Personal training is a highly competitive field with many very knowledgeable and skilled professionals competing for clients. The good news is that the aging baby boomers have a greater interest in personal training than past generations and there has been a growing need for personal trainers. To stand out from the crowd, you'll need to learn motivational strategies, specialize in a specific type of client, open up multiple revenue streams and remain committed to your education.
Motivate Your Clients
Though you will need to understand the most-effective exercise techniques, the role of a personal trainer is more than simply a dispenser of knowledge. Your primary role is to motivate your clients to continue exercising. This requires that you build a relationship with your clients. Since you will be working with a broad range of people, you are better off if you are the type of person who enjoys social interaction. Besides fitness, you may find yourself often find yourself providing emotional support as well when your clients become frustrated.
Specialize
Determine the type of client you would like to work with. Then, you can specialize in the exercise techniques that are the most likely to help that type of client. You may choose to specialize in clients that are struggling with obesity or you could help athletes. Regardless, the methods you use will need to be tailored to your types of clients.
Find Multiple Sources of Income
It is risky to rely on only personal clients as your source of income. If one of your clients decides to drop you, this can lead to a loss of a few hundred dollars a week. The best way to avoid this risk is to generate income from several sources. Consider starting a weekly class and consider holding boot camp events.
Never Stop Learning
Just like with doctors and lawyers, you will need to remain committed to your education. Regularly read reputable sources on physical training so that you are knowledgeable on which techniques produce which results. Not only will you provide a better service to your client, but if your client discovers that you are uninformed about a particular topic, he or she is more likely to find a different trainer. Getting your personal training program off the ground may seem difficult at first, but it can be a profitable career if you remain dedicated.
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