Are you wondering how much a personal trainer should cost to help you achieve your fitness goals? The cost of a personal trainer varies widely, with in-person sessions averaging around $65 per hour nationwide, but HOW.EDU.VN offers a cost-effective alternative through personalized online training programs designed to fit your budget and lifestyle. This comprehensive guide breaks down the factors influencing personal training costs, compares in-person versus online options, and provides tips on finding the right trainer to maximize your investment, including nutritional guidance, customized workout plans, and fitness coaching.
1. Online Personal Training: The Flexible, Affordable Option
Instead of pricey in-person personal training sessions, consider online training, which can be more sustainable, affordable, and equally effective. With online personal training, you can easily exercise where and when it fits into your schedule without commuting, parking, and driving back from the gym. You and your personal trainer can still schedule sessions when you’re out of town — no more excuses for stalled progress or skipped sessions.
The best online personal trainers provide customized workouts and workout plans for your specific goals and fitness level, whether you’re a beginner or a fitness pro. They also track your progress through regular check-ins, texting, and, in some cases, video chats. You can even schedule video sessions where your online personal trainer can guide you through a workout, give you pointers on exercise form, or provide exercise modifications.
Depending on the coaching program, you may also get nutrition coaching, meal plans, or advice on supplements. Be aware that online personal training can mean different things — some programs provide a library of virtual workouts led by a personal trainer that are accessible through an app subscription. Not all online training programs offer one-on-one communication, plan customization, support, and accountability from a certified personal trainer.
1.1 Average Monthly Cost of Online Personal Training
| Company | Online Personal Training Cost | Online Personal Training Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kickoff | $95 | Personalized workouts & nutrition coaching; expert-led healthy habit creation; daily feedback & guidance from your trainer; add live workouts for $27 per session |
| Future | $149 | Custom workout plans with audio coaching; Apple watch integration pulls biometric data into app |
| Caliber | $210 | Custom workouts; nutrition & habit coaching; trainer check-ins a few times per week unless client requests something else |
| Forge | $125–225 | Custom fitness plan; includes 1 custom meal plan; progress tracking in app; $125/month: 1 live video or phone call with trainer per month; $175/month: 2 live video or phone calls with trainer per month; $225/month: 1 live session with trainer per week |
| Girls Gone Strong | $299 | Woman-specific workout plans; nutrition coaching; in-app lessons, videos, messaging; access to trainer 5 days per week |
| Flexit | $33–45 per session Sample monthly cost for three 30-minute sessions per week: $396 | Pay-as-you-go virtual training sessions for 30–60 minutes for $36–45; monthly virtual training sessions for 30–60 minutes for $33–36 |
| Trainiac | $90 | Access to specific gyms & studios; can book video session with personal trainer |
| Trainiac | $160 | Access to some top gyms & studios; can book video session with personal trainer |
| Trainiac | $240–280 | Access to top gyms & studios; access to Gympass wellness apps; custom fitness plan; 1:1 personal training (amount of access unknown) |
Costs are approximate and are subject to change.
2. Understanding In-Person Personal Training Costs
2.1 In-person Training Costs May Spike With Your Zip Code
Many factors contribute to the monthly cost of an in-person personal trainer, including the trainer’s certifications, education, years of experience, and the length and frequency of your sessions. However, the biggest factor can frequently be your zip code.
If you live in a major metro area such as LA, New York, or Chicago, you might see a jump in personal training pricing, similar to the increased cost of real estate. The highest employment rate of fitness professionals includes California, followed by Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois. As there are more fitness professionals in these areas, it stands to reason that there are also higher levels of expertise and experience.
On average, if you work with a personal trainer for one hour twice a week, you can expect to pay between $400 to $1,000 a month. On the flip side, if you live in a smaller town within the nation, you might be able to find an experienced personal trainer for a lower hourly rate. You can potentially cut these costs further by purchasing a package of personal training sessions in advance.
2.2 In-person Personal Training Cost Per Hour
| National average | $55–65 |
|---|---|
| average range | $40-75 |
| low-end cost | $35–40 |
| high-end cost | $115–150 |
Costs are approximate and subject to change.
Factors that can affect what personal trainers charge include:
- Length of sessions: Some trainers offer 20-minute, 30-minute, 50-minute, and 60-minute sessions, but the client will likely still pay the same hourly rate overall (it’ll just be a percentage less expensive if it’s not a one-hour session).
- Frequency: If you’ve been training with a personal trainer for a long time, they’ll often give you a better rate for sticking with them. Same if you train three times a week versus once.
