Stop Asking "What Are Your Rates?"—Here’s What You Really Need to Ask When Hiring a Personal Trainer
People often reach out to me asking about personal training—but the only question they ask is, “What are your rates?” And while I understand that budget matters, it’s wild how often they skip over the most important stuff—like my experience, coaching style, and how I actually help people reach their goals. If you're looking for a trainer, here’s a better place to start. Below is a list of questions to ask and what to look for in the answers so you can find someone who’s truly the right fit for you.
Let’s start with the worst question you can ask when looking for a personal trainer:
“What are your rates?”
Listen—I get it. Budget matters. But starting with price is like asking a surgeon what they charge before you even know what kind of surgeries they specialize in. When it comes to your health, strength, and long-term success, the better question is:
“What am I getting for my investment?”
Because let’s be real—you often get what you pay for. A low-cost trainer who doesn’t listen, plan, or track progress can end up costing you more in wasted time, stalled results, and potential injury. So let’s flip the script.
Here are the exact questions you should ask when choosing a personal trainer—and what to look for in the answers.
What to listen for:
Do they have a clear, evidence-based approach? Their style should align with your goals—whether that’s fat loss, strength, energy, or just moving without pain.
Green flag answer:
“I build sustainable, strength-based programs that improve how you look, feel, and function. Everything is personalized and adaptable depending on your goals and lifestyle.”
🚩 Red flag: They can’t explain it or it sounds like a one-size-fits-all workout.
What to listen for:
They should ask questions about you first—and give examples of helping people with similar goals, bodies, or limitations.
Green flag answer:
“I’ve worked with busy professionals, new moms, and people over 50 who want to feel strong and stay active. I love helping people build strength that carries over into everyday life.”
🚩 Red flag: They talk about themselves the whole time—or only mention elite athletes or people who are not like you.
What to listen for:
Initial certifications are good (NASM, ACE, NSCA, CrossFit, etc.), but ongoing education is key. The industry changes fast—your trainer should be growing with it.
Green flag answer:
“I’m certified through NASM and just completed a course on mobility and performance. I’m always learning to better serve my clients.”
🚩 Red flag: “I got certified 10 years ago and haven’t really needed to take anything since.”
What to listen for:
They should have a process to measure and adjust based on YOUR definition of progress—whether that’s strength, body composition, energy, or movement quality.
Green flag answer:
“We do a movement screen, InBody scans, and monthly check-ins. I’ll adjust your plan as you improve so we keep moving forward without burning out.”
🚩 Red flag: They just weigh you and call it a day—or don’t track anything at all.
What to listen for:
Every good trainer adapts to your body, your life, and your energy each day. You are not a spreadsheet.
Green flag answer:
“I plan each session based on where you're at physically, mentally, and emotionally. If you're sore, stressed, or tight, we shift the focus while still working toward your goal.”
🚩 Red flag: “Everyone does the same workout or they do the planned workout regardless of how the client feels that day.”
What to listen for:
Life happens. A great coach helps you navigate setbacks without shame or burnout.
Green flag answer:
“We reassess and adjust. Sometimes that means shifting workouts, addressing nutrition, or just finding ways to stay consistent when life gets busy.”
🚩 Red flag: “Push harder, has no answer or gets negative with a client for losing motivation.”
What to listen for:
Fitness is about more than what you do for one hour in the gym. Ask how they support your journey the other 23.
Green flag answer:
“I offer regular check-ins and help with accountability, nutrition basics, and recovery strategies. I want you feeling great every day, not just on gym days.”
🚩 Red flag: Crickets.
Because at the end of the day, the best trainer isn’t just the one who programs well—it’s the one who helps you believe in yourself. Look for someone who challenges you and celebrates your wins.
My final thoughts are that, yes, money matters. But results, safety, confidence, and consistency? They are also important. Ask better questions, and you’ll get a better experience, better results—and a better understanding of who you’re actually hiring. When it comes to your health and fitness goals, don’t just shop for a price tag—look for someone who knows how to coach, connect, and help you level up.
Your body, your goals, and your time are worth investing in the right coach. 💪
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