, and tips for implementation, ensuring you can guide your clients to newfound strength and fitness success.

What is the 5×5 Program?

The 5×5 workout program is a strength training regimen that focuses on compound lifts performed for five sets of five repetitions each. This method emphasizes progressive overload, encouraging consistent strength gains by gradually increasing the weight lifted. When the client can perform 5 sets of an exercise for 5 reps, the weight is increased the next time the exercise is done. In general, for leg exercises like squats, the weight is increased by 5lbs and with upper body movements the weight is increased by 2.5 to 5lbs. If any of the sets are not completed for 5 reps, the same weight is used the next workout until 5 reps is achieved. Forced reps are not used and if strict form is not accomplished the rep is not counted. For example, if you are squatting and your upper thighs don’t reach parallel to the ground, the rep does not count. So, if you have to compensate your form to move the weight, the rep is no good. The reason being is that strict form must be used to avoid injury, especially as the client gets a lot stronger and uses heavier weight. For myself, if any of the reps go as low as 3, I drop the weight 2.5-5lbs.

One word of caution, I would not deadlift and squat on the same day because they both require a high level of low back involvement and depending on the order, one of the movements will suffer and the low back becomes more susceptible to injury. In addition, there is a 3-5 minute rest in between each set. The personal trainer can also allow the client to superset exercises but maximum benefits are achieved with a full 5 minutes rest between sets:

The primary exercises typically include the following:

  • Squats
  • Bench Press
  • Deadlifts
  • Overhead Press
  • Barbell Rows

For example, I would do this workout 3x a week if targeting strength only.

Monday– Bench Press- Deadlifts and Wide Grip Pulldowns. I don’t do Barbell rows because I’m doing deadlifts.

Wednesday– Bench Press- Barbell Squats and Barbell Rows (Note: You can do Barbell rows on a squat day because they require a lot less weight than deadlifts).

Friday– Overhead press- Deadlifts and Barbell Bench Press done last. (Note: The emphasis here is shoulder strength,  I usually emphasize Bench Press more than shoulder press because the shoulders are getting worked in the front from bench press and in the back from deadlifts. In addition, I do not think it is a good idea to load the axial skeleton every workout on all lifts.)

 

Benefits of the 5×5 Program:

1. Simplicity and Efficiency

The 5×5 program’s straightforward structure makes it easy to follow and implement. With only a handful of exercises, clients can quickly master proper form and technique, maximizing workout efficiency.

2. Compound Movements

By focusing on compound lifts, the 5×5 program engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This leads to greater overall muscle development and functional strength, enhancing clients’ daily activities and athletic performance.

3. Progressive Overload

Gradual weight increments ensure continuous progress, preventing plateaus and promoting long-term strength gains. This aspect is crucial for keeping clients motivated and on track with their fitness goals.

4. Time-Efficient Workouts

With fewer exercises per session, clients can complete effective workouts in less time. This is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules, making it easier to stick to the program consistently.

 

Implementing the 5×5 Program with Clients:

Step 1: Assess and Educate

Begin with a thorough assessment of your client’s current fitness level, mobility, and lifting technique. Educate them on the importance of proper form and the fundamentals of the 5×5 program.

Step 2: Customize the Program

While the core of the 5×5 program remains consistent, tailor it to your client’s needs and goals. Adjust the weight increments, rest periods, and accessory exercises to address specific weaknesses or imbalances.

Step 3: Monitor Progress

Track your client’s progress closely, ensuring they maintain proper form as they increase weights. Regularly assess their performance and make necessary adjustments to keep them challenged and progressing.

Step 4: Encourage Recovery

Emphasize the importance of rest and recovery. Adequate sleep, nutrition, and active recovery days are vital for optimal performance and injury prevention.

 

Advanced Tips for Personal Trainers:

Incorporate Variations

Introduce variations of the core lifts (e.g., front squats, incline bench press) to target different muscle groups and prevent monotony. This keeps clients engaged and addresses muscle imbalances.

Focus on Mobility and Flexibility

Incorporate mobility and flexibility exercises into your clients’ routines to enhance their range of motion and reduce the risk of injury. Techniques such as foam rolling, dynamic stretching, and yoga can be beneficial.

Utilize Periodization

Implement periodization strategies to vary the intensity and volume of workouts. This helps prevent overtraining and ensures continuous progress by cycling through different phases of training.

