Are you a personal trainer that is tired of working for someone else? Would you like to explore different working environments other than just gyms? Are you ready to take your expertise to the next level and become a freelancer?
There are many benefits to becoming a freelance PT, including managing your working hours and charging clients a rate of your choice. However, a few things will need to be kept in mind before you split from your current employer and go solo. Below are some of the highlights you need to think about if you want to become a freelance personal trainer.
Insurance
As well as coming up with a strong business plan, you must make sure that you secure the correct type of insurance before you begin training any new clients. Look into insurance for personal trainers and research what other kinds of cover you might need as a self-employed individual. Take your time to explore your options and find the right insurance provider for you. Finally, make sure your policy is signed and has already started before you start working as a freelancer to avoid any potential legal issues.
Becoming a Freelance Personal Trainer
Clients
If you have already been working with clients at a gym, you may be able to persuade them to stick with you when you go freelance. At the very least, ask them to leave a review on your website or social media and to spread the word about your new services to their friends. It might take some time to build a client base in the early stages of being a freelance PT, but make sure you have a few willing clients to come and train with you before you leave your job. Take appointments as soon as you can to secure some income from your freelance work straight away.
Workspace
Where do you intend to work as a freelance personal trainer? Are you going to visit clients in their homes or hire a room at a leisure center or gym? Or will you take appointments at your home? It’s important to figure out where you are going to practice as a freelance personal trainer, as this could impact the kind of insurance cover you will need to get. You may even want to rent out a small studio space in the town or city center if you would prefer to keep work and home separate.
Equipment
If you have recently been working in a gym environment, you will have had access to the equipment there during your training sessions, but now you will need to provide this yourself. You should factor in the cost of all the relevant training equipment you will need into your business plan, and remember that you will have to think about risk assessments and showing clients how to use this equipment properly to avoid injury.
Marketing
Finally, if you want to succeed as a freelance personal trainer, you must promote yourself to new clients. Having a professional website is a good place to start, as well as being active on social media. Encourage current and previous clients to leave reviews on these platforms, and think about offering a few sessions at a discounted price to attract new customers. Networking and teaming up with other local health and fitness professionals could also work in your favor.
Going freelance in any industry can be risky, but with thorough planning, confidence, and good promotion, you give yourself a much better chance of success. Use the tips above to help you thrive as a freelance personal trainer.
