HERE'S HOW YOUR FIRST PERSONAL TRAINER SESSION WILL GO

If you're just getting started on a new fitness journey, or have hit a plateau in your current training regime, our team of expert Personal Trainers are here to get you on track.

To get the most out of your sessions, it’s important to come prepared both physically and mentally to ensure you get off to the best possible start.

Here’s a look at what to expect from your first personal training session and what you can do beforehand to prepare.

KNOW YOUR HISTORY
Your Personal Trainer will ask about any injuries or pre-existing conditions that could affect your training so make sure you have a think about this beforehand so you can disclose everything they need to know. They will use all this information to shape your personalised programme and may even be able to recommend exercises to alleviate certain aches and pains.

Members with lower back pain or stiff joints have relieved symptoms simply by correcting their posture, with the help of a Personal Trainer. So it’s worth highlighting any sore spots so that we can ensure a safe workout and perfect your technique.

BE REALISTIC
During your first session with one of our Personal Trainers, we'll spend some time getting to know about your goals and your current lifestyle. Be honest about how much time you can commit to gym sessions as it’s important to devise a plan you’ll realistically be able to stick to.
Are you hoping to lose a large amount of weight in a short space of time? It’s possible, though you’ll need to keep your free time available for dedicated workout sessions.

Do you have a busy working day, leaving you feeling exhausted by 7pm? Consider having your Personal Training sessions in the morning to give you a boost of energy for the day ahead and prevent the temptation to skip sessions.

Are you training for your first marathon? Aim to finish, not to finish first! Preparing for a marathon involves training the body to push past it’s physical limits. If your goals are unrealistic, such as a record time or the top ten, you leave yourself open to disappointment. Keep it real. Running your first marathon is an achievement in itself!

GOALS
Before meeting with your Personal Trainer, think about what you want to achieve in your sessions. They will then help you create ‘SMART’ goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and have a Timescale. Setting clear goals and writing them down will make you ten times more likely to achieve them, making this a key part of your first session. Perhaps you’re planning a long-awaited holiday for next year, getting married or celebrating a milestone birthday. Consider what you want to achieve by then, and how much time you have to dedicate to your transformation.

Maybe you’ve signed up for the latest Tough Mudder or Race For Life, and need to get your stamina in check. Let your Personal Trainer know the dates you’re working towards and the areas you feel you’ll need to develop to last the distance.

MEASURING UP
Success can only be measured if you know where you started so taking measurements is a great way to kick off your Personal Training journey. This doesn’t necessarily mean jumping on the dreaded scales, success can also be measured by inches lost, body composition or noting what weights you’re able to lift. So we’ll start your first Personal Training session by taking measurements that we can use to track your progress.
Expect us to measure your body fat composition, weight and take note of your upper arm, waist and thigh measurements.

FIGURING OUT YOUR FITNESS LEVEL
In your first session your PT will ask you to perform a few basic exercises to assess your fitness levels. This will allow them to create an effective workout programme that's made specifically for you by giving us a good idea of how tough to make your sessions and how big or small a programme to make. It also allows us to see your techniques and correct any poor form.

BURNING QUESTIONS
If you’ve got a few things you’d like to ask your personal trainer, make a note of your burning questions in case they slip your mind during the session. Remember there are no stupid questions! Your personal trainer is a fountain of fitness knowledge so pick their brains and find out whatever you need to know.

Great questions to ask:
- How many times a week should I be exercising?
- How will I know that I am getting results?
- How will you report my performance?
- How will you keep me motivated?
- What specialist qualifications do you have?

Check out more great questions to ask your Personal Trainer here. 

FUEL AND HYDRATE
Before any workout it’s important to consider what you eat and drink. Avoid drinking alcohol the day before and bring a bottle of water to your session to keep your hydration levels nicely topped up. Eat something light before your session and ensure you adequately refuel afterwards with a protein bar, banana or a pack of nuts. Read our post-workout meal inspiration blog if you’re in need of some guidance.

WHAT TO WEAR
To come prepared for your session it’s important to wear gym-suitable clothes that you feel comfortable in. Think breathable shorts or leggings, a light top that will draw sweat away from your body, a supportive sports bra if you need one, and good gym trainers and sports socks.

RELAX
It’s easy to say, but try to relax. Tell your Personal Trainer if you’re feeling anxious or have specific worries. They're qualified and trained to high industry standards, and are there to support, teach, and coach you towards your goals. Our Personal Trainer’s have lots of experience and will make sure your session is fun and varied. The aim is to get you excited about hitting your goals. Think of us as your motivator, your supporter and your no. 1 cheerleader!

Let’s do this.