where to start?

[briley21]

Hi guys im new here and just want to say this is a great site. Im really certain that i want to become a personal trainer and open my own gym but where do i start i have all these ideas but cant figure out which direction to go first any advice you can give me id be really appreciative thanks!

[PlankIt]

Originally Posted by briley21

Hi guys im new here and just want to say this is a great site. Im really certain that i want to become a personal trainer and open my own gym but where do i start i have all these ideas but cant figure out which direction to go first any advice you can give me id be really appreciative thanks!

Welcome!

Most important thing you can do to start out is read through this section of the forum and get an idea of what you don't know and need to know.

[FitSupply]

I sell remanufactured fitness equipment to small to mid-sized gyms that typically offer personal training and specialized equipment for strength or cardio training. I usually have full gym packages for sale to cover all your equipment needs for wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy less than buying new. If this is your first gym give me a ring and I'll be glad to discus options for equipment and setting up your gym. Consider it "free consultation" =) 800-379-1602 ext 0 just ask for Ryan and we'll help ya out. Good luck!!

[Tom@foresight]

Welcome!

TOM

[VoloInnovations]

The first place to start is by getting clients. Are you currently training clients? Where are you training them? At a gym, community center, outdoors, condo gym facilities, in their own homes? How are you getting your clients? Word of mouth is the most effective way to build a PT business so you need to get some people on board that are willing to start talking about you and that might mean you train some high profile people for free or almost free.

You have to get out there and talk with people in your area. this is the only way to get your biz started. Good luck

[Jean-Paul]

I agree with buying used if you want to go the gym route. I did... Probably spent less than 10% of what it would have cost me to put a comparable facility with all new equipment. Don't skimp on the cardio though. That stuff takes a beating and used cardio will be like owning a Triumph... They'll always be in the shop.

I don't really use gym equipment so much anymore though. If I were to open one today I would open an "express" Go Performance and Fitness franchise. You could fit it in 800 square feet and for under $10K fully outfit it with the type of equipment they use (not your typical gym). The link I just gave you takes you to the full franchise description. You will have to call Jared (the founder) to find out about the "express" version. Let me know and I will send you his contact info.