How to Choose the Right Personal Trainer for You

Essential Questions to Help You Find Your Perfect Fit

Choosing a personal trainer is one of the most important decisions you'll make on your fitness journey. The right trainer becomes a trusted partner in your wellness, understanding not just your physical capabilities but also your lifestyle, challenges, and aspirations. With countless options available in Richmond, Hawthorn, and across Melbourne, how do you identify the trainer who will genuinely support your success?

Why Your Choice of Trainer Matters

The relationship you build with your personal trainer extends beyond simple exercise instruction. A quality trainer serves as one vital component of your wellness ecosystem—someone who listens, guides, and helps you navigate the complex landscape of health and fitness in a way that fits your unique life.

Research from the Australian Institute of Fitness reveals that adherence to an exercise programme increases by up to 60% when clients work with a qualified personal trainer they trust. Interestingly, the same research shows that the trainer's ability to build rapport and demonstrate genuine care for the client's broader wellbeing often matters as much as their technical qualifications—highlighting why the human element of personal training is so crucial to long-term success.

Essential Qualifications to Look For

Formal Education and Certification

At minimum, your personal trainer should hold:

• Certificate III & IV in Fitness (the baseline qualification in Australia)

• First Aid and CPR certification (current and up-to-date)

• Professional indemnity insurance

However, many trainers hold additional qualifications that demonstrate deeper expertise. Look for trainers with Bachelor of Sports Science degrees, which provide comprehensive understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and programme design. This level of education enables trainers to work more effectively with complex needs, from injury rehabilitation to performance optimisation.

Specialised Certifications

Depending on your goals, additional certifications can be valuable:

• Change Psychology for mindset and positive habit forming

• Precision Nutrition coaching for evidence-based nutrition guidance

• Corrective exercise specialists for addressing movement dysfunction and pain

• Pre and postnatal exercise for expectant or new mothers

• Older adult fitness for age-appropriate training

• Sports-specific coaching for athletic performance

Facility Registration

The facility where you'll train should be registered with AUSactive (formerly Fitness Australia). This registration indicates adherence to industry standards for safety, equipment maintenance, and professional conduct. At Club Forma, our AUSactive registration reflects our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in our Richmond personal training studio.

Questions to Ask Potential Trainers

About Their Approach

"How do you typically work with new clients?"

Listen for mention of comprehensive assessment processes. Quality trainers don't jump straight into workouts—they take time to understand your movement patterns, injury history, lifestyle factors, and goals. At Club Forma, for instance, we begin with postural analysis, flexibility testing, movement pattern assessment, and a comprehensive consultation to find out about your sleep, stress, and daily demands.

"How do you handle programme design?"

Look for trainers who mention individualised programming, progressive overload, and periodisation. Be cautious of trainers who suggest everyone follows similar routines or who focus heavily on trends rather than fundamental principles.

"What happens when I'm not feeling my best on a training day?"

The answer should demonstrate flexibility and attention to your state. A good trainer adjusts sessions based on your recovery status, stress levels, and energy—understanding that pushing through regardless isn't always the best approach.

About Their Philosophy

"How do you view your role in a client's overall wellness?"

Listen for humility and acknowledgement that training is one piece of a larger picture. Trainers who position themselves as having all the answers or who dismiss the importance of other health professionals may not provide the partnership you need. We see ourselves as one trusted professional in your wellness journey, working best when supported by adequate sleep, stress management, proper nutrition, and sometimes guidance from other health practitioners.

"How do you measure success with clients?"

Be wary of trainers focused solely on weight loss or aesthetic changes. Comprehensive trainers consider multiple metrics: performance improvements, pain reduction, energy levels, sleep quality, stress management, and how training enhances your daily life.

About Their Experience

"Have you worked with clients in similar situations to mine?"

If you're over 40, dealing with injuries, managing health conditions, or have specific performance goals, experience with similar clients matters. Ask for examples (without expecting names or identifying details) of how they've helped clients navigate similar challenges.

"What's your approach to clients who have struggled with consistency in the past?"

This reveals their understanding of behaviour change and habit formation. Look for answers that acknowledge the psychological aspects of fitness and demonstrate strategies beyond simply "trying harder."

Red Flags to Watch For

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

If a trainer pushes you to sign long-term contracts immediately or uses scare tactics about your health to pressure you into commitment, walk away. Quality trainers are confident enough to let their work speak for itself.

