This may be a sign of the apocalypse. Take shelter, people!

My university offers reasonably priced personal training sessions for students and staff. So, I signed up for 4 sessions. I want to start strength training (I already do cardio and yoga), but I have no idea what to do.

I am excited and terrified all at once. This is unprecedented.

Funny thing is, I had to fill out this questionnaire about my current activity level, and I realized that I (me!) exercise 5.5 hours a week already. Whoa! I mean, I hate exercise. Who am I? What has become of the morbidly obese couch potato from last summer?

So, I hope this trainer is not mean. I won't go back if s/he provokes anxiety in me. I hide from things that cause me anxiety. Every step I take to change my life takes a lot of self-talk and gentle coaxing on my part. My need to feel calm and in control of my anxiety takes precedent above all other things.

Someone tell me this is going to be alright. Please?

Peace, Heather

I think it is going to be great! I absolutely my trainer. I would be pretty surprised if your trainer is mean; that's not a great way to encourage repeat business . The trainers at my gym are all very attentive and encouraging; I've never seen any yelling or being mean to their clients. Hiring a trainer was one of the smartest things I ever did for myself and I consider it to be the single most important factor in my success. Far from causing anxiety, having a trainer has made me feel significantly more confident and more comfortable with my workouts.

But trainers are human and some are better than others. You're paying for the sessions so you should be happy with the service you are getting--if you aren't, well, it's the trainer, it's not you. Your trainer should be supportive and encouraging; if he/she isn't, insist on a new one.

And congratulations on how well you are doing with your exercise on your own!

That's awesome. I have always wanted to do that, but I have a hard time working out in front of my husband, let alone a stranger Darn my shyness!

Good luck, let us know how it works out (haha bad pun!)

I just started with a personal trainer, and after my second session, I can honestly tell you, it's the BEST money I have ever spent on myself!

She pushes me harder than I push myself, and its so great to have that one on one attention! Make sure you find someone that clicks with you, works with you and has your best interest and goals in mind!

Go for it!

Congrats on this amazing step! Remember you and your trainer are partners in getting you to where you want to go. Communication is key! Maybe even write down some goals or questions for when you go for the first time.

Excellent!

Okay, update...

It has taken longer than it should have (don't get me started) but my first session with my trainer is this afternoon. I am really excited, but also a bit nervous (read: terrified! )

I will let you know how it goes!

Peace, Heather

Good luck.. you'll have a blast, I am sure! Make sure you tell us all about it