Personal Trainers Talk

[TestDummy]

Hey guys, I just got NFPT certified and in about 2 months I'll be certified as a physical therapist tech.  I've already been offered a job at my gym once I finish school, I would now but I have no time.  I'm very excited to start working as a personal trainer.  How much do you think I can expect to make just starting out?  Just in general, I know the area has alot to do with it too....  Also what do you guys think of NFPT?

[spiderman405]

I wanted to get some advice. I have 20 years of workout experience and lots of knowledge as far as training. i have personal trained over the years but never more than a handful of clients.

I now have a private studio that i can train at in a good wealthy area. i have no clients as of now. I have a website, fliers and business cards. I wanted to hang around this area and get some business locally. there is a whole foods grocery store and plenty of people walking around this area.

my question is how do i get the fliers or business cards out without feelling like a solicitor? I am not a pushy person

should i put them on cars? what should i say to people if i am just randomly passing out cards to everyone?

i am good with people. its just that getting the first few is the hardest part for me.

any advice would be nice. thanks.

[Reality]

Do you mind putting your website link up so we can see it?

Or just send me an email at Scott@bodybuildersreality.com and I'll be happy to offer some feedback!

Thanks,

Scott

[Mike]

I wanted to get some advice. I have 20 years of workout experience and lots of knowledge as far as training. i have personal trained over the years but never more than a handful of clients.

I now have a private studio that i can train at in a good wealthy area. i have no clients as of now. I have a website, fliers and business cards. I wanted to hang around this area and get some business locally. there is a whole foods grocery store and plenty of people walking around this area.

my question is how do i get the fliers or business cards out without feelling like a solicitor? I am not a pushy person

should i put them on cars? what should i say to people if i am just randomly passing out cards to everyone?

i am good with people. its just that getting the first few is the hardest part for me.

any advice would be nice. thanks.

General flyering is good.  You're gonna have to suck it up and get your name out there anyway possible.  Get some family members or some high school kids to help you and just get out and talk to people.

You can also just introduce yourself to as many people as possible and offer your services.  You can do it at the whole food, just make sure you get their information as well as giving them yours, this way you can follow up with them.  I recommend having a clip board and just jot down phone numbers and email address.

For a more professional approach you can do direct mail.  You can get some postcards designed and sent out with all the information you want.  This is a lot better because you can target a certain demographic (age, maritial status, income leve...).  We do them all the time.  $.37/postcard for design, demographics, actual card and mailing.  I'd recommend doing anywhere from 1,000 - 10, 000.  Let me know if you need any resources. 

[Reality]

Dude, flyers and postcards are the LAST thing that you should do.

Once again, study marketing and business.  Find others that are already successful doing what you would like to do.

The successful ones don't trade time for dollars.

They leverage their time and choose their own destiny.

They don't waste their time with flyers.

Scott
www.fitnessandfigurereal ity.com

[Mike]

Dude, flyers and postcards are the LAST thing that you should do.

Once again, study marketing and business.  Find others that are already successful doing what you would like to do.

The successful ones don't trade time for dollars.

They leverage their time and choose their own destiny.

They don't waste their time with flyers.

Scott
www.fitnessandfigurereal ity.com

Direct mail is the BEST money I have ever spent and we run a very successful business here.  I've consulted for numerous PT studios and they have all had great results.  I go to alot of seminars and I here a lot of speakers, they recommend this as well. 

I would say word-of-mouth is your best marketing but you can't really control that.  Take a calculated, market research-based approach and invest in some direct mail. 

I would also take a more grass-roots approach and get involved in the community.  Go to meetings and various business mixers and attend functions, just to help get your name out there.

[Quickerblade]

[spiderman405]

General flyering is good.  You're gonna have to suck it up and get your name out there anyway possible.  Get some family members or some high school kids to help you and just get out and talk to people.