- Package: As mentioned above, trainers may knock off some of the total cost if you purchase a package. Same goes for some trainers who specialize in specific sports, bodybuilding, or performance; they might give you a special rate for a weeks- or months-long training plan that gets you ready for a competition or event.
- Trainer certifications, specialties, and years of experience: We cover this in depth below.
- Location of session: Is the training online? Does the trainer have to drive to your house, a gym, or other location? If you want your trainer to meet you at your gym but that trainer isn’t employed by the gym, you’ll likely get charged an additional trainer fee.
- Gear: If the trainer is coming to you, do they have to lug the training equipment with them? Kettlebells, battle ropes, and dumbbells are heavy and not fun to transport. The trainer might add a surplus to the session cost if this is the case.
- Cancellation policy: Ask the trainer if they have one and remember they’re not charging you for a missed session to punish you. If you miss a session outside of their cancellation window, that means they can’t schedule time with another client and their time is as valuable as yours. Also ask the trainer if they do make-up sessions, and if those cost the same.
A good personal trainer will keep you motivated, but the cost of in-person personal training might not fit your budget. That’s where a key benefit of working with an online personal trainer comes into play — you’ll pay a flat (and often more affordable) monthly fee, no matter where you live.
2.3 Average Hourly In-Person Personal Training Cost by State
| State | Source: Exercise.com | Source: Thumbtack | Source: IDEA | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $45 | $65 | $60 | $57 |
| Alaska | $40 | $69 | $32 | $47 |
| Arizona | $50 | $45 | $24 | $40 |
| Arkansas | $30 | $65 | $20 | $38 |
| California | $55 | $75 | $26 | $52 |
| Colorado | $27 | $60 | $79 | $55 |
| Connecticut | $70 | $26 | $60 | $52 |
| Delaware | $24 | $60 | $30 | $38 |
| Florida | $85 | $69 | $45 | $66 |
| Georgia | $59 | $25 | $40 | $41 |
| Hawaii | $21 | $30 | $20 | $24 |
| Idaho | $21 | $23 | $25 | $24 |
| Illinois | $75 | $26 | $50 | $50 |
| Indiana | $22 | $45 | $60 | $42 |
| Iowa | $50 | $22 | $75 | $49 |
| Kansas | $30 | $75 | $21 | $42 |
| Kentucky | $21 | $25 | $45 | $30 |
| Louisiana | $60 | $75 | $24 | $53 |
| Maine | $27 | $50 | $45 | $41 |
| Maryland | $28 | $55 | $68 | $51 |
| Massachusetts | $26 | $30 | $75 | $44 |
| Michigan | $62 | $24 | $50 | $45 |
| Minnesota | $24 | $75 | $60 | $53 |
| Mississippi | $17 | $30 | $18 | $22 |
| Missouri | $24 | $54 | $69 | $49 |
| Montana | $60 | $65 | $24 | $50 |
| Nebraska | $20 | $30 | $25 | $25 |
| Nevada | $25 | $40 | $35 | $33 |
| New Hampshire | $22 | $63 | $50 | $45 |
| New Jersey | $54 | $27 | $60 | $47 |
| New Mexico | $30 | $70 | $65 | $55 |
| New York | $44 | $55 | $33 | $44 |
| North Carolina | $23 | $58 | $60 | $47 |
| North Dakota | $21 | $30 | $35 | $29 |
| Ohio | $30 | $52 | $60 | $47 |
| Oklahoma | $21 | $45 | $55 | $41 |
| Oregon | $27 | $50 | $25 | $34 |
| Pennsylvania | $24 | $55 | $60 | $46 |
| Rhode Island | $26 | $65 | $30 | $40 |
| South Carolina | $50 | $35 | $45 | $43 |
| South Dakota | $60 | $19 | $55 | $45 |
| Tennessee | $24 | $60 | $75 | $53 |
| Texas | $24 | $62 | $40 | $42 |
| Utah | $22 | $45 | $60 | $42 |
| Vermont | $23 | $50 | $55 | $43 |
| Virginia | $25 | $68 | $65 | $53 |
| Washington | $41 | $75 | $30 | $49 |
| West Virginia | $21 | $40 | $50 | $37 |
| Wisconsin | $23 | $34 | $52 | $36 |
| Wyoming | $21 | $45 | $75 | $47 |
Costs are approximate.
3. The Gym Route: A Convenient Option
Many people connect with a trainer through a gym because it requires the least amount of research, especially if you already have a membership. You can simply waltz up to the front desk and ask for the personal training prices and who’s available. The first session is often free as well.
