Picking a personal trainer is like choosing a dance partner for your fitness journey—you want someone who gets your rhythm, pushes you to twirl, and doesn’t step on your toes. But when it comes to the big question—male or female trainer?—things can get a bit tricky. 

Gender stereotypes, personal comfort, and unique perspectives all come into play. In this discussion, we’ll break down the pros and cons of choosing a male or female personal trainer, explore whether women should opt for a male trainer, and highlight what women trainers uniquely bring to the table. Plus, we’ll dive into the inspiring worlds of Amanda Barnhart, a CrossFit powerhouse navigating pregnancy, and Josh Bridges, a Navy SEAL-turned-fitness guru, to see how their programs stack up. Gear up for a fun-filled dive into fitness that speaks to everyone—men, women, and newbies hitting the gym!

Pros and Cons of a Male Personal Trainer

Pros

• Perceived Expertise in Strength Training: Many clients, especially men, assume male trainers have an edge in heavy lifting or muscle-building due to societal stereotypes or their own physiques. A 2019 study noted that male collegiate athletes often preferred male trainers for their perceived fitness knowledge, especially in strength and conditioning. Whether it’s true or not, that perception can boost confidence in the gym.
• Physical Presence: Male trainers might offer a stronger spot for heavy lifts, which can feel reassuring when you’re squatting a small car. Their physicality can also inspire clients aiming for a chiseled, muscular look.
• Motivational Style: Some male trainers lean into a high-energy, “let’s crush it” vibe that resonates with clients who thrive on intensity. Think drill sergeant meets hype man—perfect for pushing through a tough set.

Cons

• Intimidation Factor: For some women (or men), a male trainer’s physique or assertive style can feel overwhelming, especially in a gym setting that’s already daunting. A 2010 study found that some women felt less comfortable discussing personal struggles with male trainers.
• Less Relatability for Women’s Issues: Male trainers might not fully grasp the nuances of women’s health—like hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, or menopause—which can impact training needs.
• Potential Gender Bias: Some male trainers (not all!) might unconsciously prioritize male clients or focus on aesthetics over function for women, reinforcing outdated gym norms.
  

Pros and Cons of a Female Personal Trainer

Pros

• Empathy and Relatability: Female trainers often excel at creating a supportive, judgment-free zone. Women clients, in particular, may feel more at ease discussing body image, hormonal changes, or emotional barriers. A 2023 blog from Embody Fitness highlighted how female trainers’ shared experiences foster trust and connection.
• Holistic Approach: Many female trainers emphasize overall wellness—nutrition, mental health, and stress management—rather than just aesthetics. This aligns with findings from a 2024 study showing female trainers guide clients toward balanced, sustainable habits.
• Challenging Stereotypes: Female trainers often bring a fierce, no-nonsense attitude to strength training, proving women can dominate in a male-heavy field. They’re role models for clients wanting to break molds.
  

Cons

• Underestimation: Some clients (often men) underestimate female trainers’ strength or expertise due to gender biases. A 2019 article noted that men sometimes view female trainers as “fluff in a uniform,” which can undermine their authority.
• Physical Limitations: While rare, some clients might worry about a female trainer’s ability to spot heavy weights, though proper technique and gym equipment usually negate this concern.
• Market Bias: Female trainers may face a tougher time building a diverse client base, as some men prefer male trainers for strength-focused goals, limiting their opportunities.
  

Should Women Choose a Male Trainer? The Benefits

For women, choosing a male trainer can be a game-changer, depending on your goals and comfort level. Here’s why it might be a great fit:

• Pushing Past Comfort Zones: Male trainers often bring a high-intensity approach that can help women break through plateaus. If you’re hesitant to lift heavy, a male trainer’s encouragement (and spotting skills) might get you deadlifting like a pro.
• Diverse Perspectives: A male trainer can offer insights into training methods that differ from female-led approaches, like focusing on progressive overload or explosive movements. This can broaden your fitness horizons.
• Breaking Stereotypes: Working with a male trainer can empower women to claim space in male-dominated gym areas (like the weight rack). It’s a subtle way to challenge norms and build confidence.
• Goal-Specific Expertise: If your goal is powerlifting or bodybuilding, male trainers with experience in these areas can provide tailored guidance, leveraging their own training backgrounds.
  

However, comfort is key. Some women may feel self-conscious with a male trainer, especially if discussing body image or health concerns feels awkward. A 2024 Crunch article noted that while gender matters for some women, mutual respect and professionalism outweigh it for most. If you vibe with a male trainer’s style and feel supported, their gender becomes secondary.