One-Size-Fits-All Programming

Be cautious of trainers who seem to put everyone through identical workouts or who immediately prescribe the same programme without thorough assessment.

Lack of Attention During Sessions

Your trainer should be present and focused during your time together. Trainers who spend sessions on their phones, chatting with others, or seem distracted don't provide the value you're paying for.

Dismissiveness About Concerns

If a trainer dismisses your worries about pain, discomfort, or your ability to do certain exercises, that's a significant red flag. Good trainers listen and adapt.

Unrealistic Promises

"Lose 10kg in 2 weeks!" "Get a six-pack in 30 days!" These promises indicate either dishonesty or lack of understanding of how bodies actually respond to training. Sustainable results take time.

Lack of Assessment

If a trainer doesn't conduct any form of movement assessment or health history before programming, they're essentially guessing about what you need.

The Importance of Compatibility

Beyond qualifications and approach, personal compatibility matters enormously. You'll be working closely with this person, sharing challenges and vulnerabilities. Consider:

Communication Style

Do they explain things in ways you understand? Do they listen as much as they talk? Do you feel comfortable asking questions?

Personality Match

Some people thrive with highly energetic, motivational trainers. Others prefer calm, methodical guidance. Neither approach is better—it's about what works for you.

Shared Values

If you value evidence-based practice, you'll struggle with a trainer focused on fads. If you need flexibility for your demanding schedule, a rigid trainer won't serve you well.

Understanding Different Training Models

One-to-One Personal Training

This provides maximum individual attention, customisation, and flexibility. It's ideal for those with specific needs, complex health considerations, or who simply prefer undivided attention. At our boutique personal training studio in Richmond, one-to-one training allows us to fully focus on your unique movement patterns and goals.

Two-to-One Training

Training with a partner (spouse, friend, or colleague) offers personalised attention at a reduced individual cost whilst providing built-in accountability and motivation. This works well when partners have similar fitness levels and goals.

Semi-Private Small Group Training

Some studios offer semi-private sessions (3-6 people) where you still receive individual programme design but train alongside others. This can provide community whilst maintaining some personalisation.

Trial Sessions and Compatibility Checks

Most quality trainers offer trial or assessment sessions. Use these to evaluate:

• How thoroughly they assess your needs

• How comfortable you feel communicating with them

• Whether they listen to your concerns and preferences

• If their facility meets your standards for cleanliness and equipment quality

• Whether their approach aligns with your goals

Don't feel obligated to commit after one session. A good trainer will understand that finding the right fit is important for your success.

The Club Forma Difference

At our Richmond personal training studio, we've built our approach around being trusted partners in wellness rather than prescriptive authorities. Our trainers hold Precision Nutrition qualifications alongside their Bachelor of Sports Science degrees and are qualified exercise scientists, enabling them to provide evidence-based nutrition guidance and that complements your training.

Our trainers have Biomechanics Specialist qualifications enabling them to conduct comprehensive initial assessments including movement pattern analysis, postural evaluation, and flexibility testing. Along with that, they also take time to understand all aspects of your life—your sleep patterns, work demands, stress levels, and where you are in life—because this context makes us better at serving you.

Our facility is AUSactive registered, and we maintain high standards for cleanliness, equipment quality, and professional conduct. Most importantly, we see ourselves as one vital component of your wellness, working best when you also prioritise sleep, manage stress, and maintain other healthy habits.

We specialise in working with busy professionals in Richmond and Hawthorn who need efficient, effective training that integrates realistically into demanding schedules. Many of our clients have been with us for over 15 years—not because they're locked into contracts, but because we've built genuine partnerships focused on helping them perform better at life, not just in the gym.

Making Your Decision

Choosing a personal trainer is ultimately about finding someone who:

• Holds appropriate qualifications and continues learning

• Demonstrates genuine care about your wellbeing

• Listens as much as they instruct

• Adapts to your unique needs and circumstances

• Operates from an AUSactive registered facility

• Sees training as one component of your overall wellness

• Makes you feel capable and supported, not judged or inadequate

Trust your instincts. If something feels off during your interactions with a potential trainer, that feeling is valid. The right trainer will make you feel heard, supported, and confident about the journey ahead.

