By Fei Lai (shanghai daily)
Updated: 2006-09-12 09:30

For many people, hiring a personal trainer at a gym or for at home is no longer an untouchable luxury but instead, a new trend in body building.

Personal trainers refers to certified instructors who offer one-to-one fitness instruction designed specifically for individual needs.

"One main difference that distinguishes personal trainers from ordinary trainers at a gym is that their fitness programs are unique," said Ivan Lam, a personal trainer at Bronze Bodies Tanning Clubs. "For a personal trainer, learning a customer's needs is the first and the most important step. Based on this information, an analysis will be made to design an exclusive fitness program."

Lam, who has 10 years' experience in the field after working in Hong Kong and Australia, said a personal program included a fitness plan, diet suggestions and the creation of a daily schedule. To some extent, a personal trainer is more than an instructor; he is a psychologist and a nutritionist at the same time.

Losing weight and exercising muscles are the two usual requests of those seeking a personal trainer. To help achieve a person's goal, adjustments are made during the program to cater to changing body conditions in the different phases.

Personal trainers are responsible for the implementation of the entire program. With their help, a person's safety can be relatively secured.

"To be a personal trainer, having an international certificate is a must," said Li Min, a personal trainer at Physical Fitness and Beauty Gym. "An advanced personal fitness trainer certification awarded by Asian Academy For Sports and Fitness Professionals is the most common."

However, apart from professional qualifications, a good trainer is also required to have such qualities as strong communication skills and patience.

Li said good communications with a customer was vital. In addition, they must be an adviser and a supporter; an excellent personal trainer serves more like a friend.

"When choosing a trainer, one should focus more on the experience rather than appearance," said Li. "In addition, a professionalism and harmonious relationship with an instructor are two significant elements to consider."

It is also necessary to have a discussion about fitness after checking the person's license. Through such conversation, one can judge whether he is suitable to help you carry out your exercise plan.

"The prices for hiring a personal trainer in Shanghai vary from gym to gym. They range from 200 yuan (US$25) to 500 yuan per hour," Li said. "Usually one class lasts for 90 minutes."

He said the market for personal trainers had great potential to develop locally as the number of individuals desiring a fit physique was growing at a rapid pace.