What Does a Personal Trainer Cost in 2023?

Are you thinking about hiring a personal trainer to help you reach your fitness goals? With the new year here, many people are looking to invest in their health and fitness. But you may be wondering - how much does a personal trainer cost?

The cost of a personal trainer can vary quite a bit based on factors like location, trainer experience level, and the types of services offered. Generally you can expect to pay an average of $50-100 per hour for personal training, but rates can range from $30 on the low end up to over $150 per hour.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the typical costs of working with a personal trainer, what affects the hourly rate you’ll pay, and tips for getting the most value to reach your fitness goals without breaking the bank.

Factors That Influence the Cost of a Personal Trainer

Many factors come into play when determining how much a personal trainer charges per session or per month. Some key factors that affect the personal trainer cost include:

Location

Where you live plays a big role in hourly rates for personal training. Trainers in major metro areas like New York City and Los Angeles often charge $100-150+ per hour. In mid-sized cities you may pay $60-100 per session, while in suburban or rural areas rates tend to be $30-70 per hour.

Trainer’s Experience and Credentials

More experienced personal trainers or those with advanced certifications or degrees often command higher rates. For example, a trainer with 5-10 years experience and an advanced certification may charge $80 per session, compared to $50 per session for a newly certified trainer.

Type of Gym or Facility

Upscale, exclusive gyms and fitness centers tend to have higher personal training costs. Trainers may charge $125+ per hour. At a basic gym or YMCA, rates are often $30-60 per session. In-home training is also more expensive than gym training.

Package Deals and Discounts

Prices per session often go down when you purchase bigger packages like 12 or 24 training sessions upfront. The more sessions you buy, the lower the per-session rate. There are also new apps that connect you with vetted personal trainers for more affordable rates.

Specialty Training Types

For specialty training like sports-specific training, post-rehab training, or small group training, expect to pay more per session than regular personal training rates.

Now that we’ve covered the major factors that influence cost, let’s look at typical price ranges and averages for hiring a personal trainer.

How Much Does a Personal Trainer Cost on Average?

Most personal trainers charge clients by the hour and require one-hour minimum sessions. The average cost for a one-hour personal training session is typically $50-100. However, rates can vary from below $30 per hour up to over $150 per hour depending on the factors we just covered.

Here is an overview of typical personal trainer prices:

• National Average Cost: $50-100 per hour session
• Group Training Rates: $25-50 per person per hour
• Specialty Training: $60-150+ per hour (sports-specific, post-rehab, etc.)
• Online Training: $30-80 per hour
• Gym Membership Add-On Rates: $25-50 per session
• Trainer App Services: $20-60 per hour session
• Location Averages:
• New York City: $100-175 per hour
• Los Angeles: $75-125 per hour
• Chicago: $60-100 per hour
• Austin, TX: $55-90 per hour
• Columbus, OH: $40-70 per hour

As you can see, there is significant variety in the hourly cost of working with a personal trainer based on your location, gym, trainer experience, and other factors we covered earlier.

The average cost per session is around $50-100, but could be below $30 or up above $150 per hour depending on those variables.

Next let’s look at the overall costs for personal training over a month and year.

Monthly and Yearly Costs for Personal Training

In addition to breakdown of hourly rates, it's important to consider how much an entire program of personal training will cost you over a month or a year. This will depend on how many sessions per week you have with your trainer.

Most experts recommend working with a personal trainer 2-3 days per week for the best results, whether your goal is weight loss, muscle gain, or overall fitness. Here are the approximate costs for monthly and yearly personal training at different session frequencies:

• 1 Session Per Week:
• Monthly Cost: $200-400
• Yearly Cost: $2,400-4,800
• 2 Sessions Per Week:
• Monthly Cost: $400-800
• Yearly Cost: $4,800-9,600
• 3 Sessions Per Week:
• Monthly Cost: $600-$1,200
• Yearly Cost: $7,200-$14,400

As you can see, even just one or two training sessions per week can add up to over $1,000 per month or thousands per year.

However, many people feel the benefits are well worth the investment into their health and fitness goals. But this highlights the importance of finding a quality trainer who provides results at a price you can afford long-term.

How to Find the Best Personal Trainer at an Affordable Price

You want to find a knowledgeable personal trainer who provides value and helps you reach your goals, while still fitting into your budget. Here are some tips for finding affordable personal training:

• Ask for Discounts or Package Rates: Many trainers offer discounted rates if you purchase training in bulk like 12-24 sessions upfront. This saves 10-20% off regular rates.
• Consider Group Training: Splitting the cost with 2-4 other people makes personal training much more affordable. Rates often start at $25-40 per person.
• Trainer Apps: New apps like Future, PumpOne, and FitOn connect you with vetted online personal trainers for more affordable rates starting at ~$20/session.
• Negotiate Rates: Don’t be afraid to negotiate pricing with trainers, especially if you’re committing to longer term training. Many will work with you.
• Look for Newer Trainers: Brand new trainers often charge less as they build their clientele. Their rates increase as they gain experience.
• Try University Trainers: Many local universities with exercise science programs offer very affordable personal training from senior students finishing their degrees. Quality is high.

