How Pilates Can Help Personal Trainers Expand Their Client Base

If you’re a personal trainer, one of your primary goals is to extend your services to a broader client base. I’ve seen firsthand, across more than 20 years of training clients in Los Angeles, that the trainers who grow the fastest are those who continuously diversify their offerings. The more clients you can attract and retain, the more your business thrives and the greater your earning potential becomes.

In my experience working with hundreds of trainers through Fitness Mentors, one of the most effective strategies I recommend for expanding your clientele is incorporating Pilates into your fitness services. I’ve watched trainers transform their businesses simply by adding this one discipline to their toolkit, and the results speak for themselves.

Pilates is more than just a fitness trend it’s a methodology with decades of proven results and a loyal, ever-growing following. What I find particularly powerful about Pilates is the diversity of people it attracts. From post-rehabilitation patients and older adults to athletes and busy professionals, Pilates draws individuals who might never step foot in a traditional gym. By offering it, I’ve seen trainers tap into entirely new markets they previously couldn’t reach.

But beyond just attracting new clients, Pilates is a remarkable retention tool. In my years of teaching and training, I’ve learned that clients stay longer when they feel their trainer offers a well-rounded, evolving program. Pilates adds that depth.

In this post, I want to walk you through exactly what Pilates is, where it comes from, and most importantly how you can use it as a secret weapon to grow your personal training business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, I believe this is a strategy worth serious consideration. Keep reading.

What Exactly Is Pilates?

When clients or trainers ask me about Pilates, I always start with the basics. Pilates is a low-impact exercise system built around repeated, controlled movements designed to enhance mobility, core strength, balance, posture, flexibility, and even mood. In my years of training, I’ve found that this combination of benefits makes it one of the most well-rounded disciplines a personal trainer can add to their program.

What I appreciate most about Pilates is its accessibility. These exercises are typically performed on a mat or with readily available equipment, which means my clients don’t need to invest in expensive gym setups. That accessibility alone removes one of the biggest barriers people face when committing to a fitness routine.

The method was developed by Joseph Pilates, and I find its origin story fascinating. It was initially used by injured dancers to support their recovery a fact that speaks volumes about its rehabilitative power. Because of its immense benefits, adoption quickly extended far beyond the dance community. Today, I see people from all walks of life embracing Pilates from seniors and desk workers to elite athletes and new mothers.

One thing I always point out to trainers I mentor is how the exercises follow a deliberate order, flowing one right after the other in a structured sequence. The movements carry memorable names like “The Elephant,” “Criss-Cross,” and “The Swan,” which I’ve found clients genuinely enjoy learning. Don’t let the names fool you, though I’ve seen seasoned athletes humbled by how much control and precision these moves demand.

That’s what makes Pilates so rewarding to teach. The movements may look simple on the surface, but mastering them requires real intention and that’s exactly the kind of challenge that keeps clients engaged and coming back.

How Pilates Can Help Expand Your Client Base

Pilates is a powerful tool that you can use to gain a competitive edge over your competitors and expand your clientele.

Let’s look at some of the reasons that make it potent for this purpose:

1. Pilates Is Increasingly Becoming Popular

One of the reasons that, as a personal trainer, you need to incorporate Pilates into your service offerings is its increasing popularity. Pilates has been growing over the years, and the rate at which this is happening has increased in recent years.

In the United States alone, for instance, Pilates participants in 2023 were 11.86 million. That was a steep 15% increment from the 10.31 million recorded in 2022, signifying the increasing adoption of this fitness practice. 

AD 4nXeFDpBQVfmiLKZ5BTnH0inwDlgMdntCpbEHP8D0inT3dsOODpQEPpg ndHIcbKpX0bL77D6l2sz52UeZM5EJEWQq8 9nT83mEkfL5etnx pQs1DcrNaP6tFuMWd1LfKTXjMVOXcmw?key=

This means for you to attract more clients, you have to offer what’s currently trending in the fitness industry. Otherwise, your potential future clients will seek the service from your competitors.

2. Pilates Suits All Demographic Cohorts

One advantage of the Pilates exercise program is that it is not meant for a specific group of people. It works for all; young and old, male and female, because the exercises are mild yet highly effective in promoting physical and mental health.

Let’s see how these exercises suit different categories of people:

Seniors & Rehab Clients: Pilates has low-intensity exercises, making it ideal for seniors and those facing issues like physical injuries.

Athletes: Pilates can help athletes achieve the flexibility and core strength they need to succeed in athletes. The exercises are also gentle and well-controlled, minimizing the chances of developing much-dreaded injuries. 

Pregnant Women and PostPartum Mums: Pilates focuses on a wide range of exercises that can deliver health benefits to pregnant women and new moms by helping them get the fitness they need.

General Fitness Enthusiasts: Pilates offers all-rounded bodily benefits, making it ideal for anyone seeking general body fitness. For beginners, you can make the exercises more lenient by adopting WallPilates, a version of Pilates that uses the wall for resistance. 

3. Incorporating Pilates Diversifies Your Service Offerings

While traditional training offers a variety of exercises, adding Pilates to your services can diversify your fitness packages even further. That can help draw more clients, considering that not every potential client is interested in the traditional one-on-one training sessions or group fitness classes.

Plus, due to the nature of the movements, Pilates can serve as complementary exercises for traditional training, ensuring that you use a more holistic approach to offering fitness services.

For instance, you can combine Pilates-based workouts with regular strength-building exercises and cardio. This combination forms a well-rounded fitness solution that best addresses the evolving needs of clients.

4. Adding Pilates Can Build Client Relationship

Another reason Pilates can help you expand your client base is its ability to strengthen your relationship with clients. Pilates exercises call for controlled, mindful movements requiring individualized attention and personalized workouts.

The more you get closer to your clients, the higher the level of trust between you, enhancing clients’ loyalty to you. When loyal, clients are unlikely to leave for a competitor, giving you ample opportunity to grow your client base.

Plus, loyal customers won’t just return; they’ll go further to become good brand ambassadors, creating more awareness for your services and recommending them to their close friends.

5. Pilates Can Give You Unique Selling Proposition

As much as Pilates is growing in popularity, not all personal trainers have incorporated it into their fitness packages. That means adopting it into your fitness programs can create a distinction between you and your competitors, making you an ideal target for clients who want uniqueness in fitness programs and those who value exercises that promote the body-mind connection.

Professional Development for Personal Trainers

As someone who has spent over two decades in the fitness industry and holds 10 certifications, I can tell you that knowledge is everything. Before incorporating Pilates into your offerings, I strongly recommend getting formally trained in it first. Pilates demands precision, and without a proper foundation, you risk delivering ineffective — or worse, harmful — sessions to your clients.

My advice is to pursue a recognized Pilates certification. In my experience mentoring trainers through Fitness Mentors, I’ve seen how credentials directly impact a trainer’s credibility and a client’s willingness to trust them. Certification signals that you’ve done the work, and clients notice that.

But I don’t stop at certification, and neither should you. I make it a point to stay connected to professional organizations and Pilates-focused communities. The fitness industry evolves constantly, and staying plugged into those networks keeps me informed on the latest trends, techniques, and research. I encourage every trainer I work with to adopt that same mindset of continuous learning.

Marketing Strategies for Pilates Integration

Having the knowledge is only half the battle — I’ve learned that how you communicate your expertise is just as important as having it. Social media has been one of the most powerful tools in my arsenal for building visibility. I use it to share Pilates workout videos, highlight client success stories, and post testimonials, all of which build trust and attract new audiences organically.

I also believe strongly in strategic partnerships. Collaborating with physical therapists and other health practitioners to cross-promote Pilates has opened doors I couldn’t have reached alone. Hosting workshops, webinars, and Pilates-based fitness challenges are additional strategies I recommend for broadening your reach.

Referral programs are another tool I’ve seen work exceptionally well. Offering free introductory sessions or discounts for referred clients creates a compelling incentive that keeps your pipeline growing.

Ultimately, incorporating Pilates isn’t just a service add-on — it’s a business differentiator. I’ve experienced firsthand how it attracts a diverse clientele, builds long-term relationships, and sets you apart in a competitive market. For any trainer serious about growth, I believe Pilates is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need prior Pilates experience before adding it to my personal training services?

In my opinion, prior experience helps, but it’s not mandatory before you begin your formal training. What I always tell trainers is to start by getting certified first. The certification process will give you the structured foundation you need. That said, personally practicing Pilates before teaching it gave me a much deeper understanding of the movements, so I do recommend immersing yourself in it as a student before stepping into the role of instructor.

How long does it take to get a Pilates certification?

From my experience, the timeline varies depending on the program you choose. Some certifications can be completed in a few weeks, while more comprehensive programs may take several months. I always encourage trainers to prioritize quality over speed — a thorough certification will serve your clients and your reputation far better in the long run.

Can Pilates really attract new clients to my personal training business?

Absolutely, and I’ve seen it happen repeatedly. Pilates draws a uniquely broad audience — older adults, rehabilitation clients, athletes, prenatal women, and beginners who feel intimidated by traditional gym environments. By offering Pilates, I’ve watched trainers unlock entirely new market segments they previously couldn’t access.

How do I price Pilates sessions compared to my regular personal training sessions?

I recommend researching what Pilates instructors in your local market charge and positioning yourself competitively. In my experience, specialized services like Pilates can command a premium price point, especially once you’ve built a reputation. You can also bundle Pilates into existing packages to add perceived value without drastically restructuring your pricing model.

Do I need special equipment to offer Pilates to my clients?

One of the things I love most about Pilates is that you can begin with nothing more than a mat. As your practice grows, you can gradually invest in equipment like resistance bands, Pilates rings, or eventually a Reformer. I always advise trainers to start lean and scale their equipment investment as client demand increases.

How do I market my Pilates services without a large following?

I started building my brand long before social media was what it is today, and my biggest lesson was that consistency matters more than audience size. Start by sharing short Pilates demonstration videos, client progress stories, and educational content on your platforms. Partnering with local health practitioners for referrals is another strategy I’ve found incredibly effective, especially in the early stages of building your Pilates clientele.

Is Pilates suitable for clients who are recovering from injuries?

Yes, and this is actually one of Pilates’ greatest strengths. I’ve worked with clients in various stages of recovery, and Pilates’ low-impact, controlled nature makes it an excellent complement to rehabilitation. That said, I always recommend coordinating with a client’s healthcare provider before designing a program for someone with an active injury. Safety and communication should always come first.

