FiT - How to build trust with your Personal Trainer

You may not realise it but your relationship with your personal trainer may be one of the closest you will have. Many people really find themselves vulnerable inside the gym because of the intimidating workout equipment and because of their shyness towards their new trainer.

It is part of your personal trainer’s job to make you feel comfortable inside the gym and with their presence. But, it is also your duty to trust them and be okay with lower your guards during your sessions.

The client personal trainer relationship is rapport-based, meaning trust should be given and received by both parties. Great coaches and fitness trainers understand that relationship trust is the key to a successful outcome in personal training. In other words, trust is the fundamental way we work with each other, communicate with each other, hear each other, learn from and with each other, and get into the same bed with each other. Without trust, relationships simply don’t work, and this does not exclude the one you’re building your fitness studio.

Letting someone see you in your most vulnerable state, i.e. sweaty, without any makeup on and clueless, is not an easy thing to do. Remember, although it is their job to gain it, you should also do your part and try to give it to them. So how could you build your trust with your personal trainer? Here are some things that you can do.

Be on time

Respect each other’s time and be sensitive and responsible enough to show up prepared on time. If you are running late, hit them up with a notice. If you can’t make it to the appointment, you should let them know beforehand too.

Be honest

Different trainers have different opinions, different personalities, and different approaches on everything from how they train, why they train, and how they deal with different types of clients.

This is why you need to tell them what you really think, what you really feel no matter how ridiculous you think it may sound or how petty you think it might be. Your personal trainer is there to help you, as long as you let them.

Being able to honestly and openly tell them your true thoughts and feelings, you are building trust and at the same time, the confidence that your personal trainer is there to help you and not make fun of you.

Be a friend

Don’t be afraid to start a conversation: ask them how their week was, how things are at work, what’s going on in their life and so on. It is possible and recommended to build a friendship with your personal trainer just as long as it stays professional.

Have a laugh

Laughter Is the best medicine—especially during those awkward moments and silence. After all, exercise is a chance to let off steam, have some fun, share some jokes and generally have a good time. Make the most of the situation and keep your sessions light and happy.

Be supportive

It is essential that trainers and clients work together to create a collaborative, non-judgmental, respectful relationship as your trainer discovers your needs and wants. Reassure your trainer that they are doing a great job and they are helping you. If that’s not the case, openly share them your thoughts and suggestions on how you think you can or they can make it better.

By sharing united conversation, your trainer can map out a plan tailored specifically for you, supporting your clients’ intrinsic motivation and commitment to adopting healthier lifestyle habits. In this way, both of you will reap the benefits of a successful, trusting relationship.

Do You Trust Your Trainer? Questions to Ask Yourself:

Does your trainer make each session about you, or is s/he busy talking about her/himself?
Do you and your trainer collaboratively work on your goal setting, or does the trainer tell you what your goals should be?
Do you feel validated, heard, listened to, and understood?
Does your trainer show up in a timely way?
Do you feel comfortable with the gender of your trainer and the professional boundaries that are set? Trainers touch, work closely and get to see you in what are, quite frankly, awkward poses and movements. For some, having a trainer of the opposite sex may lead to discomfort. The certifying agencies, such as ACE, establish appropriate professional boundaries and safeguards.

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