Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.
How much does a personal trainer cost near me?
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.
Is hiring a personal trainer worth it?
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.
Can you pay for a personal trainer with insurance or an HSA?
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.
How often should you see a personal trainer?
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.
What does a personal trainer do?
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.
How do I find the best personal trainer near me?
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.
What questions should I ask personal trainers before hiring?
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?
Reviews for Alexandria personal trainers
Recent success stories from people in the Alexandria area.
Mike S.
Coacherbo is a outstanding coach very patient supportive motivational I learned so much about the art of boxing
Coacherbo boxing
Ariana
Working out with Coach Jovan is fun. I like how the workout is hard but but fun too.
Elevation Training
Barry P.
It's practically and easily usable the same day you learn especially if you unfortunately have to be in a situation to use it. Besides the physical skill set you have receive the mind set to deal with critical life scares.
Positive Self Defense (PSD)
Kecia E.
Coach Rob is an exceptional fitness and accountability partner. His depth of knowledge is top-tier, but what truly sets him apart is his sincerity. Your goals become his goals, and he takes them seriously—pushing when you need it, encouraging when motivation dips, and grounding you with facts that keep you focused and present.
What I appreciate most is Rob’s professionalism, persistence, and overall demeanor. His vibe is just as important to me as the workouts themselves.
Before working with Rob, I’d only worked with fitness instructors in group settings, but had never worked with a personal trainer before. From day one, Rob met me where I was—demonstrating exercises, correcting my form, and showing up with the kind of energy and positivity that makes a real difference. I’m someone who can be hard on myself (or a bit overly critical), so having a coach who brings steady encouragement and positive reinforcement has been huge.
That’s not to say he goes easy—he just truly considers his clients. And the results speak for themselves. In just over eight weeks, I’ve seen noticeable improvements in my strength, mobility, flexibility, mood, and physical confidence. I didn’t set aesthetic goals in the beginning—I just wanted to feel strong, move with more ease, and find a consistent outlet for stress. But the progress I’ve made—inside and out—has been incredible.
If you’re looking for someone who’s both highly skilled and genuinely invested in your success, Rob’s your guy.
Max Effort Training & Bodywork
K. M.
I’m a disabled Veteran and I loved working with Zahra. She understood my goals and developed a great diet and work out plan within my limited ability. I am very happy with my continued results. She’s very patient and makes sure your form is perfect. She’s helped me improve my balance, health and gain more confidence.
3D Xplosive Performance LLC
Jennifer M.
I have hired many trainers from New England to Virginia. Corey has been my all time favorite trainer! If I still lived in the same are I would still be training with him!
Platinum 1 Fitness, Llc
Mary
I like how Tony listens as you tell him your goals. He’s very knowledgeable in every aspect of fitness.
Focused On Fitness Personal Training
Altariq H.
Coach Beaman provided good instructions, for my son, in our first session. His professionalism and intensional care will keep us coming back for more training.
Beaman Basketball Academy Skill Development
How Lessons.com works
Search
Search, get cost estimates, contact teachers, and book—all for free.
Compare
View profiles, read reviews, check qualifications, and see prices before hiring.
Hire
Ask questions, confirm their availability, and hire the right tutor when you're ready.