From the Gym to the Web: How an Online Portfolio Drives Client Engagement for Personal Trainers

Every year, thousands of highly qualified personal trainers struggle to grow their client base not because they lack skill, but because no one can find them. Think about that for a moment. You could be the most knowledgeable strength coach in your city, with a track record of real transformations, and still lose potential clients to a less experienced trainer who simply has a better online presence. That’s the reality of the fitness industry in 2026 and beyond.

Before a prospect ever steps into a gym or sends a message, they search online. They type phrases like “certified personal trainer for weight loss,” “best personal trainer near me,” or “online fitness coach for beginners” into Google, and they make judgments within seconds. If your name and portfolio don’t show up or if they do but make a weak impression that potential client moves on. A well-built online portfolio changes this equation completely. It puts your expertise, client results, and professional credibility in front of people who are already motivated to take action, turning passive visitors into paying clients without you needing to chase anyone.

This guide breaks down exactly how an online portfolio drives client engagement, what elements make a personal trainer website convert, and how to use search engine optimization and content strategy to grow your fitness business sustainably whether you work locally or coach clients virtually from anywhere in the world.

Why an Online Portfolio Is No Longer Optional for Personal Trainers

 

The fitness industry has undergone a fundamental shift in how clients discover and evaluate personal trainers. Word-of-mouth referrals still matter, but they now happen alongside digital research. Even a referred prospect will Google your name before they commit. The question is no longer whether you need an online presence it’s whether your current presence is strong enough to convert that interest into action.

An online portfolio functions as your digital storefront. It communicates your training philosophy, showcases your certifications and credentials, presents real client transformation stories, and explains the specific outcomes you help people achieve. Unlike a social media profile, your portfolio is a controlled, permanent environment that you own entirely. You decide what story it tells, how it’s structured, and who it speaks to.

The practical business case is equally compelling. A well-optimized personal trainer website works around the clock. While you’re coaching a 6 AM client or recovering after a long training day, your website is answering questions, building trust, and capturing lead information from people actively searching for fitness help. This passive lead generation is one of the most efficient growth mechanisms available to independent trainers and fitness coaches. Without it, every new client requires active hustle with it, new opportunities come to you.

Building Trust Through Transparency, Credentials, and Client Results

 

Personal training is a high-trust service. Clients are not just paying for workouts they are investing their time, money, and physical wellbeing in someone they need to believe in. Your online portfolio is the primary vehicle through which that trust is established before any conversation even begins.

Transparency is the foundation. When your portfolio clearly displays your certifications (such as NASM-CPT, ACE, ISSA, or NSCA credentials), your training methodology, your areas of specialization, and honest client stories, it eliminates the ambiguity that causes hesitation. Prospective clients want to know: Can this trainer actually help someone like me? The answer needs to be visible and convincing within the first few seconds of landing on your site.

Before-and-after transformation photos are among the most powerful trust signals available to a personal trainer. Visual proof of results communicates what words alone cannot. When paired with a brief narrative about the client’s starting point, challenges, and the training approach that drove their results, these transformation stories become highly persuasive case studies. They answer the unspoken question every visitor is asking: Has this trainer helped someone in my situation?

Client testimonials reinforce this trust with social proof. Reviews and written endorsements from real clients reduce perceived risk for someone who has never worked with you. When a potential client reads that someone with a similar goal whether that’s losing 30 pounds, recovering from a knee injury, or preparing for their first powerlifting competition achieved meaningful results under your coaching, it lowers the barrier to reaching out.

Your portfolio should also clearly define your niche and target audience. Are you a strength coach for middle-aged men rebuilding fitness after years away from the gym? A fat loss specialist for postpartum women? An online performance coach for competitive athletes? The more specifically you speak to a defined group, the more deeply those readers feel understood and the more likely they are to take the next step. Broad messaging appeals to no one in particular; specific messaging creates immediate resonance with the right people.

Finally, integrating your social media presence Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook into your portfolio gives visitors a window into your daily work and personality. Seeing how you coach, how you communicate, and what your training sessions actually look like builds a human connection that static text alone cannot replicate. This is particularly important for online fitness coaches, where the relationship is entirely remote and digital trust must be established before a client ever commits to a program.

What Makes a High-Converting Personal Trainer Website

 

Having a website is not the same as having a website that converts. Many personal trainers publish a basic site and wonder why it produces no results. The difference between a website that sits quietly and one that actively generates leads comes down to clarity, structure, and user experience.

The most critical function of your homepage is to immediately answer three questions for any visitor: Who do you help? What specific results do you deliver? How can someone get started with you? If a visitor has to spend more than a few seconds hunting for this information, the likelihood of them leaving increases dramatically. Your value proposition the clear, specific statement of what you do and who you serve should appear above the fold, before any scrolling is required.

Service pages need to be equally direct. Rather than vaguely listing “personal training” as a service, break down what each program involves: session frequency, program duration, what a typical training week looks like, whether nutrition guidance is included, and what specific outcomes clients typically achieve. Concrete information gives prospects the context they need to feel ready to book. Vague descriptions create doubt.

Your call-to-action (CTA) – the button or link that prompts someone to book a consultation, fill out a contact form, or purchase a program must be prominent, repeated at logical points throughout the page, and worded in a way that removes friction. Phrases like “Book a Free Strategy Call,” “Start Your Transformation,” or “Apply for Online Coaching” are more action-oriented and outcome-focused than a generic “Contact Me.”

Technical performance is equally important. A personal trainer website that loads slowly or breaks on mobile devices will lose visitors before they ever read a word of your content. With the majority of fitness-related searches now happening on smartphones, your site must be fully responsive, fast-loading, and easy to navigate on a small screen. These technical factors also directly influence your Google search rankings, making them doubly important.

Using Content Marketing to Demonstrate Expertise and Rank on Google

 

A static portfolio with no new content is a missed opportunity. Personal trainers who invest in content marketing primarily through a blog or resource section on their website gain a significant advantage in both search visibility and perceived authority.

The mechanism is straightforward: your ideal clients are already searching Google for answers to fitness questions. They want to know how to lose belly fat safely, what the best beginner strength program looks like, how much protein they should eat to build muscle, or how to stay consistent with exercise when motivation fades. When your website provides genuinely useful, well-written answers to these questions, Google recognizes your site as a relevant, authoritative resource and ranks it higher in search results. Over time, this organic traffic compounds, bringing in a steady stream of visitors who are already interested in exactly the type of training you offer.

The most effective content strategy for personal trainers targets a mix of informational and transactional search intent. Informational content articles like “How to Build a Sustainable Weight Loss Plan” or “The Beginner’s Guide to Strength Training” attracts people at the research stage of their fitness journey. Transactional content — pages optimized for searches like “hire a personal trainer in Austin” or “online fat loss coaching program” targets people who are ready to act. A healthy content library includes both, guiding readers from initial awareness through to conversion.

Consistency matters more than volume. Publishing one well-researched, thoroughly written article per week will produce better long-term results than a burst of ten shallow posts followed by months of silence. Search engines reward websites that demonstrate sustained, topical expertise over time. More importantly, prospective clients who browse through a thoughtful library of helpful articles form a much stronger impression of your knowledge and professionalism than those who encounter a thin, rarely updated site.

How SEO Helps Personal Trainers Attract Both Local and Virtual Clients

 

Search engine optimization for personal trainers doesn’t require deep technical knowledge it requires a clear understanding of how your potential clients search and a consistent effort to align your content with those searches. At its core, SEO is the process of helping Google accurately understand what you do, who you serve, and why your site deserves to appear in relevant results.

For trainers working in a specific geographic area, local SEO is one of the highest-return activities available. Incorporating your city, neighborhood, or region naturally throughout your website content in your service descriptions, your bio, your blog posts, and your metadata significantly improves your visibility in local search results. Phrases like “personal trainer in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood” or “strength and conditioning coach in Denver” are far more effective at attracting local clients than generic, unanchored language. Registering and optimizing a Google Business Profile reinforces this further, making your business visible in Google Maps results and local packs.

For trainers offering virtual or online coaching, the geographic restriction disappears entirely, and the SEO opportunity expands. Keywords like “online personal trainer,” “remote fitness coaching,” “virtual strength coach,” or “custom workout plans online” can connect you with motivated clients anywhere in the country or world. The competitive landscape for national online fitness keywords is broader, but with consistent content and strong on-page optimization, ranking for more specific long-tail phrases — such as “online personal trainer for women over 40” or “virtual powerlifting coach” is entirely achievable even for a newer website.

A few foundational SEO practices worth implementing consistently include using descriptive, keyword-informed headings and subheadings throughout your pages, writing image alt text that accurately describes each photo, building internal links between related pages and blog posts on your site, and ensuring your page titles and meta descriptions clearly communicate what each page covers. None of these require technical expertise, but collectively they have a meaningful impact on how search engines interpret and rank your content.

Improving Client Engagement and Retention Through Online Tools

 

An online portfolio is not only a client acquisition tool it is also a powerful vehicle for improving engagement and retention among the clients you already have. The fitness industry has one of the highest dropout rates of any service business, and a significant portion of client attrition comes down to poor communication, lack of accountability infrastructure, and limited touchpoints between sessions.

Your website can address all of these. An integrated online booking system removes friction from the scheduling process, eliminating the back-and-forth of texts and emails that consumes time and erodes the professional quality of the client experience. A client portal whether built natively or through a personal training software integration gives clients on-demand access to their workout programs, progress tracking tools, nutrition guidelines, and educational resources. This 24/7 accessibility reinforces commitment and reduces the sense of isolation that causes many clients to drift away between sessions.

Email newsletters are an underutilized engagement tool for most personal trainers. A regular email weekly or biweekly that delivers actionable fitness tips, motivational content, program updates, or success story spotlights keeps your coaching top-of-mind between sessions and reinforces the value you provide. For online coaches in particular, this kind of consistent communication is essential to maintaining the sense of relationship and accountability that in-person clients experience naturally.

Downloadable resources a beginner workout guide, a 7-day meal prep template, a recovery protocol checklist serve double duty. They provide value to existing clients and function as lead magnets for new visitors, capturing email addresses from people who aren’t yet ready to purchase coaching but are interested in your expertise. Over time, this email list becomes one of your most valuable business assets.

Growing Your Fitness Business Beyond the Four Walls of the Gym

 

One of the most transformative effects of a strong online portfolio is that it removes the ceiling on your earning potential. A trainer who relies exclusively on in-person hourly sessions is constrained by a fixed number of hours in the day and a finite local market. An online portfolio opens the door to fundamentally different and more scalable business models.

