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How to Do a Personal Training Consultation Like a Pro

How to Do a Personal Training Consultation Like a Pro

Posted by Tyler Spraul, Certified Strength and Conditioning SpecialistĀ® (CSCSĀ®) on November 25, 2019 ā€” Updated on April 29, 2024

Learn how to do a personal training consultation with these steps: plan ahead, get to know them, write goals, and pitch like a pro.

How to Do a Personal Training Consultation

Almost every personal trainer can relate to new client jitters. Discover the keys to a successful first personal training consultation in this guide.

  • Briefly get to know your client as a person before jumping into their consultation.
  • Thoroughly gather their medical history and measurements in order to write appropriate goals.
  • Include your client in writing goals and formulating a plan.
  • Focus your pitch on selling the achievable results, not the package.

Almost every personal trainer can relate to those new client jitters. Like an awkward blind date, both trainer and potential client are trying to read cues and determine if they can work with the other person. If the personal trainer lacks a poised and confident demeanor, potential clients often exit the fitness center and never return.

But it doesnā€™t have to be this way! Keep reading to discover the keys to a successful first consultation that converts waffling customers into committed clients.

Fitness Income Ideas

Donā€™t forget to check out the secret weapon to winning over your customers: Exercise.com. It’s easy for both trainer and client to use and helps the client get the results they want!

Read on for a detailed walkthrough of the key considerations aspiring personal trainers with criminal records need to know. Learn about if gyms hire felons, how to get certified as a personal trainer with a criminal record, and other qualifications to become a personal trainer.

And, of course, Exercise.com is here for you. From booking personal training clients online and in-person with easy booking software.

Booking

To selling workout plans online

Workout Plan Creator

To launching your own custom branded fitness app.

Custom Branded Apps

And much more.

See why using the best personal trainer software, the best online fitness coaching software, and the best apps for online fitness coaches can add rocket fuel to your personal training business income.

From running online fitness challenges, to creating one of the best fitness influencer apps (check out the best white label fitness app software), to selling workout of the day memberships, to learning how to create a fitness app, to much more, there are many ways to make money with fitness, and with the Exercise.com platform you have the best online fitness coaching software and the best software for fitness influencers all in one! (Not to mention the best gym software and the best personal training software).

Tony Gentilcore
Exercise.com makes my life easier by providing an all-in-one solution and the opportunity to help those who otherwise would never have access to my programming!
Tony Gentilcore
Founder, Core Online

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#1 Plan Ahead

As they say, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Clients want a trainer who is confident and prepared to meet with them.

After youā€™ve booked an initial consultation, send one or more questionnaires to the client via email that covers topics such as reasons for seeking out a personal trainer, personal and family medical history, or any previous experience with exercise or personal trainers. Personalize survey and questionnaire templates like these to fit your preferences!

Go here for a free personal training consultation template.

And, of course, you can do everything digitally right in the Exercise.com platform.

Assessments

These questionnaires donā€™t have to be lengthy but indicate commitment, motivation, and gives a glimpse into the client’s life so that you can address their needs and land a sale.

Having as much information as possible allows you to calmly and confidently converse with your client. This establishes your professionalism and experience without the ego. Reviewing the questionnaire answers should give you ideas on how to help your client. But don’t assume you know everything based on the questionnaire. Clients often don’t share everything on paper, so be alert for inconsistencies and be prepared with follow-up questions.

Here is where creating a personal training app so that you can message clients 1:1 works wonders. You can use the Exercise.com platform with the best personal trainer app builder software to make a fitness app that is custom branded to your personal training business or gym brand.

Custom Branded Apps

Use the Exercise.com platform to trigger smart automations for your messages.

Gym Marketing Automations

See how you can use Exercise.com to run a successful personal training business.

Our overall experience with Exercise.com is a breeze. We love how easy it is to integrate this app with our current workflow while providing great fitness programs for our customers and save us time in the process.
Julie Ledbetter
Owner, Ledbetter Fitness

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#2 Get to Know Your Client

The door swings closed behind your client and itā€™s go time! Check out the video below for how to make a solid first impression:

Greet your client with a genuine smile and a firm handshake. Use their name and express sincere excitement to work with them. Your client might feel intimidated about their upcoming consultation, and these simple touches ease tension and initial awkwardness.

Welcome them into your fitness center and find a comfortable place for their consultation. Some clients prefer to be in the open gym, while others prefer to discuss their health history and goals in a private area. Giving your client the choice of space helps alleviate discomfort or anxiety about their session.

