Getting Started

   It seems that the hardest part about getting into shape these days is deciding how to do it.  There are so many different programs out there, 10 minute this, 20 minute that, all promising years of results in just 3 short weeks.  Enter the "Personal Trainer."
     There is no shortage of these people around.  They claim to know the latest and greatest methods of getting you what you want.  They promise the "slender fit you" you are looking for.  You sign up for their programs, lose a few pounds, and then the program stalls, you become discouraged and quit, convinced you are just meant to be the way you are now.  The problem isn't you; it may be your trainer.  So how do you know if your trainer is qualified to help you? 
   Step 1) ASK!
   There are a large number of recognized instruction programs in the fields of Nutrition and Fitness.  Ask to see their certifications.  Anyone that has been through these programs will be happy to share them with you. 
     Step 2) Talk to their other clients
     Speak to other clients or students that the trainer has worked with.  See if they got the results that they were looking for when they started.  Also, ask what else they did besides the fitness routine that helped them reach their goals.  Finally, make sure that the trainer works with the types of clients that you want to become.  If you are just looking to get into shape, lower you cholesterol and improve your overall health, working with a trainer that specializes in training professional body builders might seem cool, but probably won't be a good fit.
     Step 3) Look at the trainer.
       Make sure the trainer is in the shape you want to be in.  If they are not living the lifestyle that will get you to your goals, how will they keep you on track?  If they aren't in the shape you want to be in by teaching their programs, how will you get into the shape you want to be in by doing them?
     Step 4) Start Today
     Get out and do something...figure out what your personal goals are.  Find some different trainers and talk to them.  Ask the questions.  When you find someone you are comfortable with, go get it.  At Tokyo Joe's we are very proud of our numerous certifications in the martial arts and fitness fields.  Whether it is our Black Belt ranks and Instructors Certifications in the Martial Arts we teach, our Strength and Conditioning certifications, or our kids safety certifications through the Kidsafe Network, Rapid Child Rescue or Lil Iguana, they are on display for all to see right in our studio.  Make sure where ever you go, you know what you will get before investing your time, money and most importantly your effort to get to your goals.