Many people who desperately need to exercise are the last to brave the crowds in a gym. Reasons to avoid the gym are myriad: it’s too far from my home, there are lines for the equipment, the music isn’t to my taste. There are as many excuses as there are people avoiding the gym. Fortunately, there is a growing option for those who cannot bring themselves to visit a jam-packed gym. A personal trainer.

When you research personal training sessions, you may be surprised at the cost. Often, the cost of personal training sessions is quite a bit more than a monthly gym membership, although some gyms do offer discounts on personal training sessions to members. The difference in price, however, reflects the difference in service, time and attention paid to you – and only to you. While you are training, you are the sole focus of your trainer’s energy and efforts.

You will undergo an initial evaluation to check your fitness level, weight, body fat and endurance. Your personal trainer will design workouts based on your specific needs. She or he will also check your progress periodically as you advance through your sessions to make sure you are achieving your fitness goals. Often, clients are coached on diet and nutrition and may be asked to keep a food diary so the trainer can assess average daily caloric intake. The trainer is interested in your fitness and well-being, not simply how much weight you can lift.

Your personal trainer will go to great lengths to motivate and encourage you to be your personal best. Many will follow up if you miss a session to schedule a make-up time. If you fail to achieve your fitness goals, your trainer fails in her or his job. The personal touch is evident in every aspect of a personal training experience. You will never again dread going to the gym, but will be excited about the experience. Personal training sessions really are an investment in yourself. And what is worth more than your health and well-being?