David Kirsch: Maximize Your Training Sessions!

In this economy, if you're lucky enough to be able to afford a personal trainer, you want every moment of that hour to count. But even the most committed sweat vets can unknowingly waste precious toning and burning time. That's Fit spoke with celebrity trainer David Kirsch to learn how he advises clients like Heidi Klum, Liv Tyler and Faith Hill.

That's Fit: What if I feel intimidated by my trainer?
David Kirsch: At your initial meeting with a potential trainer, you need to feel like you can establish a relationship with this person. If not, then she's not right for you. You may be paying a trainer to push you, but there has to be a comfortable line of communication and trust so you can talk openly about what you may be feeling both physically or emotionally on any given day. Once a trainer gets to know you, she should be able to know whether you're just dogging it or not.

That's Fit: What do you see as the most common form of self-sabotage?
DK: This might seem obvious, but first you have to want to be there, and not all clients do. Just because you show up at a gym doesn't mean you'll see results. It takes hard work, and you need to be mentally focused and motivated. When a client is constantly asking how much time is left, I know they really aren't into it and then neither am I. If you're not motivated, your trainer's not motivated. Before heading to the gym, take a good hard look at yourself in the bathroom mirror, preferably without clothes on. Do you like what you see? That should serve as a pretty good motivator.

That's Fit: What are some preparation tips?
DK: Show up 30 minutes early and leave phones and PDAs in the locker. I don't allow either in my gym. Before you arrive, tidy up loose ends with work and family so you're not distracted. While you're training, that's all your mind and body are meant to be doing. If you're multitasking, you won't accomplish as much.

That's Fit: What's a widespread client trip-up a personal trainer might not catch?
DK: Often a client will leave the gym after an effective workout and then they'll have a couple of doughnuts when they get to the office. Being healthy and reaching your goals -- whatever they are -- takes commitment 24/7, not just during that one hour. So your trainer should be talking to you about a comprehensive plan that includes an entire wellness strategy.

Want more? David Kirsch shows you how to correct workout mistakes.