Online coaching packages allow you to serve clients remotely through a combination of custom programming, video check-ins, messaging support, and nutritional guidance. Because delivery is asynchronous and location-independent, you can work with more clients simultaneously than an in-person schedule allows. Custom workout plans and nutrition programs can be sold as standalone digital products, generating revenue without requiring your direct time for every sale. Fitness challenges structured 30 or 60-day programs with defined goals and community accountability create group coaching opportunities that are both scalable and highly engaging for participants.

Monthly membership models, where clients pay a recurring fee for access to your programming library, coaching support, and community resources, provide the kind of predictable, recurring revenue that smooths out the income volatility that plagues many independent trainers. Building this type of business requires both a strong portfolio to attract the initial audience and a clear value proposition that makes the membership worth renewing month after month.

The common thread across all these models is that they are only possible when you have an online home that communicates your expertise, builds trust with visitors, and provides a clear pathway to engagement. The gym will always be where the training happens but the web is increasingly where the business is built.


 

Common Mistakes Personal Trainers Make with Their Online Presence

 

Understanding what not to do is as important as knowing what to do. Many personal trainers invest time and money into an online presence and see minimal results because of avoidable structural mistakes.

The most common error is failing to clearly define and communicate a niche. A website that claims to help “anyone reach their fitness goals” speaks to no one specifically. Visitors want to see themselves reflected in your messaging. A site that speaks directly to “women in their 40s recovering from chronic back pain” or “busy executives who want to build strength in under four hours per week” will convert far more effectively than one that tries to appeal to every possible client type.

Neglecting social proof is another significant missed opportunity. Certifications establish baseline credibility, but they don’t communicate results. Real client testimonials, transformation photos, and written case studies are the evidence that turns interest into trust. Trainers who are reluctant to request and display this social proof are leaving their most persuasive marketing assets unused.

Over-relying on social media at the expense of a dedicated website is a structural vulnerability that many trainers don’t recognize until it becomes a problem. Social platforms are rented land algorithms change, reach declines, accounts get restricted, and entire platforms can lose relevance seemingly overnight. Your website is an owned asset. It accumulates domain authority and SEO value over time, it isn’t subject to external algorithmic decisions, and it provides a stable, professional hub that your social channels can point toward. The most resilient online presence uses both: social media for discovery and personality, a website for depth, credibility, and conversion.

Finally, many trainer websites suffer from a missing or unclear call to action. If a visitor reads your entire site and still isn’t sure how to take the next step whether that’s booking a free consultation, applying for a program, or purchasing a plan they will leave without converting. Every page on your site should have a clear, obvious next step that moves the visitor toward becoming a client.

FAQs:

Do personal trainers really need a website in addition to social media?

Yes, and the distinction matters more than most trainers realize. Social media is excellent for visibility, building an audience, and showing personality, but it is not designed to convert visitors into clients in a sustained, reliable way. A website provides the depth of information, professionalism, and search visibility that social platforms cannot replicate. More importantly, your website is an asset you own and control entirely, while social media accounts and their reach are always at the mercy of platform decisions. The most effective approach is to use social media to drive traffic to a website that does the heavy lifting of converting that interest into consultations and bookings.

What should a personal trainer website include to attract and convert clients?

An effective personal trainer website needs to clearly communicate your niche and target client, present your qualifications and certifications, showcase real client transformation stories and testimonials, explain your services and what clients can expect in specific and concrete terms, and provide a clear and frictionless path to booking or contacting you. A blog or resource section that answers common fitness questions improves both search visibility and perceived expertise. An online booking tool or contact form completes the conversion pathway.

How does SEO help personal trainers get more clients?

SEO search engine optimization is the practice of structuring and optimizing your website so that it appears in Google results when potential clients search for relevant fitness terms. For a personal trainer, this means showing up when someone searches “personal trainer in [your city]” or “online fitness coach for weight loss.” Organic search traffic is particularly valuable because it consists of people actively looking for the service you offer, meaning conversion rates are typically high. Consistent blog content, well-optimized service pages, and a properly set up Google Business Profile are the three highest-impact SEO activities for most fitness professionals.

Can I realistically build an online coaching client base through my website alone?

Many personal trainers now generate the majority of their online coaching clients through organic search, content marketing, and referrals funneled through their website. It takes time typically several months of consistent content publication and on-page optimization before significant organic traffic begins to build but the long-term return is substantial. A well-established fitness website that ranks for relevant search terms provides a steady, self-sustaining lead pipeline that doesn’t require ongoing advertising spend. Trainers who invest in this approach early in their career often find it becomes their most reliable and cost-effective client acquisition channel.

How long does it take to see results from content marketing and SEO?

SEO is a medium-to-long-term strategy. Most personal trainer websites begin to see measurable traffic improvements within three to six months of consistent content creation and on-page optimization, with more significant results typically materializing at the twelve-month mark. The timeline depends on how competitive your target keywords are, how frequently you publish new content, the overall quality and depth of your writing, and the technical health of your website. The key is to treat content marketing as a compounding investment rather than a quick win each article you publish builds on the last, and the cumulative effect over one to two years can be transformational for your business.

Is social media enough to sustain a personal training business long-term?

Social media is a valuable component of a modern fitness business marketing strategy, but it is not a sufficient foundation on its own. Platform algorithms consistently reduce organic reach over time, incentivizing paid advertising. Account suspensions, policy changes, and shifts in platform popularity are unpredictable but real risks. Social media is also poorly suited to the depth of communication needed to move a prospect from initial interest to paying client that conversion typically happens on a website. The most successful personal training businesses treat social media as one channel within a broader digital strategy, using it to build awareness and drive audiences toward an owned website that handles trust-building and conversion.

 

Destination Weddings and Fitness Prep: How to Train for the Big Day

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your life, and it deserves to be celebrated with energy, confidence, and joy. If you’re planning a destination wedding, it can be thrilling to imagine every detail from the beachside photos to the perfect dress but with so much to do, it’s easy to forget what truly matters. Spoiler: It’s You! You’re the center of attention, and that means taking care of your body and mind before the big day is crucial.

In the months leading up to your wedding, I recommend a complete fitness and wellness reset. Preparing physically and mentally not only helps you look your best but also ensures you feel confident and energized, no matter where your wedding takes place. Here’s my guide on how to train your body and mind for a destination wedding and truly enjoy your special day.

7 Ways to Train for Your Destination Wedding

1. Create a Fitness Timeline

Just like planning your wedding, achieving your fitness goals starts with a clear timeline. Ask yourself:

  • What is my goal? Losing weight, toning up, building muscle, or increasing stamina?

  • What do I need to do? Daily workouts, balanced meals, hydration, and adding more movement into my day.

  • When will I do it? Set specific times for workouts and decide whether you’ll exercise at home or at a gym.

Creating a detailed timeline helps me stay accountable and ensures I’m consistently working toward my goals without stress.

2. Work With a Personal Trainer

I found that hiring a personal trainer before my destination wedding made a huge difference. A trainer can create a program tailored to your body, your goals, and even your wedding destination. For example:

  • A beach wedding in Santa Cruz or Malibu may require more cardio and core strength for beach activities or water sports.

  • A rustic farm wedding in Paso Robles or Ojai may require more strength training to handle outdoor activities and uneven terrain.

A trainer helps you set realistic goals and integrate fitness seamlessly into your daily life.

3. Incorporate Movement Into Daily Life

Wedding planning is hectic, and sometimes hitting the gym every day feels impossible. I made small but meaningful changes to stay active:

  • Walk or jog whenever possible take the stairs, walk during calls, or explore your city on foot.

  • Take breaks every 30 minutes to stretch or move around.

  • Use a standing desk to stay active while working.

Adding these small movements keeps me energized and supports my fitness goals without adding stress.

4. Focus on Nutrition

Fitness isn’t just about exercise it’s about what you fuel your body with. I recommend:

  • Preparing home-cooked meals or meal-prepping for the week.

  • Staying hydrated to boost energy, improve workouts, and enhance skin and hair.

  • Consulting a dietitian if possible, for a meal plan that matches your fitness and wedding goals.

Eating right helps me stay on track, and the added bonus is that my skin glows and I feel more confident in wedding photos.

5. Make Working Out Fun

The key to staying consistent is enjoyment. Instead of following a rigid routine, I mixed things up:

  • Combined cardio with yoga or Pilates for strength and flexibility.

  • Tried Zumba or dance workouts for energy and fun.

  • Ended workouts with mindfulness exercises to reduce stress and improve focus.

Fun workouts keep me motivated and make fitness feel like a reward rather than a chore.

6. Prioritize Mental Health

A destination wedding comes with extra stress travel, arrangements, and logistics can take a toll. I found these practices helpful:

  • Start the day with meditation or mindfulness.

  • Spend quality time with your partner or hobbies you enjoy.

  • Listen to your body and take mental breaks when needed.

Balancing mental and physical health made me feel calm, focused, and confident on my wedding day.

7. Track Your Progress

Finally, I tracked my fitness journey closely. Monitoring progress keeps me motivated and allows me to adjust as needed:

  • Daily, weekly, and monthly check-ins with my fitness timeline.

  • Tweaking my schedule when certain exercises weren’t working.

  • Celebrating milestones to stay motivated.

Tracking progress turned my fitness prep into a fun challenge rather than a chore and it made the results even more rewarding.

Final Thoughts: How I Prepared for My Destination Wedding

Preparing for a destination wedding isn’t just about looking great in photos it’s about feeling strong, confident, and stress-free on one of the most important days of your life. By creating a fitness timeline, working with a personal trainer, incorporating movement into daily life, eating right, making workouts enjoyable, prioritizing mental health, and tracking progress, I trained my body and mind for more than just the wedding.

The effort I put into my fitness prep gave me energy, confidence, and peace of mind, letting me fully enjoy every moment of my special day in a beautiful location surrounded by love and laughter. And the best part? The benefits lasted well beyond the wedding, leaving me healthier, happier, and more in tune with myself than ever before.

FAQs:

1. How far in advance should I start training for a destination wedding?

I recommend starting your fitness prep at least 3–6 months before your wedding. This gives you enough time to gradually improve your strength, stamina, and overall fitness without feeling stressed or rushed.