If you're looking for personal training in Richmond or Hawthorn that prioritises partnership over prescription, we'd be happy to meet you for a free initial consultation. We'll listen to where you are, understand where you want to go, and honestly assess whether we're the right fit to help you get there.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How much does a personal trainer cost in Richmond? A: Personal training in Richmond typically ranges from $80-150 per session, depending on experience and session length. At boutique personal training studios like Club Forma, you're investing in qualified professionals with extensive assessment protocols and personalised programming.

Q: Should I choose a gym near me or travel for the right trainer? A: While convenience matters, finding the right personal trainer is more important than proximity alone. That said, our Richmond gym location is easily accessible from Hawthorn, and surrounding suburbs, and has easy parking out front, making consistency easier to maintain.

Q: What qualifications should a personal trainer in Melbourne have? A: Look for Certificate IV in Fitness as a minimum, plus additional specialisations like Precision Nutrition certification, corrective exercise, or strength and conditioning. At Club Forma, our trainers are exercise scientists with Bachelor of Sports Science degrees, ensuring the highest level of expertise and evidence-based programming.

Q: How do I know if a personal trainer is right for me? A: The right personal trainer should conduct a thorough initial assessment, listen to your goals, and explain their approach clearly. Most quality Richmond personal training studios offer consultation sessions to ensure good fit.

References:

Australian Institute of Fitness. (2021). "The Impact of Personal Training on Exercise Adherence and Outcomes."

Sports Medicine Australia. (2020). "Standards of Practice for Personal Trainers in Australia."

AUSactive. (2023). "Registered Exercise Professionals: Quality Standards and Guidelines."

Journal of Sports Science & Medicine. (2019). "Client-Trainer Rapport and Its Effect on Training Outcomes and Programme Adherence."

Australian Fitness Network. (2022). "Evidence-Based Practice in Personal Training: A Guide for Practitioners."

What Is Osteopathy and How Can It Help You?

If you spend time in the gym, play sport, or simply want to move without pain in day-to-day life, you may have come across the word osteopathy. But what exactly is it and how can it benefit you? 

We're excited to welcome Harry Shirley, an experienced osteopath, to our allied health team. Harry's expertise adds another dimension to the comprehensive wellness services we offer our community, which is why we asked him to share his knowledge about osteopathy with you. 

What is Osteopathy? 

When people hear the word osteopath, they often think "that's bones, right?" It's an understandable assumption, but osteopathy is about much more than bones. It is a form of healthcare that considers the body as a whole interconnected system. The way you move and function depends on the complex interplay between your muscles, joints, nerves, circulation, and even your breathing patterns. 

Osteopaths are trained in hands-on techniques such as soft tissue release, joint mobilisation, dry needling, cupping and targeted stretching. These evidence-based methods aim to restore optimal movement patterns, ease pain and help your body perform at its best. One of osteopathy's greatest strengths is the variety of therapeutic tools available, allowing treatment to be completely tailored to each individual. Everyone's body responds differently, so the osteopath's role is to find what works best for your specific needs. 

Unlike approaches that only target symptoms in isolation, osteopathy takes a detective-like approach to uncover the root cause of dysfunction. For example, that nagging shoulder pain might not be solely a shoulder problem. It could be related to spinal restrictions, postural imbalances, or even the way you breathe and brace when lifting weights. This whole-body perspective recognizes that your body functions as a single, integrated system where everything works together. 

How Can Osteopathy Help? 

Understanding when osteopathy might benefit you can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. People often seek osteopathic treatment for: 

Pain Relief and Management 

• Back pain, neck stiffness, headaches, and joint discomfort 

• Chronic conditions that impact daily function and quality of life 

• Pain that interferes with sleep, work, or exercise participation 

Movement and Mobility Issues 

• Joint stiffness that limits your range of motion 

• Muscle tension and tightness affecting performance 

• Movement patterns that feel awkward or inefficient 

• Recovery from injuries that have left lasting restrictions 

Sports and Exercise-Related Concerns 

• Sports injuries including shoulder impingement, hip problems, and muscle strains 

• Recurring injuries that keep coming back despite rest 

• Performance plateaus that might be related to movement limitations 

• Support during heavy training periods to maintain tissue health 

Everyday Function and Wellness 

• Work-related strain from prolonged sitting or repetitive tasks 

• Age-related changes in mobility and function 

• General wellness and injury prevention 

• Preparing your body for increased activity levels 

Osteopathy isn't just for elite athletes or people with serious injuries. Many people benefit from osteopathic care as part of maintaining their overall health and staying active throughout life. Whether you're lifting weights, chasing after children, working at a desk, or simply want to move through daily activities with greater ease, understanding how your body works as a whole system can be valuable. 