Plan Time for Them

Most people wonā€™t share their personal history and hopes for the future with a stranger in the first five minutes of conversation. Take some relaxed time to get to know them. UtilizeĀ good listening skills to express genuine interest in your client so they feel comfortable sharing about their life.

Ask conversation-starting questions about family, work, school, or hobbies, like:

  • What do you do for a living?
  • What is your family like?
  • What is something you do for fun?
  • What do you hope to do with the degree youā€™re working on?

Focusing the conversation on the client sets the foundation for building rapport throughout their training. Itā€™s alright to share bits of your life if itā€™s relevant (for instance, if you went to the same school), but remember their session is about them, not you!

Donā€™t be fooled; these intentional questions aren’t a waste of time! Consider how their answers might affect their health or training: is their job sedentary or laborious, stressful or require overtime? If they have kids, do their kids have crazy extracurricular schedules? Are their hobbies adaptable to personal training? Does their educational background offer clues to structuring their workouts or explaining exercises? Asking these questions will both bring you up to speed on their personality and jump-start success.

Learn Their “Why”

Everyone has a reason for seeking out a personal trainer, and itā€™s your job to find their driving motivation. Maybe itā€™s a medical diagnosis about themselves or a family member. Maybe itā€™s because they want to stick around to enjoy their grandchildren. Maybe itā€™s to run a marathon or reach the next level in their sport.

Ask simple, open-ended questions that allow the client to share their story. Keep the conversation going or clarify any confusion with follow-up questions. If possible, affirm and empathize with their reasons for a lifestyle change. Discovering your clientā€™s motivation is key to understanding how to set effective goals and motivate your client in later sessions.

After discussing their reasons for change, many clients are ready and willing to move forward with their personal training.

Read More: How to Motivate Personal Training Clients

Get a Medical History

Because personal training can bring dramatic changes to a clientā€™s lifestyle by means of exercise and dietary changes, itā€™s crucial for personal trainers to get a thorough medical history for every client. Here are some key categories to keep in mind.

Major Risk Factor Identification

Most personal trainers do not have the qualifications to design a program for individuals with certain medical conditions without the consent and involvement of their physician. Before going any further with your client, ensure that they answer ā€˜noā€™ to the following questions:

  • Do you have diabetes?
  • Are you clinically obese?
  • Do you have a history of high blood pressure?
  • Do you have a family history of coronary disease prior to age 50?

If your client answers positively to any of these, it’s best to get consent from their physician before continuing with their consultation. While this may be inconvenient (and most likely lose the client), it is far better than the alternative of potentially injuring an individual through rigorous exercise their body canā€™t handle.

To avoid an awkward halt to your consultation, send these questions in your questionnaire email or ask them in your initial phone call with the client. This allows the client to obtain consent from their physician before the consultation. During the consultation, confirm that there are no major risk factors or ask for a copy of the physician’s consent form.

Health History Form

Everyone has a health history, and you need to know the pertinent details in order to safely and effectively train your client. Itā€™s critical to have a personal and/or family history for:

  • Illnesses and diseases
  • Allergies
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Heart attack
  • Cardiac surgery
  • Extreme chest discomfort
  • High blood pressure (over 140/90)
  • Heart murmurs
  • Ankle swelling
  • Any vascular disease
  • Unusual shortness of breath
  • Fainting spells
  • Asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis
  • Smoking
  • Excessive drinking (more than 1-2/day)

Additionally, information can be helpful regarding:

  • Previous surgeries
  • Injuries
  • Current medications
  • Pain, including location, intensity, and frequency
  • Poor sleeping habits (less than 8 hrs/night regularly)
  • Dietary nutrition and eating habits (both what they eat and when they eat)

Having these in your questionnaire email gives the client time to reflect over their answers and not be pressed to give an immediate answer. Consider having the client keep an honest food journal for one or two days before their consultation.

Cardiovascular (CVD) Risk Profile and PAR-Q

The CVD Risk Profile is an extra step to ensure your client is safe to perform regular exercise and undergo dietary changes without consent from their physician. A score of over 32 would indicate physician consent is necessary.

