The concept of personal training has changed a lot over the years. In the days of the big-box gym, a personal trainer was someone who walked the floor looking for people who’d be willing to spend extra money to basically have their workout supervised.

A personal training session was basically an appointment where you had someone tell you what exercises to do, and in what order, and that was pretty much it. Doesn’t sound very personal to me.

To me, personal training doesn’t have to be 1x1 to be personal. It can be, but doesn’t have to be. In my experience, a creative trainer with a plan and the ability to service clients of multiple ability levels at once can be a game-changer.

First, it’s more fun to work out with other people. Also, personal training in a group setting is much more cost-effective for the client, while still providing the individualized program and personal attention.

Here’s how this might look in a 4-person session with clients at different stages of their fitness journey:

Client 1 is experienced with weightlifting and proficient with her movement, so she’s following a program that includes barbell deadlifts and a high-intensity finisher.

Client 2 is similar to Client 1, but he has lower back issues. A trap bar deadlift is a safer option for him, and he’ll finish his session with some mobility and flexibility work to support his lower back.

Clients 3 and 4 are a couple who just recently started training, so they’ll be doing a circuit of bodyweight, resistance band and TRX exercises, with some core and corrective exercise to help build a strong foundation of quality movement.

All four of these people can enjoy training together, and they can execute all the foundational movement patterns that should be included in an intelligently designed workout … but with exercises that are appropriate and safe for them.

Yes, personal training has changed … and I’d argue, for the better.