The New Year is just around the corner, and like many people, one of your resolutions may be to drop that winter weight once and for all. A nutritious diet and gym membership are a good start, but maybe you want a little extra guidance and motivation.

Consider enlisting the expertise of a personal trainer to help you get on the right track. But just as you prefer foods that fit your taste and budget, you should carefully consider who you want toning your triceps.

How do you go about finding your own good-health guru? For starters, he or she should have a degree in an exercise-related field like kinesiology and be certified as an exercise specialist. Your trainer should also hold current C-P-R, first aid certification and liability insurance.

Beside the credentials, look for someone who shares your philosophy on physical well-being. You don’t want a drill instructor barking orders at you if you prefer to begin your routines with “Namasthe.” Your trainer should also tailor workouts to your specific health needs, instead of a “one size fits all” approach.

Find out your coach’s specialty, whether it be prenatal fitness or sports conditioning. A trainer who has helped people meet goals similar to yours improves chances you’ll meet yours, too. See how many clients he or she has trained and ask for references to learn whether they felt satisfied.

If your wallet lost weight over the holidays, consider group sessions. The more specialized lessons are, the pricier they get.

Most importantly, make sure you like and trust your personal trainer and feel comfortable asking questions. Positive reinforcement is paramount. Don’t be afraid to break up with your trainer if it’s not working.

The right person can help you commit to get fit.