Many Hollywood celebrities use one. Even elite athletes. But should you use a personal trainer?

Perhaps. Personal trainers can help anyone, regardless of physical condition or age. The first thing to do is decide what your goals are. Do you want to bulk up? Do you want to simply add some definition? Or do you just want to get in shape? Are you recovering from an injury and need to exercise? Do you want to improve your athletic performance? A personal trainer can help with all that and more. This person is a coach, role model, educator and cheerleader who will customize a program to fit your needs, budget and schedule. Some people may want to use a trainer several times a week. Others may just want an occasional check-in with a trainer to get feedback. It's all up to you.

Depending on what you want and what part of the country you are in, you can probably expect to pay between $25 and $100 an hour. Sometimes, to share costs, you might be able to bring a buddy to your sessions.
Finding a trainer is fairly easy. Check with a nationally recognized organization, such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the American College of Sports Medicine or the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. Health clubs often offer personal trainers for a reduced fee.

Personal trainers usually give you:

• A fitness evaluation. This is a series of tests - including cardiovascular, flexibility, muscle strength and endurance - to see what kind of shape you are in. Your trainer should ask about your health conditions, medications and exercise experience.
• A personalized exercise program. This is designed specifically for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
• Supervised exercise. You are given one-on-one attention to make sure you are using proper form and technique and that you get the most from your workout without getting injured. The benefits of your program are explained.

A trainer should motivate you and help you stick with your program.

Ask yourself the following when looking for a trainer:

• Is your trainer certified by a nationally recognized organization such as the American Council on Exercise, the American College of Sports Medicine or the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America? Trainers must pass a series of tests to receive certifications.
• Can the trainer provide references?
• Will the trainer keep records of your workouts and any changes in your medical history? If you are injured or have other health problems, will your trainer communicate with your doctor or physical therapist?
• Does the trainer have liability insurance in case you get injured during a workout?
• Is there a cancellation policy?
• What are the trainer's fees? Is the trainer willing to work within your budget or reduce session fees for a long-term commitment?
• Do you like your trainer? Are you confident in that person's skills and service?
• How clear is the trainer in providing education and instructions?
• Is there a contract or written business policy? What happens if you decide to end the contract early?

If you have a chronic disease, such as a heart problem, or it's been years since you exercised, check with your doctor before beginning a program.

In my experience, here are some of the best trainers in our business, maybe one is in your area!

Jeremy Fedorick, C.S.C.S.: Miami, Fl
Joe DeFranco, C.S.C.S.: DeFranco Training Systems, NJ
Sheldon Shaw, C.P.T.: Crunch Fitness, 38th Street, NY, NY
Lee Wall, Fitness Director - C.P.T.: Crunch Fitness, LA
Gregory Gordon, C.P.T., M.A.T.: CLAY, NY, NY
Eric D' Agti, C.P.T - Master Trainer: One HumanPerformance, NJ
Leon Clark, C.P.T.: Independent - Paterson, NJ
Stew Smith, C.S.C.S.: StewSmith.com