Whether you've been working in fitness studios or gyms and have decided to venture out independently, having a steady stream of clients is crucial for your success. But do you know how to get clients as a personal trainer?

But that’s certainly easier said than done. With more than 329,500 personal trainers in the United States, it’s safe to say your clients have plenty of places to go for options.

Here’s how to market yourself as a personal trainer, even in a saturated market.

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10 Ways to Get More Personal Training Clients

For personal trainers who have decided to venture out independently, attracting clients can feel like an uphill battle. Here’s some advice on how to find personal training clients:

1. Host Free Fitness Classes or Workshops

One of the most effective ways to attract potential clients is by hosting free fitness classes or workshops. These events allow people to experience your training style firsthand without any commitment. 

For example, you could offer a free Saturday morning boot camp at a local park. Advertise it on social media, community boards, and through local businesses. 

During the class, engage with participants, offer tips and encouragement, and make sure to mention your personal training services. By the end of the session, you'll likely have a few interested prospects ready to sign up.

2. Partner Up

Building partnerships with local gyms, health food stores, and wellness centers can help you cross-promote your services and reach a broader audience. These collaborations create a win-win situation where both parties benefit from increased visibility and new customer referrals.

Consider offering exclusive personal training sessions or workshops for the members of a local wellness center. In return, they can promote your services through their newsletters, social media channels, and in-house marketing materials. 

3. Encourage Satisfied Personal Training Clients to Refer Their Friends and Family

Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, especially in the fitness industry. Encourage your satisfied clients to refer their friends and family by offering incentives for successful referrals. For example, you could provide a free training session or a discount on their next package for each new client they bring in.

Here's how you could phrase it to your clients: "Hey, I'm excited to see the progress you've made! If you know anyone who could benefit from personal training, I'd love to help them too. For every friend or family member you refer who signs up, you'll get a free session or a discount on your next package. Thanks for spreading the word!"

4. Don’t Be Afraid of Giveaways and First Time Discounts

Attracting new clients often requires a little incentive. Whether it's a free consultation, a discounted introductory package, or a branded workout accessory, promotions can help you get your foot in the door.

For instance, you could run a social media giveaway where participants enter by liking, sharing, and commenting on your post. The winner receives a free training session or a discount on their first package. This not only generates buzz around your services but also increases your online visibility and engagement.

5. Grow Your Social Presence

In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for attracting clients. 

Take advantage of social media platforms as a form of free personal trainer advertising. Use Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to showcase your expertise, share client success stories, and engage with your audience. Consistent posting and interacting with followers can help you build a loyal community and attract new clients.

If you need help with your social media marketing, GlossGenius can help. We have comprehensive social marketing tools that will help you take your social strategy from so-so to spectacular.

6. Network with Other Professionals

Networking with other professionals in the health and wellness industry can open doors to new opportunities and referrals. Attend industry events, join local business groups, and connect with other trainers, nutritionists, and wellness coaches. 

Building relationships with like-minded professionals can lead to collaborations, guest speaking opportunities, and client referrals.

7. Start an Email Campaign 

Email marketing is another great form of personal trainer advertising - it can keep your clients informed about your services, promotions, and events. Start by building an email list of current and potential clients. Send regular newsletters that include fitness tips, success stories, and updates about your offerings.

An example? You could send a monthly newsletter that highlights a "Client of the Month," shares a new workout routine, and announces upcoming events or promotions. By providing valuable content, you'll keep your audience engaged and encourage them to book sessions or refer friends.

Need help sending the right messages? GlossGenius’s comprehensive email marketing tools can help. 

8. Focus on Young People

If you’re wondering how to find personal training clients, you might want to think younger  - young people are often looking for ways to improve their fitness and overall health. 

Consider offering programs that cater to their interests and lifestyles, such as high-intensity interval training (HIIT), group classes, or sports-specific training.

9. Follow Up With Leads

After meeting someone at a networking event, receiving an inquiry through your website, or interacting with someone on social media, make sure to follow up promptly and professionally.

