Gym Trainer Directory: How to Find the Best Fitness Professionals Near You

Finding the right gym trainer can be the difference between achieving your fitness goals and wasting both time and money on ineffective workouts. The journey to physical transformation is rarely straightforward, and having an expert guide can significantly impact your success. But with countless fitness professionals advertising their services online and in local gyms, how do you separate the truly qualified trainers from those who might not have your best interests at heart?

I’ve spent years navigating the fitness industry, both as a client and as someone who’s researched the field extensively. What I’ve discovered is that finding the right trainer involves much more than just picking someone with impressive muscles or a charismatic personality. It requires understanding certifications, experience levels, and matching teaching styles to your learning preferences—and knowing exactly where to look.

Whether you’re searching for a personal trainer in your local area, exploring online coaching options, or trying to understand what makes one fitness professional better than another, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

How to Choose the Right Gym Trainer

The process of selecting a fitness professional who aligns with your needs goes beyond simply picking someone who looks fit. Your choice should be strategic and thoughtful, considering several critical factors that will ultimately determine your success.

First, consider your specific fitness goals. Are you looking to lose weight, build muscle, improve athletic performance, rehabilitate an injury, or address a medical condition? Different trainers specialize in different areas. For example, a trainer who works primarily with bodybuilders might not be the best choice if you’re training for a marathon or recovering from an injury. According to the American Council on Exercise, matching your goals with a trainer’s expertise is crucial for achieving optimal results.

Next, think about your learning style and personality type. Do you respond well to drill-sergeant motivation, or do you prefer gentle encouragement? Some trainers use tough love to push clients, while others take a more nurturing approach. Neither style is inherently better—what matters is finding someone whose approach resonates with you and keeps you motivated session after session.

Budget is another important consideration. Personal training can range from $30 to $150+ per session depending on location, trainer experience, and setting. Be realistic about what you can afford long-term. Consistency matters more than occasional intensive training, so find a pricing structure that allows you to train regularly. Some trainers offer package deals, monthly memberships, or semi-private sessions that can make their services more accessible.

Availability and scheduling also play crucial roles. Even the world’s best trainer won’t help you if their schedule never aligns with yours. Consider whether their location is convenient and if their available time slots work with your daily routine. Morning person? Find a trainer who offers early sessions. Work irregular hours? Look for someone with flexible scheduling.

Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of rapport. You’ll be spending significant time with this person during vulnerable moments (when you’re sweaty, tired, and pushed to your limits). A consultation or trial session can help you assess whether there’s a good personal connection. Many successful training relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and genuine rapport that goes beyond professional credentials.

What Makes a Good Gym Trainer?

The qualities that separate exceptional trainers from mediocre ones extend far beyond their physical appearance or charisma.

Experience is paramount. A trainer who has worked with diverse clients across different age groups, fitness levels, and goals will likely have encountered situations similar to yours. They’ll know how to modify exercises for your specific needs and troubleshoot problems that arise. Look for trainers with at least 2-3 years of consistent training experience, preferably with clients who share your demographic or goals.

I remember working with a trainer early in my fitness journey who looked impressive but lacked experience with beginners. His workout plans were too advanced, leaving me discouraged and injury-prone. When I switched to someone with more experience coaching newcomers, the difference was night and day—my progress accelerated while my risk of injury decreased dramatically.

Communication skills are equally crucial. Great trainers explain not just what to do but why you’re doing it. They break down complex movements into manageable steps and adjust their teaching style to match how you learn best. They listen to your feedback and modify their approach accordingly. If you’re confused or struggling, they find new ways to explain concepts until something clicks.

Continuing education demonstrates a trainer’s commitment to their craft. The fitness industry constantly evolves with new research and techniques, and the best trainers stay current through workshops, additional certifications, and professional development. Ask potential trainers about the last course they took or certification they earned—their answer will reveal whether they’re stagnating or growing.

Attention to form and safety should never be compromised. Exceptional trainers prioritize proper technique over impressive weights or advanced variations. They observe you carefully, provide timely corrections, and know when to scale exercises back to prevent injury. According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association, proper movement patterns are the foundation of all effective training programs.

