I finally am in the gym working out on a regular basis. I am at LA Fitness. I have signed up for their personal training program. I am 58 years old, diabetic, have a significant beer belly, I am 6' 1" weigh (not sure now) but was 245 lbs.

I have revised my goals a couple of times to finally, bottom line, I want to get as ripped as possible for a man my age as fast as possible without making myself sick by losing weight too fast. With that, I expect to get my blood sugar levels under control.

My gripe is this. I am paying big money for these trainers with no way out of the contract that I signed unless I pay at least half of it off. Why is it that they only have me doing floor exercises that I could do at home instead of in the gym? I find them to be boring and unmotivating for me. Granted, I am not very strong, but what would be wrong having me work on the weight machines at a level which I can handle. I've already told them that pain, even severe pain is not a problem for me. It tells me that I am alive. I don't want to injure myself (not talking about the breaking down of muscles) though, that would defeat the purpose of my working out.

So, does my attitude suck or do I have a legitimate complaint?

No, you're attitude does not suck. But are they telling you why they have you on this routine?

If you don't like the workout they are giving you I'm sure you're free to tell them you want to do it on your own. And there is a wealth of info out there now about how to accomplish the goals you want.

Be realistic, tho. Getting ripped fast isn't easy no matter your age.

Yeah, I realize it isn't going to happen overnight or even in 6 months, but I should see some results and that would be motivation enough for me to continue.

The option to discontinue with the trainers is not too realistic considering I signed a contract for a year, and it will cost me at least to me big money. Perhaps I should have done more research before signing up for a trainer. I also know myself pretty well and doubt that I would continue without some motivation.

Most "trainers" are worthless!!! Now that's my opinion but I would ask them what certifications they have and if they tell you ACE then forget about anything from them. No to be disrespectful to those with an ACE cert. but my 11 year old could pass the test.

Did they sit down with you and ask you about your goals, history,etc. before you started training? Do they at least look like they are in shape? I know, you don't have to lift weights to know how but it sure helps.

Are the trainers employed by the gym? If so, i would talk to the management. Ask them to switch trainers and be sure to tell them you are unhappy. If there are multiple trainers available, interview them. Tell them what you want and ask them about their history and experience. Remember, they work for you!

I'm confused. I understand a contract with the gym. But are you saying you have a contract with the trainer's, too?

What Jim said. Ask a lot of questions and expect answers. Talk to management too and let them know your concerns.

I'm beginning to wonder if I didn't make a mistake getting a trainer. No use crying over spilled milk now though. I did go to management who happens to be a trainer also and a former pro football player as well. He gave me a grocery list.

Chicken Breast
Pinto Beans
Turkey Burgers
Ground Turkey
Egg Beaters
Crystal Light to flavor the water
Veggies. Any kind (big problem there. I hate veggies but like green beans)
Multi-Vitamin (I am taking a generic Centrum Silver)
Ezekiel Bread, stay away from the other type breads, white, wheat etc.
Apples, fruit
Salads

That would probably work for me considering I am mostly a meat and potatoes man.

Supplements:
Glutemine
Glucosamine
Protein shake (I really have no clue on these)

Plus, I did work out on machines last night. My arms got so rubbery, I doubt I could have lifted a pencil afterward. (of course this is a huge exaggeration, but I wanted to emphasize how they felt) I worked my chest muscles and did a 3 set of 15 reps on the nitro preacher curl. My right arm is very sore today.

Just need to learn what else to do on other days.