The most important thing is finding an experienced, qualified trainer who tailors programs to your unique goals while keeping rates affordable long-term.

Avoid trainers who push overly expensive packages. With a bit of searching, you can find quality training that fits your budget.

Is a Personal Trainer Worth the Cost?

Many people new to personal training are hesitant about the investment and wonder - is a personal trainer really worth the high hourly cost?

There are good arguments on both sides. Here are some potential benefits that can make personal training worthwhile:

Accountability and Consistency - A trainer keeps you consistent with workouts and nutrition. People are far more likely to stick to a program with a trainer than attempting to stay self-motivated alone.

Effective Programming - Rather than guesswork, a knowledgeable trainer will program workouts designed to progressively help you reach your specific goals, like weight loss or strength building.

Improved Form and Technique - Trainers correct your form on exercises to maximize results and reduce injury risk. They also teach new exercises.

Education and Nutrition - Your trainer educates you on exercise, nutrition, recovery, and the psychology of behavior change. Investing in learning sets you up for lifelong success.

Motivation and Support - A good trainer motivationally coaches and supports you through the ups and downs to help you achieve results you likely wouldn't reach on your own.

Accountability on Results - If you aren't seeing expected results, a good trainer will adjust your program rather than letting you spin your wheels.

However, the counterargument many have against personal trainers is that the costs are overly expensive for what you receive. $100 or more per hour can seem excessive, especially with free workout routines and plans available online.

The value comes from having that expert guidance tailored to you, the accountability, and most importantly - the results. But the key is finding the right balance of getting quality help while keeping rates affordable for your budget in the short and long-term.

If cost is your main concern, we've covered different ways to save on personal training costs while still getting excellent help reaching your goals.

Bottom Line on Personal Trainer Prices

So in summary, the average cost per hour for a personal trainer is typically $50-100 per session. But hourly rates can range from below $30 up to $150+ per hour depending on the trainer's experience, your location, the gym or fitness facility, and other factors.

The total monthly cost of personal training will depend on how many sessions per week you have. Two to three sessions per week is recommended by most trainers, which can cost $400-$1,200+ per month based on hourly rates.

While not cheap, a good personal trainer can provide accountability, motivation, exercise programming, nutrition guidance, and the support you need to successfully reach your fitness goals. Find a trainer who provides quality help while keeping rates affordable.

With some savvy shopping and negotiating, you can find an experienced personal trainer who fits within your budget and helps you achieve real results when it comes to your health, fitness, and wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Trainer Costs

Certification

What credentials should a personal trainer have?

Look for a certified personal trainer with a legit certification like NASM, ACE, NSCA-CSCS, or ACSM. This ensures they are qualified and properly trained to design safe, effective programs. Credentials like exercise science degrees or specializations in sports training or rehab are a plus.

Hire a Personal Trainer

How do I hire a quality personal trainer?

Start by browsing trainer profiles at local gyms or training studios to find someone experienced who seems like a good personality fit. You can also get referrals from friends. Vet candidates thoroughly through initial consultations. Ask about their background, training approach, credentials, rates and package deals to make sure it’s a good match.

Find a Personal Trainer

Where can I find and hire a personal trainer?

You can find personal trainers at gyms, private training studios, via personal training apps, or by searching online marketplaces. Local gyms often have profiles for each trainer on staff along with rates and booking options. Training studios also list their coaches online for browsing. New apps make it easy to connect with qualified local trainers at more affordable rates.

Personal Trainer Near Me

How do I find a personal trainer in my area?

Search Google for “personal trainers near me” and your location to find trainers in your neighborhood. Scour gym websites in your area for their listed trainers. Check training studio websites and ClassPass for bookable trainers near you. You can also search Nextdoor or Facebook groups. Get referrals from neighbors or friends who work with local personal trainers they like.

Online Personal Training

What is online personal training and how does it work?

Online personal training allows you to work with a certified trainer remotely over live video. Sessions take place through apps like Zoom, where the trainer can view you, cue your form, and modify workouts in real-time. This makes personalized training more affordable and convenient than in-person sessions. Just be sure your trainer is certified.

Hourly Rate

How much should I expect to pay a personal trainer per hour?

Average hourly rates for personal training range from $50-$100 per hour-long session. Costs go up in major cities and high-end gyms. Experience level also impacts rates. You may pay $30-$50 for a newer trainer up to $125+ for someone highly experienced. Bundled session packages can lower the per-hour cost.

Cost Per Session

What does the average training session with a personal trainer cost?

Most personal trainers charge per hour-long session. The national average rate is around $50-$100 per one-hour session. Average cost can range from $25 for semi-private group sessions up to $175 for specialized private training in a high-end gym or studio. Location, experience level, facility type and package deals impact the per session rate.

Personal Trainer Hourly Rates

What is the typical hourly rate for a personal trainer?