Personalization is another hallmark of quality training. Good trainers don’t apply cookie-cutter programs to everyone; they customize workouts based on your assessment results, goals, preferences, and progress. They remember your previous session, what you struggled with, and what exercises you hate (then find alternatives that achieve the same results).

Finally, professional boundaries matter. While friendliness enhances the training relationship, proper trainers maintain appropriate professional boundaries and focus primarily on your fitness development. They don’t spend your session talking about themselves or getting distracted by their phones.

Benefits of Working with a Professional Gym Trainer

Investing in professional guidance for your fitness journey offers numerous advantages that extend far beyond what you might achieve on your own.

The accountability factor alone can be transformative. Knowing someone is expecting you at a specific time, has designed a workout just for you, and will notice if you skip sessions creates powerful external motivation. This accountability often bridges the gap between intention and action, especially on days when your internal motivation wanes. Research shows that people who work with trainers are significantly more likely to stick with their fitness programs long-term.

Professional trainers also provide expertly designed, progressive workout plans. Rather than piecing together random exercises from social media or magazines, you’ll follow a strategically developed program that builds systematically toward your goals. These customized plans consider your current fitness level, injury history, available time, and preferences—creating a roadmap specifically for your body and goals.

Safety is another crucial benefit. Learning proper form from the beginning prevents injuries that could sideline your progress for weeks or months. A trainer’s watchful eye catches small technique errors before they become problematic habits, helping you move efficiently and safely. This is particularly important when lifting weights or performing complex movements where small form breakdowns can lead to significant injuries.

The efficiency of professional guidance shouldn’t be underestimated either. Many people waste years making minimal progress through inefficient workout methods or misguided approaches. A knowledgeable trainer helps you focus your limited time and energy on the strategies that will yield the greatest results for your specific goals. No more guessing, no more trial-and-error with questionable YouTube workouts.

Perhaps most importantly, trainers provide objective feedback and measurement. It’s difficult to accurately assess your own form in the mirror, and progress often occurs in ways we don’t immediately notice. Professional trainers track various metrics beyond just weight—including mobility, strength in different movement patterns, endurance, and body composition—to provide concrete evidence of your improvements.

How a Gym Trainer Can Improve Your Workout Routine

Beyond the general benefits, there are specific ways a skilled trainer enhances your exercise regimen.

Personalized plans are tailored to your unique body mechanics, injury history, and goals. Rather than following generic programs designed for the masses, you receive workouts engineered specifically for you. This personalization extends to exercise selection, set and rep schemes, rest periods, and progression strategies—all calibrated to your response to training. If an exercise doesn’t suit your body structure or aggravates an old injury, your trainer will find effective alternatives.

Proper technique instruction ensures you perform movements correctly from day one. Many fitness enthusiasts develop bad habits that become increasingly difficult to correct over time. A trainer breaks exercises down into manageable components, using cues that resonate with your learning style. They might use tactile guidance, visual demonstrations, or verbal instructions depending on how you best process information.

Variation and progression are strategically implemented to prevent plateaus. Great trainers know precisely when to adjust variables like weight, tempo, rest periods, or exercise selection to continue challenging your body. They understand the science of progressive overload and apply it thoughtfully to your program, ensuring you’re always working at the edge of your capabilities without overreaching into injury territory.

For those with special considerations—like pregnancy, chronic conditions, or rehabilitation needs—trainers with appropriate specializations can modify exercises to accommodate these factors while still providing effective workouts. This specialized knowledge is particularly valuable for those who might otherwise be unsure how to exercise safely given their circumstances.

Perhaps most overlooked is the mental aspect of training. Skilled fitness professionals help you develop a healthier relationship with exercise, focusing on consistency and sustainability rather than extreme approaches. They celebrate your victories (big and small) and help you navigate inevitable setbacks without losing momentum. This psychological support often makes the difference between short-term efforts and lifelong fitness habits.

Top Qualities to Look for in a Gym Trainer

When evaluating potential fitness professionals, certain characteristics stand out as particularly important indicators of quality.

Certification from reputable organizations tops the list. Look for trainers certified by nationally recognized bodies such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), or International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). These organizations require rigorous study, examination, and continuing education.

