How to Become a Successful Trainer
It's a hot profession. People want to be fit. Many pay big bucks to professional trainers to make it so. Personal trainers charge from $40 to more than $100 for an hour of their time. It's also not unusual for top-tier trainers to have a waiting list. Earning a nice salary as a successful trainer takes an acute sense of psychology, patience and keen marketing skills.
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Instructions
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Obtain the proper training and certification. Certification through NCCA--National Commission for Certifying Agencies--or through an accredited college or trade school physical training program is recommended. According to results of the 2006 income survey conducted by startingapersonaltrainingbusiness.com, less than 3 percent of the personal trainers who responded make $100,000 or more a year. Thirty-three percent averaged $20,000 or less a year. Most personal trainers work part-time, which partly accounts for the low income numbers. However, successful trainers have one thing in common--their extensive medical and physical training prepares them so they can educate clients about their health. They're able to discuss health issues, and properly train clients while minimizing risk of injury. The NCCA-certified National Counsel on Strength and Fitness provides educational information on programs designed to provide certification for personal trainers.
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Develop a winning client motivational plan. Design your motivational plan around a simple concept--what can you add to your client's life? Motivating individuals to lose weight takes a special kind of talent. You must be determined to envelope yourself into that person's life. Give them hobbies to concentrate on instead of food. Coach them through their weak moments--even if that means talking them out of eating another helping of dessert during a late-night phone call. Your clients are your walking billboards. Determine how you'll succeed with each one.
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Write out a marketing plan. Determine how you want your success and whether you want to work full-time or part-time, whether you want to work inside a gym or go to your client's home. Small gyms can't always afford a personal trainer on their payroll and some might be willing to partner with a certified personal trainer. Call around and ask.
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Look for creative ways to connect with clients. Consider partnering with other retailers--wedding consultants, tuxedo outlets, clothing stores. Make an appointment to meet with the manager. Explain your services and ask for the opportunity to hold a fitness rally for their customers. A fitness rally would include you demonstrating a few exercises you recommend to clients. Also discuss the health benefits of a good workout. Encourage the audience to ask questions about your services. By demonstrating your services on their turf, you'll have access to a wide variety of potential clients and the retailer will usually help by providing snacks and personally inviting customers who they feel would be more interested. Hold rallies at gyms, schools, malls, churches and other organizations.
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