The exercise/fitness trend which began in the 1980s is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, the personal training industry is expected to grow steadily well into the 2020s. Many are attracted to the frequent and intimate client contact. Still others like the fact that being a personal trainer requires limited additional education. Finally, every personal trainer enjoys the considerable benefits of lifetime physical fitness. As your business grows, don’t forget about personal trainer insurance. A modest investment makes you more marketable to potential clients. Financially stable personal trainers are more stable overall. Insurance is also a requirement for many gyms and other places where personal trainers work. Finally, the right amount of insurance gives you peace of mind. That’s a priceless commodity.
Make Your Website Pop
There are about a zillion other personal trainers in your Zip code, and a good website is the best chance you have to stand out from the crowd. Here are a few pointers:
- Post lots of quality blogs. The added content drives your listing close to the top of the SERP (search engine results page). So, you get more hits without spending lots of money on an expensive pay-per-click campaign.
- Have a clear website. Try to have five or six static pages. That’s an easy to handle size that also gives searchers plenty of quality content.
- Emphasize professional partnerships where appropriate. These relationships give your business added credibility.
Consider working with a website designer and professional writer. These investments will almost certainly pay big dividends.
Collect Testimonials
Especially in the social media era, few things beat customer reviews. Already, mapping apps are incorporating customer reviews. Who knows what will be next. To make the most of this wave, consider giving free or reduced-priced sessions to friends in exchange for their honest online reviews. Most Millenials trust online reviews as much as they trust word-of-mouth. So, this area may be your best opportunity for growth.
Don’t Forget a Personal Touch
As mentioned, personal training is a relationship-based industry. While you do not want to know all the details about your clients’ lives, and you are probably unwilling to share everything about yourself, the relationship component must not be overlooked. If a client misses a session or two, reach out and check in. Personalize your workout routines as well. It’s certainly okay to use the same basic tools and methods. But remember that every client has different fitness goals. Don’t overlook the “personal” part of being a personal trainer.
Ask for Referrals
Many people at your gym could benefit from your services. There just needs to be a connection between client and trainer. Gym owners and managers can make that happen. Always offer free fitness consultations. During this meeting, emphasize your skills and experience in certain areas. Show potential clients how they can benefit from working with you as opposed to someone else. Starting a personal training business, or any other enterprise, is always very shaky. But if you follow these hints as you start your business, and you are good at what you do, the growth will almost certainly come.