PAR-Q (short for Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) is a quick survey that identifies red flags to exercise in a simple Yes/No format. Any positive answers would indicate caution for exercising. Both of these forms are easy to use and provide objective data. Watch this video to learn more about PAR-Q:

Read More:

Anthropometric Measurements

Obtain objective measurements about your clientā€™s body so you have a starting point and can gauge progress. Fitness measurements include but are not limited to:

  • Weight
  • Height
  • Body composition (body fat vs. lean muscle)
  • BMI
  • Circumferential measurements of the neck, chest, upper arms, waist, hips, forearms, thighs, and calves
  • Range of motion restrictions in joints
  • Muscle flexibility
  • Muscle strength
  • Functional Movement Screening

You won’t need to use every measurement and can omit ones that arenā€™t necessary after learning your clientā€™s medical history.

Read More:

Psychometric Measures

These questionnaires can helpfully measure the clientā€™s motivation, self-efficacy, and any barriers to exercise. Understanding these variables can help craft a truly tailored personal training program for your client.

Some psychometric questionnaires personal trainers can use include: Exercise Motivations Inventory, Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale, and Barriers Self-Efficacy Scale.

The results of their medical history, measurements, and motivational factors will give you a clear picture of the next step in your consultation: writing goals.

Lani Hudgins
Excellent choice for my business! I tried nearly all the “major” platforms and found Exercise.com to be the most intuitive.
Lani Hudgins
Certified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach

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#3 Write Goals

This is the exciting step where you motivate your client by casting a captivating vision!

Give a Summary

Before jumping into writing their goals, take time to explain the tests and measures you performed and their results. This will allow you to quickly gather data, build rapport, establish your expertise, and involve the client.

Help the client see their need for change and areas to improve using the objective data from the measurements and tests. The results are a neutral ground that allows the client to feel you are their helper and not their judge.

Give the summary with a positive outlook; you donā€™t want to demotivate your client before starting! If the client’s results are concerning or make the client anxious, encourage them that committing to a personal training program is the best thing they can do for their health.

The Basics of Good Goals

Itā€™s best to set both short and long-term goals, as seen in the video above. The short-term goals will add additional motivation and show progress along the way to the long-term goals. Donā€™t fly solo on writing goals! While you should give suggestions based upon your expertise, your client must be motivated by the goals in order to achieve them. Listening to and including the client as much as possible builds your rapport and trust.

Your clientā€™s reason for recruiting a personal trainer is the ultimate long-term goal. But outlining one or two other long-term goals they can achieve at the same time will provide more opportunities to encourage and motivate your client towards success.

As a personal trainer, your passion is to see clients find lasting and fulfilling change as a result of their program. One of the best long-term goals you can set for every client is for them to enjoy or find purpose in their lifestyle change, whether itā€™s establishing routine exercise, a dietary change, or both. This goal allows you to regularly reinforce the benefits and enjoyment of healthy lifestyle changes.

Many leaders across occupations use the acronym SMART to establish goals.

  • Specific: Well-defined with clear expectations.
  • Measurable: A quantifiable progression.Ā 
  • Attainable: Challenging but not burdensome or impossible given the clientā€™s life demands and schedule.Ā 
  • Relevant: Stems from and impacts the clientā€™s reason for a lifestyle change.
  • Time-bound: An appropriate time frame that keeps the client focused without stressing over achievement.Ā 

Take these components into consideration and set goals that are motivating and inspiring to your client!

Make a Plan

If youā€™ve established goals correctly, most clients are excited and motivated to get to work. But before you can do that, you must establish a plan of action and mutual expectations. Check out the video above for another look at how to design a training plan.

Start by suggesting one to three lifestyle changes and ensure the client has a high level of commitment for each one. Success breeds success, so itā€™s best for commitment to be rewarded so it can be channeled into further motivation.

If they canā€™t commit to a certain lifestyle change just yet, save it for later. For example, it might be ideal for a client to exercise five to seven days a week, but this is intimidating for many clients or might not be feasible. But once they experience success and further trust your expertise, they might be more motivated to increase their workout frequency.

However, if the client starts balking at your suggestions or canā€™t commit to lifestyle changes, itā€™s important to not falsely assure them that change will occur. If a client wants to lose weight but can only commit to exercising two days a week and cut out energy drinks, they must understand they wonā€™t lose a great deal of weight.

Some trainers find it helpful to have the client fill out an unavailability schedule. This determines how much time the client can reasonably commit to training. Other trainers suggest signing a contract so clients acknowledge their commitment and stay motivated to adhere to their program.

