Being a Fitness Entrepreneur: The Reality Behind the Dream
Many aspire to turn their passion for fitness into a career, envisioning a life filled with health, happiness, and financial success. However, the reality of being a fitness entrepreneur is often far more complex and challenging than it appears. I have spent the better part of two decades working as a personal trainer, online coach and gym owner, and let me be honest - it’s far harder than what social media makes it out to be. While I can’t see myself doing anything else, it has been an absolute roller coaster. I still believe that for the right person, it is an insanely rewarding career path.
But let’s get raw and real. This article delves into the journey of fitness entrepreneurship, examining the allure of the industry, the harsh truths that many face, and the essential qualities needed to thrive.
NOTE: If you are are looking for an opportunity to build you personal training business in a supportive environment, find out about contracting to Strength Block gym. You can find out more information here.
The Allure of Fitness Entrepreneurship
For many, the idea of becoming a fitness entrepreneur is enticing. The thought of being able to stay fit while helping others achieve their health goals is a dream come true. Unlike traditional careers that may require long hours at a desk, a career in fitness promises a more active lifestyle, blending work with personal passion.
Personal Health: Fitness professionals often maintain their own health and wellness, setting a positive example for their clients.
Flexibility: Many fitness careers offer flexible hours, allowing for a better work-life balance.
Community Impact: Helping others transform their lives through fitness can be incredibly rewarding.
However, this dream often comes with significant challenges that many are not prepared for. The harsh truth is that most people fail in their attempts to establish a successful career in fitness.
The Statistics of Fitness Careers
One of the most startling statistics in the fitness industry is the average career span of a personal trainer, which is approximately 18 months. This short duration raises questions about the sustainability of a career in fitness. Many enter the industry without fully understanding the challenges that lie ahead.
Starting as a personal trainer typically involves working at a commercial gym, which presents its own set of hurdles. Most gyms require trainers to pay rent before they have built a client base, creating financial strain from the outset. In few other industries do professionals have to invest money just to start working.
If you want to see my entire journey, I go into detail in this video. While it’s a little dated now, it’s probably the best illstration of how hard it has been for me to get to this point.
Why Most Fitness Entrepreneurs Fail
Despite the initial allure, the reality is that many aspiring fitness entrepreneurs do not succeed. A significant factor contributing to this failure is the lack of a genuine passion for helping others. While many enter the industry due to their love for fitness, this passion alone is often insufficient to sustain a business.
High Competition: The fitness industry is saturated with trainers, making it difficult to stand out.
Sales Skills: Many trainers struggle with the sales aspect of the business, which is crucial for attracting clients.
Financial Strain: The need to pay gym rent and other expenses can quickly lead to financial difficulties.
It's essential to recognise that success in fitness entrepreneurship requires more than just a love for working out. It demands resilience, patience, and a true desire to help clients achieve their goals.
The Difference Between Influencers and Business Owners
In today's digital age, the lines between fitness entrepreneurs and fitness influencers are often blurred. While both roles may seem similar, they require different skill sets and mindsets.
Many aspiring trainers aim to become fitness influencers, drawn by the appeal of social media fame and potential sponsorship deals. However, achieving success as an influencer is akin to hitting the lottery. Even with the right looks, charisma, and knowledge, there is no guarantee of success.
The Risks of Being an Influencer
Becoming a fitness influencer entails significant risks. Even if you have all the “ingredients” - charisma, looks, and presence, to actually be favoured by the mighty algorithm is like winning the lotto. For every Sam Sulek, there are 1000s of juiced up , charming individuals that no ones heard of. Many influencers find themselves promoting products that do not align with their values, often leading to ethical dilemmas. The pressure to maintain a certain image can also detract from the genuine desire to help others. We’ve all seen fitness influencers peddling products like fit teas and waist trainers - low margin products to make a quick buck that have played no part in building that influencers physiques. These aren’t real fitness professionals - these are grifters and con men. I have INCREDIBLY strong feelings about this, and I’ll try not turn this into a rant.
Moreover, the influencer market is saturated, making it challenging to gain traction. Many influencers may find themselves merely acting as delivery platforms for brands rather than true entrepreneurs.
The Importance of Passion and Empathy
To succeed as a fitness entrepreneur, having a genuine passion for helping others is crucial. The most successful trainers are those who prioritise their clients' needs above their own. This empathy allows them to create meaningful connections and foster trust with their clients.
While the influencer route may attract those with narcissistic tendencies, true fitness entrepreneurs must embody empathy. This quality helps trainers understand their clients' struggles and provide tailored support.
Building a Client Base
Establishing a loyal client base takes time and effort. Many trainers find that their initial attempts at building a business require patience and persistence. Initially, it may be necessary to rely on word of mouth to gain traction.
Networking: Building relationships within the fitness community can lead to valuable referrals.
Marketing: Developing a strong marketing strategy is essential for attracting new clients.
Unique Selling Proposition: Identifying and promoting a unique approach can help trainers stand out in a crowded market.
The Reality of Financial Stability
Financial stability is another critical aspect of being a fitness entrepreneur. Many trainers face the challenge of fluctuating income, making it difficult to plan for the future. In the early stages, it may be necessary to maintain a secondary job to supplement income - even now, after all these years, I have multiple streams of income. I work as a copywriter, digital marketing consultant and graphic designer, and this is whilst having multiple fitness based revenue streams.
We don’t talk about how “seasonal” personal training is. The warmer summer months can lure you into a false sense of security, thinking you’ve finally cracked with a steady income stream and a packed client base. But then, as the weather cools you’re bound to have a drop off. If you haven’t planned for this reduction in income your business can go downhill fast!
Understanding the financial landscape of the fitness industry is vital. While there are opportunities to earn a good income, training often does not provide the financial freedom that many expect.
Long-Term Commitment
Success in fitness entrepreneurship is not achieved overnight. It requires a long-term commitment to personal and professional growth. Many trainers find that their journey is filled with ups and downs, and resilience is key to overcoming obstacles.
As trainers develop their skills and build their client base, they may begin to see gradual improvements in their income and reputation. However, this progress often takes longer than anticipated.
Conclusion: Is Fitness Entrepreneurship Right for You?
While the allure of fitness entrepreneurship is strong, it is essential to approach this career path with realistic expectations. Passion, patience, and a true desire to help others are critical components of success in this field.
For those willing to embrace the challenges and dedicate themselves to their clients, a career in fitness can be incredibly rewarding. However, it is not a path for everyone. Understanding the realities of the industry can help aspiring trainers make informed decisions about their future.
Ultimately, pursuing a career in fitness should stem from a genuine love for the industry and a commitment to making a positive impact on others' lives. With the right mindset and dedication, fitness entrepreneurship can be a fulfilling journey. If you are aware of the challenges and are looking to work in an environment that supports personal trainers building up their vlient base, find out more about contracting to Strength Block as a PT.