Experience level matters significantly. While newly certified trainers may offer enthusiasm and up-to-date knowledge, those with several years of experience bring valuable practical wisdom. Ideally, seek someone with experience working with clients similar to you—whether that’s beginners, older adults, athletes, or people managing specific conditions. Don’t be afraid to ask how many clients they’ve worked with who had goals similar to yours.

Specializations can be particularly valuable if you have specific needs. Some trainers pursue additional education in areas like corrective exercise, pregnancy and postpartum fitness, sports performance, nutrition coaching, or medical exercise. These specialized credentials indicate deeper knowledge in these niche areas. For instance, if you’re pregnant or postpartum, a trainer with pre/postnatal certification will understand the unique physiological changes and safety considerations relevant to your situation.

Teaching ability sometimes gets overlooked in favor of a trainer’s own fitness level or personality, but it’s crucial for your success. Effective trainers can break down complex movements, explain concepts clearly, and adapt their teaching style to different learning preferences. They should be able to offer multiple cues (visual, verbal, tactile) until they find what works for you. Being great at fitness doesn’t automatically make someone great at teaching fitness.

Professionalism extends to punctuality, preparation, focused attention during sessions, appropriate boundaries, and business practices. Red flags include trainers who spend your session texting, talking about themselves excessively, regularly canceling appointments, or pushing supplements or products for commission. Professional trainers arrive prepared with a plan, give you their full attention, and maintain consistent scheduling.

The ability to modify exercises appropriately indicates both knowledge and attentiveness. Great trainers seamlessly adjust movements to accommodate your mobility limitations, injuries, or fitness level without making you feel inadequate. They have a deep repertoire of exercise variations and know when to implement them. If you can’t perform a standard squat due to ankle mobility issues, they immediately offer alternatives like box squats or goblet squats that work around your limitations.

Certifications and Credentials

Understanding the landscape of fitness certifications helps you evaluate a trainer’s qualifications more effectively.

The gold standard certifications in the industry come from organizations requiring comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, program design, and exercise science. The most respected include:

• NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine): Known for its focus on corrective exercise and the Optimum Performance Training model, which emphasizes proper movement patterns
• ACE (American Council on Exercise): Emphasizes behavior change science alongside exercise programming, ideal for trainers focused on lifestyle transformation
• ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine): Considered highly scientific with strong medical foundations, often preferred in clinical settings
• NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association): Particularly respected for strength training and athletic performance, with the CSCS credential being highly prestigious
• ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association): Offers comprehensive training with a focus on practical application and includes nutrition education

These certifications typically require candidates to pass rigorous exams covering exercise science, program design, nutrition basics, and client assessment. Most also mandate CPR/AED certification and continuing education to maintain active status—usually requiring 20-40 hours of continuing education credits every two years.

Beyond these baseline certifications, many trainers pursue specialized credentials in areas like:

• Corrective Exercise (addressing movement dysfunctions and postural issues)
• Sports Performance (training athletes for specific sports)
• Group Fitness Instruction (leading classes)
• Medical Exercise (working with clinical populations)
• Pre/Post-Natal Fitness (pregnancy and postpartum exercise)
• Senior Fitness (training older adults)
• Youth Training (working with adolescents)
• Weight Management (nutrition and exercise for weight loss)
• Behavioral Change (psychology of habit formation)

Educational background in exercise science, kinesiology, physical therapy, or related fields can further enhance a trainer’s knowledge base. While a degree isn’t necessary to be an excellent trainer, formal education in these areas provides deeper understanding of human movement and physiological adaptations. Trainers with both academic credentials and practical certifications often bring the best combination of theoretical knowledge and applied skills.

It’s worth noting that certification alone doesn’t guarantee quality. Some highly certified trainers lack practical skills, while some exceptional coaches might have fewer formal credentials but years of practical experience and mentorship under industry leaders. The ideal combination includes both appropriate certification and demonstrated experience with successful client outcomes.

How to Verify Credentials and Certifications

Due diligence in confirming a trainer’s qualifications protects both your physical safety and financial investment.

