Why You Shouldn’t Just Google “Personal Trainer Near Me”—Here’s What to Do Instead
Surprisingly enough this is kind of what personal training looks like…who knew the image catalog had a photo!
We’ve all done it. You decide you’re finally ready to get in shape, open up your laptop, type in “personal trainer near me” … and suddenly you’re staring at a wall of names, websites, and stock photos of overly enthusiastic people high-fiving in matching spandex.
It’s a bit like swiping on a dating app—you get a few carefully curated photos, a catchy tagline, and no real idea who you’re going to end up with. And just like dating, sometimes you get lucky, but other times… you’re left wondering how you ended up stuck with someone who thinks a “warm-up” means a 1-mile sprint.
The problem? Google isn’t your personal matchmaker.
The Problem with “Personal Trainer Near Me” Searches
When you search “personal trainer near me”, here’s what you’re really getting:
Whoever Paid the Most for Ads
Just because they’re at the top doesn’t mean they’re the best. It just means they gave Google their lunch money.The SEO Ninjas
Some trainers have killer websites with all the right keywords, but they may not be the right fit for you. It’s like ordering a movie based on its poster and realizing halfway through it’s a 3-hour black-and-white French film about existential despair. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that… but you were expecting Top Gun.)Location Over Goals
The closest trainer to you might not have the skill set you need. If your goal is to recover from an injury, the guy who specializes in bodybuilding prep probably isn’t your best match.
What to Do Instead
Before you commit to the first trainer Google serves up like a plate of mystery meat, here’s a better approach:
1. Get Clear on Your Goals
You wouldn’t walk into a grocery store without knowing if you need dinner ingredients or just a snack. The same goes for finding a trainer. Do you want to lose weight, get stronger, improve mobility, or just feel less like you’ve been hit by a bus every morning? Knowing this will narrow your search.
2. Read Reviews That Tell Stories
Five stars are great, but stories are better. Look for reviews that mention specific results:
“I went from knee pain to running a 5K in six months.”
That’s way more valuable than “Nice guy, good workouts.”
3. Stalk (Politely) on Social Media
A trainer’s Instagram or Facebook will tell you a lot. Do they post helpful tips? Do they show actual client progress? Or is it just endless shirtless mirror selfies? (Hey, no judgment—just make sure their content matches your needs.)
You can find me on Instagram right here, come say hi!
4. Book a Consultation—Before You Commit
Good trainers will offer a free or low-cost consult. This is your chance to see if your personalities click. Because if you’re going to spend multiple hours a week with someone telling you to do burpees, you’d better at least like them a little.
Fun fact- I offer both a free phone call, free in person introductory workout, and a free 2-week trial for my online personal training option. Click here to get started!
How to Use Google Smarter
I’m not saying never use Google—just make it work harder for you. Instead of typing “personal trainer near me” and hoping for the best, try adding more detail:
“Personal trainer near me for beginners”
“Personal trainer near me for weight loss”
“Personal trainer near me in [Your City] for post-injury rehab”
You’ll get more targeted results and weed out people who aren’t in your lane.
And don’t forget local resources—Facebook community groups, recommendations from friends, or even your doctor or physical therapist can point you toward a good fit.
A Better Way to Find Your Fitness Match
At the end of the day, finding a personal trainer is less about who’s physically closest to you and more about who can actually help you get where you want to go. Think Jerry Maguire—you want someone who will “help you help yourself,” not just yell at you to do more push-ups.
If you’re in Richmond (Vermont) or the Chittenden County, Burlington, or Stowe area… this is where I come in. I specialize in helping busy professionals get stronger, fitter, and more confident—without living in the gym or giving up the food you love.
So before you just click the first result for “personal trainer near me,” take the time to find the right one. Your goals, your personality, and your long-term success will thank you. And if you want to skip the guesswork entirely, let’s set up a consult and talk.
Stop Googling and start training. Click here to schedule your free consultation with me!