There are many ways to run your personal training business. Are you working with your clients online or in person, or do you maybe do both? Picking the right business model is tricky, and you want to make sure you’re really doing what’s best for you and your clients.
In this blog, we're going to break down the pros and cons of different options and help you find the perfect fit for your goals and lifestyle.
Online personal training businesses
Thanks to its flexibility, online personal training has taken off. Virtual training sessions, downloadable workout plans, and fitness challenges can all now be delivered through apps or social media.
To adopt this business model, you’ll need to use platforms like Zoom or Skype for live sessions, and you can also share content on YouTube or Instagram.
You can even learn how to create your own App for a personalised experience!
Pros of online business models
- Flexibility: You can train your clients from anywhere, anytime. Whether you’re at home, in a coffee shop, or travelling, you can work from virtually anywhere.
- Scalability: You’ll expand your client base without needing physical space. Digital platforms now make reaching hundreds (or even thousands) of clients easy.
- Lower overheads: You’ll save on costs like rent and equipment. All you need is a reliable internet connection, a camera, and enough space to film your sessions.
Online training lets you work with clients from different cities or even countries. Connecting with clients from various backgrounds and fitness levels will enrich your experience as a trainer.
Online flexibility allows you to offer a variety of programs, catering to different clients’ specific needs and preferences - making your services increasingly appealing to a broader audience.
Cons of online business models
- Less personal interaction: Building connections can be tough online. Creating the same level of rapport and trust is easier with face-to-face contact.
- Depending on technology: You’ll need reliable tech and the internet. Technical issues disrupt sessions and can frustrate your clients.
- Accountability challenges: Keeping clients motivated remotely takes extra effort on your part. Without in-person check-ins, some clients can struggle to stay committed.
Plus, marketing and branding are crucial when it comes to online training. You need to stand out in a crowded digital market, which means having a powerful social media presence, creating engaging content, and maintaining consistent communication.
Building your brand online means being strategic, producing regular updates and interactive content, and actively engaging with your audience. The competitive nature of online marketing demands creativity and persistence to keep your clients engaged and attract new ones.
In-person personal training businesses
In-person training means face-to-face sessions at a gym, studio, or clients' homes. This model involves one-on-one training, group sessions, and fitness boot camps, and it allows for hands-on guidance and real-time feedback. You can also tailor each session to the client's needs and adjust exercises on the spot.
Pros of in-person business models
- Personal connection: Building strong relationships is easier. You can read body language, adjust techniques immediately, and provide instant encouragement.
- Hands-on guidance: You can decide on and provide instant feedback. This is important for preventing injuries and delivering effective workouts.
- Community building: you can build a supportive client community. Group sessions and boot camps create a sense of camaraderie and accountability among participants.
In-person training also lets you use good, old-fashioned social skills! Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful, and local advertising will attract clients who prefer face-to-face interactions.
Creating a strong, supportive community builds a loyal client base that trusts and values your expertise. And if you’re a people person, this will enrich your life with meaningful relationships and job satisfaction.
Cons of in-person business models
- Geographic limitation: You can only serve clients in your area. This limits your client base to those people who can physically attend your sessions.
- Higher overhead: Space, equipment, and maintenance costs all add up. Renting or owning a physical location is expensive, and maintaining it adds ongoing costs.
- Time constraints: You're limited by the number of hours in your day. You can only train a certain number of clients, which affects your income potential.
If you travel to clients’ homes or multiple locations, you'll also need to consider commuting time. This can significantly increase your daily workload and reduce the number of sessions you can deliver.
The physical demands of in-person training can be taxing, meaning you’ll need to manage your energy and schedule carefully to avoid burnout. Balancing multiple clients can be challenging!
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Hybrid personal training businesses
Hybrid training blends online and in-person services. Online resources like workout videos and virtual check-ins support in-person sessions. This is a comprehensive, flexible service where you might meet clients in person once a week, with additional workouts and online support.
Pros of hybrid business models
- The best of both worlds: You get the flexibility of online training combined with the personal touch of in-person sessions. Clients get hands-on guidance, plus the convenience of online support.
- Increased reach: You can train both local and remote clients, and you're not limited by geography to reach a broader client base.
- Diversified revenue: Multiple income streams are great for business. Offering in-person and online services attracts different types of clients and boosts your revenue.
Some clients might prefer the accountability of in-person sessions, while others appreciate the convenience of online workouts. A hybrid model allows you to meet each client’s needs and circumstances.
It also provides a safety net. For example, you can train your clients online if in-person sessions are disrupted (like during a pandemic). This flexibility means that your business will be resilient, even when you face challenges!
Cons of hybrid business models
- Complex management: Balancing both aspects can be challenging. You’ll need to juggle scheduling, different platforms, and varied client needs.
- Time and resource intensive: A hybrid model requires investment in both physical and digital infrastructure, which can be time-consuming to set up and maintain.
- Consistency issues: Ensuring that clients receive the same quality of service online and in person requires careful planning and execution.
Managing a hybrid model can be demanding because, of course, you care about the experience you provide for your clients. Investing in the tools you need for online training while maintaining in-person sessions could strain your energy and resources.
You'll need to be adept at switching between different modes of communication and tailoring your approach to each client’s needs. You must also be well-organised and adaptable to deliver consistent, high-quality service.
How to choose which personal training business model is right for you
Now you understand the different types of business models for personal training, and their pros and cons, it’s time to work out which one suits you best.
To choose the right model, ask yourself the right questions – and be honest with yourself.
- What are your strengths?
- Who is your target audience?
- What’s your ideal lifestyle?
- How comfortable are you with technology?
- What are your financial goals, and how much time do you want to spend face-to-face with clients?
- How do you want to work?
- How do you prefer to communicate?
- What type of clients do you want to attract?
There are lots of questions to give you food for thought. Think carefully about your answers. They should inform the type of personal training business model that’s right for both you and your clients. What’s right for one person isn’t right for another…
An in-person model might be your best bet if you thrive on personal interaction. If you want flexibility and a broader reach, go for an online model. If you prefer a mix, a hybrid model is the perfect choice.
If you enjoy travelling or have a busy personal life, an online or hybrid model offers the flexibility you need. If you thrive in a more structured environment and enjoy building close relationships, in-person training will be more fulfilling.
Your choice depends on you. Remember, the best business model should align with your individual goals and professional strengths. For more detailed strategies on setting up your personal training business, check out Personal Trainer Marketing 101: How to Become a Sell-Out PT.
Finding your perfect-fit fitness business model
Picking the right personal training business model will set you up for long-term success. By understanding the pros and cons of online, in-person, and hybrid models, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
Do you need more support to help you choose the best business model for your personal training business? Strong Collective offers tailored mentorship and coaching. Book a call today to learn more and accelerate your business!
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