While many gyms will have experienced trainers, it’s worth noting that training rates are often related to the cost of your gym. If you belong to an upscale boutique gym, expect to pay upscale prices. If you belong to a more budget-friendly fitness center, you’ll likely pay less, though the trainers may have less experience too. For example, at the YMCA, you might pay one of their trainers as little as $50 per hour, while at Equinox you can expect to shell out $100–150 per hour (on top of their $200–382 monthly membership fee).
This option makes sense if you’re already a member of the gym. If you’re not already a member, then you need to factor monthly gym membership into the cost.
For more cost-effective options, you could explore group personal training. That’s where you grab a few friends and split the cost of expert-led sweat sessions. The personal trainer can meet you at a gym (if the gym allows it), at the park, or at someone’s house for training.
3.1 Cost of Personal Training at U.S. Gyms
| Gym | Membership Fee | Personal Trainer Cost per Hour |
|---|---|---|
| Anytime Fitness | $41 | $50–100 |
| Crunch Fitness | $15-30 | $100–1150 |
| Equinox | $200-382 | $100 |
| Gold’s Gym | $50-60 | $60–100 |
| Goodlife | $36-40 | $85 |
| LA Fitness | $40-50 | $40–60 |
| Lifetime Fitness | $299 | $60–100 |
| Planet Fitness | $10-25 | n/a |
| 24 Hour Fitness | $30-50 | $80 |
| YMCA | $65 | $50 |
Costs are approximate and depend upon location, gym membership type, and do not include special sign-up offers or initiation fees.
Sources: Gym websites, Gympricelist.com
4. Is a Personal Trainer Worth the Cost? Absolutely
Losing weight and getting in shape can be a tough journey, but a personal trainer can make things easier for you. If you have a difficult time maintaining consistency, or you simply need someone to guide you along the way, a personal trainer is a smart investment in your health. A personal trainer will create a custom plan based on your fitness goals, lend you their expertise, motivate and be there to guide you, and hold you accountable.
Rather than try another diet that you won’t stick to, or a new exercise fad that will likely make you so sore that you can barely move two days later, why not seek the experience of a fitness expert this time? The best personal trainers will take the time to listen to what you’ve tried, why you want to achieve the health goals you say you want, and steer you on a path to realizing success in healthy, sustainable ways.
According to Breana Loudermilk, a Texas-based personal trainer and nutrition coach, one of the main things that people need is accountability. Clients want to know that she’s making sure that they’re putting in full effort, and sometimes just that one little text of motivation is what they need to remind them. When it comes to the workouts, it’s very important to her that clients enjoy their workouts. Finding out what works and motivates each client differs for every person.
Some clients want different workouts every week; some prefer to go a couple weeks with the same ones so they can see their progress. Food logging is definitely a major factor and has been proven to be very effective. The client can go back and reflect on their day and see where they can do better.
Perhaps the most important factor in finding the “why” you should invest in personal training is relationship-building. Finding the right trainer can take some time. It’s so important that you vibe well with your trainer. She really tries to create that relationship with her clients so they know that they are not just another person to her.
Building trust is the key to making the client-personal training relationship work. The trainer has to earn the client’s trust so they’ll have faith in the trainer’s recommendations and actually put in the work needed to see the results they want.
5. How Should You Pick a Personal Trainer? The Lowdown on Certifications
Before you get overwhelmed by all the acronyms, here’s a rundown on what to look for in personal training certifications. The top certifying bodies include:
- NASM: National Academy of Sports Medicine
- NSCA: National Strength and Conditioning Association
- ACE: American Council on Exercise
- ISSA: International Sports Sciences Association
- ACSM: American College of Sports Medicine
- NCSF: National Council on Strength and Fitness
- NESTA: National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association
- NFPT: National Federation of Personal Trainers
For those looking to gain strength and muscle, it can be especially helpful to find a pro that also has the NSCA-CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) certification, a program that dives a bit deeper into exercise science as it relates to sports and athletics.
According to Ahsha Morin, a CPT, CHES-certified personal trainer based in Oklahoma, personal trainers will have a certification in personal training as well as annual continuing education credits. Many personal trainers will have additional certifications and may specialize in special populations. With Kickoff, the price is the same no matter how many certifications the trainer has.
