Where do new Personal Trainers train if independent?
It is me again…with a different question this time.
My personal training business now that I’ve officially launched is taking off a bit quicker than I envisioned (this is a good thing i know!). However, I’m not versed nor thought about this one little issue – WHERE do I train my clients. For example, I have a potential client interested in training with me. She has no gym affiliation (and even if she did not sure I could come in as a guest to train her?). I have affiliations with two gyms, one that one even allow for outside guests (it is a private gym i use for myself solely) and I do have a membership to Planet Fitness. Am I allowed to bring a “guest” as my client if I have the black card membership? It looks like I will end up with a couple clients right off the bat (again didn’t see this coming this fast!) and now in a panic to figure out where the heck do I train them. I can do some bodyweight/basic training outside at my house (i have a large private yard) but I need a facility to be based out of. Recommendations would be hugely appreciated! THANK YOU!!! (again)
Rachel,
First of all, congratulations on your decision to pursue personal training as a career. It’s one of the most rewarding things you could ever do. In answer to your question, I read over the responses from some of the other trainers and they all make very good points, especially taking care of your liability insurance first. You can do that online in about 20 minutes or so and it’s not costly, but you definitely want to have it before actually doing any training.
The other suggestion I agree with is you definitely need to contact gym ownership first and come to an arrangement up front. You don’t want to get caught in an embarrassing or awkward situation in front of your client if you don’t. You can certainly start by inquiring at the gyms that you already belong to .. it never hurts to ask! Keep in mind though, as one of the other trainers mentioned, if they already have trainers on staff there that are trying to earn a living, it might be a tough sale. Worst thing that can happen is they can say “no” .. but more than likely they will try to offer you a job!
I agree that your best bet is probably going to be a smaller facility that will understand your position fully and welcome the additional business. I’d recommend starting out by negotiating a flat per visit fee, and they may even be willing to lower it in the event your client decides to join their gym.
Last, always remember “balance” when training. You don’t have to meet your client at the gym every session. Take advantage of nice weather by getting out to the park, running track, basketball court, tennis, cross-training, etc. Check out any public facilities there as well that may offer basketball or racquetball free or at a minimal cost, or may have an indoor walking track. The more you can change up your client’s workout routine, the more likely they will be to stay with it and be successful!
Mark Jenkins
GetFitArkansas.com
@GetFitArkansas
I can’t believe the negativity I’m reading in these comments you are legally entitled to train your private clients at any gym open to the public and there is absolutely nothing the gym can do they certainly can not cancel your membership if you have one as long as you have public liability insurance you are fine my insurance agency Marsh insurance have advised me I am completely covered , physical activity Australia and fitness Australia have told me I have every right to do this. As trainer we need to start using our right as an independent contractor and stop these money hungry gym from taking advantage of trainer and not caring about there members after all the majority of gyms flat out rip off there trainers the stats show that 90% of PT graduates don’t last 6 months in the industry due to unfair rental contracts this is a disgrace more trainer should be doing exactly what I’m doing and poaching there clients, there taking advantage of the law and even breaking contract law by requiring there contractors to wear there uniform.
I’m fighting back with the law on my side look into it before you start lying to this poor girl trying to make a living doing what she loves.
You are completely entitled and legally covered if you have insurance to train private clients at any gym they can’t cancel your membership.