A personal trainer costs $40 to $70 per hour on average or $250 to $400 per month for two sessions per week. Prices depend on the session length, location, trainer's experience, and if you buy a monthly package or book individual sessions.

Personal training rates at popular gyms are $50 to $110 per session, with most sessions lasting one hour. Many gyms offer a free initial fitness assessment with a certified personal trainer.

Hiring a personal trainer can be worth it if you need accountability, are having difficulty achieving your fitness goals on your own, or are returning to a fitness routine after an injury. A personal trainer can help you set realistic expectations, design a custom fitness plan, measure your progress, and boost your motivation.

A personal trainer can suggest activities that work best for your body and your schedule to maximize your results with the time and equipment available to you. Trainers also provide critical guidance for proper exercise form and movement, reducing your risk of injury.

Health insurance typically does not cover the cost of a personal trainer, and you can only pay for a personal trainer with your Health Savings Account (HSA) if your physician or nurse practitioner prescribes an exercise regimen.

Your doctor must write a letter of medical necessity (LMN) confirming the personal training sessions are intended to treat or prevent a medical condition, and you must provide a copy to the IRS when filing your taxes.

You should meet with your personal trainer 1 to 3 times per week, depending on your current fitness level and experience, short-term and long-term goals, and how often you're able to train solo during the week. Most trainers recommend beginning with 2 to 3 sessions per week for at least six weeks to establish a routine.

• If you're on a budget and can only meet with your personal trainer once per week, you'll need to train on your own at least one to three times per week to make progress toward your fitness goals.
• Consider seeing your personal trainer up to 4 times per week to work on short-term goals, like dropping a dress size before a wedding or training for a sports competition.

A personal trainer starts by evaluating your current fitness level, strengths and weaknesses, and skills, then develops a customized exercise plan to help you meet your goals. The trainer works one-on-one with you to monitor your progress and provide guidance and encouragement.

A trainer will ensure you're working each muscle group correctly and at the right frequency, and that you're using proper form for each exercise to avoid injury.

For the best results, aim to build a long-term relationship with your personal trainer to help you get in shape, stay in shape, and achieve your fitness goals. Follow these tips to find the best personal trainer for you:

• Look for an NCSA Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) or Certified Performance and Sports Scientist (CPSS).
• If you have specific goals, such as bodybuilding or running a marathon, select a trainer with experience in that area.
• Read their reviews on Lessons and Google.
• Meet with the trainer to discuss your goals, workout preferences, and any health conditions.
• Ask them how the exercises will change and progress over time. Be wary of trainers who offer only vague answers, as this may indicate a lack of experience.
• Confirm the personal trainer has liability insurance and training in CPR and first aid.

Ask these questions to ensure you choose a personal trainer with the right experience and skills:

• How long have you been a personal trainer?
• Which certifications do you have?
• What is your fitness specialty?
• What is your teaching style?
• How do you assess a new client?
• What experience do you have working with clients at my fitness level?
• Do you have any client photos or video testimonials?
• What does your program include?
• What results should I expect to see?
• How long will it take to reach my fitness goals?
• How do you track fitness goals and progress?
• How will the exercises change over time?
• Do you have liability insurance?
• Are you trained in CPR and first aid?