What advise can you give to me as a new independent contractor in a small gym. I recently received my certification.
Hi Tracy
Congratulations!!!!
Independent contractors are well positioned to take advantage of the gym setting, while also expanding their training abilities to meet client desires for outdoor work and in-home training. Learn as much as you can about how the muscles function so you can use resistance that is more portable.
Listen to what people really want. Ask them what they are looking for in a personal trainer before you tell them what you offer.
As Steven Covey says…. Sharpen the Saw, Listen Before Being Understood, and hold compassionate in your heart.
Have fun,
Danielle
Hi Tracy. I wanted to follow-up on my previous answer. With all respect to my colleague here, let me clarify MY use of the phrase “good luck.” I don’t use or see “luck” as implying the lack of ability at all. To the contrary, I use this term much more expansively. A long time ago I heard (or read) someone who said that LUCK is where “preparation meets opportunity.” Luck used in this way (which is how I use it) means that being in the right place at the right time is only HALF of the equation! You must also be PREPARED to take advantage of the opportunity. So, preparation, preparation, preparation – so that when the opportunity comes, you’re ready for it!
Keep learning, keep practicing and GOOD LUCK!
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
Tracy,
I’m a relatively new trainer myself, and although I can’t offer much advice, I can tell you that one of the biggest things for my clients so far has been an emphasis on enjoying fitness. I’ve found that if you can get someone to have fun doing something active, then you’ve already won half the battle. As long as you are designing safe, effective, and fun programs that are keeping your clients coming back for more, then I think you’ll be ok. That’s my experience with it, anyway.
I hope you have great personal training experiences! (I won’t say good luck because luck implies lack of ability.) =)
Hi Tracy. I’d like to piggy-back on what Joanne has said. An almost natural by-product of “owning the knowledge” is that this will improve your confidence. Being confident as you approach potential clients or they approach you has a way of giving you instant credibility, making you more relaxed as you discuss fitness issues, and to allow the potential client to view you as someone who can truly help them reach their fitness goals. Hone your confidence and people skills by having friends and family ask you any fitness questions that come to mind. By practicing your communication and knowledge in this “protected environment” you will begin to gain confidence and perhaps just importantly, discover areas that you may need more knowledge in before tackling “live clients.”
I hope this helps – good luck!
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
Tracy, I don’t know what credential you hold, however, I would suggest that you apply the science of exercise with all of your clients.
The best personal trainers not only get results for their clients but they also educate them.
The only way to educate your clients is to own the knowledge for yourself first. Be able to share with your clients the source of your knowledge.
Never forget to perform a subjective and objective assessments as this is the backbone of your exercise prescription. Any seasoned fitness professional will be able to determine by looking at the program designed for the client a great deal about the subjective and the objective assessment.
I wish many new clients and success in our new position.