If you're in DC, you can do it a few different ways. The most straightforward way is to join a gym, buy a package, and use one of their trainers. A number of group fitness instructors I follow on Instagram also have their own businesses that operate out of an apartment building gym, or they come to your home. You can likely search social media and reach out that way if you'd prefer not to join a gym.

I've been lifting for 30 yrs and the one regret is not having a PT in the beginning of my journey to learn about basic form and diet which would've save me a few years. But back then I was in my 20s clueless and poor.

I think if you do a month session at the least with a PT to get you started would suffice. Make sure the PT knows about nutrition and can walk the talk. Get the proper form down for squats, deadlifts and upper body exercises. These are the main lifts or compound exercises which you will forever use in your workouts.

I wouldn't waste that money on a gym when you can find free videos for beginners on Youtube. Do you have weights at home? You can get them for 1-2$ a pound at Target.

I found a local gym that contracts with certified trainers - so they're not "employees". It's a small boutique gym where you can just work out alone, or hire one of their contracted trainers if that makes sense. The person I hired also contracts and trains at other local, small boutique gyms.

PS - I'm in CA.

Most gyms offer a free consultation with a trainer when you sign up. It is really a sales pitch to get you to sign up for training.

Or find a gym you like and reach out to the training staff there. They will do their sales pitch and then tell you pricing for the training and if you like you sign a contact for training and gym membership.

It is a pretty simple process. Expect to pay $75-125/45 min session and 60-150/month for gym membership.

I've never had a personal trainer but I'd like to treat myself to a few sessions to get started with weights.
Do I join a gym and then find someone on staff there?

Or do I find a trainer first?

Do you sign a contract with the trainer as well as the gym? How does this work?

Obviously I am a complete novice with gyms and trainers.