How do gym members percieve trainers, what’s holding people back when choosing to work with a trainer, beside money.
I understand that once we get an opportunity to talk to a potential client we can put their mind at ease about the way a Trainer customizes a workout, but what about the average gym goer who may have some misconceptions about training on a one-on-one basis. Do potential clients talk themselves out of Training before we get that open discussion. What if potential clients feel they have to already be at a certain level of fitness before working with a trainer?
Do potential clients fear Trainers? Do they feel that the workout will be too difficult? How do we dispell the myth that Personal Trainers aren’t in the business of hurting people, Boot Camp style with all clients.
The way you (or any of us for that matter) can dispel myths, rumors, untruths etc. is by “doing,” and by “telling.” We need to be able to walk-the-walk and talk-the-talk. I agree with much of what has already been said by other posters. You/we can demonstrate that these kind of ideas are untrue through working with your clients as individuals (meaning that we administer “individually designed” workouts that are designed to address the specific goals/needs for each of our clients, and for each of their sessions). People observe what we are doing as trainers whether we’re aware of it or not, and so by seeing this, they quickly begin to realize that you treat your clients as individuals. They also observe your interactions with your clients (e.g. does the client appear to be having fun? are they challenged? are you engaged with them? etc.).
When supported by your genuine interest in them as an individual when/if you speak with them, you can quickly and easily dispel any myths they may have about the whole training and trainer experience.
I hope that this helps.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
It’s all about the trainer!!
A trainer who has a positive, friendly attitude is a start! Most of the job is pleasing the client, like it or not.
Knowledge is probably the most important professional aspect of the job other than a great personality. Like Joanne said, no one questions the value of a nurse or physical therapist. Letting others know that you do your research and you have a working knowledge of body systems and motivation, etc, is probably the best way to be seen as a professional.
Know what you’re talking about and act like you know what you’re talking about without being a snob OR a pushover.
As a personal trainer, the GREATEST service you can offer to the profession, in my opinion, is letting EVERYONE know that personal training isn’t just for people who “need” it. The benefits and knowledge gained from hiring a great trainer can last a lifetime. Everyone could use a personal trainer! Even personal trainers need other personal trainers to learn from! =)
As with any and all professions, there are those that embody success and dedication just as there are those that convey laziness and incompetence.
The success of the trainer will largely be attributed to confidence; not to be mistaken for arrogance. A confident trainer will be so through effective preparation in attaining quality knowledge, staying abreast on all new topics (especially being in an industry that changes daily), while having a lot of opportunity to work with people and actually care about them, their interests, their goals, and their overall livelihood.
A great personal trainer will be able to sell themselves to the watchful eye of new gym patrons by the way they conduct themselves and their business within their gym setting, the parking lot, and throughout the community.
Some potential clients are weary of trainers because of their build. No potential clients will be interested in a trainer that doesn’t look the part or is in shape. A proficient trainer’s enthusiasm will show in his or her technique (i.e., sales or demonstration of exercises). Also no potential client wants a trainer that does not possess concern for their individual needs. A trainer is also a therapist.
Id say money is 90%.
I try to be friendly in the gym and offer advice, while changing my workout on a yearly basis so people see me as a runner, triathalete, swimmer, rugby player, bodybuilder etc. I know how to change my body so I can show them how to do it with theirs.
Let them know that you are the professional.