Over the years, I’ve developed a few simple questions that quickly reveal who’s a real pro and who’s just playing the part. These are the questions I use to save time when deciding who to collaborate with, hire, mentor or even talk shop with.
I call them my Trainer Checks — because they check how you think and operate — not your textbook knowledge. They expose the traits that separate elite trainers from the rest.
I’m sharing them here to show the standards I hold myself and others to — the same standards I believe define a truly elite professional in our field.
Together, these make up what I call The Elite Trainer Test.
Think you’d pass? Let’s put it to the test.
1. Do you think a program should be built entirely around what’s most ‘scientifically optimal,’ or should client enjoyment factor into it?
ELITE TRAINER ANSWER:
“Enjoyment and adherence matter most — science guides the plan, but the client drives it.”
RED FLAG ANSWER:
“Only what’s optimal — if they don’t like it, they just need more discipline.”
TEACHING POINT:
This question tests whether a trainer actually understands what “evidence-based” means.
Elite trainers use science as a compass, not a cage — they apply research through the lens of the client, not at the expense of the client. They know that the most effective program is the one a client will actually do consistently.
Non-elite trainers mistake “scientifically optimal” for “universally appropriate.” They forget that humans aren’t lab subjects — they’re people with preferences, limitations and lives.
2. Do you believe every client should eventually train with the big barbell lifts?
ELITE TRAINER ANSWER: “No — I use whatever tools fit the client’s needs, abilities and goals.”
RED FLAG ANSWER: “Yes — everyone should squat, bench and deadlift properly.”
TEACHING POINT:
This question works because it reveals your philosophy.
The elite understand the difference between principles and methods.
They know there are many ways to build strength — barbells are just one tool.
Non-elite trainers think often like a lifter, not a coach. Their programming revolves around exercises they personally value — not what best fits their clients.
3. What’s the last course or mentorship you completed, book or study you read — and what’s one thing you applied with clients?”
ELITE TRAINER ANSWER: Serious trainers will immediately tell you about courses, books, studies, workshops, mentorships, conferences or their shop talk with other passionate coaches.
RED FLAG ANSWER: Hobbyists will say, “Oh, I listen to podcasts,” or “I just learn from social media.”
TEACHING POINT:
Elite are serious about consistently investing in knowledge that multiplies their value; they’re dedicated and determined to find ways they can deliver the best results for their clients.
If you’re not spending time and money learning, you’re not a serious trainer — you’re a hobbyist with clients.
4. What type of evidence would convince you to change your mind about your preferred training method?
ELITE TRAINER ANSWER: “Good data, consistent client results, or solid rationale that challenges my current model.”
RED FLAG ANSWER: “Nothing — I know what works.”
TEACHING POINT:
Critical thinkers can clearly describe what would shift their perspective, but dogmatic trainers struggle to answer because their identity is tied to being “right.”
Trainers driven by ego and dogma defend systems; trainers driven by principles and evidence adapt systems.
WHY THESE FOUR QUESTIONS?
I didn’t come up with these questions randomly. Each one represents a pillar of what makes an elite trainer.
Together, they reveal whether someone’s approach is grounded in professionalism, clear thinking, sound training philosophy and real-world experience — not just what they’ve read or memorized.
Because being an elite trainer isn’t about how much science you can quote or how strong you are. It’s about how you think, how you operate, and how you deliver results in the real world.
Nick Tumminello is known as the "Trainer of Trainers." He has been a trainer for over 20 years working NFL and MMA athletes, bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. Nick is the 2016 NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year, the editor-in-chief of the NSCA’s PTQ journal, and he has authored four books, including the best-selling Strength Training for Fat Loss.
