Ok, so you're training a few people and getting a taste for this idea of being self-employed. At some point you start thinking how great it would be to have your own space, one where you make the rules,... View More
The fitness industry is in need of a major makeover; a marketing makeover. The fitness industry, in the eyes of the greater public, continues to be branded by images of spandex, fake tans, perfectly articulated... View More
It often seems as if getting “certified” has become an accessory perfect for the person who “loves to work out.” To be completely transparent (and blunt), I cringe every time someone,... View More
I too was one of those trainers that in starting my business spent countless hours on thinking of that catchy name, you know the one everyone would remember; that is if they ever heard it in the first... View More
If you're eager to start your own fitness business, it's important that you not get hung-up on many of the details that may keep you from simply taking action. Too many aspiring fitness entrepreneurs focus... View More
I meet several newly certified trainers who find it difficult to get their first "chance" at training clients. Whether as an independent trainer starting a business or getting hired at a facility, many... View More
If you've been reading my column for any length of time and taking action there's no doubt that your business is probably growing. In the last six and a half years I've learned many hard lessons about... View More
If there is one industry that changes what is "in style" more often than fashion -- it's fitness. We use fashion and style as a way to express ourselves and even to make a statement. Fitness really... View More
I was listening to a New York City-area morning talk radio show last week and one of the featured segments was about the fastest growing professions in New York City. Fitness training was ranked the fourth... View More
I'm sure you've heard of the supplement company called EAS and maybe even the mother of all transformation programs, Body For Life. This column has nothing to do with EAS other than the association... View More
When it comes to scope of practice in our industry, there is a line that in theory is clear and defined, but in everyday practice often becomes blurred. For those of us who have certifications from accredited... View More
In my last column, I shared with you an exercise reminiscent of a Mad Lib with five quick fill-in-the-blank statements. The objective is to keep you from over-thinking and over-strategizing what niche... View More
What is your time worth? This is a very serious question and one you need to answer for yourself. What's more I'd suggest you re-evaluate it about every six months; that is if you want to grow your fitness... View More
Many fitness professionals start their career with the noble goal of "helping everyone who wants to live a healthy life." But the truth is, as the saying goes, "You can't be all things to all people."... View More
In my September 2011 column, I shared seven ways to motivate your clients beyond just physical results. I wanted to revisit the topic because at some point, being the motivator that our clients depend... View More
When I first speak to a new coaching client one of the very first things we discuss is whether they know and track their average number of leads per month. I know when I began my training business years... View More
Whether you are in a formal business partnership or joint venture with another professional on a service or product you offer, you must be vigilant about laying a strong foundation of the partnership.... View More
The most challenging task with launching a new business, program or service often times is generating enough buzz to get your clients, potential or current, so excited about what you have to offer that... View More
As trainers we're still people and as people we have certain behaviors that are consistent no matter what. First we live in an instant gratification world. Our clients are looking for a near instant solution... View More
When I first started my fitness business, I pretty much would train anyone who would pay me for my services and spent a lot of time networking with other local businesses because I was anxious to find... View More
