Many people who join a gym give up after several months for lack of motivation or because they overdo it and end up injuring muscles. If you'd like to commit yourself to a fitness programme that fits your own goals, consider hiring a personal trainer to help you get started.

"The biggest benefit of a personal trainer is that people learn the correct way to exercise before they get started so they don't injure themselves or do too much too quickly," says Patrick Hagerman, a trainer in Oklahoma City in the US.

Personal trainers can be hired at gyms to help tailor an exercise programme to your needs - especially at the beginning. Trainers will make home visits for those who can't get to the gym or who value the convenience and privacy, although seeing a trainer at the gym costs less. After designing a fitness programme, a trainer might only be called upon to advance to a new level or address specific problems.

How to select a personal trainer

• To start, decide what you want. Do you prefer a male or female trainer? Do you want someone to train you at a gym or in the privacy of your home?
• Look for someone suitably qualified by a nationally recognised organisation.
• Find a trainer that is a good match. Take the time to interview a few trainers and ask to talk to their clients who have goals similar to yours. Ask to watch the trainer in action with a client.
• The trainer should get to know you and go over your exercise and medical history.
• The trainer should provide a written copy of all policies on billing, cancellations and other issues. Most trainers charge for sessions in advance. That helps protect the trainer financially and provides additional motivation for the client not to cancel.

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