by Jeremy Gentles, CSCS

A properly educated and certified personal trainer or strength and conditioning professional can plan and lead you through an exercise routine safely. These health and fitness experts can provide you with a foundation of support and motivation while keeping you up to date on the latest health and exercise science-related information. A personal trainer (PT) can be an invaluable support as you strive to meet your goals after your weight loss surgery. 

The Importance of Education
One thing—if not the most important thing—to consider when choosing a trainer is his or her level of education and certification. Just as you want well educated and certified teachers for your kids, you should want the best for yourself when choosing a trainer. Personal training is not governed by national or state laws standards, so you cannot assume that an individual claiming to be a personal trainer is well-qualified to train you. Education is key, because knowledgeable, high-quality trainers without a formal education are few and far between.

The field of health and exercise is a science. It is very difficult to receive the training, experience and education in program design, exercise testing, contraindications to exercise, and many other aspects of health and fitness without a formal education in this area. This is especially true when considering special populations. If you are obese, or have arthritis, cardiovascular diseases or countless other conditions, it is highly probable the average “gym rat” trainer is not going to know what your needs are. If they do not know and understand your needs, how can they help you reach your goals?

In the case of bariatric surgery—and obesity in general—there are very specific concerns and guidelines to follow when designing an exercise program. There are many comorbidities, health complications and physical limitations that result from obesity. These issues must be addressed, and the trainer must be educated in the health sciences field to tackle these issues properly and safely.

There are several areas of study to look for in a trainer, including exercise physiology or exercise science, kinesiology, biomechanics and physical education. Associates, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees can be obtained in all of these areas of study. It is safe to assume you will not find a PhD at your local gym doing personal training. Trainers with a four-year degree or beyond—bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate—are to be preferred. Choosing a trainer with an education in the health sciences through an accredited university will make certain the trainer has been schooled in areas of health, exercise and program design that are vital to meet your needs. Do not hesitate to ask the trainer to provide proof of degree completion.

The Importance of Quality Certifications
There are countless organizations which claim to certify “fitness professionals.” Trainers can sit in the comfort of their own homes and order a certification online or by mail order. At the end of the day there are only a handful of organizations who demonstrate consistently stringent quality controls and commitment to excellence for health and fitness professional certification.

     Three organizations with long-standing commitments to the health and fitness industry comprise the “gold standard” of certifying organizations:

• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
• American Council on Exercise (ACE)

These organizations produce certified health and fitness professionals that are well rounded in many aspects of fitness training and are responsible for developing and researching many of the exercise guidelines used in the full spectrum of clinical and non-clinical populations. Each of these organizations requires a valid CPR license for all certifications.

There are good trainers out there who are not certified through one of these organizations, but trainers certified by these organizations are more likely to exemplify the commitment to quality and excellence that these organizations represent.

Do not assume the health club you attend requires all trainers to hold credentials from one of the previously recognized organizations; most don’t. This is a matter you must take upon yourself, ensuring you find the best trainer possible. In addition to good general training education and credentials, trainers working with obese or WLS clients should have specific expertise and training in designing exercise programs for individuals with weight issues.

Investing in Yourself
Personal training is an investment in your health and your long-term success after bariatric surgery. Even if you feel you do not have the finances to afford a PT, look into it. Call some local health clubs and ask as many questions you can. Drop by your surgeon’s office and inquire about any suggestions they may have. You are not obligated to use a trainer for the remainder of life. If all you can afford is 10 or 12 sessions, do it! Those sessions can be an invaluable source of education, instruction and motivation.

Don’t make the mistake of falling for sales gimmicks or choosing the trainer who appears to be in the best shape. Personal fitness does not determine or influence the trainer’s level of education, certification, or their ability to meet your needs. A properly educated and certified PT has the ability to help you change your life.