2. Do I really need a personal trainer for my wedding fitness?

While not mandatory, I found that working with a personal trainer helps me create a routine tailored to my body, my goals, and even my wedding location. They help me stay accountable, adjust exercises safely, and make sure I’m ready for the big day.

3. How can I stay active if I have a busy schedule?

I added movement into my daily life—like walking during calls, taking stairs, and stretching breaks every 30 minutes. Small, consistent changes can make a huge difference without needing hours in the gym.

4. What type of workouts are best for destination weddings?

It depends on your wedding location and style. For a beach wedding, focus on cardio and core strength. For a rustic or outdoor wedding, emphasize strength training and functional exercises. I also mixed in yoga, Pilates, or dance workouts to stay motivated and avoid boredom.

5. How important is nutrition in wedding fitness prep?

Nutrition is key! I focused on home-cooked meals, proper hydration, and balanced macros. Eating well not only helps achieve fitness goals but also improves skin, hair, and energy levels—so you feel your best on your wedding day.

6. Can mental health really impact my fitness prep?

Absolutely. I made mental health a priority by meditating, practicing mindfulness, and spending time on hobbies. Stress management keeps cortisol levels in check, which helps with weight management, recovery, and staying consistent with workouts.

7. How do I track my progress effectively?

I tracked my progress daily, weekly, and monthly using a fitness journal or app. Monitoring workouts, nutrition, and measurements helped me adjust my plan, stay motivated, and reach my goals on time.

8. What if I miss a workout or fall behind?

It’s normal! I learned that the key is consistency over perfection. If I miss a session, I adjust my schedule, don’t stress, and focus on the next workout. The cumulative effort matters more than one missed day.

The Best Apps for Personal Trainers to Stay Connected with Clients

Best Apps for Personal Trainers

Ever feel like keeping your clients motivated and on track is harder than ever? In 2026, staying connected isn’t just convenient it’s essential. With the explosion of fitness technology, personal trainers now have powerful tools at their fingertips to track progress, customize workouts, and communicate in real time.

Whether it’s guiding clients through at-home routines or offering on-demand classes, the right apps help trainers build stronger relationships and deliver a truly personalized experience. No more missed check-ins or generic programs everything is tailored, trackable, and seamless.

The fitness world has changed dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients now expect more flexibility, engagement, and convenience, making the use of fitness apps not just smart but critical for any serious trainer. In this guide, we’ll explore the top apps personal trainers can use to elevate client engagement, simplify routine management, and ultimately grow their business. #shareasale

Why Personal Trainers Need the Best Fitness Apps

Personal trainers have always been at the heart of health and fitness, guiding clients to achieve their goals. But in today’s digital world, technology has become just as important as expertise.

Fitness apps give trainers the power to connect with clients beyond the gym walls. They make it easy to track progress, create fully personalized programs, and even offer on-demand classes that fit any schedule. This constant connection keeps clients motivated, accountable, and seeing real results.

For trainers looking to stand out, combining these apps with additional qualifications like nutrition or wellness certifications creates a complete, holistic approach to health.

As workout habits shift, apps also give trainers the tools they need to adapt. Heart rate monitors, exercise trackers, live-streamed workouts, and performance analytics let you meet each client’s unique needs while keeping your services modern, professional, and highly effective.

Best Fitness Apps for Personal Trainers in 2026

 

1. Hoola

Hoola is a versatile app designed for personal trainers and clients alike. It offers access to personalized workout plans and on-demand classes, making it easy for trainers to customize routines based on their clients’ goals.

With a user-friendly interface and tools to sync progress across devices, Hoola is ideal for fostering strong trainer-client relationships.

2. Nike Training Club

Nike Training Club is a favorite for many fitness professionals. This app offers both free and paid versions, featuring workout routines for strength training, HIIT, yoga, and more. It is also one of the best free apps for personal trainers to track clients while offering quality routines.

Trainers can recommend this app to clients looking for a completely free option while still providing high-quality routines.

3. Peloton App

Although known for cycling, the Peloton app offers much more, including yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes.

Personal trainers can use it to suggest live or on-demand sessions for clients, providing flexibility for at-home or on-the-go workouts. Plus, the app’s free trial lets clients explore its features before committing.

4. Apple Fitness +

Apple Fitness+ is Apple’s exclusive training app designed to work seamlessly with the Apple Watch. It provides access to low-impact exercises, at-home workouts, and yoga workouts, making it perfect for trainers who want to engage tech-savvy clients.

This app also offers on-demand classes led by certified instructors and workout routines that can be customized based on goals.

5. Strava

Strava is a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts, offering tools for tracking routes, heart rate, and outdoor running or cycling progress.

With its ability to sync with Garmin devices, it’s ideal for trainers working with runners or cyclists. Strava’s community features also allow clients to share achievements, adding a motivational edge to any routine.

6. JEFIT

JEFIT is a fitness planner app designed for trainers and clients who focus on strength training and building muscle. It features certified trainers’ routines, weight tracking, and a motivational interface.

This app is perfect for trainers who want to help clients track their progress while sticking to highly structured workout plans.

7. Trainerize

Trainerize stands out for trainers who want a professional platform to manage client programs, nutrition, and communication. It offers flexible tools for scheduling, messaging, and tracking all in one place. Using Trainerize for clients allows trainers to provide an organized, all-in-one fitness coaching experience.

How to Choose the Best Workout App Based on Your Goals

Not all fitness apps are created equal, and picking the right one depends on your goals as a personal trainer and the needs of your clients. If your focus is strength training or muscle building, apps like JEFIT are perfect, offering certified trainer routines and detailed progress tracking.

For yoga instructors or trainers who emphasize low-impact workouts, apps like Peloton and Nike Training Club provide guided yoga, Pilates, and stretching sessions. Outdoor-focused trainers will love Strava, which tracks running and cycling routes, syncs with Garmin devices, and allows real-time progress monitoring.

Apps like Hoola are great for clients who want a mix of at-home and gym workouts. The key is choosing an app that fits your style while giving clients features that make their workouts more engaging—live classes, on-demand sessions, and tools to customize routines.

Tips for Getting Started with Fitness Apps

Integrating fitness apps into your training routine is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to make the most of them:

  1. Test the App Yourself – Try it before introducing it to clients. This ensures the interface, features, and workouts match your professional approach.

  2. Take Advantage of Free Trials – Apps like Peloton and Apple Fitness+ often offer free trials. Use this time to explore progress tracking, live sessions, and on-demand content.

  3. Sync with Fitness Devices – Connect apps to devices like Apple Watch or Garmin. This helps you monitor heart rate, track data, and provide clients with insights for better results.

  4. Personalize Workouts – Use the app to create routines tailored to each client’s goals, whether it’s building strength, improving cardio, or practicing yoga. Apps like Nike Training Club and Hoola make customization easy, keeping clients motivated and engaged.

Why Personal Trainers Should Embrace Fitness Apps in 2026

The world of personal training is changing and fitness apps are leading the way. In 2026, staying connected, tracking progress, and keeping clients motivated isn’t just easier it’s expected.

Whether you rely on free tools like Nike Training Club or invest in advanced apps, these digital platforms give trainers the power to create personalized workout plans, monitor results, and engage clients like never before.

Apps such as Hoola, Apple Fitness+, and Strava cater to different training styles from strength and cardio to yoga and outdoor adventures making it simple to match the right tool to each client’s goals. By embracing fitness technology, trainers can streamline their business while building stronger, more meaningful relationships.

The future of personal training is digital, and those who adapt early will thrive. Start exploring the best apps today and take your training career to the next level! 

How Mental Health Therapy Helps Personal Trainers Overcome Career Burnout

As a personal trainer, you’re passionate about helping others achieve their health and wellness goals. However, the demands of this profession can take a toll on your own mental health. Long hours, high client expectations, and the pressure to maintain a perfect physique can lead to career burnout. 

If you’re feeling exhausted, demotivated, and unsure of how to continue in your role, you’re not alone. Mental health therapy can provide the support and guidance you need to overcome career burnout and reignite your passion for personal training.

What are The Signs of Career Burnout in Fitness Mentors

Career burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and overwork. For personal trainers, burnout can manifest as fatigue, decreased motivation, and a sense of detachment from their work. Factors contributing to burnout in this field include long working hours, high client demands, and the pressure to maintain personal fitness standards. Career burnout can manifest in different ways, but common signs include:

  • Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
  • Cynicism and detachment from clients and colleagues
  • Reduced productivity and performance
  • Lack of motivation and interest in work-related activities
  • Increased irritability and mood swings

Research indicates that fitness professionals experience significant levels of burnout. A study found that 32.8% reported personal burnout, 28.5% work-related burnout, and 18.0% client-related burnout. If you’re experiencing several of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek help. Ignoring career burnout can lead to more severe mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

What is The Role of Mental Health Therapy in Addressing Burnout

Mental health therapy provides personal trainers with the tools and support they need to manage and overcome burnout. Here’s how it works:

Identifying the Root Causes

The first step in mental health therapy is identifying the root causes of burnout. Therapists work with personal trainers to understand the specific stressors contributing to their burnout. This could include work-related pressures, personal issues, or a combination of both.

Developing Coping Strategies

Once the root causes are identified, therapists help personal trainers develop coping strategies to manage stress. These strategies can include mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and time management skills. By learning how to cope with stress effectively, personal trainers can reduce the impact of burnout on their lives.

Building Resilience

Mental health therapy also focuses on building resilience. This means helping personal trainers develop the inner strength to bounce back from challenges. Therapists teach techniques for maintaining a positive mindset, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing self-care.

Providing Emotional Support

Having a safe space to talk about their feelings is important for personal trainers dealing with burnout. Therapists provide non-judgmental emotional support, allowing individuals to express their thoughts and feelings openly. This support can be incredibly healing and validating.

How Mental Health Therapy Can Help

Mental health therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for personal trainers to explore the underlying causes of their career burnout. A trained therapist can help you:

  • Identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors
  • Develop coping strategies and stress management techniques
  • Improve communication skills and boundary setting
  • Enhance self-care and prioritize your own mental health needs

A mental health treatment center like Delray Brain Science can provide specialized support for personal trainers dealing with burnout. These centers offer comprehensive therapy programs customized to individual needs, ensuring that personal trainers receive the best possible care.

Benefits of Mental Health Therapy for Personal Trainers

Mental health therapy offers numerous benefits for personal trainers struggling with career burnout, including improved mental health by addressing anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues, thereby helping them regain their sense of purpose and motivation. It also enhances job performance by effectively managing burnout, allowing personal trainers to rekindle their enthusiasm for work and achieve better outcomes for their clients. 

