Introduction

So you want to become a personal trainer - That's great! I'm going to keep it simple. After this short read, you will know what to do to get started today. This is meant to give you a no fluff, actionable and clear starting point including costs to get you working with your first client.

1. Get Educated - Learn The Basics

Think about this, before you can teach others, you have to understand what you're teaching. You need to understand some basics on how the human body works, this isn't about becoming a doctor. This is about learning some basic movement and training principles in order to avoid injuries. You can get your education from reputable organizations like NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), ACE (American Council on Exercise), and NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association)

Cost vary from $279 to upwards of $2000 depending on the what program you decide to use.

2. Learn From Someone Doing It - Shorten The Learning Curve

This in my opinion is one of the best moves to get you ahead of their beginners struggling to get started. What better way to learn than to learn from someone who is already doing what you want to do. Ask a friend who is a personal trainer, or ask personal trainers from your gym, or go in person and talk to small gym owners in your town and ask them any question on your mind. This would help expand your network and people you know in the space. You are one good conversation away from talking to the right person and getting the connection you need to become a successful personal trainer.

Tip: Reach out to personal trainers you admire and whether in person or online, most are happy to share some advice - This can help you avoid silly mistakes beginners make.

3. Get Your First 3-5 Clients - Train Real People

Start having this conversation with the people you know and care about. Most likely, if you care about them you'll care to get them real results. Talk to family and friends and offer to train them for free to gain the experience of doing so. Aim to find 3 - 5 family and friends to work with you on this. Focus on clear communication and adjusting the workout for that specific individual. Reflect weekly on what's working, what isn't and what can be improved.

Tip: Take progress photos with consent and ask for honest feedback about you and the workout.

4. Be Professional - Treat It Like Your Business

I'm not telling you to wear a suit to train your clients. Professionalism speaks to more than just appearance. Here's how simple I see professionalism, show up early with a plan, be presentable, train them like you care, take notes and keep track, encourage them, but be firm. Be mindful of who you are training and have boundaries. Remember, these people have the ability to spread the word on how you train. They can either get you referrals or spread bad experiences with others.

5. Build A Personal Brand - Be Yourself Online

First, BE YOURSELF! No one can be yourself better than you can. Being yourself sells. To become a successful trainer, you need clients. New clients find out about you when they see and like what you show online. Create an Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, etc, and share your client progress photos, testimonials, some fitness advice, what you have learned, and be transparent about your fitness journey. Provide valuable insights and be consistent with posting.

Tip: Create a website and have forms and appointment calendars for clients to book a time with you. And keep track of all your clients in one spot. JYMFYT is the perfect software to keep your website, clients, appointment calendars, and much more in one place.

Final Thoughts: Take Action Today

Promise me you are going to do at least one thing of what you just read. There is no perfect time to wait to start, the time to start is after reading this. Let me ask you this, what action would you take if you knew you would't fail?

You have an idea on how to start. Get educated, find a mentor, train a few people, be professional, and establish yourself online. Every successful trainer was once where you are right now.