How to Choose a trainer
(and why I would pick me if I had the chance)

"My Body Feels so Strange",  acrylic and silkscreen on canvas, 36" x 48" 1998 Len Whitney

Spending as much time as I have in the gym, I watch all the trainers and their clients.  Many trainers are extraordinarily gifted bodybuilders, with beautiful, chiseled muscles.  A lot of that has to do with genetics.  Some of these guys I think just have to show up at the gym in order for their bodies to grow into gleaming perfection. Unfortunately, none of that helps them train someone who has to fight for every ounce of muscle he can achieve. I also see lots of trainers, including many women, who are extremely knowledgeable, focused and disciplined.  I enjoy working out a machine or two away from them so I can watch what they're watching, listen to their comments, and learn from them by osmosis.

I have so much respect for these trainers, but I can't help noticing that sometimes they can be too correct, too focused.  Their clients must look forward to their workout like a daily dose of vitamins (you know it must be good for you, but hope you don't get too much of a taste on the way down).

I think I'm good at keeping that balance between intensity and fun.  You can get a great workout and leave wanting more.  I also can relate to what someone with a less-than-perfect body has to go through.  I have seen both sides of that -- as a skinny teenager who got the sand kicked in his face, and as a fat, out-of-shape middle-aged man who was determined not to just "grow old gracefully" and give up on looking good.

The other part of working out with a personal trainer is that you're choosing someone you're going to be spending time with.  Besides the workout, it's great when you can find someone who can be good company and make the time pass effortlessly.  My years as a bartender have taught me to be a good listener, and how to keep the conversation flowing with all types of people.  I can be a great trainer and a good friend.