7 Phrases That Reveal a Bad Personal Trainer Before Your First Workout

Choosing the right trainer is tricky. You want someone who pushes you, supports you, and actually knows what they’re doing—not just a “gym buddy” with a stopwatch. If you’re trying to find a personal trainer or searching for a personal trainer, here are 7 phrases that should instantly make you think twice.

1. “You’ll be ripped in a week”

Any promise of instant results is a red flag. Real progress takes time, consistency, and a proper plan. If someone says you’ll drop 20 pounds in seven days or get a six-pack by next weekend - smile, nod, and keep run away.

2. “Let’s skip the warm-up to save time”

That’s like driving without a seatbelt: it might feel fine at first, but it’s only a matter of time before something goes wrong. A good trainer will never let you jump straight into heavy lifts without warming up your body.

3. “We’ll train until you can’t move”

This isn’t a military bootcamp (unless you signed up for one). The right trainer will challenge you, but they’ll also make sure you can walk the next day.

4. “Don’t listen to anyone else, I know everything”

Beware the “fitness messiah” who thinks they have all the answers. The best trainers are open to discussion, willing to explain their methods, and constantly learning.

5. “Diet? Just eat less”

Nutrition isn’t that simple. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works and can even harm your health. A professional will help you find a sustainable plan that fits your lifestyle.

6. “We stick to the plan, no matter what”

Life happens: you might be tired, stressed, or recovering from a late night. A good trainer adjusts the session based on how you’re feeling that day.

7. “No qualifications, but I watch a lot of TikTok”

A trainer without proper education and a solid understanding of how the body works isn’t really guiding you — they’re guessing. And in fitness, guesswork can waste your time, stall your progress, or even cause serious injury.

A great trainer thinks about your goals, not just their schedule. And if you’re searching for a personal trainer and want someone you can actually trust, soon you’ll be able to find one in just a few clicks with SportCamp app.