For a complete guide on how to design an effective program, check out this guide to designing programs for personal training clients and these free personal training workout templates.

Unveil the Software

Most fitness clubs use digital software for billing, scheduling, and program creation. But not all programs are created equal! If you want to increase your profit and your client satisfaction, it’s time to book a demo for Exercise.comā€™s All-in-One Business Software!

Our exceptional comprehensive software allows you to easily schedule or alter session times, receive no-hassle billing, design workouts, track client progress, remotely give new workouts or exercises, and communicate with your client through the web and app.

In this current technologically-driven culture, revealing and giving a basic overview of Exercise.com’s software can win over the client, make their goals more attainable, and get the client excited.

Itā€™s an easy and fun way to stay connected with your clients!

Dean Somerset - Bird Dog
“Developing an easy intake system with my apps and ways to scale the delivery of workouts has been huge. Working with 20-30 individuals who each have specific goals and restrictions can be challenging, but your platform makes it easy to organize everyoneā€™s programs and put a plan together that will get them the best results possible. The simple, effective tools help expand and simplify my coaching process.”
Dean Somerset
Owner, Somerset Fitness

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#4 Pitch Like a Pro

Now is the moment youā€™ve been waiting for. Youā€™ve done a lot of leg work to set up a proper pitch, and itā€™s time to make a sale.

Before you even begin to list out packages, pricing, and payment plans, go ahead and put your client in the schedule. This is what Sheena Iyengar calls the foot-in-the-door technique: getting the client to commit to a smaller decision before committing to a larger decision like spending money. If they commit to times and dates first, theyā€™re less likely to back out when you get to the prices.

While itā€™s important to know the packages you (or your fitness center) offer, itā€™s crucial to sell the results, not the package. Focus on the value of the client attaining their goals; the package is merely the means to achieve them at the speed and preference of the client.

Be prepared to address objections. Ask the client what they think of the plan youā€™ve presented. They might say ā€œgreat!ā€, ask a question, or raise an objection. If the client affirms the plan, ask if there are any foreseeable obstacles.

If there are other hesitations beyond your control like asking a spouse, needing time to think, or bad experiences with other personal trainers, you may see a sale walk out the door. But that doesnā€™t mean itā€™s gone for good. Reflect on the consultation to see if there’s a concern you didn’t address and send a follow-up email, text message, or phone call about a week later.

Watch this video for how to handle objections and give a compelling call to action:

If your pitch doesnā€™t go as planned and you donā€™t secure the sale, donā€™t count it as a waste. See this as an opportunity to fine-tune your skills, learn from other successful trainers, find new techniques, and become a better trainer.

Tips for a Standout Consultation

Once youā€™re confident in your consultation flow, tests, measures, and sales pitch, itā€™s time to focus on the details to really sell yourself as a personal trainer.

Act Professional

Although it should be understood that personal trainers should act in a professional manner, itā€™s common for trainers to slide into unprofessional behaviors as they get comfortable in their position. Simple things like checking your phone, inappropriate wardrobe choices, and intimidating body language can create an uncomfortable atmosphere and hinder building rapport and a trusting relationship with your client.

Keep in mind that as a personal trainer, your behavior is always on display. So while you may not act unprofessionally to your client, they may observe interactions with co-workers or other clients that make them uneasy or distrusting.

Be respectful and considerate of everyone around you. Choose professional attire that doesnā€™t distract from your expertise. And keep your phone in your pocket so you can fully engage with your client.

Ask Good Questions

Asking good questions doesnā€™t stop after your initial consultation! Continue to ask open-ended questions throughout every training session. You can build a relationship (which is key to maintaining clients, achieving goals, and getting recommendations for future clients) while learning what keeps your client motivated.

Learn more about asking good questions in this video:

Listen

If you ask good questions, that means youā€™ll need to get good at listening. But listening isnā€™t simply waiting for your turn to speak. Instead, listen to understand your client.

Be mindful of habits that are perceived as disapproving, like crossing your arms, tapping your foot, or pursing your lips. As best you can while exercising, communicate with body language–such as head nodding and eye contact–that youā€™re following what theyā€™re saying. Remember details or events theyā€™ve previously shared and follow up during a later session.

Stay Humble

When youā€™re constantly working with people who arenā€™t at the same physical caliber as you, it can be easy to esteem yourself above your clients. Even though it may seem like this gives off an air of expertise, clients rarely perform well for a trainer when they feel judged or inferior.