Provide Nutritional Guidance

Guide your clients on proper nutrition to support their strength training goals. Emphasize the importance of protein intake, balanced meals, and staying hydrated.

Conclusion:

The 5×5 workout program is a powerful tool for personal trainers aiming to help clients build strength and muscle. Its simplicity, focus on compound movements, and progressive overload make it an effective and time-efficient training method. By tailoring the program to individual needs and emphasizing proper form, recovery, and nutrition, you can ensure your clients achieve their strength goals safely and effectively. Embrace the 5×5 program in your training arsenal and witness the transformative impact it can have on your clients’ fitness journeys.

Optimize Your body with Personal Training:

Looking to maximize your fat loss and achieve your fitness goals? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with John Turk, San Diego’s top personal trainer for aging professionals wanting to get their body back. Whatever your fitness goals are, we’ll create a customized plan that works for you.

Call 858-877-1370 or Visit us at www.PersonalTrainerSanDiego.com to Get Started!

 

Category: Aging professionals, Fat loss, Strength, Weight Loss

Low intensity cardio vs High intensity cardio

Jun 3 2024

When it comes to burning fat, the fitness world often debates between two popular types of exercise: Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). Both have their advocates and benefits, but which one truly reigns supreme in the quest for fat loss? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the mechanics, benefits, and considerations of LISS and HIIT, helping you determine which is best for your personal training goals.

Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) Exercise?

LISS exercise involves performing aerobic activities at a low to moderate intensity for a prolonged period. Common examples include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or jogging at a steady pace. Typically, LISS workouts last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.

Benefits of LISS:

  1. Accessibility: LISS exercises are easy to perform and don’t require advanced fitness levels or specialized equipment.
  2. Lower Risk of Injury: Due to its low intensity, LISS reduces the risk of injury, making it suitable for beginners and those recovering from injuries.
  3. Improved Endurance: Consistent LISS workouts enhance cardiovascular endurance and overall aerobic capacity.
  4. Stress Reduction: The steady, rhythmic nature of LISS can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being.

Fat Burning with LISS:

LISS primarily uses fat as a fuel source during the workout. Since the intensity is low, the body relies more on fat oxidation compared to carbohydrates. However, the total calorie burn may be lower compared to higher-intensity workouts.

What is High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)?

HIIT involves alternating between short bursts of intense exercise and periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. A typical HIIT session lasts between 20 to 30 minutes and can include activities like sprinting, cycling, or bodyweight exercises performed at maximum effort.

Benefits of HIIT:

  1. Time Efficiency: HIIT workouts are shorter, making them ideal for those with busy schedules.
  2. Increased Caloric Burn: HIIT can burn a significant number of calories in a short period and continues to burn calories post-workout through the EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption) effect.
  3. Improved Cardiovascular Health: HIIT enhances cardiovascular fitness and can improve heart health more rapidly than steady-state cardio.
  4. Metabolic Boost: HIIT increases metabolic rate, which can aid in fat loss and muscle preservation.

Fat Burning with HIIT:

HIIT primarily burns carbohydrates during the intense phases of the workout. However, the afterburn effect (EPOC) ensures that the body continues to burn fat for hours after the workout. This makes HIIT highly effective for overall fat loss.

LISS vs. HIIT: Which is Better for Burning Fat?

Both LISS and HIIT have their unique advantages when it comes to burning fat. The best choice depends on individual preferences, fitness levels, and goals.

Factors to Consider:

  1. Fitness Level: Beginners may find LISS more manageable, while those with a higher fitness base might benefit more from the intensity of HIIT.
  2. Time Availability: If you’re short on time, HIIT offers a more efficient way to burn calories and fat.
  3. Sustainability: Consistency is key for fat loss. Choose the type of exercise you’re more likely to stick with in the long term.
  4. Joint Health and Injury Risk: Those with joint issues or injuries may prefer LISS due to its lower impact on the body.

Combining LISS and HIIT:

For optimal fat loss and overall fitness, incorporating both LISS and HIIT into your routine can be highly effective. This approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of both exercise types while preventing burnout and overtraining.

Conclusion:

In the battle of LISS vs. HIIT for fat burning, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Both have proven to be effective in their own right. LISS offers a low-impact, accessible option that burns fat during exercise, while HIIT provides a time-efficient, high-intensity alternative that continues to burn fat long after the workout is over. Ultimately, the best exercise for burning fat is the one that fits your lifestyle, preferences, and fitness level, ensuring you stay consistent and motivated on your journey to better health.