The most direct verification method is checking certification registries. Most reputable certifying bodies maintain searchable databases where you can confirm a trainer’s certification status, specializations, and whether their credentials are current. For instance, ACE, NASM, and ACSM all offer online verification tools where you can search by the trainer’s name or certification number. This takes less than two minutes and provides peace of mind.

Beyond certification checks, review the trainer’s professional presence. A comprehensive biography on their website or gym profile should openly state their qualifications, specializations, and experience. Vague descriptions or an emphasis solely on personal achievements rather than education might warrant further investigation. Professional trainers are proud of their credentials and display them prominently.

Client testimonials and reviews provide valuable insight into real-world effectiveness. While a few negative reviews among many positive ones shouldn’t necessarily be disqualifying (no trainer can perfectly match every client), patterns of complaints about safety, knowledge gaps, or unprofessional behavior are significant red flags. Look for specific feedback about results achieved, communication style, and professionalism rather than just generic praise.

During an initial consultation, don’t hesitate to ask direct questions about their credentials, continuing education, and experience with clients like you. Professional trainers welcome these questions and respond transparently. Ask questions like: “What was the last certification or workshop you completed?” or “How many clients have you worked with who had similar goals to mine?” If someone seems defensive or vague when discussing their qualifications, consider it a warning sign.

Insurance coverage is another important verification point. Qualified trainers maintain professional liability insurance that protects both them and their clients. This demonstrates a commitment to professional standards and responsibility. Don’t hesitate to ask if they carry insurance—it’s a reasonable question that any professional trainer should answer confidently.

Finally, observe their interactions with clients if possible. Even before hiring them, you can learn much by watching how they conduct sessions with others. Do they pay close attention to form? Do they appear prepared with a plan? How do they respond when clients struggle with exercises? Are they encouraging yet honest? These observations provide valuable information about their practical skills that credentials alone can’t convey.

Where to Find the Best Gym Trainers

Knowing where to search for qualified fitness professionals saves time and increases your chances of finding an excellent match.

Local gyms and fitness centers remain primary sources for finding trainers, with most facilities employing staff trainers or hosting independent professionals. The advantage here is convenience—you can often observe trainers working with clients before approaching them, and scheduling tends to be straightforward if you’re already a member. When inquiring at your gym, ask about trainer qualifications, specialties, and whether the facility requires minimum certifications for their training staff. Larger chains like LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, and Equinox typically have minimum certification requirements and vetting processes.

Online directories have revolutionized the trainer search process. Platforms like FindYourTrainer, IDEA FitnessConnect, and GymCloud connect clients with verified professionals based on location, specialization, and reviews. These platforms typically include profile information, certification verification, and client feedback. Many also offer the ability to filter by specific criteria like price range, training style, or specialized credentials.

Professional association websites for organizations like ACE, NASM, and ACSM often include searchable databases of certified professionals. This approach guarantees you’ll find someone with legitimate credentials, though you’ll still need to evaluate their experience and teaching style. These directories allow you to search by zip code and often indicate additional specializations each trainer holds.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive directory platform to help manage your fitness business, specialized wordpress websites from TurnKey Directories offer professional solutions for creating searchable trainer directories with booking functionality.

Fitness apps and virtual training platforms have expanded dramatically, connecting clients with trainers regardless of location. Services like Future, TrainOnline, and Fitbit Coach offer various approaches to remote training, from completely algorithmic workouts to highly personalized coaching through video calls and messaging. This has opened up possibilities for working with specialized trainers who might not be in your geographic area.

For those needing specialized guidance, medical referrals provide a valuable pathway. Physical therapists, doctors, and rehabilitation specialists often maintain networks of qualified fitness professionals they trust with their patients. This approach is particularly valuable for those managing medical conditions, recovering from injuries, or transitioning from physical therapy to regular exercise. These referred trainers typically have experience working with clinical populations and understand how to progress clients safely.

Word-of-mouth recommendations remain powerful indicators of trainer quality. Friends, colleagues, or family members who have achieved results similar to your goals can provide firsthand insights about their trainers’ methods, personalities, and effectiveness. When someone you trust has had a positive experience, it’s worth investigating that trainer—especially if their results align with what you’re hoping to achieve.

Gym Trainer Directories and Online Platforms

The digital landscape offers numerous platforms designed specifically to connect clients with qualified fitness professionals.

