In the initial conversation with a new client, a personal trainer finds out that the...

"Let's start out with some goals. It's hard to get somewhere without knowing what you want to achieve. What do you want to get out of your training sessions?"

"Your husband steered you on the right path. Hiring a trainer will make all the difference. I know I can motivate you."

"I understand that you are unsure of how this will turn out, so let's start with the past. You said that you have tried to exercise on a regular basis before. What made you stop?"

"I've used behavior contracts with other clients who had failed in the past. They really help keep you on track. Let's go over the details."