How much has the economic downturn affected your personal training business?

I've experienced a little up turn in the industry actually. I think I may have received much of that stimulus money in payments, lol. This is becoming a necessity for some now a days and a burning desire for others. People want to move again and that makes me smile!

Fortunately not very much.

My clients are usually older, and exercise is not optional for them. Quite a few of them would have great difficulty working out on their own. Older clients are also often more insulated from the ups and downs of the market.

I have not change my rates; however, I also did not increase them. I had a few clients who dropped the frequency of their training with me.

What I have done to be more competitive was to widen my knowledge base and include more certifications in different modalities. The one that had the greatest positive impact was becoming a MELT instructor.

Megan, like Karin it has not changed much or at least not in North Carolina. One thing has changed since the Obama Regime has killed this economy, my clients instead of paying a year in advance, they want to make several payments!!

I Also agree, if you ask me about the recession, i would respond by saying what recession. I've found that I've found that my business has continued to grow and when i put in a little extra work with the marketing i quickly generate new clientele.

I would also say what recession, luckily for us trainers this is a fast growing industry and Personal training is now considered a need and not a luxury to most people. And if training is getting to expensive start doing more small group training its a lot more fun anyways!

What does Obama have to do with it?

My business is better than ever, it's not what the economy is around you it's what you do best in the economy

Whatever energy you put out , you'll get back!

Hello Megan,
I feel very fortunate that it has not impacted my business. I can fill my schedule as full as I wish and I am very thankful for that. I do put in long hours...rise at 2:00AM, start my first client at 4:30AM five days per week and I do work weekends. Whew..

Sincerely,
Michael