Specialized directories and platforms have emerged as go-to resources for finding trainers. These platforms typically allow you to filter by location, specialization, price range, and availability. Some of the most comprehensive include:

• IDEA FitnessConnect: One of the largest directories of fitness professionals in North America, connected to the IDEA Health & Fitness Association
• FindYourTrainer: Allows booking and payment through their platform with satisfaction guarantees and verified reviews
• GymCloud: Focuses on connecting clients with trainers who offer virtual services, expanding your options beyond local professionals
• Trainerize: Platform used by many independent trainers to deliver workouts and track client progress
• TrueCoach: Professional platform that many high-end trainers use for program delivery and client communication

These platforms generally verify basic credentials before listing trainers, providing an additional layer of quality control. Many also include rating systems and client reviews to help inform your decision. Some platforms even offer money-back guarantees if you’re not satisfied with your first few sessions.

Social media has become another valuable resource for finding fitness professionals. Instagram, in particular, serves as a portfolio for many trainers, showcasing their exercise demonstrations, client transformations, and training philosophy. While social media presence alone doesn’t guarantee quality, it provides insight into a trainer’s approach and communication style. Look for trainers who demonstrate exercises with proper form, explain the reasoning behind their methods, and showcase diverse client success stories rather than just their own physique.

Virtual training platforms offer varying levels of personalization. Some connect you with dedicated coaches who design custom programs and provide regular feedback through video calls and messaging. Others use algorithms to generate workouts based on your goals, preferences, and available equipment, with human coaches providing periodic check-ins. According to data from the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association, virtual training has grown exponentially and now represents a significant portion of the fitness industry.

For specialized needs, niche platforms focus on specific demographics or goals. For example, some directories specialize in pre/postnatal fitness professionals, trainers experienced with senior clients, or coaches who work specifically with athletes in certain sports. These specialized platforms ensure you’re matched with someone who has relevant experience with your specific situation.

Many platforms now offer virtual consultations, allowing you to interview potential trainers regardless of location. This expanded access means you’re no longer limited to professionals in your immediate geographic area, particularly if you’re open to virtual training options. During these consultations, pay attention to how well the trainer listens to your goals, whether they ask about your injury history and limitations, and whether their communication style resonates with you.

When using these platforms, pay particular attention to how trainers respond to inquiries. Professional trainers typically respond within 24 hours with thoughtful answers to your questions. They should ask about your goals, experience level, and any limitations before suggesting a training approach. If someone immediately pushes you to commit without learning about your situation, consider it a red flag.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finding Gym Trainers

What makes a good gym trainer?

A good gym trainer combines proper certification from organizations like NASM, ACE, or ACSM with relevant hands-on experience working with clients similar to you. They demonstrate excellent communication skills, prioritize safety and proper form over ego lifting, and create personalized workout plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. The best trainers also stay current through continuing education, maintain professional boundaries while being personable, and track your progress objectively to adjust strategies based on results rather than assumptions.

How do I find a gym trainer near me?

Start by checking local fitness facilities, as most gyms employ certified trainers or host independent professionals you can observe before hiring. Use online directories like FindYourTrainer, IDEA FitnessConnect, or certification organization websites (ACE, NASM, ACSM) that allow location-based searches. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, can help identify local professionals, while word-of-mouth recommendations from friends who’ve achieved results similar to your goals provide valuable firsthand insights. Many trainers also offer virtual sessions now, significantly expanding your options beyond geographic limitations.

What certifications should a gym trainer have?

Look for nationally accredited certifications from established organizations including NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), ACE (American Council on Exercise), ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association), or ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association). Depending on your specific needs, specialized certifications in corrective exercise, pre/postnatal fitness, sports performance, or medical exercise might be relevant. All qualified trainers should also maintain current CPR/AED certification and complete ongoing continuing education to keep their credentials active.

How much does a gym trainer cost?

Personal training costs vary significantly based on location, trainer experience, credentials, and session format. In major metropolitan areas, one-on-one training typically ranges from $50-$150 per hour, while smaller markets average $30-$80 per hour. Semi-private sessions with 2-4 clients usually cost 40-60% less per person. Package deals often reduce the per-session rate by 10-20%. Online training programs generally cost $100-$300 monthly for customized programming with regular check-ins, making them more budget-friendly than in-person options.

