SO how do you market yourself in the fitness industry?
Hi David,
There are many ways you can market yourself. Here are few:
-Build a good web site
-Networking groups
-Craigslist
-Put up flyers on a number of locations (apartment complexes, coffee shops, etc.)
-Offer free sessions (if needed)
-Use your vehicle as a tool to promote and advertise your business
-Social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.)
-Wear t-shirts with your logo and business info (you can actually make some extra and give them to people/clients to wear them around)
-Newspaper press release
-Newsletter
There are many more ways to do it, but these are some of the most effective ones. I hope this helps…good luck!
Best,
Harris
I believe Harris covered a lot of good ways to get started. Just be sure to “over-deliver” on your services to the clients you do have (assuming you have some already) and ask them for referrals. I got a lot of clients over the years that way. But you won’t get them unless you ask. You can’t ask too soon though – let them get some results first. Also, if you train people in their homes, get to know the sales people at your nearest fitness equipment store. Offer them $$ incentives for referrals – sales people love money! That’s another marketing tactic that worked pretty well for me. Good luck David.
Paul Thomas
www.homeworkoutguy.com
I’d like to zero in on the networking piece. It is possible to network and have it be obviously all about you and getting ‘likes’ on your page, or so on, or networking as a way to create a real community of those who share common interests and goals.
When I can offer help or information to a colleague I respect I do so… I try to be generous with my time and energy and resources with both new and experienced people, not to get something, but because I think it is the right thing to do. And I find that people have also been very generous and helpful to me when I needed.
For me marketing is about connecting with people, sending them to the best place for what they need, even if it does not enrich me personally, and hoping that if I display honor, honesty, generosity, as well as knowledge and skill I will do well.
Facebook ad
Yelp
T shirts
referral incentives (I offer $25 off of registration when boot campers bring in a new person)
Join local clubs/Rotary/Chamber of Commerce
Participate at Health fairs, parades etc.
Sponsor a local team/Little League etc
Advertise in local high school programs/flyers etc
Offer a special to members of the schools PTA
Hi David,
I agree with what the others have already listed. I would like to add that word of mouth referrals are one of the best marketing tools you can have. Give 110% to every client and go above what is expected of you. If you already have clients, you can also ask for referrals (you can offer a free session or discount to your current client for any referral).
Also, networking in your community by participating in events can help get your name out. Sometimes you need to do this for free, but it’s worth your time. Lately I’ve been asked to donate a few sessions to some silent auctions for charity events locally. I always give a fitness basket with a few sessions to get my name out there (and I have gotten clients this way). Fitness events and health fairs are also good places to network, as well as local doctors and physical therapists.
For me it’s about making connections with people and being genuine. My approach with people is more educational and less sales. Never underestimate how you may have an impact on someone you meet!
Good luck,
Christine