If someone expresses interest in your services through a social media comment, send them a direct message to thank them for their interest and offer to schedule a free consultation. Personalized follow-ups show that you value their interest and are committed to helping them achieve their fitness goals.

10. Create a Professional Website

Your website should be easy to navigate, visually appealing, and optimized for search engines. Include details about your training programs, pricing, and contact information, as well as a blog with fitness tips and insights.

Consider using GlossGenius' custom website builder to create a stunning website that reflects your brand. 

With gorgeous, modern website templates and features like custom portfolios, built-in Google reviews, and unlimited team profiles, you can build a site that impresses potential clients. The seamless integration with our online booking system makes it easy for clients to schedule sessions.

How to Market Yourself as a Personal Trainer

Venturing out on your own as a personal trainer is an exciting yet challenging endeavor. While you’re armed with fitness expertise and passion, how do you turn that into a thriving business? 

The secret lies in smart, strategic marketing - and leveraging the right tools to grow your client base. Here’s how to get clients as a personal trainer and market yourself effectively.

1. Define Your Unique Selling Points and Create a Strong Brand Image

First impressions matter, so you need to create a compelling brand image that communicates your value to potential clients. 

Ask yourself, what sets you apart from other personal trainers? Whether it's your specialized fitness programs, your motivational coaching style, or even your unique approach to nutrition, make sure your unique selling points are clear and prominent.

Also think carefully about your brand. Your brand is more than just a logo or a catchy slogan; it’s how clients perceive you. A strong brand builds trust and makes you memorable. Use consistent colors, fonts, and messaging across all your platforms to reinforce your brand identity.

Clearly define what clients will gain by working with you. Make sure this is communicated through your website, social media, and marketing materials.

2. Create and Share Fitness Videos

One effective way to draw attention to your services is by sharing fitness videos on social channels and YouTube, which establish you as an authority in the industry.

Videos are engaging and more likely to be shared, thereby increasing your reach. Plus, they allow you to demonstrate your techniques and expertise in a way that text alone can’t achieve.

• Workout Routines: Share quick, effective workouts that viewers can do at home.
• Client Testimonials: Showcase success stories from your current clients.
• Tips and Tricks: Offer advice on form, technique, and fitness tips.

3. Use Management Software with Integrated Marketing Tools

Managing client appointments, communications, and marketing can be overwhelming. 

That's where a robust business management software like GlossGenius comes in. A software like ours centralizes and simplifies your admin work, so you can spend less time in front of a computer and more time in the gym with clients. 

Transform Your Personal Training Career with GlossGenius

Growing your personal training business takes time, effort, and a strategic approach. Remember, the key is to provide exceptional service, stay engaged with your community, and continuously work at marketing yourself. Along with the marketing tools we touched on in this article, GlossGenius helps you manage your calendar, payments, client data, appointment reminders, payroll, and so much more.

Try GlossGenius free for 14 days and see the difference it can make for your personal training business!

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FAQ

How can I accept credit card payments as a personal trainer?

To accept credit card payments as a personal trainer, consider using a reliable online payment platform. Services like GlossGenius offer integrated payment processing solutions and point of sale options that are easy to set up and use. 

How do I brand myself as a personal trainer?

Start by defining your unique value proposition - what makes your training style different? Consider your specialties, such as strength training, weight loss, or sports conditioning, and clearly communicate these to potential clients. 

Should I give online personal training classes?

If you’re wondering how to get clients as a personal trainer, online classes might be the way to go. Offering online personal training classes allows you to reach a wider audience, including those who may not have access to in-person training or prefer the convenience of virtual sessions. 

How do you get your first client as a personal trainer? 

As a personal trainer, networking and word-of-mouth referrals can be powerful tools in gaining your first clients. Reach out to friends and family, offer free or discounted sessions to acquaintances, and consider partnering with local businesses or gyms to get exposure.