What Do Female Trainers Offer That Men Don’t?

Female trainers bring a unique flair to the gym that often sets them apart. Here’s what they offer that male trainers might not:

• Deep Empathy for Women’s Experiences: From pregnancy to menopause, female trainers get it. They’ve likely navigated similar physical and emotional changes, making them adept at tailoring workouts to life stages. A 2021 blog from M-Power Fitness emphasized how female trainers create safe spaces for women to discuss body concerns without judgment.
• Focus on Function Over Aesthetics: While male trainers might lean toward sculpting a “perfect” physique, female trainers often prioritize how your body feels and performs. Think strength for daily life, not just mirror appeal.
• Community Building: Female trainers tend to foster a sense of camaraderie, especially in women-only settings. Embody Fitness’s all-female team, for example, creates an inclusive vibe where clients feel like part of a squad.
• Challenging the Status Quo: Female trainers are often trailblazers in a male-dominated industry, inspiring clients to defy expectations. Their presence alone screams, “You belong here.”
  

Amanda Barnhart’s (Pregnant) Training Program

Let’s zoom in on Amanda Barnhart, a CrossFit Games athlete sponsored by Xendurance and coach who’s redefining fitness while pregnant. As of 2025, Amanda is expecting, and her training program reflects her expertise in balancing intensity with safety. Her approach is a masterclass in female-led training, especially for women navigating life changes.

• Pregnancy-Tailored Workouts: Amanda’s program emphasizes functional movements like squats and modified Olympic lifts, scaled to accommodate pregnancy. She focuses on pelvic floor strength and core stability, crucial for labor and recovery. Her workouts avoid high-impact moves, prioritizing low-risk exercises that keep moms-to-be strong.
• Holistic Wellness: True to her CrossFit roots, Amanda integrates nutrition and mental health into her coaching. She shares tips on managing pregnancy cravings and stress, drawing from her own experience. This empathetic approach resonates with women who want a trainer who understands their journey.
• Inspiration Factor: As a pregnant athlete, Amanda proves you don’t have to sidelined. Her program empowers women to stay active, challenging the myth that pregnancy means pausing fitness. It’s a powerful message for female clients.
  

Josh Bridges’ Navy SEAL Training Advantages

Now, let’s switch gears to Josh Bridges, a former Navy SEAL and CrossFit star whose training program is built on grit and discipline. His military background gives him a unique edge, especially for clients craving structure and intensity. He is also a 12+ year sponsored athlete of Xendurance.

• Military Precision: Josh’s program is rooted in SEAL training principles—think high-intensity circuits, bodyweight drills, and mental toughness. His workouts, like ruck runs and pull-up marathons, build resilience and functional strength, ideal for clients wanting to push limits.
• Discipline and Accountability: As a SEAL, Josh mastered accountability under pressure. His coaching style instills the same in clients, with clear goals and no-nonsense feedback. This is perfect for those who thrive on structure, male or female.
• Versatility: Josh’s program blends endurance, strength, and agility, reflecting the diverse demands of SEAL missions. It’s great for clients seeking all-around fitness, from marathoners to powerlifters.
  

Amanda vs. Josh: Who’s Your Match?

Amanda’s program shines for women (and men) who value empathy and adaptability, especially during life transitions like pregnancy. Her focus on functional fitness and emotional support makes her a go-to for those wanting a nurturing yet challenging trainer. Josh, on the other hand, is your guy if you’re after a bootcamp-style push with military precision. His approach suits clients who love a structured, high-octane challenge, regardless of gender.

Final Thoughts: It’s About the Vibe, Not the Gender

So, male or female trainer? The answer lies in what makes you feel unstoppable. Male trainers might bring intensity and perceived expertise, while female trainers offer empathy and holistic care. Women can thrive with male trainers if they align on goals and communication, but female trainers often provide unmatched relatability, especially for women’s health concerns. Amanda Barnhart’s pregnancy program showcases the power of female-led training, while Josh Bridges’ SEAL-inspired workouts highlight the discipline a male trainer can instill.

Ultimately, the best trainer is one who gets you—your goals, fears, and quirks. Try a session with both genders, ask questions, and see who sparks your motivation. Whether you’re a guy chasing PRs or a gal navigating life’s changes, the right trainer will have you fist-bumping your progress in no time. Now, go find your fitness soulmate and make those gains!