As a personal trainer you uses your knowledge of health and fitness to evaluate clients and create workout plans. Health centers and gyms hire personal trainers but the hour limitations and pay rates restrict wat you can earn. Becoming an independent personal trainer allows you to set your own rates and hours for greater earning potential. The drawback is you are responsible for finding your own clients and managing the business aspects of working as an independent personal trainer.
Step 1
Earn your personal trainer certification from a reputable organization that is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or a similar accreditation institutions. Examples of organizations that offer personal training certification include the American Council on Exercise, National Academy of Sports Medicine or the American College of Sports Medicine. The certification gives you a solid knowledge base and makes potential clients feel more confident in your expertise.
Step 2
Write a business plan for your personal training business outlining your goals and direction. Include your plans for marketing and retaining clients. Identify your target audience for your services, such as a fitness club, a particular type of person or companies with wellness programs.
Step 3
Write contracts, policies and procedures for your clients to define the agreement. Ask an attorney to review the contracts to ensure it follows legal protocols.
Step 4
Hire an accountant to help you with the financial aspects of running the business. Use him to help you with your taxes.
Step 5
Rent your own studio space if you plan to have clients come to you. The other option is to travel to the homes of clients. Having your own studio gives you more control over the available equipment and environment but this option costs you more since you will pay rent and insurance.
Step 6
Prepare an assessment that you do with each client to get a baseline evaluation of her fitness level. Create a form to follow for consistency.
Step 7
Market your services following your business plan. Spread the word about your personal training business through personal acquaintances, press releases and paid advertising.
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