Also, mental health therapy promotes a healthier work-life balance, which is crucial for long-term career success and overall well-being.

What are The Steps to Take if You’re Experiencing Burnout

The personal training industry faces high attrition rates, with approximately 80% of personal trainers leaving the profession within their first year. If you’re a personal trainer experiencing burnout, recognize the signs such as feeling exhausted, disengaged, or unmotivated, and acknowledge these feelings to seek help. Consider seeking help from a mental health therapist who can provide the support and variety of tools needed to manage burnout effectively.

Practice self-care by prioritizing regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and activities that bring joy and relaxation. Establish healthy boundaries at work to prevent overworking, which might involve setting specific work hours and learning to say no when necessary.

Conclusion

Career burnout is a common experience for many personal trainers, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent state. By seeking mental health therapy and implementing practical strategies for managing burnout, you can overcome this challenge and maintain a fulfilling and successful career. 

Remember, prioritizing your mental health is essential to achieving your goals and living a happy, healthy life.

 

Boost Your Metabolism with Strength Training at Home

Boost Your Metabolism with Strength Training at Home

Metabolism is your body’s engine, converting food into energy to fuel essential functions like breathing, digestion, and movement. It’s not just about burning calories, it’s about keeping your body running efficiently. A well-functioning metabolism plays a big role in how energized and healthy you feel daily. The great news is that your fitness routine can significantly influence it.

Strength training is a powerhouse when it comes to boosting metabolism. Lifting weights or doing metabolic resistance training exercises doesn’t just help you build muscle, it keeps your body burning calories long after your workout. This happens because your body works hard to repair and grow muscle tissue, which requires energy. Over time, this process can even increase your resting metabolic rate, meaning you’ll burn more calories even while binge-watching your favorite show.  Metabolic strength workout at home offers a versatile and effective way to build muscle, improve endurance, and enhance overall fitness without the need for a gym membership. 

Cardio is another crucial player. While strength training builds muscle, cardio improves endurance and burns calories during the workout itself. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a spin class, or a dance session, cardio keeps your heart healthy and adds variety to your routine.

Understanding Metabolic Workouts

Metabolic workouts are an excellent tool for personal trainers to incorporate into client routines. These high-intensity sessions combine strength and cardio into quick, circuit-style workouts, helping clients maximize calorie burn, build strength, and improve overall fitness in less time. Here’s how to use metabolic workouts effectively to help clients reach their fitness goals:

What Are Metabolic Workouts?

Metabolic workouts focus on speed, intensity, and functional, compound movements like squats, lunges, or kettlebell swings. Unlike traditional strength training, which prioritizes lifting heavier weights with longer rest periods, these sessions emphasize:

Quick Circuits: Alternating exercises in a seamless flow to challenge multiple muscle groups.

Short Rest Intervals: Keeping rest periods brief to maintain an elevated heart rate.

High-Intensity Effort: Pushing clients to work at or near their maximum effort level.

The result is a high-calorie burn during the workout and an afterburn effect (EPOC), which keeps their metabolism elevated for hours post-workout.

Key Benefits of Metabolic Workouts for Your Clients

1. Boosts Metabolism

How It Helps: The afterburn effect allows clients to burn more calories even after their session ends.

Trainer Tip: Focus on high-intensity intervals and compound movements to maximize this effect.

2. Builds Strength and Stamina

How It Helps: Combines muscle-building resistance exercises with cardio endurance for a complete workout.

Trainer Tip: Select exercises that challenge multiple muscle groups simultaneously, such as burpees or push-up rows.

3. Supports Fat Loss

How It Helps: High-intensity efforts torch fat while building lean muscle mass, improving body composition.

Trainer Tip: Periodically track body fat percentage to measure progress beyond the scale.

4. Minimal Equipment Required

How It Helps: These workouts can be done with just dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, or even body weight.

Trainer Tip: Offer home-friendly routines for clients who can’t make it to the gym.

5. Keeps Workouts Fun and Engaging

How It Helps: Circuit-style routines mix things up to prevent boredom and keep clients motivated.

Trainer Tip: Regularly switch up the exercises and formats to keep sessions fresh and exciting.

How to Design an Effective Metabolic Workout for Your Clients

1. Select Compound Movements

Choose exercises that work multiple muscle groups, like squats, deadlifts, kettlebell swings, or mountain climbers.

2. Incorporate Time-Based Intervals

Structure workouts around intervals, such as 30 seconds of work followed by 15–20 seconds of rest.

3. Maintain High Intensity

Encourage clients to give their maximum effort during each work interval to elevate their heart rate and challenge their muscles.

4. Adjust for Fitness Levels

Offer modifications for beginners (e.g., bodyweight squats instead of jump squats) and progressions for advanced clients (e.g., adding weights or plyometrics).

5. Monitor Form and Safety

Ensure clients maintain proper form throughout the workout, especially as they fatigue.

6. Metabolic Workout Plan for Recovery

Balance metabolic workouts with lower-intensity sessions or rest days to prevent overtraining and promote recovery.

Practical Examples of Strength Training at Home

Exercise

How to Do It

Beginner Modification

Progression Options

Bodyweight Squats

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, and lower your body as if sitting in a chair.

Wall squats for added support.

Add weights or try jump squats.

Push-Ups

Lower your body with arms bent, keeping a straight line from head to toe.

Knee push-ups or incline push-ups on a wall.

Standard push-ups or decline push-ups.

Lunges

Step forward, bending both knees to form 90-degree angles.

Stationary lunges for better stability.

Walking lunges or add weights.

Planks

Hold a straight body position on your forearms and toes.

Plank on knees or using an elevated surface.

Longer holds or try side planks.

Dumbbell Rows

Bend at your hips, and pull dumbbells or weights towards your body.

Use water bottles instead of dumbbells.

Use heavier weights or resistance bands.

 

Integrating Cardio for Optimal Results with Aroleap

Home gym system is designed to help you combine cardio and strength training effortlessly, making your workouts more effective and boosting your metabolism. Its features are perfect for creating balanced routines that get results.

Smart Resistance for Strength: The eccentric mode adds controlled metabolic resistance training workouts to lowering phase of exercises like squats or rows. This means your muscles work harder, helping you build strength and burn more calories even at rest.

Built-In Safety: Aroleap’s spotter mode lets you push your limits safely. Whether you’re lifting heavy or transitioning between strength and cardio moves, it’s there to support you, reducing the chance of injury.

Guided Workouts with Virtual Trainers: Not sure how to mix cardio and strength? Aroleap’s virtual trainers guide you through routines tailored to your fitness level and goals. They keep things interesting and ensure you’re doing exercises correctly for the best results.

AI Tracks Your Progress: The built-in AI tracks key metrics like calories burned, heart rate, and muscle engagement. It gives you real-time feedback and helps you adjust your workouts to keep improving.

Versatile and Dynamic: Switch easily between strength exercises and quick cardio bursts using Aroleap’s resistance settings. It’s perfect for circuit training or creating your combo routines that keep your heart rate up and your muscles working.

With Aroleap, you can make the most of your home workouts, blending cardio and strength training in a way that’s effective, efficient and fun.

Your Path to a Boosted Metabolism

Boosting your metabolism is an achievable goal, especially through strength training. Not only does this type of training increase your muscle mass, but it also elevates your resting metabolic rate, which means you burn more calories even while at rest.

Moreover, we explored the benefits of metabolic workouts and their distinction from traditional strength training. Incorporating exercises that combine strength with high-intensity movements can amplify your metabolic response. Additionally, integrating cardiovascular exercises will further enhance your results, creating a well-rounded fitness regimen.

For those looking to embark on this journey from the comfort of their home, practical examples of strength training exercises were shared. These can be easily modified to align with different fitness levels, making them accessible for everyone. The beginning of your fitness path doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, be consistent, and gradually build upon your progress. With commitment and the right balance of strength training and cardio, you are well on your way to improved health and fitness. 

The 5 Best Performance Supplements For A Fitness Lifestyle

Start on a fitness journey long enough and you’ll start to wonder if there are any optimizations you can make. For some, it’s making the investment in great running shoes, and for others, it’s finally buying that weightlifting belt. But supplements are important to help our workout sessions, too.

As a minimum, you likely wish for energy that lasts, focus so you’re not constantly scatter-brained, and recovery that lets you come back stronger the next session. Performance supplements can bridge that gap between where you are now and where you want to be, but the market is packed with products that promise everything and deliver nothing. How do you avoid such a trap, and how do you avoid falling for good marketing? After all, there are teams of people working right now, in every discipline they know how, to convince you to buy their product over another.

In this post, we’ll discuss the six supplements that have earned their reputation through solid science and real results from people who take their training seriously. Each brings something different to the table, so you can find the ones that match your needs and training style.

Best For Mental Performance: Mind Lab Pro by Performance Lab

Mind Lab Pro is quite unique in the supplement space because it helps to improve the mental side of fitness that most people ignore. Mind Lab Pro meets the brain’s complex needs with 11 nootropics working in 6 “bio-pathways” promised to help the mental side of human performance. Nootropics have long been accepted as a rich blend of vitamins and nutrients for your brain.

The connection between brain function and physical performance is huge, and Mind Lab Pro gets this right. Mind Lab Pro is a thorough nootropic supplement that focuses on memory, focus, and overall brain health, and it does this through a blend of scientifically researched ingredients.

This is a great supplement for any sport or fitness approach, because how it supports the mental aspects of training that often get overlooked. You get better mind-muscle connection during lifts, improved focus during long cardio sessions, and the mental clarity needed to stick with nutrition plans and training schedules too. Most team sports captains or players would no doubt like a little more agility in their thinking and how confident they feel in a strategic scenario. Moreover, the formula is stimulant-free, so it works by supporting your brain but it won’t give you the jitters.

Best For Pre-Workout Energy: Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout

Sometimes you want more than a coffee before a heavy session, but you don’t want to be overly wired. That’s why Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout has become a favorite. Fitness lovers suggest it’s a well-balanced supplement for those seeking increased muscle gain, reliable energy, and added performance, thanks to the inclusion of creatine, as well as explore more below.

The inclusion of creatine alongside caffeine and other performance-enhancing ingredients makes it a good option for people who want everything in one product. It’s also one of the most affordable pre-workouts on the market, which makes it accessible for people who want quality results. The brand is also very trusted after releasing whey isolates and protein powders that are considered the most popular on the market.