Regardless of their current physical state, every client should be treated with respect and commended on their commitment to change their life. You get to be the one to take them through this transformative journey; this should always be seen as a privilege, not superiority.

Give a Facility Tour

While this can be an optional service, most clients enjoy or expect to tour the facility. Be prepared to point out small details, amenities, and unique selling points. Take pride in your workplace and highlight how your facility is better than the next one down the street.

10 Most Important Personal Training Consultation Questions

Conducting a successful personal training consultation involves asking the right questions to understand your client’s goals, current fitness level, and overall needs. This helps in crafting an effective training program tailored to their aspirations. Here are 10 essential questions to ask during a personal training consultation:

#1 – What are your primary fitness goals?

This question helps identify the client’s main objectives, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or improved endurance, and sets the tone for the entire consultation.

#2 – Do you have any past or current health conditions or injuries?

Knowing this information helps you design a safe program, avoiding exercises that might aggravate existing conditions.

#3 – What does your current workout routine look like?

Understanding their current habits helps in creating a program that builds upon or complements their existing routine.

#4 – How is your nutrition?

Discussing their dietary habits allows you to suggest potential improvements that support their fitness goals.

#5 – How do you manage stress?

Stress can impact overall health and progress. This question provides insight into their mental well-being and potential barriers.

#6 – How much time can you commit to training per week?

This helps design a realistic program that fits their schedule, ensuring consistency and adherence.

#7 – Do you have any preferences for training (e.g., type, intensity)?

Knowing their preferences helps in creating a program they enjoy, increasing the likelihood of sticking to it.

#8 – Have you ever worked with a personal trainer before?

This gives you an idea of their experience level and helps avoid repeating what they might not have liked.

#9 – What motivates you to achieve your goals?

Understanding their motivations can guide how you encourage and support them throughout their fitness journey.

#10 – What barriers have prevented you from achieving your goals in the past?

Identifying these barriers helps you address them directly, creating a program that tackles previous obstacles.

By asking these questions, you gain comprehensive insights into your client’s needs, allowing you to create a personalized training program. Using a platform like Exercise.com can streamline this process, enabling easy communication, progress tracking, and program adjustments. Book a demo with Exercise.com to explore how it can help manage your personal training business effectively.

Read More: What questions should a personal trainer ask their clients?

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Co-Founder, AMPD Golf Performance

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How to Do a Personal Training Consultation Online

To conduct a successful personal training consultation online, start by leveraging a platform like Exercise.com, which provides comprehensive tools to facilitate smooth communication, scheduling, and client management. An online consultation offers the opportunity to engage with potential clients, assess their fitness goals, and establish a professional relationship, even in a virtual environment.

Here’s how to conduct an effective personal training consultation online:

Step #1 – Schedule the Consultation

First, arrange a time that works for both you and the potential client.

  • Use scheduling tools: Exercise.com offers a built-in scheduling feature, making it easy to arrange consultations directly through the platform.
  • Confirm the time zone: Ensure both parties understand the time zone difference to avoid confusion.
  • Send reminders: Automatic reminders through email or text can help ensure the client remembers the consultation.

This initial step sets the tone for professionalism and efficiency, helping to start the consultation on the right foot.

Step #2 – Set Up a Communication Platform

Next, choose a suitable platform for the consultation.

  • Video call software: Platforms like Zoom or Skype are popular options, offering video capabilities to enhance communication.
  • Secure connection: Ensure the chosen platform provides a secure connection to protect client privacy.
  • Technical setup: Check that your microphone, camera, and internet connection are working properly before the call.

Using Exercise.comā€™s communication features can simplify this step, providing a seamless integration with existing software.

Step #3 – Discuss Fitness Goals

During the consultation, take time to understand the client’s goals and current fitness level.

  • Ask targeted questions: Inquire about previous workout routines, dietary habits, and specific fitness goals.
  • Set realistic goals: Guide the client in setting achievable goals that align with their aspirations.
  • Create an initial plan: Outline a general training plan that matches the client’s goals, showing how your services can help.

This discussion helps lay the groundwork for a tailored training program, which can later be refined with Exercise.com’s plan creation tools.

Step #4 – Present Your Services

After discussing goals, outline the services and packages you offer.

  • Explain different packages: Detail the various options, including workout plans, memberships, and one-on-one coaching.
  • Highlight features: Mention any exclusive content or tools available through your services.
  • Offer a trial or discount: Consider providing a trial period or discount to incentivize the client to sign up.

