What “Best Personal Trainers” Means in 2023

The “best personal trainers 2023” aren’t simply the most popular on social media or the ones with the longest list of credentials. In 2023, the best trainers are the ones who can safely guide you toward your goal with a plan you can actually follow—whether that’s fat loss, strength, muscle gain, sports performance, mobility, or post-injury confidence. They combine evidence-based programming, strong communication, and genuine coaching skill (not just workouts).

Just as importantly, the best trainer for you is a match for your lifestyle: schedule, budget, training history, and motivation style. A great coach can make training feel structured, efficient, and achievable—even if you’re starting from scratch.

Top Qualities to Look for in the Best Personal Trainers

1) Proper certification and education

In 2023, reputable certifications still matter because they show a baseline of knowledge and professional standards. Look for trainers certified by well-known organizations such as NASM, ACE, NSCA, or ACSM. Specialized education can also be a big plus, especially for specific needs (e.g., corrective exercise, pre/postnatal, sports performance, or strength and conditioning).

Pro tip: Ask what continuing education they’ve done in the last 12 months. Great trainers keep learning.

2) Clear, individualized programming

The best personal trainers don’t hand every client the same template. They assess your starting point, movement quality, training age, and recovery capacity. Then they create a plan with progression—so you know what you’re working on this week, next month, and beyond.

Individualization also includes practical details like equipment access (gym vs. home), time per session, and how many days per week you can realistically train.

3) Strong communication and coaching style

Coaching is more than counting reps. Great trainers can explain the “why,” teach technique in a way that clicks, and adjust cues so you feel the right muscles working. They also set expectations clearly: what results are realistic, how long progress takes, and how you’ll track it.

Look for someone who asks good questions, listens closely, and makes you feel supported—without relying on guilt or intimidation.

4) Focus on safety, form, and long-term progress

The best trainers prioritize movement quality, appropriate loading, and recovery. They understand that sustainable results come from consistency, not burnout. If a trainer pushes maximal effort every session, ignores pain signals, or dismisses your concerns, that’s a red flag.

In 2023, good coaching means balancing intensity with technique, mobility, sleep, stress management, and injury prevention.

5) Evidence-based nutrition and habit guidance

Many trainers provide nutrition coaching or habit support—especially helpful if fat loss or body composition is your goal. The best approach is realistic and individualized, focused on behavior change and consistency rather than extreme restriction. Note that nutrition scope of practice varies by region; a great trainer stays within their qualifications and collaborates with registered dietitians when needed.

Best Personal Trainer Options in 2023 (In-Person vs. Online)

Personal training in 2023 comes in two main formats, and both can be excellent depending on your needs.

In-person personal trainers

Best for: beginners, anyone who wants hands-on form coaching, people who thrive on face-to-face accountability, and those with complex movement needs.

Benefits: real-time feedback, easier technique correction, access to gym equipment, and an immersive coaching experience.

Potential drawbacks: higher cost, travel time, and schedule constraints—especially if you need peak-hour sessions.

Online personal trainers

Best for: busy schedules, frequent travelers, home-gym users, and intermediate to advanced trainees who want a structured plan and check-ins.

Benefits: flexibility, often lower cost, broader choice (you’re not limited to local options), and excellent progress tracking through apps.

Potential drawbacks: less immediate form correction, requires self-motivation between check-ins, and quality varies widely.

Hybrid coaching (the 2023 sweet spot)

Hybrid coaching combines occasional in-person sessions with online programming and support. This is a strong option if you want technique coaching but also need flexibility. Many of the best personal trainers 2023 offer hybrid packages to provide both accountability and convenience.

How to Find the Best Personal Trainers Near You

Finding a great trainer is easier when you treat it like hiring a professional service. Here are practical, reliable ways to narrow your search.

Ask for recommendations (and specifics)

Friends, coworkers, and local community groups can be a goldmine. When you ask, don’t just ask “Do you like your trainer?” Ask: What goal did they help you achieve? How do they track progress? Are they punctual and organized? Do they communicate between sessions?

Search local gyms, studios, and community centers

Large gyms often have a range of trainer experience levels, while boutique studios may specialize (strength, Pilates, athletic performance, etc.). Community centers can be a budget-friendly place to start.

Check credentials and reviews—then verify with a consult

Reviews can highlight consistency, professionalism, and coaching style. Use them as a starting point, then book a consultation or trial session. The best trainers will welcome questions and explain their process clearly.

Look for specialization that matches your goal

Some trainers excel at powerlifting technique, others at endurance conditioning, postnatal return-to-training, or helping beginners build confidence. Matching specialization to your goal can dramatically improve your results—and your experience.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Trainer

A short conversation can reveal whether a trainer is truly a fit. Consider asking:

  • What certifications do you hold, and what continuing education have you completed recently?
  • How do you assess a new client? (Movement screen, health history, goal-setting, baseline strength/cardio tests.)
  • How do you plan workouts and progress them over time?
  • How do you handle pain or prior injuries? (You want thoughtful modifications, not dismissal.)
  • How do you track progress? (Strength numbers, measurements, photos, performance metrics, habits.)
  • What does support look like between sessions? (Check-ins, messaging, app-based programming.)
  • What are your policies for scheduling, cancellations, and refunds?
  • How do you incorporate nutrition and lifestyle coaching? (And do they stay within their scope?)

Red Flags to Avoid

Even in 2023, there are trainers who overpromise or underdeliver. Be cautious if you notice:

  • Guarantees of rapid results (e.g., “Lose 20 pounds in 2 weeks”) without context.
  • No assessment before heavy or complex exercises.
  • Poor attention during sessions (constantly on their phone or distracted).
  • One-size-fits-all programming with no progression or coaching cues.
  • Dismissive attitude toward pain or “push through it” mentality.
  • Pressure tactics to buy large packages immediately.

Conclusion

The best personal trainers 2023 are defined by coaching skill, professionalism, and a plan built around your goals—not hype. Whether you choose in-person, online, or hybrid training, prioritize a trainer who communicates clearly, programs intelligently, and makes progress sustainable. Start with a consultation, ask the right questions, and choose a coach who makes you feel confident about the process—and consistent enough to stick with it.