10 Secrets Your Weight-Loss Trainer Won’t Tell You

Make the most of your next sweat session with your workout trainer.

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Do not arrive at a training session in the following states:

On an empty stomach, coming off a cold/stomach bug, or on four hours’ sleep. It wastes your time and mine when your body isn’t fueled, hydrated, and ready to work. These are the best post-workout snack ideas.

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If you’re on a budget, recruit a few friends for a small group session

These cost less per person. These are other ways to save money on a gym membership.

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It takes more than writing a check or showing up for training sessions to make you fit and healthy

It’s what you do before and after you meet with your weight-loss trainer, including choices with food, alcohol, workouts, and a commitment to a new lifestyle. Try these weight-loss secrets from The Biggest Loser.

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Ask your weight-loss trainer what she or he does to keep educated

An educated weight-loss trainer will get better results and provide variety to keep you engaged and motivated in your workouts. (Here are some weight-loss tips from people who have lost 50+ pounds.)

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When you are late it is a waste of your money, a waste of my time, and disrespectful

And we weight-loss trainers see through your stall tactics. “I think I need to fill my water bottle.” “Let me get a dry towel real quick.” “Oh, I need to go to the bathroom again.” Nice try. But you’re paying for the session, so make every minute count. (Here are time management habits that successful people have.)

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There is a difference between pain and burn

If you push so hard that you injure yourself, we both lose. Here’s how to treat muscle pain.

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Whatever the text or email says, it can wait until we’re done

And no, you cannot text and put forth 100 percent effort at the same time. (Here’s a trick to actually enjoy your workouts–and it doesn’t involve your phone.)

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I do not have time to get sick

Cancel your session with your weight-loss trainer if you’re carrying germs. Avoid these other habits that spread germs at the gym.

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Gear matters

Don’t expect to get maximum performance and results by working out in the ratty gym shoes and shorts you dug out of that old box of college dorm clothes. Invest in a good pair of sneakers. Your feet and joints will thank you, and so will your weight-loss trainer. Here’s how your shoes might be ruining your workout.

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Think quality, not quantity

A 30-minute session with your weight-loss trainer at max effort is better (and cheaper) than 60 minutes of dawdling and half-effort. (Mix up your workout routine with these exercises that flatten your belly—without a single crunch.)

Sources: Personal trainers in Vermont, Florida, California, and Louisiana

Reader's Digest
Originally Published in Reader's Digest