Exercise.com makes managing these packages seamless, helping you organize and present them effectively during the consultation.

Step #5 – Follow Up

Following up after the consultation is essential to maintaining momentum and securing the clientā€™s engagement.

  • Send a summary: Provide a recap of the consultation, including goals discussed and potential plans.
  • Keep communication open: Encourage the client to reach out with questions or concerns.
  • Schedule the first session: If the client decides to move forward, arrange the first training session.

Exercise.com facilitates follow-ups by offering communication tools and easy booking options, ensuring a smooth transition from consultation to training.

By following these steps, fitness professionals can conduct effective online consultations, setting the stage for a successful training relationship. To explore how Exercise.com can help streamline this process and enhance your online training business, consider booking a demo today.

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Erica Nangle
Owner, Erica Nangle Fitness

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What is a personal training consult?

A personal training consult is an initial meeting between a trainer and a potential client. During this session, the trainer assesses the client’s fitness goals, current health, and physical abilities. This consult lays the groundwork for developing a personalized training program.

What should be included in a personal training consultation?

A personal training consultation should include:

  1. Health History: A discussion of past and current health conditions, medications, and injuries.
  2. Goals: Clarifying the client’s fitness goals, such as weight loss, muscle gain, or endurance improvement.
  3. Current Fitness Level: Assessments such as strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular tests to gauge the client’s starting point.
  4. Lifestyle Factors: Evaluating dietary habits, daily activity, and stress levels.
  5. Program Recommendations: Providing an overview of how the training program will address the client’s goals and needs.

What to do in a PT consultation?

In a PT consultation:

  1. Introduce Yourself: Share your qualifications, experience, and approach.
  2. Gather Information: Discuss health history, goals, and lifestyle factors with the client.
  3. Conduct Assessments: Perform fitness tests such as flexibility, strength, and endurance.
  4. Discuss a Plan: Outline how the training program will achieve the client’s goals.
  5. Address Concerns: Answer questions and reassure the client about the program’s structure and process.

What happens during a PT consult?

During a PT consult, the trainer gathers information on the client’s health history, goals, and lifestyle. Fitness assessments may be conducted to gauge current capabilities, followed by a discussion outlining how the program will address the client’s needs. The consult may conclude with addressing concerns and finalizing arrangements.

What are the 6 key questions a personal trainer should be asking new clients?

  1. What are your fitness goals?
  2. Do you have any health conditions, injuries, or medications?
  3. What is your current exercise routine or activity level?
  4. What dietary habits or nutrition practices do you follow?
  5. How much time can you commit to training each week?
  6. What motivates you to pursue these goals?

How long is a personal training consultation?

A personal training consultation typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, allowing sufficient time to gather information, perform assessments, and outline a training plan that aligns with the client’s goals and needs.

Should a personal trainer charge for an initial client consultation?

Personal trainers might or might not charge for a consultation. It also depends on the fitness center’s policy. A free or discounted consultation can reach client populations who wouldnā€™t ordinarily pay for a consultation, but charging for a consultation tends to get more committed clients. Both approaches can be successful, so personal trainers can choose which works best for them.

Why is it important to screen an individual before starting a training program?

Screening an individual is crucial for the clientā€™s safety and professional protection. If any Major Risk Factors arise in your consultation, get the permission of the clientā€™s physician before proceeding with an exercise program.

How many sessions per week do personal trainers recommend?

This is all dependent on the clientā€™s needs and goals. In general, itā€™s beneficial to have two or three sessions close together for several weeks. A few weeks or months later, the client needs less supervision but can have regular check-ins and accountability.

How to do an initial assessment for personal training?

To do an initial assessment for personal training:

  1. Gather Health Information: Discuss medical history, current health conditions, and any medications or injuries.
  2. Assess Fitness Level: Perform tests like body composition analysis, flexibility tests, and strength assessments.
  3. Set Goals: Clarify the client’s fitness goals and timeline.
  4. Develop a Plan: Outline a training program based on the assessment results, incorporating the client’s goals and capabilities.

What is the process of consultation for online personal training?

The consultation process for online personal training involves:

  1. Initial Contact: Discuss goals, health history, and fitness level via video call, email, or phone.
  2. Digital Assessment: Clients may complete fitness tests or questionnaires at home, providing feedback to the trainer.
  3. Program Design: The trainer creates a personalized plan based on the client’s responses and assessment results.
  4. Follow-Up: Regular communication, progress tracking, and adjustments are done online to ensure continued alignment with goals.

