On-Line Program Design Business - JP Fitness Forums

Ruslan Kedik · 09-14-2007, 09:21 AM

Hey Guys,

I'm finally working the hours that I want to work "hands on" with my clients. I'm also pretty good at keeping up with my regular studying on daily basis and I have enough time on my hands to keep up with my own training and life. I guess I’m brushing up on my organizational skills and now I'm looking for a way to create another revenue stream. I was thinking of starting something on-line. Program design and on-line training seems like a good idea right now but I don’t know much about it. Can someone elaborate on how they got started with their own on-line business please.

I’ve been creating my applications (Client Application-goals, med. History, ect. Nutritional questionnaire and more.) I’m also trying to develop a system for a FMS video screen where they can upload or send me their movement screen so that I can fully asses and monitor their progress.

Am I on the right track? Those of you that are experienced if you don’t mind can you please share some of your strategies on how to get started with this with me?

Thank you

PowerManDL · 09-14-2007, 09:41 AM

Just make sure to understand and clarify the expectations of the client and the limitations of the process.

Practically speaking, you're not really going to coach form online, even with video it ends up being all but unworkable due to the dynamics.

Best bet is to emphasize the points you can work with, ie the planning and structure of the routine, the nutrition, etc.

Also, the motivation factor. Yes, this has to be present as well in hands-on training, but because it's more of a self-starter thing when you're not actually there, you have to take into account that what they're doing may not be what you're telling them. At least in person if they don't do it you can react accordingly.

For all those reasons, make sure they understand that it's more of a consultancy than actual training.

galya · 09-18-2007, 01:29 PM

I have personally met and instructed all of my online clients before taking them on. They all live here or travel back for the summers for me to see them. I have found that that works great. The limitations of never having seen someone are more, but there is nothing stopping you from getting them results when you surely can offline. It might take more time, but you'll get them there. I think your job will be much easier if you choose a target of advanced trainees that know what they want. Then you can deliver with excellence.
I am sure once you start to actually "do it" you will have a lot more to share and ask about.
The thing that has worked best with my clients is that I have a time to see them online and chat at the end of the day if they have any urgent needs or want to share something. It gives them a sense of security you can't beat, but most of my clients are losing weight, so they need that type of support.

Ruslan Kedik · 09-18-2007, 06:35 PM

Galya sounds like you've got a great system going there!

Right now I'm thinking of having this service available for those of my clients that have reached their goals, I feel that they will be unsuccessful on their own and I they have confidence in their own lifting abilities. All they need is that "program" to follow. I guess I could start with some of these clients and then if anything just expand.

PowerManDL you've made some great points! Appreciate it.

galya · 09-18-2007, 08:57 PM

You nailed it! Starting with people that you've trained is excellent. I switch clients that are ready to work on their own to online training and they come in for a session once a month. I gives them a sense of continuity you can't beat

MAXX · 09-21-2007, 10:49 AM

Leigh gave me some helpful advice about online training.

Listen to what PowermanDL says about the limitations. My very first client expected me to be available 24 hours a day, and he was always wanting to "modify" the program recommendations that I made. After a week, I refunded his money and told him to find someone else. A lot of people have unrealistic expectations.

Leigh P. · 09-21-2007, 12:40 PM

Thanks MAXX I hope it has helped some.

Rusland I am a little short on time but if you ever want to toss some questions my way feel free to PM or Email.

Chaney Weiner · 09-21-2007, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PowerManDL

Just make sure to understand and clarify the expectations of the client and the limitations of the process.

Practically speaking, you're not really going to coach form online, even with video it ends up being all but unworkable due to the dynamics.

Best bet is to emphasize the points you can work with, ie the planning and structure of the routine, the nutrition, etc.

Also, the motivation factor. Yes, this has to be present as well in hands-on training, but because it's more of a self-starter thing when you're not actually there, you have to take into account that what they're doing may not be what you're telling them. At least in person if they don't do it you can react accordingly.

For all those reasons, make sure they understand that it's more of a consultancy than actual training.

Great point about the motivation factor. The motivation factor is relatively simple with an online training situation. You can always communicate that through articles or an actual phone consultation. Since developing true and long lasting motivation is so misunderstand it is wise to do what I stated above. We just launched an online community for women and the backbone of it is the motivational aspect and it is easy to get across. That is rather easy to do in an online situation. I would be more concerned about their form when doing the exercises and that they understand about program design. These are the main reasons why it is so much better to be there, hands on.

Chaney

Ruslan Kedik · 09-28-2007, 11:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Leigh P.

Thanks MAXX I hope it has helped some.

Rusland I am a little short on time but if you ever want to toss some questions my way feel free to PM or Email.

ooohh.. shouldn't have given me this opportunity, I usually have way too many questions

Ruslan Kedik · 09-28-2007, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chaney Weiner

Great point about the motivation factor. The motivation factor is relatively simple with an online training situation. You can always communicate that through articles or an actual phone consultation. Since developing true and long lasting motivation is so misunderstand it is wise to do what I stated above. We just launched an online community for women and the backbone of it is the motivational aspect and it is easy to get across. That is rather easy to do in an online situation. I would be more concerned about their form when doing the exercises and that they understand about program design. These are the main reasons why it is so much better to be there, hands on.

Chaney

I can see how there can be some issues with on-line training that's why it's not for everyone and i will try my best to qualify individuals with lifting experience. As far as motivation goes sometimes it's even harder to motivate people in person when all they do is bitch and complain about life. Most of my clients are good, but some that's just the way they are and what keeps them coming back is that great workout, results, and the fact that if they don't show up I'll charge them anyways.

How do you motivate your clients? In person vs. on-line client's?