Best For Muscle Power: Thorne Creatine

Thorne Creatine is considered a gold standard for creatine supplementation, focusing on purity and effectiveness, and is popular among weightlifting circles. The best creatine supplements can boost your exercise performance and help you build stronger muscles faster from brands like Thorne, Onnit, and Gnarly. Thorne has built their reputation on third-party testing and pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing processes in a field where creatine can sometimes be questionable.

But what does creatine do? Well, it’s optional for most people, but in high-performance and weightlifting environments, it helps your muscles produce more energy and help with explosive movements. Creatine is one of the most researched supplements in the fitness world because of that, because the performance seems too good to be true, and it isn’t a steroid.

Thorne Creatine is also NSF Certified for Sport, which means it’s tested for banned substances and safe for competitive athletes too – so don’t worry if you have a competition coming up. That’s why it’s gained the most legitimacy.

Best For Wider Support: Athletic Greens AG1

Athletic Greens AG1 has become quite popular in recent years, as it approaches performance supplementation from a more basic wellness perspective, with nutritional support more focused on training capacity and recovery. While it’s not a traditional pre-workout or single-ingredient supplement, AG1 fills the nutritional gaps you may not have in your diet, that can limit performance and recovery in active individuals.

The formula includes 75 high-quality vitamins, minerals, and whole-food sourced ingredients that support energy production, immune function, and overall health. Think of it like a super-multivitamin. If you’re following an intensive training program, this can cover all the blind spots you may have.
Some examples of what it contains includes B-vitamins for energy metabolism, adaptogens for stress management, probiotics for gut health, and antioxidants to support recovery from training stress.

Best For Natural Energy: Four Sigmatic Lion’s Mane Coffee

Four Sigmatic Lion’s Mane Coffee has the obvious energy boost of coffee we’re all familiar with, but on top of that has the cognitive and neurological benefits of lion’s mane mushroom, creating a performance drink that supports mental wellbeing too. This blend has become more popular as of late, with some coffee shops offering their own version, but this is the most accessible and preferred by fitness lovers.

Lion’s mane mushroom has the potential to support nerve growth and cognitive capabilities too, making it helpful for activities requiring coordination, focus, and mind-muscle connection. In addition to the organic coffee it offers, there’s a smooth, sustained energy that works well for both training sessions and daily activities on top of that.

With this advice, you’ll be certain to find the best performance supplement for your own fitness needs. Just be sure to talk with your doctor before adding any new supplementation to your diet.

Bikini Competition Posing Guidelines for Bodybuilders

Whether you are a pro competitor or a newbie, one thing remains the same: having a solid posing routine for the stage. As you train for your competition, your posing routine must be perfected to ensure a strong stage presence. 

So, let’s look at a few ways you can achieve to get the best competition day results.


Basic posing tips for your competition routine

  1. Nailing your posing walk—Your walk is your first chance to make the great impression you need in front of the judges. It’s the perfect opportunity to show your stage confidence and personality. Walking confidently communicates who you are and how proud you are of your work.

Another aspect of your posing walk is feeling comfortable in your shoes. Since all competitors need to wear high heels, practicing in them is a must! Make sure you are confident walking in them, this will give you that winning edge.

  1. The right bikini poses – Before choosing your poses, it is important to master your posing walk. The judges are looking for some things in particular: 
  • Muscle tone foundation
  • A full-shaped figure with rounded glutes and curvy shoulders
  • Full body symmetry 
  • No muscle separation or striations 
  • An appealing overall appearance 

To make sure these criteria are met, you need to work closely with a posing coach and take plenty of videos and photos of yourself posing. Another tip is to practice from the judge’s perspective, about five feet below you. This is so you can perfect your posing routine. Perfecting your posing routine has one goal – it highlights your strengths and downplays any area you want to improve. Try posing in front of a mirror, from different angles, and setting this will ensure you look your best on stage. 

  1. Mastering your posing transitions – Your posing routines requires 
  • Front poses
  • Back poses
  • Side poses 
  • Sign off 

While posing can seem very simple, you need to use your routine to show your strengths. Show your muscle definition in glutes, hamstrings, arms, and shoulders. Remember you don’t have a lot of stage time, so make every moment count. 

  1. Accessorize just right – Your presentation on stage includes more than just your hard-earned figure. From your bikini competition suit to your hair, makeup, and jewelry. Everything should work well together to enhance your stage look. But to be on the safer side, do not make these common mistakes – 
  • Picking a suit color that doesn’t suit your skin tone
  • Wearing flashy or too much jewelry
  • Wearing the wrong makeup on stage
  • Having a distracting hairstyle 
  • Not testing your tan color 

These can seem small now, but they make a huge difference in how the judges view your overall look.


What is a winning bikini competition routine? 

All top bikini competitors have one thing in common – they stay true to their routines. These athletes showcase their personalities, style, attitude, and a well-conditioned physique. So, when you plan your posing routine you need to be sure to show off your hard-earned physique while letting your personality shine through. 

If you want professional help with your posing routine, consider working with a professional posing coach who specializes in helping competitors stand out from the rest. They will guide you through your posing routine until you ace it! 


Judging for Bikini Competitions

Bikini competition judges look for a healthy and toned body, with good symmetry, balance, and shape. Competitors need to present on stage with confidence, stage presence, and poise. The judges will also look at how well your bikini competition suit looks, with makeup, hair, and presentation looks. Competitors have to avoid showing too much muscle separation, and the goal is to achieve a muscular look without looking too defined or lean.

Your micro bikini competition suits and other competition choices will help enhance your physique. The judges look for full-round glutes and a slight midsection. Your legs and shoulders should be firm but not overly muscular. 


Comparisons within groups

During group comparison, athletes perform half turns to show their physique from front to back. Judges will direct you to walk a few steps back and forward while holding poses as a group. Keep in mind that the front, back, and side poses are the most crucial ones, so perfect them as much as you can. 

A strong bikini competition posing routine consists of presentation, practice, and paying attention to every detail. Whether it is the walk, pose, transition, or overall presentation, everything needs to come together and highlight your hard work the most.

How to Become a Personal Trainer in 4 Simple Steps

how to become a personal trainer

How to Become a Personal Trainer in 5 Simple Steps

This is the heading
cptquiz1Mesa-de-trabajo-1

What Cert is Best for You?

We designed this quiz to help you choose the perfect certification based on your learning style and goals.

28954

Watch Our Video: How to Become a Personal Trainer in 5 Simple Steps

Table of Contents

Have you always wanted to become a personal trainer?

You’re halfway there. But, as with most things in life, wanting is only the first step of the journey.

In order to become a trainer and succeed as one, you need to have the right game plan in place and follow it up with consistent action — just like your workouts. As you’ll see in this guide, there are five simple steps you’ll need to take to become a personal trainer. And we’ll be covering the best ways to tackle each one.

If you are interested in training clients online check out our How to Become an Online Personal Trainer blog.

1. Get Your Prerequisites Completed First

Before you begin with a personal trainer course, you’ll likely need to have a few items checked off before you can get certified. These are:

  1. 18 years or older
  2. High school diploma or GED
  3. CPR/AED certification

Most personal training certification bodies require these items before you sit down for the final exam. Additionally, many companies are requiring the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification along with the Emergency Cardiac Care (CPR), but these certifications can usually be packaged together by the same provider.

The American Red Cross is a popular choice for the CPR/AED certification, and you can check out their website to find classes near you.

cptquiz1Mesa-de-trabajo-1

What Cert is Best for You?

We designed this quiz to help you choose the perfect certification based on your learning style and goals.

2. Nail Down the Best Certified Personal Trainer Course (for you)

What is the best personal trainer certification?

A better question is “what is the best personal trainer certification for me?” The certification body you choose is a highly subjective decision — and often a confusing one — so here are some questions you can ask yourself before committing to one over another:

How do I learn new concepts best?

Do you understand concepts better when they’re presented in-person with a teacher or can you handle learning on your own?

Personal training education isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. You actually have several options, including:

  • Certification via accredited US company (self-study)
  • Vocational college (in-person)
  • University programs with Bachelors or Masters (in-person)
  • Unaccredited online options (self-study)
  • Gym program (in-person)

Learn more about the different personal trainer courses.

How much time do you have?

Are you looking to get certified as soon as possible or would you prefer to get a college degree along with your certification? The self-study options are the quickest approach whereas the vocational college and university programs are obviously more long-term.

As you answer these questions, you should also be thinking about the differences between each personal training program.

Here are some answers to some common FAQs about becoming a trainer that may also help you decide which route you want to go:

Do I Need to Go to College to Become a Personal Trainer?

If the thought of becoming a full-time student isn’t something that interests you, you’re in luck.

You don’t need to go to college to become a personal trainer.

While a university program will give you the most in-depth learning experience, including learning subjects that aren’t solely personal-training focused, it comes at a price not everyone can afford, both in time and money.

However, if you have your sights set on becoming a personal trainer and you love school or are already working towards earning a Bachelor’s or Master’s, a college degree can strengthen your expertise and build trust with future clients.

This is especially important in the beginning of your personal training career when you’re still building your client base.

So if you don’t need a college degree, the next question is:

What Kind of Education Do I Need to Be a Personal Trainer?

As we talked about in this guide, there are five education routes you can follow to become a personal trainer:

  1. Certification by a US company
  2. Vocational college
  3. University programs with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
  4. Unaccredited online options
  5. Internal gym programs

Each option has its own educational program and certification procedures. By completing one of them, you’ll hold a certification from that institute to teach people as a personal trainer.

Keep in mind, only the first three options on that list are accredited.

Let’s go over the difference between an accredited and an unaccredited program so you know which sounds best for you.

Do I Need to Find an Accredited Program?

An accredited program, such as Fitness MentorsNASM or ACE, means that it has been credentialed by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE) or other top accrediting bodies. While there are other personal trainer program credentialing bodies, the NCCA is considered the gold standard.

More importantly perhaps, NCCA-certified personal training programs are generally recognized at most health facilities, meaning if you go with one of these you are almost guaranteed a job at a corporate gym.

Some of the most popular Accredited personal trainer bodies include:

• NASM ACE

• Fitness Mentors

• NFPT  • ACSM  NESTA  

• NSCA  • NCSF  • NCCPT

On the other hand, unaccredited courses may not be accepted by corporate gyms and fitness studios.

