Personal trainer cost factors
A few factors affect personal trainer rates, including the frequency and duration of sessions, as well as add-ons and the location of training. We've broken down a few important factors that go into the hourly rate of a personal trainer and tips for maximizing what you're getting for the price you pay.
Length of session
Trainers commonly offer 30-, 60- or 90-minute sessions, and clients typically pay by the session. Training sessions can be a one-time event or recur daily, several times a week or weekly.
The length of the session depends on your overall fitness goal and what you want to achieve. For example, if you're interested in weight loss and flexibility, your sessions might be on the longer side, as your exercises will involve endurance training and a slower stretch or yoga session.
Ultimately, the more topics or fitness routines covered, the longer the session and the higher the cost.
Number of sessions and packages
Purchasing training sessions in packages of five, 10 and 20 provide opportunities for discounts, with most personal trainers preferring to have repeat clientele on regular days each week.
Multiple sessions per week can quickly ramp you up for success on your own if you're just starting. But if you have some experience and are looking to improve form or get to the next level, single sessions may make more sense.Search local personal trainers and check prices.
Group training vs. personal training
A one-on-one personal training session costs more than a group training session. Individual training offers specific attention to the client’s individual needs and is more flexible for addressing specific injuries, personal nutrition and overall goals.
Group lessons can be organized by either the client or the trainer. But it's usually more comfortable for the client to rally a few friends for a training session to lower the cost per person.
Location of session
Costs may be higher if a trainer has to travel to a client’s home for private sessions or if the session takes place at a private studio. Many public gyms and fitness centers offer personal training and may be cheaper. The client already pays monthly dues for the equipment and space in the form of a gym membership and is solely paying for the trainer.
Trainer certification
When you're evaluating personal trainer options, take certification into account. There are tons of professionals out there who advertise themselves as personal trainers but don't have the credentials to back it up.
Make sure your trainer is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. NSCA-CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) or NSCA-CPT (Certified Personal Trainer) are two to look out for. You shouldn't have to search long to come across their certification. Usually, they'll include it in the name of their business or in the description of their service on their Thumbtack profile.
Certified trainers may command a higher hourly rate, but it's worth the cost.