You can also just introduce yourself to as many people as possible and offer your services.  You can do it at the whole food, just make sure you get their information as well as giving them yours, this way you can follow up with them.  I recommend having a clip board and just jot down phone numbers and email
address.

For a more professional approach you can do direct mail.  You can get some postcards designed and sent out with all the information you want.  This is a lot better because you can target a certain demographic (age, maritial status, income leve...).  We do them all the time.  $.37/postcard for design, demographics, actual card and mailing.  I'd recommend doing anywhere from 1,000 - 10, 000.  Let me know if you need any resources. 

Hey i just check this email. i know its been a while. i had a major shoulder surgery. i am back in shape though and ready to build my personal training business. i will look into this direct mail thing. you know i work full time right now from 2pm-10pm for around $32,000 per year at a hospital. i am living paycheck to paycheck. $370-$3700 for postcards is alot of money to me but i will consider it when i have an extra $370 to blow.

how long have you been training people personally and how is your business now?

[Quickerblade]

[Andy Griffin]

I've been doing this a little while, attended lots of seminars and have seen a lot of bad training.  I think I might have some good advice.

First off, leave World Gym.  I was at one of their conventions and I spoke to a few owners and managers and I really think they're tryin to "revamp their image. " This can be good and bad.  I'd opt for a more stable, PT studio-type gym.  You're in Florida right?  Look up IHP (institute for human performance) in Boca Raton.  That's the kinda place you wanna be at.

Second, no more bodybuilding training.  I see these trainers having 80 year old women (literally) doing isolated bb bicep curls supersetted with tricep extensions.  But that will make their arms smaller right?  Wrong!  It's ok to give them what they want but, eventually, you have to give them what they need and convince them it's what they want.  After all, you're the professional.   Look into NASM instead of ISSA, and to incorporate some functional and core training (bad words on this board).  You'd be suprised how much a person will start to listen when you show them how to do a proper floor or stability ball crunch (proper neck alignment, neutral spine position, hyper extension, contraction, foot placement -not against a wall).

Last, try to get them to look beyond the $ signs and see the VALUE of the training.  I call it the "layer beneath the layer."  Sure, 66% of people join gyms to lose weight, but WHY?  Their nephew called them fat.  They can't fit in an airplane seat.  They have to go to Big and Tall stores.  95% of all sales (gym sales included) are based on emotion.  Get that first...their results will follow. 

Sorry, I modified it alitlle, I had one of my front desk girls bust me for looking at "gay porno" i.e. Masters Olympia pics.

Good evening.  I have a quick question.  You state that you would "look into NASM instead of ISSA."  Why?

I am slowly getting back into shape, and I've been thinking along the lines of using "before and after" pics (someone else mentioned using that technique).  I obviously have to get certified, and ISSA has been in contact with me (I haven't committed to anything, of course).  What makes NASM a better option in your opinion?

[Stubborn]

Good evening.  I have a quick question.  You state that you would "look into NASM instead of ISSA."  Why?

I am slowly getting back into shape, and I've been thinking along the lines of using "before and after" pics (someone else mentioned using that technique).  I obviously have to get certified, and ISSA has been in contact with me (I haven't committed to anything, of course).  What makes NASM a better option in your opinion?

NASM just has more substance really. They tell you all the same things but a little more in depth. They also focus on all that core crap out there, if you like that stuff. ISSA is quick and easy! If you are looking to pick one up just to get started, go with ISSA because it will take you no more than a week to complete it even without prior training. NASM is preferred at 24 Hour but I wouldnt recommend working there unless you just want to count reps. I believe you can find examples of what each program will teach you and what the tests are like on their respective websites.

Good luck!

[Andy Griffin]

NASM just has more substance really. They tell you all the same things but a little more in depth. They also focus on all that core crap out there, if you like that stuff. ISSA is quick and easy! If you are looking to pick one up just to get started, go with ISSA because it will take you no more than a week to complete it even without prior training. NASM is preferred at 24 Hour but I wouldnt recommend working there unless you just want to count reps. I believe you can find examples of what each program will teach you and what the tests are like on their respective websites.

