Learning to LIFT....First in a series of steps for safety and success!

The first thing you should be aware of is that not all personal trainers are created with equal abilities. Although one may be a very nice person that is certainly no guarantee that he or she is qualified to guide you safely through a complete strength-training regimen correctly. The fitness industry is NOT regulated so you must check the credentials and experience of any personal trainer before you sign up. Remember that commercial gyms have one goal and that is sales, not necessarily your safety. If you choose to have a trainer come to your home or office or perhaps train in a private studio you still have to check credentials. I strongly recommend obtaining the services of a personal trainer certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) since they not only require more fitness and training knowledge on the part of the personal trainer, NASM also requires a sit-down two-hour proctored exam with re-certification every two years and continuing education. NASM represents legitimate and very well-respected certification. After you have been cleared by your trusted physician to begin a strength-training regimen first READ about proper form and technique. My next blog will have specific lifting tips......