Everyone needs a little hand-holding to reach their Fitness Goals

<p>The Personal Trainer (PT) <p> Who needs one? <p> Anyone who's healthy, injury-free and looking to get started, bust out of a training rut or just stick to a routine. Most trainers will also be happy to train couples or small groups. <p> What will you get? <p> A personal trainer will assess your fitness level and goals, and then design and supervise a program. She/he can also refer you to appropriate health practitioners, if necessary. Some trainers will also be qualified to work with higher-risk individuals, like pregnant women, the elderly, athletes or overweight clients. <p> Bear in mind: There's a plethora of qualifications available, so make sure your trainer has a track record. Trainers practicing at established gyms should be well qualified, but always check out their credentials. <p> The Biokineticist <p> Who needs one? <p> People who need rehab from an injury, or those training with a controlled medical condition (like heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, obesity or osteoporosis). A biokineticist is qualified to prescribe a program to someone with a specific condition. But they may still need check-ups with a sports physician. Biokinetic therapy is also useful for individuals with postural problems and chronic lower-back pain. <p> What will you get? <p> First, a full assessment of your fitness and health status. Then, an individualized training routine to help improve your injury, quality of life and performance. A biokineticist can also work to improve your posture and advise you on how to sit at your desk to prevent back injury. She'll/he'll supervise and modify your training, one-on-one, for as long as is required. <p> But for a more budget-friendly version, ask her/him to design your program and get you up-to-speed over a couple of sessions. Then you can follow the routine on your own, returning every few months for feedback or program ‘upgrade’. <p> The Sports Physician <p> Who needs one? <p> Anyone (active or inactive) who suffers from a chronic lifestyle disease or has one or more risk factors (physical inactivity, hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol, high stress levels). This is for someone who is sick or injured and needs a medical diagnosis and treatment. The training becomes part of the treatment, as practitioners use regular exercise, nutritional intervention and stress management to improve (and even prevent) chronic conditions and injury. <p> What will you get? <p> A lifestyle and health assessment, and holistic intervention. A sports physician can also address specific concerns, like training at high altitudes or extreme temperatures, sports psychology and eating disorders. <p> Sandra Prior runs her own bodybuilding website at <a href="http://bodybuild.rr.nu" target="blank">http://bodybuild.rr.nu</a>. <p> <p></p>