There are many things to consider when thinking about hiring a personal trainer. Goals, expectations, and method of training are certainly important considerations. However, the most important consideration should be whether or not a personal connection exists and if you and your trainer can come together in a way that is motivating and inspiring.

Paul Robinson, a trainer in Edmonton, has spent 27 years in the fitness industry. He has been an executive, speaker, and consultant.

A few years ago, he facilitated a training session involving both personal trainers and customer service. When he asked what was most important, the trainers admirably answered: knowledge. The customer service reps answered “the ability to demonstrate caring.”

Of course, personal trainers need that knowledge to succeed. Without it, they might as well just be your buddy in the gym watching you struggle through reps on the bench press.

However, more and more studies have indicated that empathy is a critical skill for anyone in the service and helping industry to have. This goes from customer service reps all the way up to doctors.

People often just want to be heard.

A top-tier trainer needs to have both knowledge and empathy in spades. With the exception of highly trained athletes and challenging post-rehab situations, empathy might even be more important than knowledge. If your client isn’t even listening, does it really matter how much you know?

If you are shopping for a personal trainer, assess the amount of empathy you require in order to be successful. Seek out a trainer who meets those needs. If you feel that the trainer isn’t meeting those needs, keep looking.

Robinson recalls one client telling him: “I can count – I’ve done it all my life. I need someone to motivate me!”

If you are seeking a personal trainer to motivate you to meet your goals, look no further than Frank Tortorici. An experienced personal trainer, Frank Tortorici can help you to meet and exceed your fitness goals. Contact him for an appointment today.