Putting on free programs
When I first started, I did a body composition screening for free to get exposure. The only other program I did was at a site associated with Meals on Wheels where I did some chair exercises for the participants. The goal of that was simply to help the mainly older people with some ideas for exercises. I did that for quite a few years without any anticipation of getting clients.
Free programs are often not valued in the way you may hope. Yes, it does get you exposure but often not much comes of it. I also do NOT give any free personal training sessions to attract new clients. My main reason here is that I always do a comprehensive screening first, and I simply will not do that for free. However, I offer it as part of an initial package of 3 sessions + the screening for a package rate.
Hi Raven. I agree with Karin that ‘free’ training sessions are often not valued by the person receiving them. However, I must say that in answer the “just because” part of your question, I think that offering something free (e.g. assessments, mini-training session etc) is sometimes a great idea if being offered to an ‘existing’ client as a way to say “thanks,” or “job well done,” or “Happy Birthday,” or for any other number of “just because” (i.e. not related to trying to get a new client) reasons. These kind of free sessions go a long way to building ongoing relationships, showing that you care, or simply to allow someone to feel special. Well worth it in my opinion!
I hope that this helps.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
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