How much should I charge as a beginner personal trainer?

As a beginner personal trainer, rates can range from $30 to $60 per hour, depending on factors like location, market demand, and specialization. Research local rates and adjust your pricing to stay competitive and attract initial clients.

Read More: How much should personal trainers charge?

How many clients should a beginner personal trainer have?

A beginner personal trainer might aim to have 5 to 10 clients initially, balancing their time between training sessions, program development, and marketing. This range allows for steady income and experience growth, gradually expanding the client base over time.

What is the first thing a personal trainer should do?

The first thing a personal trainer should do is obtain certification from a recognized organization like NASM or ACE. This provides foundational knowledge, credibility, and demonstrates commitment to the profession, which is essential for attracting clients and securing employment.

What do personal trainers ask clients?

Personal trainers ask clients questions about their:

  1. Fitness Goals: What they aim to achieve, such as weight loss, muscle gain, or endurance improvement.
  2. Health History: Past and current medical conditions, medications, and injuries.
  3. Current Fitness Routine: Exercise habits and activity level.
  4. Dietary Habits: Eating patterns and nutrition strategies.
  5. Lifestyle: Stress levels, sleep patterns, and overall wellness factors.

How do you convince clients for personal training?

To convince clients for personal training:

  1. Highlight Benefits: Emphasize how personalized programs can help them achieve their goals faster and more effectively.
  2. Share Success Stories: Provide testimonials or case studies that demonstrate results.
  3. Offer a Free Consultation: Allowing potential clients to experience your expertise and see the value firsthand.
  4. Address Concerns: Alleviate doubts about cost, time commitment, or program effectiveness through open dialogue.

How much should a personal training session be?

A personal training session can range from $30 to $100 or more per hour, depending on factors like location, specialization, trainer experience, and market demand. Research local rates and adjust pricing accordingly.

What is the difference between a fitness consultant and a personal trainer?

A fitness consultant typically focuses on broader health and wellness aspects, offering guidance on lifestyle, nutrition, and general fitness practices. A personal trainer, in contrast, provides one-on-one coaching, creating individualized workout programs, and offering direct guidance and feedback during training sessions.

What document should a personal trainer collect from a client?

A personal trainer should collect a health history form from clients, outlining past and current medical conditions, injuries, and medications. This information helps the trainer design a safe, effective program and avoid exacerbating health issues.

How do I prepare for an initial personal trainer consultation?

To prepare for an initial personal trainer consultation:

  1. Review Materials: Have forms ready, including health history and assessment templates.
  2. Prepare Questions: Develop a list of key questions to ask about the client’s goals, lifestyle, and medical history.
  3. Plan Assessments: Consider fitness tests to evaluate strength, flexibility, and endurance.
  4. Set Expectations: Outline how the session will proceed and how you’ll use the information to create a program.

Do personal trainers get attached to their clients?

Personal trainers can form close relationships with their clients due to regular interactions and shared goals. However, maintaining professional boundaries is essential to ensure unbiased guidance, avoid conflicts of interest, and retain professionalism.

Read More: Personal Trainer Client Romantic Relationships

Are personal trainers subject to HIPAA?

Personal trainers are not specifically subject to HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) unless they handle protected health information for covered entities like healthcare providers. However, maintaining client confidentiality and privacy is essential for ethical and professional practice. Exercise.com is HIPAA compliant.

How can the best personal training software help me with personal training consults?

The best personal training software, like Exercise.com, can help by:

  1. Client Management: Storing client information securely, including health history, goals, and assessments.
  2. Scheduling: Simplifying appointment booking for consults and follow-ups.
  3. Program Development: Creating and delivering personalized workout programs directly to clients.
  4. Progress Tracking: Recording assessments and tracking improvements over time, enabling data-driven adjustments to training programs.
  5. Communication: Providing messaging tools to communicate efficiently with clients and address their concerns.
Jimmy Myers Relentless Sports Performance
If you want to offer an elite service for the end user you need to get with the times and use elite level software that is intuitive, visually appealing, and effective. That is exactly what Exercise.com delivers to its clients.
Jimmy Myers
Owner/Trainer, Relentless Sports Performance

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Tyler Spraul is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning SpecialistĀ® (CSCSĀ®). He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life.
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