While certifications are important, I think the second most important thing in a Personal Trainer is finding one you can work with.

Make sure you can work with the person who will be overall responsible for setting your goals and work routines. If your trainer doesn't agree with your goals, find out why. Is it more a personal thing or is it being backed up by the industry standards.

I know when I took my tests to become certified, there were a lot of folks in that class that HATED low carbers but had no idea what low carbin was all about. They were pretty much brainwashed and following whatever it was they were told.

As with any profession, make sure the person you deal with is someone that will see both sides of an issue. Just like doctors, there are some that support low carbohydrate diets while others are against them.

A few national orgs for Personal Trainers are: ACE, AFAA, ASCM, NCSA

Remember it is YOUR health and fitness. The person you hire is there to assist and guide you, not hinder you in your goals