Hiring a trainer can be a wonderful boost to your fitness routine or a tremendous waste of precious money, depending on your reasons and expectations. Knowing what a trainer can and can't do for you may help you make the best decision for your personal needs.

A trainer CAN:

Help you design a workout if you are recovering from an injury or have some other physical condition that affects your ability to exercise. Be sure to work with someone who has experience in physical therapy and get clearance from your doctor before you proceed.

Also check out... Get More Out of the Gym Navigating the Gym: A Beginner's Guide What Should You Consider When Joining a... Working Out on the Homefront

Help your workout sessions become more efficient. Trainers can spot when you're doing a crunch poorly and help you identify how a particular exercise is supposed to feel in different parts of your body. This is especially valuable if you plan to lift heavy weights because wrong moves can easily lead to injuries.