How do you define “personal trainer?”

While I may be a bit cocky, I consider myself very far beyond being a personal trainer. As I hope anyone who has been in the fitness industry for more than a couple of years would be.

But a personal trainer to me is a fitness instructor who takes each individual client under their direction and care as part of the client’s healthcare team. The trainer evaluates the client and listens to the client on so many levels. Then begins the process (an endless process) of designing and implementing a program for the client. Ever bit as important is that the trainer be a teacher and a role model.

As I think of the question and answer, I realize that there is no short answer. The answer is like a living thing that grows and matures just like each one of us do in life.