What to Expect from Osteopathic Treatment 

If you're considering osteopathic care, it's helpful to know what the process typically involves: 

Assessment: Your osteopath will take a detailed history of your symptoms, lifestyle, work demands, and exercise habits. They'll also conduct physical tests to understand how your body moves and functions. 

Diagnosis: Rather than just focusing on where it hurts, osteopaths look for the underlying reasons why problems develop. This might involve examining areas that seem unrelated to your main complaint. 

Treatment: Using various hands-on techniques, your osteopath will work to restore normal function to restricted areas. Treatment is typically gentle and should never cause significant pain. 

Education: A key part of osteopathy is helping you understand your condition and what you can do to support your recovery and prevent future problems. 

Ongoing Care: Depending on your needs, this might involve regular maintenance sessions, specific exercises, or lifestyle modifications. 

Meet Harry Shirley 

Harry Shirley is the founder of Border Osteo & Performance and brings years of osteopathic experience to our community. His background includes two years working on the LPGA Tour with professional female golfers, where his role extended beyond traditional treatment to encompass performance support and recovery protocols. 

Harry's experience gives him insight into how the body adapts to various physical demands, from high-level athletic performance to everyday movement challenges. Now based at Club Forma in Richmond, Harry works with people from all walks of life who want to move better, feel better, and perform at their best. 

Whether your goal is to understand a persistent pain problem, improve how you move, or simply learn more about maintaining your body's health, Harry is available to answer questions and provide expert osteopathic care. 

Taking the Next Step 

Understanding what osteopathy offers empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and wellness. If you're curious about how osteopathic care might help address your specific concerns or support your health goals, don't hesitate to ask questions. 

Harry is always happy to discuss how osteopathy might fit into your health and wellness journey. You can find him at the gym, contact him by phone, or send a message to learn more about this valuable healthcare approach. 

Is Fasting the Best Option for You? Here's What You Need to Know

A Balanced Look at Whether Fasting Could Work for Your Body and Lifestyle

In recent years, fasting has moved from being a primarily religious or spiritual practice to becoming one of the most discussed approaches to health and weight management. But amid the buzz and success stories, a crucial question remains: is fasting actually the right approach for you? At Club Forma, we believe that individualised approaches yield the best results, and fasting is no exception.

Understanding Different Fasting Approaches

Before deciding if fasting suits your lifestyle and goals, it's important to understand that "fasting" isn't a one-size-fits-all concept:

Intermittent Fasting (IF)

This approach alternates between periods of eating and fasting, with several popular variations:

• 16/8 Method: Restricting eating to an 8-hour window daily (e.g., 12pm-8pm)

• 5:2 Protocol: Eating normally five days per week, with calorie restriction (500-600 calories) on two non-consecutive days

• Eat-Stop-Eat: Incorporating one or two 24-hour fasts per week

Time-Restricted Eating (TRE)

A form of IF that focuses on limiting daily eating to specific time windows, often coordinated with your circadian rhythm.

Extended Fasting

Longer periods without food, typically ranging from 24 hours to several days, usually done less frequently than IF.

The Science Behind Fasting

Fasting's popularity isn't just based on anecdotes—there's substantial scientific interest in its potential benefits:

Metabolic Benefits

Research suggests fasting may improve insulin sensitivity and stabilize blood glucose levels, potentially benefiting those at risk for metabolic disorders. When you fast, insulin levels drop, allowing your body to access stored fat for energy more efficiently.

Cellular Repair

Fasting triggers autophagy, a process where cells remove damaged components and recycle them, potentially slowing the aging process and preventing disease.

Brain Health

Some studies indicate potential benefits for brain function and protection against neurodegenerative diseases, although more research is needed.

Weight Management

By limiting eating windows, many people naturally consume fewer calories, which can support weight loss goals.

