Is a personal trainer worth the $$

Most gyms offer a one time trip around the machines, etc with a personal trainer to get you familiar with each one and how it works and what it does for you. I did that and then was on my own as far at what machines I used, how often , how many reps.etc. I didn't need or want to pay someone once I knew how to use everything and what muscle group it targeted. If you need motivation buddy up with someone at your club or from a local support group. Chart your progress every day (or every other, or whenever you work out) and see if that helps. For me, I didn't need a personal trainer beyond getting me started.
jen 10 yrs post op

I love my trainer. I have been with him for over 2 years now. It is expensive, but the gym I go to always has training session sales, so that is when I buy them. I can't imagine giving him up. I see him once a week now, in the beggining it was twice a week. I go on my own otherwise(but not as much as I would like right now).  For me, it is totally worth.