Categories / Gym machines & classes
Personal Training
One-to-one coached sessions.
How to start
Book an introductory session with a qualified trainer. Share your goals, health conditions and injuries.
How to progress
Your trainer will adapt the plan over time.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular activity. A trainer can help you get started and keep going. The WHO guidance applies. The WHO recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate activity a week for adults, and 60 minutes a day for children.
Take care: Choose a qualified, registered trainer and tell them about health conditions.
Sources
12-week starter plan
One or two sessions a week with a trainer, plus your own.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 5 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Choose a qualified trainer.
- Share your health history.
- Set clear goals.
Common mistakes
- Not telling your trainer about injuries.
- Skipping sessions.
- Expecting miracles.
Kit and cost
High Approximate UK prices.
- Sessions (about £30 to £70 each)
- Gym membership
- Supportive shoes
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth it?
It can help you start and stay on track.
How do I choose?
Look for qualifications and good reviews.
How often?
One or two sessions a week.
Good for: Strength Weight loss Skill
Compare with similar options
| Personal Training | Rowing Machine | Group Fitness (BodyPump, BodyCombat) | Stair Machine | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 60 min × 2/wk | 30 min × 3/wk | 45 min × 3/wk | 20 min × 2/wk |
| Effort | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | High cost | Moderate cost | Moderate cost | Moderate cost |
| Equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment | Basic kit | Some equipment |
| Impact | Low impact | Low impact | Low impact | Low impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Any level | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |