The Franchise of Fitness

Personal Training is a Business

“Being a personal trainer is like running a franchise.” – Paul Brady CEO

If you want to learn how to run a service-based business become a personal trainer. In the gyms where I worked, there was no handing over of clients, minimal training on how to build up your client base, and at a certain point no schedule oversight. Though I officially only started my own business two years ago, and fully stopped working for someone else one year ago, I had been running a franchise for close to seven years. These are some of my biggest insights.

Current Clients First

Unless you’re running a phone company, your business model is not about having people in long-term contracts, while lowering the price to entice new members. This is about serving others and delivering results. If you’re not delivering to current clients, the number of new clients will not matter. Make sure that your best energy, focus and attention, is given to those who have already committed themselves to you. The service industry is all about relationships and results, when you focus on those two things, referrals will most certainly follow.

Show Value, Be You, Remember, this is a Business

No one is going to know what you do, who you are or the value you offer unless you get out there and let them know. The process takes time, it’s about building relationships and showing value. I would clean machines and offer guidance and tips to those lifting inappropriately and just really get to know the members. You want to be approachable, caring and authentic, however never forget that this is a business. You give knowledge and show worth, but do not train anyone for free. You would not expect a lawyer to write up a deposition, a CPA to do your taxes, or even a cleaning service to mop up your floors for free. The same goes for your service-based business.

Define Your Niche

One time I was given a class called Power Hour, all about lifting heavy - it did not go well. Yes, I knew how to program for it, but it was in no way anything I felt comfortable with or was interested in. That lack of enthusiasm and confidence showed, and had me not just losing that class but four others (rash decision by management). Pick your clients, focus on what really lights you up, and those that need your help will come. When you are brave enough to say, I specialize in this area, and work with these individuals, everything changes. The content and information you produce and share will be created in a mindset of enjoyment and confidence, and that will resonate with those that hear your call.

If you want to start your own business but you’re scared because of some perceived lack of experience, do not let that dissuade you. If you’re a waiter/waitress, hair dresser/barber or in client services, then you already know the importance of relationships. If you’re in project management, marketing or sales, then you understand the importance of knowing your ideal client, and matching expectations to results. If you’re in finance or quality assurance, then running the backend of a business will come naturally to you. Always ask, what do I already know, and what have I already experienced that can help me along this path?

Part of the Chronicles of a Solopreneur

In this series, I share the knowledge, insight and concepts I’ve learned to be beneficial during my time spent thus far as a solopreneur. Many of these methods, mindsets and tactics can be applied to areas beyond the business arena. Starting your own business is basically an exercise of continuous personal growth through: failure, triumph, creation, organization, chaos, perseverance, effort, dedication, vulnerability, self-evaluation and hope…like on the daily. All of these concepts have been Liz tested and approved to be effective in keeping you on course, focusing on what’s important, and succeeding in your venture however you may define success.

Elizabeth SimmonsMarch 13, 2021Comment