Unaccredited courses are usually better for someone who already has an established network of clients through their own training methods and has no intentions of working at a corporate facility.

The majority of potential personal trainers will want to find an accredited program.

You’ll receive a more in-depth education and will be better prepared to find a job once you pass your test.

You can opt for an accredited self-study program, such as Fitness MentorsNASM or ACE, or you can enroll in a vocational college or bachelor’s program at your local college, as mentioned earlier. Vocational schools or colleges will have relationships with accredited certification bodies so you’ll walk away with a degree and your CPT.

Once you select a program, grab a calendar and set your exam date.

3. Choose an Exam Date & Prepare

Picking an exam date is the first major step towards seeing your personal trainer dreams through.

Put it off and you may end up backburnering your goal indefinitely.

That’s why certain programs have you set a date right away for this very reason.

Keep in mind, you should be realistic with your date.

Fortunately, this next section can help you understand the real magnitude of the work so you can adjust your timeline and plan accordingly.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Personal Trainer?

Consider your schedule, current workload, and other obligations before setting a date that’s too close for comfort.

You should give yourself at least three to six months, depending on your certification, to prepare. Plan on committing anywhere from 75-100 hours to doing so.

Here’s a breakdown of the expected study time for each personal training program specifically:

  • NCCPT: 80-100 hours is the recommended study time
  • FITNESS MENTORS: 80 hours is the recommended study time
  • NESTA: You must complete the test within 90 days of requesting the exam voucher so study well before this time
  • ACSM: 3, 6, 12, or 24-month options
  • ACE: Schedule test within 6 months of purchase date, but you can take it before 9 months
  • ISSA: 6 months to complete
  • NASM: Must complete in under 6 months
  • NCSF: Must complete in under 6 months
  • NCSA: 120 days after purchasing exam
  • NFPT: 12 Months after purchasing exam
  • AFAA: N/A

With your target test date in mind, you can then work backwards to plan out how many chapters you’ll need to cover each week and month in order to be best prepared for it.

However, if you want to fast track your certification, without sacrificing how much information you’re learning, use this study schedule to knock it out in just two months:

  • Read one or two hours per day at a minimum
  • Create your own chapter-by-chapter notes from the book/coursework
  • Use study guides to review hand-picked topics for reference
  • Listen to audio lectures to review the information while driving/working out/during down time
  • Take practice tests for each chapter
  • Quiz yourself on 5-10 chapters of the book at a time every few weeks
  • Reread study guides as you build upon new concepts
  • Quiz yourself and document the questions you miss; revisit the sections of the book discussing the topics you didn’t get right
  • Take a quiz every day leading up to the final week of study
  • Sit down for an entire practice exam and write down questions you missed; revisit topics you need a better understanding of
  • Take the official certification exam when you consistently earn at least 85% passing score on practice exams

You can also use study resources to help you work out pre-test jitters while you get a feel for the test’s format.

All this can help ensure you make it to this next (huge) step.

4. Pass Your Exam

There’s nothing better than seeing the words PASS after you submit your personal training certification exam.

But you can only get there if you put in the necessary time reading and studying the material and understanding the concepts.

Practicing test questions and using practice test preps also help increase your chances of passing your exam.

And once you do, you’ll officially be ready to start working as a personal trainer.

5. Land a Job as a Personal Trainer

Before you spend countless hours applying for jobs you may not enjoy, you should take the time to figure out what you really want and think about what gets you excited first.

You’ll save time by only applying to positions that check these boxes. Or, you may decide you don’t want to work for anybody and take a more independent route.

So consider these questions:

  • Do you prefer to work primarily in-person or online?
  • Do you prefer large group training classes or one-on-one sessions?
  • Would you prefer to work for yourself or somebody else?
  • If you prefer to be employed, would you prefer to work in a big box gym, boutique gym, or some other setting?

If you’re looking to gain experience, it can also help to approach the staff where you currently work out to see if there are any openings.

Since you’re already familiar with the place and the staff may be familiar with you, you’ll boost your chances of getting your foot in the door.

The last burning question many soon-to-be trainers have is:

 

How Much Money Can You Make as a Personal Trainer?

personal trainer salary

The good news is personal trainer salaries have an average median of $58,318 and 10% make over $80,000 per year! 

When you do what you love and you truly help people become their healthiest, happiest selves, your salary may not be your top priority in comparison. But, there is no doubt you’ll be compensated well for all your hard work.

Now that you know what it takes to become a personal trainer, and you understand how to ace all five steps to get there, it’s time to start chasing your dream.

JUMPSTART YOUR CAREER

12 Customizable Program Templates!
Regularly $169. Get access today for $31.
FM-Customizable-Program-Templates

FAQs on How to Become a Personal Trainer

The qualifications most personal training certifications require include: age 18 or older, has a high school diploma or equivalent degree, a CPR/AED certification, and the passing of a certified personal trainer course.

Some personal training certifications, like the Fitness Mentors CPT, can be obtained in a month with rigorous study. Most programs, however, take 3 months or more to complete the coursework, study and pass the final exam.

On average, personal trainers have an average median of almost $60,000 and 10% of trainers make over $80,000 a year.

Becoming a certified personal trainer is not nearly as time-consuming or challenging as other professions. However, a fair amount of studying and dedication are needed to complete a course and grow and build a client base.

A career in personal training typically begins at the gym for most trainers. This is the most ideal place to learn how to train, speak with prospects, and work on your sales technique.

Research suggests one in ten trainers earn six-figure salaries.

Personal trainers can use their skills to perform other jobs such as gym managers, sales managers, fitness writers, workout program developers, and group fitness instructors..

Most gyms require a qualification from a third-party accredited personal training body or their own internal certification for trainers to gain employment.

A personal training certification is not a legal requirement in order to assist others with their fitness goals. However, the safety and wellbeing of clients is a primary concern of the industry as a whole, which is why it is such an important aspect of any certification.

Personal training can be a great part time job. As an independent trainer you are free to charge as much as you’d like, choose your hours, and try to generate as much supplemental income as possible.

 

Become a Personal Trainer Today

With all this information under your training belt, now’s the time to take action.

Start by knocking out your prerequisites.

Then choose an education route you know you’ll stick with. Work through the rest of the tips in this guide and you’ll be one step closer to passing your certification test and achieving your personal training goals.

If you are interested in getting certified with the goal of building a lifelong career, check out the Fitness Mentors certifications.

Share this blog post!

Table of Contents

Personal Trainer Salary: Which Gyms Pay the Most?

Personal Trainer Salary  Which Gyms Pay the Most

There are numerous ways to make money as a personal trainer, but unquestionably the most common way is to start working at a gym.

If you are looking to get certified as a personal trainer, check out our blog on the best personal training certification.

Fitness Mentors NASM

Watch Our Video: Personal Trainer Salary – Which Gyms Pay the Most? How Much do Private and Online Trainers Make?

$6 Dollar Mentorship Banner 1

80% OFF

12 Customizable Program Templates!
Regularly $169. Get access today for $31.
FM-Customizable-Program-Templates
cptquiz1Mesa-de-trabajo-1

What Cert is Best for You?

We designed this quiz to help you choose the perfect certification based on your learning style and goals.

If the most common question I get asked about personal training is what certification to get, the second most common question has to be “how much can I make as a personal trainer?”

There are numerous ways to make money as a personal trainer, but unquestionably the most common way is to start working at a gym. I started my career as a personal trainer by working at Equinox and 24-Hour Fitness. 

Also be sure to join the conversation with hundreds of fitness pro’s, six-figure personal trainers, fitness mentors and coaches on our discord here:

When people first consider becoming a trainer they begin to think about the major gyms and how much they pay. And as much as certification bodies like NASM want to tell you that their average trainers make $42k a year, the reality of a personal trainer salary ultimately lies in what the gyms will pay as this is the most common career route.

However, the gym route is not the only one and many existing or aspiring trainers want to venture into the more entrepreneurial routes of private, or online personal training, as higher income levels are more easily achieved.

So, to help trainers understand what popular gyms pay their trainers and to showcase some insider knowledge on what private and online trainers can make, I’ve put together this post that outlines personal trainer salaries as well as what trainers at the most recognizable gym brands around the country get paid, and how they set up their payment structure. Overall this blog answers the question, “how much can I make as a personal trainer?”.

I’ll also discuss the three pay structures that are common to trainers and provide you with next steps from a seasoned personal trainer who has gone through the experience of getting a gym job first-hand as well as utilized the private and online routes.

Before You Get Paid, You Have to Get Certified

First things first, if you want to work in personal training or at a big box gym like 24-Hour Fitness, Equinox, LA Fitness, or the like, you’ll need a personal training certification from a credentialed fitness organization.

Gyms want their trainers to get, or have, certifications, because they provide a baseline for credibility.

We have written a very comprehensive blog on the best personal trainer certifications where you can take a look at our side-by-side analysis of 10 different, popular personal training certification organizations. If you are unsure the exact steps to become a trainer and the prerequisites — education, age requirements, CPR/AED certifications.

Keep in mind that many gyms may hire you before you get a certification, and some will even have you go through their internal certification, so if you have a gym in mind for your place of employment it doesn’t hurt to ask what their requirements are first. Note that a true personal training certification will allow for a job at a much wider range of locations than just that one gym, something you’ll want to consider as your career evolves.

But before you enter the personal training employee marketplace, it pays to know some of the various pay structures that are common within the personal training industry so you know what to expect going in.

3 Types of Gym Pay Structures Common to Personal Trainers

When you begin your search for gyms that will provide you gainful employment, you can expect the pay structures to fall into one of these three categories:

1. Commercial gym
2. Independent personal trainer
3. 1099 personal trainer

1. Commercial Gym Pay Structure

 

In the gym world, the gyms who make you get clients and don’t feed them to you will generally pay the most. The opposite is true too; the gyms that feed you clients will generally pay you the least.

Commercial gyms will typically pay you minimum wage to “work the floor” and try to drum up new clients. Once you are actually training clients, you’ll get a bit more per hour as you are increasing the gyms revenue by performing a training session. If you sell a large personal training package, commercial gyms will often give you a commission. 

2. Independent Personal Trainer Gym Pay Structure

Independent pay structures, or those that pertain to the self-employed personal trainer, are much more favorable to the trainer, but the negative is that they are obviously not as exposed to as many potential clients as they would be on the floor of a major gym, and are only getting paid when they train.