The more experienced personal trainers tend to have multiple certifications and specializations. Let’s use the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) as an example. To earn the NASM certification in personal training, individuals must complete the online course, pass the exam, and have the option of getting experience in either online personal training or in-person training. The NASM certification lasts for two years, after which, the trainer needs recertification. In addition to the personal training certificate, NASM offers nutrition and sports nutrition certifications, and 13 specializations — from behavior change to corrective exercise.
According to Craig Cole, ACSM-CPT, Rock Steady Boxing coach-certified, TRX coach-certified, and trainer with Kickoff, as a trainer, his fitness programs generally help a client build strength and muscle mass, work towards weight loss, prepare for a physique or bodybuilding competition, or train for a sport.
He also builds programming and engages with individuals with Parkinson’s disease or Multiple Sclerosis, working to teach his clients to use the workouts and guidance he provides as something they can be responsible for versus feeling like they have to rely upon someone to do the workout for them.
Extra certificates and degrees will likely increase a personal trainer’s hourly rate. But, it’s worth noting that — once properly vetted — these accolades can be worth it. Keep in mind, the quality of certifications matter more than the quantity.
Clients should do their research on trainers’ education backgrounds before agreeing to train with them. The client should also really consider why they want a trainer to begin with based on their goals.
While in-person training will cost about $65 per hour, on average, online personal training through a program like Kickoff gives you unlimited access to a dedicated trainer whose qualifications have already been vetted — for just $3 per day.
6. In-Person vs. Online Personal Training, According to Experts
According to Ahsha Morin, in-person training is hands-on and requires physical attendance, usually on a specific schedule in the presence of an instructor. Online training allows clients to complete workouts online at their own pace with or without the trainer present. The benefits of training online include convenience and having more accountability, as trainers will check in with clients more often than the in-person trainer who meets with clients in-person once a week.
According to Craig Cole, remote personal training gives clients the opportunity to participate in becoming accountable to themselves. The personal trainer sets the accountability tone in the beginning, but, over time, the client should grow more accustomed to self-motivating.
With online training, a client doesn’t have to rely upon some inconvenient time to meet with a trainer at the gym, get in a rushed workout because the trainer is on the clock, or not get the trainer’s full attention because they’re focused on something else during that session. Online training allows a client to learn to own their training plans, own their commitment, be accountable for their choices, and most importantly, have a sense of pride and satisfaction that they took resources provided and helped change their own life.
Remote training allows coaches and clients to have immediate dialogue so that adjustments can be made faster to a client’s programming, questions, and concerns. This can happen same-day in many cases, rather than waiting until the next in-person session. Clients are given the opportunity to be empowered and accountable for their own actions.
For example, Cole requires his clients to report in post-workout not only to share how they did, but also because he wants them to reflect and share their experiences.
A benefit of using Kickoff as a fitness platform is that it allows trainers the ability to engage with clients. Then, it gives clients invested opportunities to engage with the coach to have the best outcome to obtain a specific goal.
What’s more, it’s generally cheaper to get online personal training. This is because the logistics of training have changed for the trainer, reducing costs for time of travel, insurance through a particular gym, or having to share profits with a gym. The cost of a personal trainer should generally revolve around what that trainer can give a client who’s looking to achieve a specific goal.
You can find great online personal trainers from these top sources:
- Kickoff (of course)
- Thumbtack
- Bark
- National Federation of Personal Trainers
7. Factors Influencing the Cost of a Personal Trainer
Several factors can influence the cost of a personal trainer. These include the trainer’s qualifications, experience, location, and the type of training you’re seeking. Higher-qualified trainers with specialized skills often charge more due to their expertise.
| Factor | Description | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Trainer Qualifications | Certifications, degrees, and specializations such as nutrition coaching or strength and conditioning | Higher qualifications typically lead to higher rates |
| Trainer Experience | Years of experience in the fitness industry; trainers with a longer track record often command higher fees | More experienced trainers usually charge more |
| Geographic Location | Training costs vary significantly by location, with major metropolitan areas generally having higher rates | Higher cost of living areas typically have higher personal training rates |
| Type of Training | Online vs. in-person training; group vs. individual sessions | Online training and group sessions are generally more affordable than individual in-person training |
| Session Length & Frequency | Shorter or less frequent sessions may have a lower cost per session but can be more expensive overall if progress is slower | Longer, more frequent sessions can increase the total cost |
| Packages & Promotions | Purchasing packages of sessions or taking advantage of promotional offers can reduce the overall cost | Packages and promotions can offer cost savings |
| Additional Services | Nutrition plans, personalized workout routines, and access to fitness apps can increase the cost | Comprehensive services often come at a higher price point |
| Gym Membership Fees | Some trainers require clients to have a gym membership, adding to the overall cost | Gym memberships add to the total expense |
| Equipment & Travel Costs | Trainers who bring equipment to your location or travel long distances may charge additional fees | Added costs for convenience and specialized services |
| Client Goals & Special Needs | Specialized training for specific goals (e.g., marathon training or rehabilitation) or clients with special needs may command higher rates | Specialized expertise and tailored programs often increase the cost |
| Trainer Reputation & Demand | Highly sought-after trainers with strong reputations may charge premium rates due to high demand | High demand can drive up rates |
8. Maximizing Value When Hiring a Personal Trainer
To ensure you get the most out of your investment, consider these tips:
- Define Your Goals: Clearly outline your fitness objectives to find a trainer whose expertise aligns with your needs.
