By Connor O’Brien, Owner of Absolute Body Solutions & Personal Training Expert
In a city like London, where personal trainers are everywhere—from boutique studios to big-chain gyms—it can be hard to know who’s genuinely qualified to help you reach your goals and who just has a good Instagram feed.
Having worked in the industry for over a decade, I’ve met (and trained) hundreds of personal trainers. Some are excellent—skilled, experienced, and client-focused. Others… not so much.
So, how do you separate the pros from the pretenders?
Here’s what I recommend looking for when choosing a personal trainer in London—and just as importantly, what to avoid.
1. Check Qualifications—But Look Beyond Them
At a minimum, your trainer should hold a recognised Level 3 Personal Training qualification in the UK. But the best trainers never stop learning. Look for coaches who invest in further education—whether that’s strength and conditioning, nutrition, rehabilitation, or specific training methods.
⚠️ Avoid: Trainers who rely solely on their own physique or social media presence as a selling point. A six-pack doesn’t mean they know how to help you achieve your goals safely.
2. Ask About Experience With Your Specific Goals
Not every personal trainer is a good fit for every client. If you want to improve mobility post-injury, you’ll need a very different coach than someone training for a powerlifting meet or fat loss. A quality trainer will be able to show you how they’ve worked with people like you—and what kind of results they’ve achieved.
⚠️ Avoid: Vague answers or one-size-fits-all approaches. If they can’t explain how their methods will suit your needs, move on.
3. Get a Feel for Their Coaching Style
A great personal trainer knows how to balance support and challenge. Are they going to push you when you need it? Can they explain things clearly? Do they make you feel comfortable and confident in the gym?
Most gyms (ours included) offer a free consultation—use it to see if their personality and approach suits you.
⚠️ Avoid: Trainers who come across as overly aggressive, disinterested, or distracted during that first meeting. Coaching is a relationship—it needs mutual respect and good communication.
4. Look for a Structured, Measurable Approach
Every good coach should be able to show you a plan. That doesn’t mean rigid workouts, but a clear structure: assessments, progressive programming, regular check-ins, and goal tracking. You should leave each session knowing what you worked on and why.
⚠️ Avoid: Sessions that feel random, improvised, or unconnected from week to week. That’s not coaching—it’s just babysitting reps.
5. Understand the Environment You’ll Be Training In
At Absolute Body Solutions London facility, we’ve created a space that’s private, welcoming, and never overcrowded—because the environment matters. Some people thrive in a high-energy gym, others prefer a more focused, one-on-one setting. Make sure the space feels right for you.
⚠️ Avoid: Trainers working in chaotic or intimidating gym environments, especially if you’re new to training. You need to feel safe and supported, not overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right personal trainer in London isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about finding someone who gets you, supports your goals, and knows how to deliver real results. When done right, it’s not just a workout—it’s a partnership that transforms your confidence, your body, and your overall wellbeing.
If you’re based in London and looking for a premium personal training experience, our expert team is here to help. We combine deep expertise with a friendly, no-ego approach—designed to get the most out of you, every step of the way.
Book your complimentary consultation today—and let’s start building the results you deserve.