Good luck!

Thank you for the info.  I am a long way from being worthy to train anyone, but I can certainly use the knowledge. 

[Quickerblade]

[Jeriko]

For those of you lookin to become PTs and living in San Diego; i'm looking to add 2 part-time trainers. 10-15hrs/wk Evenings/Sat morn.  $10-$12hr + bonuses

We have a specific program and you must be willing to train our members according to that program. Perfect for responsible college students.  We cater to well known and influential people in the community. You must have a strong presence and the ability to both motivate and hold our members accountable without feeling intimidated. Men PTs only. www.athleticnation.com

[Quickerblade]

For those of you lookin to become PTs and living in San Diego; i'm looking to add 2 part-time trainers. 10-15hrs/wk Evenings/Sat morn.  $10-$12hr + bonuses

We have a specific program and you must be willing to train our members according to that program. Perfect for responsible college students.  We cater to well known and influential people in the community. You must have a strong presence and the ability to both motivate and hold our members accountable without feeling intimidated. Men PTs only. www.athleticnation.com

hahahaa i like that

[emn1964]

Hey i just check this email. i know its been a while. i had a major shoulder surgery. i am back in shape though and ready to build my personal training business. i will look into this direct mail thing. you know i work full time right now from 2pm-10pm for around $32,000 per year at a hospital. i am living paycheck to paycheck. $370-$3700 for postcards is alot of money to me but i will consider it when i have an extra $370 to blow.

how long have you been training people personally and how is your business now?

My two cents for what it is worth.  To get your business started you need clients.  Not necessarily paying clients though.  Get together some flyers that have a free workout coupon on them.  Take them to local businesses and introduce yourself.  Tell the gate keeper (secretary or whatever) that these are freebies for the employees, that you only have a few free slots left so time is critical.  Hit every single business in a 5-7 mile area.  I wouldn't go to many retail businesses because of the low wage rate.  I guarantee you that you will have clients in a week.  During the free session, that is your opportunity to sell your service to them.  You have to get out there and pound the pavement.  This is a very low cost way to market but I can almost guarantee you a few clients out of it.

Another way to market yourself that won't cost you anything but time is thru volunteering.  Volunteer for the special olympics.  This will get your name out into the community.  Volunteer for the local high school sports teams.  Volunteer for the local rec council.  Volunteer at camps for disabled kids.  Just volunteer.

Direct mail--I get absolutely nothing out of direct mail.  The return rate is very small and not worth the cost.

[wnybodybuildingfan]

I got certified in June of this year through I.S.S.A.  I train clients in their own homes.  My clientele has mainly been from the teaching profession.  Age groups have ranged in the 45-65 age bracket.  Nice thing is I don't have a lot of overhead and with gas prices coming down it has become more profitable. 

[Zach Trowbridge]

For those of you lookin to become PTs and living in San Diego; i'm looking to add 2 part-time trainers. 10-15hrs/wk Evenings/Sat morn.  $10-$12hr + bonuses

That's a pretty tough hourly rate.  Even at a place like 24 hour you can get just under $20 an hour with no experience. 

[Stubborn]

That's a pretty tough hourly rate.  Even at a place like 24 hour you can get just under $20 an hour with no experience. 

At 24hour fitness with no experience you make $15/hr. The highest is $23/hr, I believe, and thats for a "Master Trainer" (someone who has trained 2000+ sessions and has 3 or more certs). Plus you make $$$ for pedalling supps. I do not recommend working for them or any other major chain gym if you want to train YOUR way. You must follow strict guidelines. It is better to work at a fair volume smaller gym and seek outside clients as well. Just my $.02.