Who Might Benefit from Fasting

Fasting could be worth exploring if you:

• Have struggled with traditional dieting approaches

• Want a simpler framework than counting calories or macros

• Are looking to improve metabolic health markers

• Have plateaued in your weight loss journey

• Prefer defined eating windows rather than restrictive food choices

When Fasting May Not Be Right for You

Despite its potential benefits, fasting isn't appropriate for everyone. You should approach with caution or avoid fasting if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Have a history of disordered eating

• Are underweight or have nutritional deficiencies

• Have diabetes (especially if taking medication)

• Take certain medications that require food

• Are an adolescent still growing

• Are an elite athlete with high energy requirements

• Experience significant stress or sleep disturbances

• Have certain medical conditions (always consult your healthcare provider)

Fitness professionals at Club Forma are particularly cautious about recommending fasting for clients who have intense training schedules or are working on building significant muscle mass, as proper nutrient timing can be crucial for these goals.

Practical Considerations

If you're considering trying a fasting protocol, keep these points in mind:

Start Gradually

If you're new to fasting, begin with a shorter fasting window and gradually extend it as your body adapts. Many people start with a 12-hour overnight fast before advancing to longer periods.

Hydration Remains Essential

During fasting periods, proper hydration becomes even more important. Water, black coffee, and unsweetened tea are typically acceptable during fasts.

Nutrient Density Matters

When you do eat, focus on nutrient-dense whole foods rather than using fasting as an excuse for poor food choices in your eating window.

Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how you feel during fasted periods. Mild hunger is normal, but dizziness, weakness, or inability to focus are signs that your approach may need adjustment.

Exercise Timing

You may need to experiment with workout timing in relation to your eating windows. Some people perform well training in a fasted state, while others need fuel before exercise for optimal performance.

The Club Forma Approach to Fasting

At Club Forma, we never suggest or recommend fasting as a healthy, sustainable approach to nutrition. However, if a client insists on implementing fasting as the nutrition strategy they would like to use, we take a measured approach. Our personal trainers are equipped to:

• Help you determine if fasting aligns with your specific health and fitness goals

• Guide you through implementing a sustainable fasting approach if appropriate

• Monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed

• Ensure your nutrition strategy complements your training program

• Advise on proper nutrient timing around workouts

We've found that clients who succeed with fasting typically implement it as a flexible tool rather than a rigid rule. The most sustainable approaches allow for adaptation around special occasions, varying energy needs, and lifestyle considerations.

Is Fasting Right for You?

The answer depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and lifestyle. For some of our clients, incorporating occasional time-restricted eating has provided benefits in terms of energy levels, weight management, and simplified nutrition planning. For others, focusing on regular meal timing and balanced macronutrients yields better results.

Rather than blindly following fasting trends, we encourage a personalised approach. A consultation with one of our personal trainers can help you determine if fasting might be beneficial for your unique situation and how to implement it effectively if it is.

Remember that no single nutritional approach works for everyone, and that even the best strategy is only effective when it can be maintained consistently. The ideal nutrition plan is one that supports your health and fitness goals while fitting comfortably into your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Should I fast if I'm doing personal training? A: It depends on your goals and lifestyle. Our personal trainers can help determine if fasting complements your training programme. Some clients thrive with fasting, others perform better with regular meals.

Q: Can I build muscle while intermittent fasting? A: Yes, but it requires careful planning. Protein timing and total intake become crucial. Our Precision Nutrition certified professionals at Club Forma can design a fasting protocol that supports muscle growth.

Q: Is fasting safe for everyone? A: No, fasting isn't suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or a history of disordered eating. Consult healthcare providers and work with qualified nutrition professionals.

Q: How does fasting affect workout performance? A: Individual responses vary greatly. We've found some of the clients at our Richmond gym perform well fasted, while others need pre-workout fuel. We recommend testing what works for your body.

References:

American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. (2022). "Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Health, Aging, and Disease."

New England Journal of Medicine. (2019). "Effects of Intermittent Fasting on Health and Disease Processes."

Cell Metabolism. (2020). "Time-Restricted Eating Effects on Performance, Immune Function, and Body Composition."

Obesity Reviews. (2021). "Intermittent Fasting and Metabolic Health: From Religious Fast to Time-Restricted Feeding."

Frontiers in Nutrition. (2022). "Intermittent Fasting: Physiological Implications on Body Weight and Various Metabolic Parameters."