For personalized training plans and expert guidance, consider consulting with a certified personal trainer who can tailor a program to your specific needs and goals.


Optimize Your Fat Loss Journey with Personal Training:

Looking to maximize your fat loss and achieve your fitness goals? Contact us today to schedule a consultation with John Turk, San Diego’s top personal trainer for aging professionals wanting to get their body back. Whether you prefer the steady pace of LISS or the intense bursts of HIIT, we’ll create a customized plan that works for you.

Call 858-877-1370 or Visit us at www.PersonalTrainerSanDiego.com to Get Started!

Category: Aging professionals, Cardio, Fat loss, Health, Weight Loss

How to Choose a Personal Trainer in San Diego?

Jun 11 2010

Having been a personal trainer for over 20 years I’ve been asked this question many times. There are a lot of personal trainers out there and many are down right dangerous and can sometimes hurt an unsuspecting client. Do a Google search of “ Personal Trainer San Diego” and you will turn up hundreds. So how does someone know who is good, bad or “ugly”… so to speak? The best way is by a reliable referral but many times that can be wrong, especially if the source has different goals from you. You should start off by doing you’re own investigation if someone refers you to a Personal Trainer in Chicago or any other state for that matter.

I’ll start off by recommending you look at the type of certification your personal trainer has. I don’t like to talk negative about any individual or company; so I’ll just name the one’s I feel are top of the line when it comes to making sure your trainer is right for you. If a company isn’t listed it doesn’t mean they are not good, it’s just all a matter of opinion. My opinion was based on several factors:

  • 1) What certifications my peers have, who do I respect as a good Personal Trainers.
  • 2) What pre-requisites are required to obtain the certification? i.e. college degree or no background.
  • 3) How long the company has been in business?
  • 4) Is the company an industry leader in research and development when it comes to sports and fitness?
  • 5) What credentials do most of the Athletic Trainers hold, who work for many of the professional sports teams?
  • 6) Do they specialize in Personal Training certifications or do they dabble in many different areas related to fitness?

 

    7) Are their continuing education credits accepted by the top organizations in the field?

Here are some of the companies I feel are at the top of the fitness field in what they offer:

The NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association)
This certification is widely accepted and known as the gold standard in sports and fitness. It has all the credentials I’ve listed above and most respected professionals in the field who work for sports teams or write for fitness journals or magazines have one of these certifications.

The ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine)

This organization has many different types of certifications specializing in Clinical, Specialty and Health and Fitness. They are also known as an industry as a leader in Sports and Fitness. The ACSM is also a the top in the world of sports and fitness research and development.

The NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine)

This certification is one that can be obtained without having a college related degree and is in my opinion the best one for trainers that do not have an advanced education in health and fitness such a Bachelors, Masters or Phd. The NASM also offers a variety of certifications for the fitness professional.

Another credential worth mentioning is if your Personal Trainer has an advanced degree like a Bachelors, Masters or Phd. in a fitness related field or has clinical work in a hospital or organized athletic program, like a college or sports team. These individuals usually possess knowledge of periodizing a program through different phases of the clients fitness level or season.

There are many other signs of a good personal trainer but as many people don’t realize there are certain signs differentiating a professional from someone in the business as a hobby or side job:

Are they on their cell phone while you’re working out?
Do they care for you as a person?
Do they show up late or leave you standing?
Do they spot you on all overhead movements?
Do they have a game plan or show up with nothing in hand and and act like they have a game plan and “wing it”?
(Lets face it, if they are a busy trainer how do they remember all the exercises every client does as well as the weight lifted)
Do they explain why they are doing things and change it up if you’re not seeing progress?
Does their body inspire you or do they look like they need a Personal Trainer themselves?
They should be insured and CPR certified.

Finding the right Personal Trainer is hard to do, because they not only have to be good at what they do, he/she should be professional, courteous, friendly and have a good personality. Personal Training is a service related industry and does not have a governing body to regulate who can call themselves a Personal Trainer and who cannot. Until the state or federal government decides to monitor the industry, people will have to use due diligence in who they select to help them reach their fitness goals.

Thanks for stopping by.

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The Best Fat Burners: A Comprehensive Look at Proven Methods Through Scientific Studies

Posted: Mar. 26, 2025

Fat Loss Compounds: Exploring Their Mechanisms, Pathways, and the Latest Research Fat loss remains one of the most sought-after goals in the world of health and fitness. With countless supplements available in…read more

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