Washington, DC is a competitive town, and you should be aware of this when you are looking for a personal trainer. Many folks in Washington, DC end up getting duped out of their precious time and money simply because they go with the first Washington, DC personal trainer they find – the first one may not be nearly as good as you need them to be. Considering that you can literally get your dog certified as a personal trainer, you should be intent on doing your homework before selecting a Washington, DC personal trainer.

1. Do your research

Where are you looking to go to get fit, and what’s your price range? Once you know that, it is time for you to start shopping around. You wouldn’t buy the first car right off the lot, and you shouldn’t assume that the first personal trainer that you speak to is going to give you what you want, either. Talk to other people, see who recommends what gym and what trainer and don’t settle for the first trainer who looks like they might work out.

2. Talk to your top prospects

Since you’re the on doing the hiring, treat this like a job interview for your potential Washington, DC personal trainer. You want to try before you buy – really try. You want to get an experience of how the relationship will go before you commit to anything. You want to be sure to read their training philosophy – this should be written, not floating around in their head.

3. Have your own agenda

Most of the time people walk into their first meeting with their personal trainer without a clear picture of where they want to be. If you can’t tell your trainer what you want, then how can they help you get there. Be 100% clear on what you want and when you want it by when you go in.

4. Do they have experience with your issues?

If you have medical issues (after you get medical clearance) you want to find someone with relevant experience, or at the very least someone who will do real research on your issue.

5. Bottom line – RESULTS

You should see results within the first week. Results talk and BS walks. If you have followed the advice of your Washington, DC personal trainer and nothing is happening, then it is time to move on. They should have a money back guarantee on results.