What questions should I ask a gym trainer before hiring them?

Before committing, ask about their certification and when they obtained it, their experience working with clients who have goals similar to yours, their approach to program design and progression, and how they measure and track client progress. Inquire about their cancellation policy, whether they carry professional liability insurance, what specializations or continuing education they’ve completed recently, and whether they can provide client references. Also ask about their training philosophy and how they typically structure sessions to ensure their coaching style aligns with your preferences and learning style.

Can I hire a gym trainer for online coaching?

Yes, online personal training has become increasingly popular and effective, with many trainers offering remote coaching through video calls, customized workout apps, and regular check-ins. Virtual training typically costs less than in-person sessions ($100-$300 monthly versus $50-$150 per hour) while providing greater scheduling flexibility and access to specialized trainers regardless of location. Most online coaching includes personalized workout programs, video exercise demonstrations, form checks through submitted videos, nutrition guidance, and regular progress assessments through messaging or video calls.

How do I verify a trainer’s credentials?

Visit the certification organization’s website (ACE, NASM, ACSM, etc.) and use their verification tool to search for the trainer by name or certification number, confirming their credentials are current and in good standing. Review their professional website or social media for transparent information about qualifications and experience. Ask to see their certification directly during a consultation, request information about their professional liability insurance, and check online reviews for patterns regarding their professionalism and effectiveness. Reputable trainers welcome credential verification and respond transparently to questions about their qualifications.

Should I hire a trainer at my gym or an independent trainer?

Gym-employed trainers offer convenience, immediate availability, and often lower session costs since the gym subsidizes their rates, making them ideal for consistent training within that facility. Independent trainers typically have more flexibility with scheduling and location, may offer more personalized attention since they work for themselves, and often bring specialized expertise developed over years of independent practice. Consider your priorities: choose gym trainers for convenience and cost-effectiveness, or independent trainers for specialized skills, flexible scheduling, and potentially more personalized attention. Many successful clients try both options before deciding what works best.

How long should I work with a personal trainer?

The ideal duration depends on your goals, experience level, and budget. Beginners typically benefit from 2-3 months of consistent training (2-3 sessions weekly) to learn proper form and build foundational strength. Those with specific goals like weight loss or competition preparation might need 3-6 months of focused training. Many successful clients transition to monthly check-ins after the initial intensive period, maintaining independence while having professional guidance for program updates. Some prefer ongoing regular sessions for continued accountability and motivation. Most trainers offer flexible arrangements allowing you to adjust frequency as your needs evolve.

What’s the difference between a personal trainer and a strength coach?

Personal trainers typically work with general populations on broad fitness goals like weight loss, general strength, cardiovascular health, and overall wellness, holding certifications like ACE-CPT or NASM-CPT. Strength coaches usually focus specifically on athletic performance and maximal strength development, often holding the NSCA-CSCS credential and working primarily with athletes or serious lifters. Strength coaches emphasize periodization, sport-specific training, and performance metrics, while personal trainers take a more holistic approach including lifestyle factors, behavior change, and diverse training modalities. Choose based on whether your priority is athletic performance or general health and fitness.

Conclusion

Finding the right fitness professional is a pivotal step in your health journey that deserves thoughtful consideration. The perfect trainer serves as coach, educator, and accountability partner—roles that directly impact your safety, progress, and long-term success. By understanding what qualifications matter, knowing where to search for qualified professionals, and learning how to verify credentials, you’ve armed yourself with the knowledge to make an informed decision that could transform your relationship with fitness.

Remember that the best trainer for you personally might not be the most popular or expensive option, but rather someone whose expertise, communication style, and approach resonate with your needs and preferences. The certification letters after their name matter, but so does their ability to explain concepts in ways you understand, their experience with clients like you, and the rapport you develop during that first conversation.

Whether you choose to work with someone at your local gym, hire an independent trainer, or explore virtual coaching options, the most important decision is to actually begin. The difference between where you are now and where you want to be often comes down to having the right guidance at the right time. Make today the day you start that search.