For many, becoming a certified personal trainer is a tough reality to handle, and it can be a harsh awakening. One of the main reasons we see so many new trainers leaving the fitness industry before their first year is that they don't fully understand what the job entails. As a personal trainer, you need to possess strong customer service skills to deliver a professional and personalized experience. So, what does it take for a new trainer to succeed in this career? Returning guest Sorta Healthy Jeff, owner of a gym in Plantsville, CT, and creator of the YouTube channel Sorta Healthy Trainer Education, shares his top tips for personal trainers during the hiring process and tips for implementing semi-private training. His channel has over 90,000 subscribers.
Semi-Private Training & Its Benefits
Semi-private training is a fitness model that combines elements of personal training with the benefits of group sessions, typically involving two to four clients training simultaneously under the guidance of a personal trainer. This format enables trainers to deliver personalized instruction while creating a motivating environment for participants (Mackenzie, 2021).
One of the primary benefits of semi-private training is the cost-effectiveness for clients. By sharing the trainer’s time with a small group, clients can experience individualized programming at a lower rate than traditional one-on-one sessions (Smith, 2022). This affordability can attract a wider clientele and enhance retention rates, as clients are often more motivated when training alongside peers.
Additionally, semi-private sessions foster social interaction, accountability, and camaraderie among participants, which can lead to increased motivation and a greater commitment to fitness goals (Jones & Taylor, 2020). The trainer’s ability to deliver tailored feedback remains intact, allowing for adjustments to routines based on individual needs while maintaining a supportive group dynamic. This model not only enhances the training experience for clients but also allows personal trainers to maximize their earnings potential by working with multiple clients simultaneously.
What Personal Trainers Do
Two essential professional skills for personal trainers are customer service and effective communication. As a personal trainer, you're representing a brand that promotes a healthy lifestyle, and you need to act professionally in public (or online) to build trust. This means communicating clearly to teach new exercises, explain their benefits, and schedule future sessions.
While certification courses cover the basics, these skills often take experience to master. Recognizing that you’re in a service industry and need to excel in these areas can help new personal trainers develop the outward appearance that draws in new clients.
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