Looking to get in shape in time for swimsuit season? University Recreation Personal Training is offering a personal training special that expires today.

The spring break special includes 12 sessions with a personal trainer for $245, with an additional personal training session or nutritional consultation for free. Partner sessions run $160 each, if both people sign up for the special at the same time.

According to the University Recreation website, the normal personal training price for students is $25 per session or $260 for a package of 12. An eight-session package is available for $180.

Whether you want to train for a 5K or lose 10 pounds, personal trainers are able to assist you in setting realistic goals and plans for yourself.

“Part of the job of being a good trainer is to help the client to set realistic and attainable goals, goals that the client is motivated to attain,” said John Jackson, University Recreation manager of fitness and research. “For most clients to reach their goals it is absolutely imperative that the client follow the other parts of the workout plan assigned by the trainer and to make wise use of those remaining hours [by] eating properly and getting enough rest/recovery time.”

According to University Recreation personal trainer Neika Nix, most women come to her to lose weight and tone up, while men generally prefer to strengthen their core and chest area. Nix sees up to 20 clients a week, usually two or three times a week for hour-long sessions.

Personal training sessions can also cater to individuals’ needs, something that group fitness or exercise videos cannot do.

“The trainers tailor a specific plan for each client based on several things: the client’s medical and fitness history, the client’s goals, the amount of time the client has to devote to an exercise program and the level of motivation of the client,” Jackson said.

In addition to offering individualized exercise plans, personal training allows the freedom to break up some of the monotony of traditional workout programs.

“I change things up every time I see my clients to keep them from getting bored and to help give their bodies the best possible workout,” Nix said.

Personal training can be a great option for those who need a little extra encouragement when it comes to working out, Jackson said.

“The individual who needs motivation … is most likely to benefit from working with a trainer – it is the monetary commitment that keeps the client involved and working hard,” Jackson said.  “The trainer [is able to] push the client to do things he or she otherwise might not be motivated enough to do on their own.”

According to Nix, a personal trainer also doubles as an accountability partner.

“Personal trainers also help you set your goals, stay accountable to those goals and measure your progress along the way,” Nix said. “If you feel like giving up, you have someone who cares that you will have to answer to.”