There are a lot of levels to the education and knowledge base of personal trainers. Position of personal trainer is not well regulated and is a non licensed position. Some people become trainers with as little as a 2 day online course to get their certificate.
A couple things to look for with your personal trainer
Level of training in the field of health and fitness: There are many levels to the training that your personal trainer can receive. One of the top certifications is the CSCS or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, which is provided by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. The NSCA is a nationally respected organization and getting the CSCS is no easy task.
In order to sit for the CSCS test you must have a bachelors degree. This already guarantees some level of higher education. Along with the bachelors degree you need a vast understanding of human performance, nutrition, strength and conditioning, and exercise progression.
Experience in the field: There is something to be said about experience. Now, this is not all that matters. As the saying goes, "one year done 10 times is still just one year of experience." What we suggest you ask your trainer about is the most course they have taken to improve their skills or the most recent book they have read on the subject. The field of personal training is always evolving, which means you need to be a life long learner to keep up.
Style of training: Styles make fights, and personal training relationships. If you are looking to have a successful relationship and get results from your trainer they should match what you are looking for. If you are purely looking to improve physique, you should probably not hire a boxing coach, or even a CrossFit trainer for that matter. You should find someone who is interested in the field of aesthetics. Someone who understands how to get you to your goal. A lot of trainers are adaptable to the type of client they see, just make sure they are willing to do so.
Attitude and energy: This point is often overlooked and disregarded but the attitude and energy of your trainer will make a massive difference for the level of training you accomplish. A good trainer will deliver great workout programming and create an environment for you to max our your potential each day. If you aren't having fun with your workouts, you probably won't continue them long term.
Whether you are looking to start training for the first time, looking to lose weight from COVID, or max out your physical potential, make sure you dig a little deeper about your personal trainer.