Wingard became interested in the field of weight training as a teenager, and has expanded his interest from personal to professional over the years. “I started weight training back when I was a teen. I have struggled with my own weight through the years, and I kept learning more and more for my own personal goals,” he says. At age 19, Wingard received his first certification in personal training, as well as a certification in sports nutrition.

When society thinks of the term “personal trainer,” there is automatically a stigma attached it. Many people believe that only those who are wealthy use personal trainers, and can afford them. But Wingard debunks this stigma. “Actually, I find that most of the clients that I work with are not particularly wealthy, just average working class, everyday people." He also tells Teen Scene that he finds women are more likely to use a personal trainer than men. Wingard says that surprisingly age isn't a factor either when it comes to personal training. “I've worked with all ages, from as young as 13 to people in their 70's."

There are many different reasons why a person may want to start working with a personal trainer. Whether it be for weight loss, conditioning or as part of therapy for an injury. “A personal trainer should really be looked at as a teacher, a mentor, and a motivator." Essentially a trainer will develop a personalized training program after evaluating your fitness levels, possible medical conditions and goals. Wingard comments that a personal trainer should be considered a source of information for the client. “Something I always tell my clients is that I'm here to give you the tools, the information you need. But it's up to you to work for it,” he tells Teen Scene.

When looking to start working with a personal trainer, a client should get to know the trainers qualifications, before knowing if they are the right fit for them. Certifications, as well as previous experience, are some of the key questions a client should ask before working with a trainer. “Make sure that they have certifications in the type of training that you are interested in,” Wingard suggests. But, when it finally comes down to picking a personal trainer, Wingard says that a client should expect the hard, honest truth. “Although I always try to be as helpful as possible, I am also very frank with my clients." No matter what, a personal trainer is there to push you towards your goal.

For those considering becoming a personal trainer as a career, Wingard offers some advice. “Make sure that you get the appropriate certifications, always keep learning and experimenting with new ideas." He also advises that trainers keep records of their clients with pictures and statistics. This helps build up a portfolio of the work they have done. He also adds that personal trainers need to be aware of how often they need to be re-certified. Depending on the association, a trainer may need to be re-certified annually or biannually. “Remember that your reputation is just as important as the certifications you have."

At the end of it all, Wingard's philosophy on training is very simple; “Keep it simple. Always try to make a nice steady progression with your routine. Get in, get out, and work hard.”

Photo Credit: http://www.everybodyspersonaltrainer.com/personal_trainer_columbia.htm

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