Finding the right personal trainer can feel a lot like finding the right doctor, therapist, or coach—it’s not just about their qualifications, it’s also about their personality, approach, and how well they align with your goals and communication style. A great trainer can make fitness feel empowering, motivating, and even fun. A mismatched one, however, can turn workouts into something you dread.
So how do you know when you’ve found the right personal trainer for you? Here’s what to look for—and how to know it’s a great match.
1. They Motivate You, Not Intimidate You
We all have different preferences when it comes to motivation. Some people thrive with a “drill sergeant” style—think sharp commands, high energy, and serious structure. Others do better with a softer, more encouraging tone that focuses on collaboration and support.
Ask yourself:
- Do I leave sessions feeling energized and positive?
- Does my trainer push me in a way that feels good, not overwhelming or demoralizing?
- Do I feel seen and respected, not just yelled at or pushed too hard?
The right trainer will understand your needs and communicate in a way that uplifts and motivates you. You shouldn’t feel anxious before a workout—you should feel excited (even if you know it’ll be challenging). Discuss this factor with your trainer before jumping into a program. The more your personal trainer knows about what you want and how you best respond, the better your workout experience will be.
2. They Hold You Accountable—But with Compassion
Accountability is one of the biggest reasons people hire a personal trainer. It’s easy to hit snooze or skip a workout when no one’s watching. But when someone is expecting you, checking in on your progress, and tracking your results, it’s much harder to slack off.
A good trainer:
- Checks in regularly (both in and out of sessions)
- Helps you set realistic, achievable goals
- Celebrates your progress—even the small wins
- Keeps you honest without shaming you for setbacks
The key? Compassionate accountability. Life happens. You might miss a session, have a stressful week, or fall off your nutrition plan. Your trainer should guide you back on track—not make you feel guilty or defeated.
3. They Inspire You Beyond the Workout
The right trainer does more than just run you through exercises—they inspire you to become a healthier, more confident version of yourself. That might mean:
- Helping you reframe your relationship with fitness and your body
- Encouraging you to try new things (like strength training, yoga, or running)
- Sharing insights about nutrition, recovery, and mindset
- Supporting you in building habits that last outside the gym
Working with a great trainer can change how you see yourself—not just how you look in the mirror. They can be a source of positivity, encouragement, and even friendship.
4. You Like and Respect Them
Just like with your doctor or therapist, your relationship with your trainer matters. You should like being around them and trust their expertise. Think about:
- Do I feel comfortable being honest with them about my struggles?
- Do I respect their knowledge and feel safe following their guidance?
- Do we communicate well and understand each other?
A training session can be an hour-long conversation—make sure it’s someone whose company you enjoy and whose values align with yours.
5. They Personalize Your Plan
Cookie-cutter workouts? Big red flag.
Your trainer should design your plan around you—your goals, your limitations, your lifestyle, and your fitness level. That includes:
- Adjusting workouts for injuries or mobility issues
- Creating a plan that evolves as you get stronger
- Considering your schedule, energy levels, and preferences
- Bringing in the right professionals as the situation requires (chiropractor, dietician)
The right trainer will constantly assess and adjust to keep things challenging but doable, so you’re always growing—not plateauing or burning out.
6. They Educate You Along the Way
Your trainer shouldn’t just tell you what to do—they should help you understand why you’re doing it.
In each session, you should learn about proper form, the benefits of certain exercises, and how to fuel your body. You should walk away from sessions feeling more informed. This will empower you. Over time, this knowledge helps you become more independent and confident in your fitness journey.
Quick Checklist: Are You and Your Trainer Aligned?
- ✅ Do you feel motivated and empowered after sessions?
- ✅ Does your trainer hold you accountable in a supportive way?
- ✅ Do they inspire you to become your best self, beyond the workout?
- ✅ Do you genuinely like and respect them?
- ✅ Is your training plan tailored to you—not just a generic program?
- ✅ Are you learning and growing each week, not just sweating?
- ✅ Do you feel comfortable communicating honestly with them?
If you answered “yes” to most of these, you’re probably in great hands. If not, it might be time to reassess the fit—and that’s okay! Finding the right trainer is personal. Don’t settle for someone who doesn’t meet you where you are and support where you’re going.
Meet Poojan Shah: A Trainer Who Embodies All of This—and More
Working with a personal trainer is an investment—not just of money, but of your time, energy, and trust. It’s a relationship that can deeply influence your health and mindset. So take the time to find the right fit. Ask questions. Be honest about your needs. And trust your gut.
If you’re looking for a personal trainer who checks every box above, look no further than Poojan Shah. Poojan operates from The Foundry in Lancaster, PA. He embodies the qualities of a great personal trainer: supportive, knowledgeable, and inspiring, and is fiercely committed to helping you reach your goals.
Poojan has a unique ability to meet clients where they are and guide them toward where they want to be—both physically and mentally. He’s not just there to lead your workouts; he’s there to walk with you every step of the way, adjusting your plan as you grow and keeping you focused, even when the journey gets tough.
The Foundry itself is an incredible place to train—a welcoming, enthusiastic community that feels more like a family. It’s the kind of place where people know your name, root for your progress, and share in your wins.
AND … when you train with Poojan Shah, your Foundry membership dues are completely covered during your program. That means full access to a top-notch facility and an uplifting community—all included as part of your training journey.
When you’ve got the right trainer in your corner, anything feels possible.
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