What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My pricing is very competitive and affordable. Instead of charging you $100 for private (like many trainers), I charge half that ($50) or even less for semi-private or small group classes... depending on the membership package of your choice. Furthermore, I don't believe in forcing clients into contracts... so I do NO CONTRACTS, and NO EXTRA FEES! You pay nothing more than tuition. Also, unlike most gyms, I offer a finders fee for any signed referral... in the form of $100 in credits. Plus, another incentive for clients is $50 in credits for testimonials.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Typically, I get as much information from new clients such as current fitness level, workout preferences, injury history, goals, timelines, expectations, etc. I also give realistic feedback and suggestions based on that information. We then take it one day at a time, and one week at a time, continually assessing the client whilst fulfilling his/her wants and needs. I help push them to their limit in order for them to attain their goal at an ample pace. I also help them understand which aspects need to be tracked and why. Most clients start at phase 1 which is strength and conditioning. Later down the line through their own focus and determination, can graduate into the later phases.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Early on in life I was heavily involved in sports. Hell week, standard drills, sucking weight (for wrestling tournaments), body weight exercises, cardio, etc... all involve similar principles, and movements gym goers today still implement. In high school I took Physical Education very seriously. I even received an award for Outstanding Achievement in Physical Fitness. Also, I did a lot of martial arts. About 15 years ago I got my first Personal Trainer Certification and have been renewing ever since. 6 years ago I worked for a top bodybuilding gym in Orange County. In my 5 years at that gym there was about 6 bodyfat loss competitions. MY CLIENTS won 5 of them. Yes, I'm very competitive, and I train ALL my clients for success. Currently, I've had formal training from an IFBB coach for glute development, and I'm very close to obtaining both Nutrition, and Bodybuilding certificates.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I've always been fascinated w/ the concept of fat loss, and hypertrophy (muscle gain). What I didn't understand is why I struggled to bench press as much as my peers. As a young man I began to learn about body types, and how certain body types can have lower ceilings (e.g. pure ectomorphs are small jointed and push the same weight as the other 2 body types). There was so much I wish I knew then as I do now. In my late 20's I gained over 40 lbs (mostly fat).... only to train myself to lose that weight (and more) in less than 6 months. Watching Biggest Loser religiously helped me a lot w/ that.
So did education myself about nutrition. It eventually became a lifestyle, and a hobby. I also got involved in kickboxing. Around the same time a close friend was already an established personal trainer. He got me to join him as a personal training partner. In fact the kickboxing gym owner allowed us to sublease our business in his gym. That's how it all started for me, and the rest is history.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I've worked with all personalities, body types, ages, and (unique) goals. My youngest client being 12 yrs old, and my oldest being 62. My thinnest client being 15% BF initially, and my morbidly obese at 45% BF. I've always customized each client's regimen accordingly. Weight matters, age matters, body type matters, experience matters, and so does fitness level. I choose to give my clients the autonomy they need for personal growth, and the efficacy that develops over time. The important thing for me is understanding and differentiating client capabilities, restrictions, and goals.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Fact check your trainer. Make sure he knows what he/she is talking about... and truly understands the science of fat loss, weight loss, exercise theory, and muscle theory. Sadly, many don't or only sound like they do. Ask yourself... is your trainer's ego or mouth bigger than your dreams? I believe success is silent, and needs not be loud. I let results speak volumes. Muscle soreness, sweat, and fatigue don't equate to progress. If they tell you otherwise, they're probably somewhat incompetent.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Before hiring a personal trainer, it’s important to ask yourself a few key questions to ensure you find the right fit for your fitness goals and preferences. Here are some questions to consider:
1. What are my fitness goals? Be clear about what you want to achieve with the help of a personal trainer, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, improved endurance, or overall health and wellness.
2. What is my budget for personal training? Consider how much you are willing to invest in personal training sessions and find a trainer whose rates align with your budget.
3. What is my preferred training style? Think about whether you prefer one-on-one training, group sessions, virtual training, or a specific type of training such as HIIT, strength training, or yoga.
4. What is my availability for training sessions? Make sure to find a trainer whose schedule aligns with yours and can accommodate your availability for workouts.
5. What qualities am I looking for in a trainer? Consider whether you prefer a trainer who is motivational, supportive, tough, or more laid-back in their approach to training.
By asking yourself these questions, you can better assess your needs and preferences when searching for a personal trainer who will help you reach your fitness goals effectively.