Personal trainers commonly charge clients by the hour, with hourly rates averaging $50-$100 nationally. Expect higher hourly rates in major cities and upscale gyms ($125+ per hour) versus lower rates in small towns or basic gyms ($30-$50 per hour). As a trainer gains experience, they'll increase their hourly rate over time.

Find a Personal Trainer Near Me

What is the best way to find a local personal trainer?

Use Google Maps or search engines to find personal trainers located near you. Check out the trainer bios and offerings at nearby gyms. Search on ClassPass for bookable trainers in your area. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals. Search Facebook groups and Nextdoor for recommendations.

Online Personal Trainer

Are online personal trainers effective?

Yes, working remotely with a certified online trainer can be just as effective as in-person training. Through video chat apps, an online trainer can watch you exercise, correct form, provide feedback, and modify your workout program. Convenience and lower costs are benefits. Just confirm they are a certified professional.

Online Personal Training

How does online personal training work?

Online personal training is done remotely through live video chat. You exercise in front of your webcam while your trainer watches, cues form adjustments, provides motivation and tracks progress. Many trainers use workout tracking apps to program and log your training. Scheduling is flexible. Ensure your trainer is properly certified.

What Do Trainers Charge?

How much should I expect to pay for a qualified personal trainer?

Hourly rates typically range from $50-$100 per hour-long training session on average. Location, credentials, experience level, gym/studio pricing and specializations impact costs. Be prepared to spend $100-$150+ per hour for an elite trainer in a major city. Group sessions and assistant trainers cost less around $25-$50 per hour.

Group Training

Is group personal training cheaper than private sessions?

Yes, sharing a trainer in a small group of 2-4 people reduces costs significantly. Group training rates typically range from $25-$50 per person, per hour session. The trainer’s focus splits between clients during the session. Group training makes personal instruction more budget-friendly.

$50 Per Session

Is $50 per session a good price for a personal trainer?

$50 per one-hour training session is right around the national average price. It's considered reasonable pricing for a trainer with 1-3 years experience or someone newer building a clientele. Typically you’ll pay $50-$75 per session at an average gym. Higher-end gyms or more seasoned trainers will be $75-$100+. But $50 is fair for most.

Cost to Hire a Personal Trainer

What should I budget to work with a personal trainer?

Most trainers charge hourly, with rates averaging $50-$100 per session nationally. Budget $150-$400 monthly if training 1-2x per week. Expect to invest $400-$800 monthly for more frequent 2-3 sessions per week. If considering a long-term package of 12+ sessions, negotiate discounted rates.

Personal Trainer Rates

How do personal trainers typically charge for sessions?

Personal trainers normally charge per hour-long session, with hourly rates ranging $50-$100 on average. Some use 30 or 45 minute rates. Packages of 6, 12 or 24 pre-paid sessions often offer 10-20% savings off hourly pricing. If you commit to ongoing training, negotiable monthly rates may also be possible.

Cost Per Session

How much should I expect to pay per training session?

Average cost per hour-long personal training session ranges from $50-$100 nationally. Average pricing is often $50-$75 per session at mid-range gyms and $100-$150+ in luxury settings. Semi-private group sessions cost $25-$50 per person. Per session rates decrease in packages of 6+ pre-paid sessions.

Personal Training Costs

How much does the average person spend on a personal trainer?

At typical rates of $50-$100 per hour, most people spend $150-$400+ per month for 1-3 sessions weekly. Expect to invest $4,000-$10,000+ yearly if training consistently 2-3x per week. But many see it as a worthwhile investment in their health and fitness goals. Just be sure your trainer delivers results at fair pricing.

Save Money on a Personal Trainer

What are some tips for saving money on personal training?

Ask about discounts for buying larger session packages. Trainer apps offer lower rates. Consider semi-private group sessions. Try newly certified trainers with lower rates as they build a clientele. Negotiate pricing if you commit to longer term consistent sessions. Look for specials on ClassPass. Only invest 1-2x per week if needed to stay within your budget.

Money on a Personal Trainer

How can I get the most value from my personal training investment?

Come prepared with questions and goals for each session to gain as much knowledge as possible. Extend warmups and cooldowns. Follow their nutritional guidance and use any workout content they provide outside of sessions. Communicate openly and consistently show up to build trust and rapport. Become an expert in your own training to maximize lifelong fitness.

What Do Personal Trainers Charge?

What is the typical rate a personal trainer charges per session?

The average personal trainer charges an hourly rate of $50-$100 per 60-90 minute session. Rates range from $30-$50/hour for new trainers up to $125-$150/hour for highly experienced trainers in major cities. Average gym session add-ons cost $25-$50. Discounts are given for package deals of 6+ pre-paid sessions. Location and trainer credentials impact rates.

Low Cost Personal Trainer

How can I find an affordable personal trainer on a budget?

Search for new trainers just starting out who charge lower introductory rates around $30-$50 per hour as they build a clientele. Assistant or apprentice trainers often cost much less. Apps like Future, PumpOne and Sofia match budget-friendly online trainers charging ~$20-$30 per 30 minute virtual session. Consider group training which splits costs between 2-4 people.