Are all personal trainers the same?
It’s tempting to think all personal trainers offer the same level of service and knowledge. Unfortunately, that’s far from the truth. The personal training industry isn’t regulated, and that means you’ll find everything from brilliant, experienced coaches… to trainers who’ve only just passed a quick online course.
At Real World Fitness in Nottingham, we see this difference every day. And it’s why we think it’s worth educating people about what really makes a good personal trainer, and how to avoid wasting your time, money, and effort.
RWF Client Bron learning to deadlift
Not All Qualifications Are Equal
Many people don’t realise how easy it is to become a “qualified” personal trainer. Some courses take just a week online, with no practical coaching involved. Others involve years of study, in-depth anatomy and physiology, and extensive time spent working with real clients.
That’s why asking about a trainer’s background is so important. A certificate alone doesn’t guarantee they can keep you safe, progress your training, or adapt to your individual needs.
👉 Want to see what proper, evidence-based personal training looks like? Book a free consultation with Real World Fitness.
What Separates Great Personal Trainers From the Rest
A truly skilled personal trainer should be able to:
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Teach and demonstrate the big three movements (squat, bench press, deadlift) safely, or provide suitable variations.
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Coach the hip hinge and glute activation — essential for strength, injury prevention, and long-term progress.
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Adapt exercises to your injuries, mobility, and fitness level instead of forcing you into one-size-fits-all routines.
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Provide a personalised programme that changes as you develop — not the same cookie-cutter workout they hand to everyone.
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Recognise their limits and know when to refer you to a physiotherapist, sports therapist, or medical professional.
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Demonstrate a strong understanding of anatomy, rehab, and injury awareness so you train hard but smart.
Why This Matters
Choosing the wrong personal trainer could mean:
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Learning poor form that takes months to fix
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Increased risk of injury
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Frustration and stalled progress
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Wasted money on generic workouts
A good personal trainer is an investment in your long-term health and confidence.
RWF Member Charlie using the back extension bench
👉 Don’t risk it — try a free personal training session at Real World Fitness and experience the difference for yourself.
Quick Checklist for Picking a Personal Trainer
| ✅ What to Ask | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| What qualifications do you hold? | Tells you about their background and education. |
| How do you teach a squat or deadlift? | Reveals their technical skill. |
| How do you adapt for injuries or mobility? | Shows if they can truly personalise training. |
| When do you refer to a physio? | A sign of professionalism, not weakness. |
FAQs
Are all personal trainers qualified?
No. Some have only basic online certificates, while others have years of study and real-world coaching experience.
What makes a good personal trainer?
The ability to coach fundamental movements, personalise training, adapt to limitations, and progress your plan safely.
Do I need to join the gym to have PT at Real World Fitness?
No — you can have personal training sessions without being a gym member.
Why Choose Real World Fitness?
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Nearly two decades of experience training people across Nottingham
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Capped membership gym = no overcrowding
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Friendly, ego-free atmosphere
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Trainers who adapt programmes to you, not the other way around
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Flexible options for PT and gym membership
👉 Ready to find out if your current trainer is giving you what you deserve? Contact us today.