[Earl1972]

don't most of the people that use personal trainers just want to lose weight?  that's the impression i get at bally's, where the majority of people using trainers are middle aged and obese

why should they be trained like athletes if they just want to lose weight?  i laugh when i see these trainers counting pushups or have them do some kind of sqaut with the ball pressed up against the wall

none of these personal trainers do those exercises, heck most of them do bodybuilding type exercises

and doing pushups and jumping jacks is something anybody can do at home, why pay somebody to watch you do them in the gym?

these people just want to get their weight down and look somewhat decent, why not train them like a bodybuilder?  teach them how to properly lift weights because most don't have a clue and bodybuilding is a great way to take off the pounds, which is the goal of most clients wouldn't you say?

E

[webcake]

don't most of the people that use personal trainers just want to lose weight?  that's the impression i get at bally's, where the majority of people using trainers are middle aged and obese

why should they be trained like athletes if they just want to lose weight?  i laugh when i see these trainers counting pushups or have them do some kind of sqaut with the ball pressed up against the wall

none of these personal trainers do those exercises, heck most of them do bodybuilding type exercises

and doing pushups and jumping jacks is something anybody can do at home, why pay somebody to watch you do them in the gym?

these people just want to get their weight down and look somewhat decent, why not train them like a bodybuilder?  teach them how to properly lift weights because most don't have a clue and bodybuilding is a great way to take off the pounds, which is the goal of most clients wouldn't you say?

E

With most clients, yes they do want to lose weight and "tone-up".

Training them like a bodybuilder could work, but it isn't always ideal for weight loss. And it can get boring for an average client. Do a set, rest, do another, rest, another exercise, rest etc etc

That's why circuits are probably the best. You are always moving, good momentum and you can change them up quite easily. Going to the gym 4-5 days a week may be fine for you, but for others they cannot sacrifice the time and don't really enjoy going to the gym.

It's all about keeping the client motivated and interested. Typical bb'ing style training is boring.

[Earl1972]

i don't think these people enjoy any type of physical activity, that's a large part of the reason they are obese

the trainers at my gym have their clients do pushups, situps, bodyweight squats, machine pullups, cable exercises and occaisionally watch them do laps around the track
 
how are those exercises more interesting than bodybuilding training? and why the hell are trainers so fascinated by those exercise balls?

i've never seen a decent physique on a man or woman in a gym that didn't lift weights

these clients never look any thinner and what is all this talk about functional training?  as if a guy that benches 300 lbs doesn't have any functional strength

E

[webcake]

i don't think these people enjoy any type of physical activity, that's a large part of the reason they are obese

the trainers at my gym have their clients do pushups, situps, bodyweight squats, machine pullups, cable exercises and occaisionally watch them do laps around the track
 
how are those exercises more interesting than bodybuilding training? and why the hell are trainers so fascinated by those exercise balls?

i've never seen a decent physique on a man or woman in a gym that didn't lift weights

these clients never look any thinner and what is all this talk about functional training?  as if a guy that benches 300 lbs doesn't have any functional strength

E

I can't really comment on American PT.....but i am a Personal Trainer/Fitness specialist and i studied for 18 months.

I think the average Aussie PT is better qualified/trained than the average American PT. That being said, you can do the quick route in Aus and be a PT in all of 6 weeks.....but those guys never last more than a year or so.

"Cross Fit" is very popular here in Aus now. Quick, outdoors and just do like boxing/running drills/BW exercises and stuff with kettle bells and stuff.

There's always going to be shit trainers.......just make sure you aren't one of them. 

[Earl1972]

i'm not a trainer, i just don't think the trainers in my gym are helping their clients achieve their goals

i think they should be taught how to properly lift weights, why pay somebody to watch you do jumping jacks and waddle around the track?

E

[webcake]

i'm not a trainer, i just don't think the trainers in my gym are helping their clients achieve their goals

i think they should be taught how to properly lift weights, why pay somebody to watch you do jumping jacks and waddle around the track?

E

I totally agree, and any trainer who wants to make ok money and build a good reputation should too.

Watching someone run laps on a track is poor effort.....teach them how to exercise correctly, motivate them and keeping it interesting for the cleint is all there is to it.