- Check Credentials: Verify the trainer’s certifications and experience to ensure they meet industry standards.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look for feedback from previous clients to gauge the trainer’s effectiveness and professionalism.
- Consider Online Training: Explore virtual training options for a more affordable and flexible approach.
- Negotiate Rates: Don’t hesitate to discuss pricing options or package deals to find a plan that fits your budget.
- Assess Compatibility: Choose a trainer whose personality and communication style resonate with you for a more effective and enjoyable experience.
- Track Your Progress: Monitor your results and provide feedback to your trainer to optimize your training program.
- Utilize Free Consultations: Take advantage of free initial consultations to assess the trainer’s approach and determine if they’re the right fit.
9. How HOW.EDU.VN Can Help You Find the Right Expert
Finding the right personal trainer can be a challenge, but HOW.EDU.VN simplifies the process by connecting you with over 100 renowned PhDs and experts across various fields. Our platform ensures you receive personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific fitness goals and preferences.
By choosing HOW.EDU.VN, you benefit from:
- Expert Guidance: Access certified and experienced personal trainers.
- Personalized Programs: Receive customized workout and nutrition plans designed to meet your unique needs.
- Flexible Options: Choose between in-person and online training sessions based on your schedule and budget.
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Enjoy competitive rates and package deals to make personal training affordable.
- Comprehensive Support: Get ongoing motivation, accountability, and expert advice to stay on track and achieve your fitness goals.
10. FAQs About Personal Trainer Costs
10.1 What is the average cost of a personal trainer per session?
The average cost of a personal trainer per session ranges from $40 to $75, depending on location, experience, and session length.
10.2 Is online personal training cheaper than in-person training?
Yes, online personal training is generally more affordable due to lower overhead costs and greater flexibility.
10.3 What certifications should I look for in a personal trainer?
Look for certifications from reputable organizations such as NASM, NSCA, ACE, and ACSM.
10.4 How can I find an affordable personal trainer?
Consider online training, group sessions, or package deals to reduce costs.
10.5 What factors affect the cost of a personal trainer?
Factors include the trainer’s qualifications, experience, location, and the type of training you’re seeking.
10.6 Are personal trainers worth the investment?
Yes, personal trainers can provide personalized guidance, motivation, and accountability, leading to better results and long-term fitness success.
10.7 Can I negotiate the rates with a personal trainer?
Yes, it’s often possible to negotiate rates or package deals, especially for longer-term commitments.
10.8 How often should I see a personal trainer?
The frequency of sessions depends on your goals, budget, and schedule, but most people benefit from seeing a trainer 1-3 times per week.
10.9 What are the benefits of working with a personal trainer?
Benefits include personalized plans, expert guidance, motivation, accountability, and improved results.
10.10 How does HOW.EDU.VN ensure the quality of its personal trainers?
HOW.EDU.VN carefully vets its trainers, ensuring they have the necessary certifications, experience, and expertise to provide high-quality coaching.
11. The Takeaway
Working with a personal trainer can be a transformative experience, and understanding the costs involved is the first step toward making an informed decision. Whether you opt for in-person or online training, the key is to find a qualified trainer who aligns with your goals and budget.
Finally, and best of all, working with an online trainer through a platform like HOW.EDU.VN, where you get access to an expert, dedicated fitness trainer can be the most cost-effective way to achieve your fitness goals.
No matter when you want to work out, where you have to travel, or what questions you have about your diet, your online personal trainer will be there with you every step of the way.
Ready to take the next step? Contact HOW.EDU.VN today to connect with a leading expert and start your journey toward a healthier, fitter you.
Contact Us:
- Address: 456 Expertise Plaza, Consult City, CA 90210, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 (310) 555-1212
- Website: HOW.EDU.VN
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