Some people feel that they can do a fitness program and healthy diet all on their own. If that's the case, more power to anyone who can create a healthy eating plan, incorporate a weight training routine, and practice regular cardio on their own. You, however, are the extreme exceptions. For many people, the problem isn't creating the program or even finding the discipline to commit to it. The problem is that they mistakenly design the wrong program for the results they're after. These folks train regularly, yet see little or no results. Then they get frustrated and quit, thinking they have tried everything when it comes to losing fat or building muscle. They erroneously believe they must just not be disciplined enough - when, in reality, discipline has very little to do with it.

Others think they're well informed because they've achieved great results on their own, when they've really just been blessed with good genes and require very little exercise. Most models, movie stars, and celebrities fall into this category, so any exercise and nutritional program designed by a personal trainer probably works like a charm for them. Imagine the results they would see if they used a highly knowledgeable personal trainer and certified nutritionist! And the results would last, rather than simply providing the short-term solutions they've become accustomed to.

Lastly, there are unhealthy people who don't have time to exercise, or never exercise, because exercise hurts, they hate to sweat, or their self-esteem is in the toilet and they figure there's no point in bothering. This sort of apathy toward preserving one's health may seem like no one's business but that individual's, but it is really a very selfish attitude. Treating your body well - including regular exercise and healthy nutrition - is actually quite unselfish. Think about it - if you don't take care of yourself now, sooner than later, others will have to take care of you. Since you're too lazy, busy, or depressed to invest the time or energy in staying healthy now, you will inevitably make others suffer.

If companies and governments were wise, personal trainers would be mandatory, and health insurance would cover them. Seriously, if you only saw a trainer once a week - or even once a month - to check in and make sure you're performing your exercises properly, that would be better than not seeing one at all.

Fame Doesn't Equal Expertise - Particularly in the Health & Fitness Industry

Invest time in the research, and then invest your dollars in a qualified trainer who can help you achieve your personal goals. If you have a special need - a back injury, joint problems, limited range of motion - find someone who can address your issue specifically. Don't jump on the latest celebrity trainer bandwagon, just because the person is a trainer to the stars.

Celebrity personal trainers, spokesmodels, movie stars, athletes, and other rich and famous people likely got where they are because they're great at what they do. That does not mean you should follow their advice about health and nutrition. You probably wouldn't ask a plumber how to change your car's oil, would you? Likewise, celebrities may look good, but that doesn't mean they - even celebrity trainers - know much about proper exercise and nutrition. Hire a health, fitness, and nutrition professional. They are the only people whose advice you should take on these subjects. Even medical doctors generally are not the best advocates for proper fitness and nutrition, because they are trained in specific fields and seldom are aware of how all the parts of the body work and move in cooperation.

Look around and notice how some of the famous people dish out health advice are not even in the best shape? Why would you take advice from someone who isn't in peak physical condition? That's like getting your hair cut by a stylist with a bad toupee or having a gap-toothed orthodontist install your braces. Not to mention that almost anyone can look great, but still feel terrible, because they gained their looks through an unhealthy process.

Research Pays Off When Searching for a Qualified Trainer

No one knows what they don't know. As a result, many people fall into the trap of buying into the fads from stars like Britney Spears, Oprah, and Dr. Phil. Although a star might actually have a fabulous, incredibly knowledgeable trainer, a great deal can be misinterpreted between the exercise/diet specifics the trainer offers his celebrity client and the info that celebrity passes along to his or her adoring fans. It's like that game of telephone you played as a kid - by the time the original information reaches you, it has become misinformation.

One star says they got great results by simply lifting weights and eating fewer calories. The next celebrity says they slimmed down by eating a low-fat diet high in protein. Another famous somebody swears by a daily swim, lots of veggies, and lot of good carbs. Arghhhhhh!!!! It all sounds confusing as hell. And, in a way, it is. How should you believe?

A program tailored to a size-2 supermodel will not work for a heavier stay-at-home mom who is just beginning an exercise regimen. The proper design of an exercise program depends on each individual's biochemistry and physiology. When it comes to human kinetics, many underlying reasons could explain why one person begins a simple walking program and, voila, looks phenomenal, while another person runs, lifts weights, and tortures herself in the gym, only to step on the scale and find she's gained another pound.

A good personal trainer will help you lose all the fat you want and add all the muscle you desire. Personal training is all about you and your desired results. Even if all your exercise and effort don't drop a pound off you - if you see no noticeable changes - the exercise is still benefiting your body and your health, and it would be stupid to discontinue your program. Rather than quit, find someone to help you fine-tune your regimen so you can begin to see the results from all your hard work.

Don't be conned into following someone's advice just because they claim to be a celebrity personal trainer or charge an exorbitant rate. None of that guarantees their program will help you succeed. There are no healthy quick fixes. Begin a quality exercise program and eat properly, period. Don't waste time, money, or energy becoming frustrated. Do the research so you can hire a professional to give you sensible advice that will help you look good and feel great.

Personal trainers motivate you - and their celebrity clients - to stay healthy, get in shape, and keep off the fat.