When you are self-employed, or an independent personal trainer not on a gym’s payroll, you may be able to develop relationships with smaller, privately-owned gyms that will allow you to bring in your own clients.

The catch is that you have to pay the gym a fee when you use their gym to train your client. For example, I used to pay a privately-owned, non-chain gym $15 a session to bring my client in and train them.

I could ultimately charge my client whatever I wanted, and had no pressure from any boss to sell more training sessions as it was entirely up to me. I did have to do more for marketing and found these metal cards to be a professional way of displaying the quality of my business to new potential clients. 

Keep in mind that with this independent structure, you are running your own business, which means you are responsible for additional tasks like accounting, taxes, marketing, advertising, sales and lead generation.

Related: How to Set a Pricing Structure for Your Personal Training Business I

80% OFF

12 Customizable Program Templates!
$169 → $31.
FM-Customizable-Program-Templates

3. 1099 by a Gym Pay Structure

The 1099 model is similar to the self-employed trainer model except the gym has a relationship with the clients. A 1099 is a tax form given to an independent contractor as opposed to a W2 which is given to employees.

In this pay structure, the gym does not actually employ you as a personal trainer, but they contract with you so that they can make money on personal training and alleviate themselves from the costs of having an employee.

The 1099 model is like when you hire a plumber to come fix your broken toilet; they are getting paid for their service but they are not your employee.

In the contractor payment style, the personal trainer and the gym typically get a split, like 50/50, on whatever the gym charges. So, if the gym charges $60 for an hour long session, they’d keep $30 and you’d get paid $30. The gym collects the money from the client and then will pay you, the trainer, for the session performed.

With this type of structure the personal trainer will be responsible for claiming taxes on the money they make, as the gym does not set aside any income since the trainer is not an employee.

Now, you may be asking yourself, “how do I know what kind of payment structure the gym I want to work at has?” Excellent question, let’s address that below.

How Popular Brand Name Gyms Pay Their Personal Trainers

While I could have left you hanging with the above information on the three various pay structures that are common for trainers who work at/with gyms, I wanted to do a deeper dive and get some answers from real trainers who work, or have worked, at some popular gym chains.

The Fitness Mentors team reached out to several gyms chains and their current employees, as well as conducted a survey with our current and previous students on Facebook, to get currently used payment structures and insight on how various gyms pay their trainers. We have provided that information below.

If you have any experience with these gyms or would like to comment on something different, please feel free to let us know in the comments so we can update this post. 

Equinox logo

Equinox Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment:

Floor hours at minimum wage – typically 20 hours a week until your client base grows.

Payment structure:

Less than 42 sessions per pay period (2 week pay period):

  • Tier 1: $26 per one hour session
  • Tier 2: $30.50 per one hour session
  • Tier 3: $36.50 per one hour session
  • Tier 3+: $45.50 per one hour session
  • Tier X: $64 per one hour session

More than 42 sessions per pay period (2 week pay period):

  • Tier 1: $31 per one hour session
  • Tier 2: $42.50 per one hour session
  • Tier 3: $53 per one hour session
  • Tier 3+: $61 per one hour session
  • Tier X: $74.50 per one hour session

The average full-time trainer at Equinox performs 25-30 training sessions per week.

Equinox Income Potential

Equinox Income Potential
24 Hour Fitnesss Logo

24-Hour Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment

Minimum wage for non-training hours.

Payment structure:

  • 20% Commission on all individual personal training package sales paid up front.
  • 10% Commission on all TC24 group training package sales.

Also, a 5% bonus commission is added to total salary when 60 training sessions or more are performed in one pay period.

24-Hour Personal Trainer Salary 24-Hour PT Tier Structure and Associated Pay per Session:

24 Hour PT Tier Structure and Associated Pay per Session

24-Hour Bonus Structure per Training Session:

24 1

24-Hour Fitness Commission for Package Sales:

24 2

24-Hour Fitness Tiers:

24 3
An example monthly salary of a new PT 1 trainer that is building up their business at 24-Hour Fitness is shown below:
  • Example minimum wage is $10/hour
  • 120 hours worked in the month at $10/hour = $1,200
  • 60 training sessions performed in the month x $7 = $420
  • $2,500 in training package sales x 20% commission = $500
  • Total Monthly Salary = $2120

24-Hour Fitness Salary Example of a Master Trainer

An example monthly salary of a full-time Master Trainer:
  • Example minimum wage is $10/hour.
  • 160 hours worked in the month at $10/hour = $1,600
  • 120 training sessions performed in the month x $17 = 2,040
  • $5000 in Training package sales x 20% commission = $1,000
  • Monthly Salary = $4,640
  • 5% commission added to the monthly salary of $4,640 since more than 60 sessions per pay period were performed = $232
  • Total Monthly Salary after 5% bonus commission= $4,872
la fitness logo png 3 1

LA Fitness Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment

Minimum wage for non-training hours.

Payment structure:
$6 – $7.50 per 30 minute session
$12 – $15 per 1 hour session

$7.50 – $15 is for larger cities with higher cost of living like in Los Angeles.
$6 – $12 is for less populated, lower cost of living areas like Arizona.

Other findings:

No findable bonus structure. Trainer turnover is very high.

Every person in the Facebook group concurred that LA Fitness is a less than ideal place to work as a trainer, but a few people mentioned they pay their group exercise instructors significantly better.

anytime fitness

Anytime Fitness Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment: 

Varies

Payment structure:

Varies, these are franchised gyms and each one has a different pay structure. 

Answers varied on payment structure for the trainers we surveyed:

  • 50/50 split 
  • Minimum wage plus bonuses to sign people on to monthly training packages 
  • Trainers can increase income by teaching group exercise classes

Other findings:

Collective agreement that Anytime Fitness is an enjoyable place to work. They are 3,000-5,000 sq ft gyms with only 5-10 trainers per location.

crunch fitness

Crunch Fitness Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment:

None
 

Payment structure:

These are franchised gyms and each location may have a different pay structure.

Here are some quotes from Crunch Fitness trainers concerning their salary. Answers varied on payment structure:

I’m only paid for hours trained and commission on sales. I’m not paid while trying to get clients.”

“I work at Crunch. Mine is a level 3 gym but because I just started I’m at level 2 for a few months. If I charge a la carte the client pays $80/hour or $50/30 minute session. Depending on my sales volume I can make between 40% and 65% of what I sell. I’m given “potential clients” but I have to sell them the personal training sessions. There’s not a sales force like at LA Fitness but the income potential is much better. I set my own hours and can work whenever I like. They encourage me to sell package deals which requires a 3 month commitment from the client. They are not allowed to cancel. Money is debited from their account either monthly or biweekly. They can also get a discount if they pay in full. For level 2, if you wanted to be trained 2x week, it would cost $504. For 3x week $697. Those are monthly rates for hour long sessions. Level 3, of course, is higher and most of the trainers at my gym are level 3. We have about 17 trainers. It’s a great place to work! Just takes time to build your clientele.” 

ymca 3 logo png transparent

YMCA Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment:

Minimum wage is paid when not training. 

Payment structure:

Basically, YMCA trainers make $15 – $28 per session/hour depending on their tier. 

We were able to find some training salary data for YMCA but it is just for the Charlotte, NC area. I assume that cities with higher costs of living would be accounted for in pay (and vice versa for smaller cities), but we were unable to find any other data on that.

The information for YMCA trainers and their tiers can be found below, respectively:

  • Tier 1 Trainer– Pay Rate: $15.89 – $19.86; Responsible for training a minimum of 2 sessions per week; Responsible for working the fitness floor 4-8 hours per week for initial 3 months
  • Tier 2 Trainer– Pay Rate: $17.48 – $21.85; Responsible for training a minimum of 5 sessions per week; Responsible for working the fitness floor 4-8 hours per week for initial 3 months
  • Tier 3 Trainer– Pay Rate: $21.00 – $26.24; Responsible for training a minimum of 10 sessions per week; Responsible for working the fitness floor 4-8 hours per week for initial 3 months
  • Tier 4 Trainer– Pay rate: $22.89 – $28.61; Responsible for training a minimum of 20 sessions per week; Responsible for working the fitness floor 4-8 hours per week for initial 3 months; Serve as a Continuing Education Provider for YMCA of Greater Charlotte teaching at least 1 workshop per year; Serve as a mentor to Tier 1-3 trainers

Other benefits include:

  • YMCA pays for all the trainers CEUs
  • The “Y” also pays the trainers’ recertification fee – approximately $100 every two years
539119d901c6b76668f4227f51378a6a

Planet Fitness Personal Trainer Salary

Non-training payment

Full-time minimum wage positions. 

Payment structure:

Typically no higher pay for trainers, but it is an easy job that requires no sales and just training. Decent for beginners looking to gain training experience but not really career-worthy. No commissions. No bonuses. 

Personal Trainer Salary FAQ

Yes, making good money as a personal trainer is very viable. Even entry-level personal trainers can make upwards of $25 an hour, and easily up to $100 an hour if they are experienced.
Our research indicates that personal trainers make anywhere from minimum wage up to $75 an hour, at more prestigious gyms. Private personal trainers can make even more per hour, charging up top $100 an hour.
The typical beginner personal trainer starts off their career in a gym as opposed to training private clients. On average, personal trainers make around $42,000 per year but the salary can vary by city, with more urban areas commanding higher salaries.
Personal training is a great career choice because it is constantly ranked highly for providing an excellent quality of life, flexible work hours, and a solid work-life balance.
Yes, many trainers that put in hard work can make $100,000 or more a year as a personal trainer. Personal trainers that take their businesses online also benefit from higher incomes as they can sell services while they sleep and are not limited to the available hours in a day as are in-person trainers.
No, it is not difficult to get a personal training job once you have a personal trainer certification. Many gyms are actively hiring personal trainers and the health and wellness industry as a whole is forecasted to continue its growth trend.

Private Personal Trainer Salary

It is a well known fact that private personal trainers have the potential to make far more than gym trainers.

Why? Because private personal trainers can set their own rates.

There is a catch for private personal trainers, however, and that is that they have to drum up enough business to write their own paycheck. But before we get into a sample private personal trainer salary let’s define exactly what a private personal trainer is.

A private personal trainer is a trainer that is self-employed, creates their own work schedule, and is free to choose the clients that they work with. For many personal trainers, this is the end goal of their personal training careers and is what sees some trainers working with celebrities and making big bucks.

Unlike gym trainers, private personal trainers don’t get help from the gym or get funneled clients from fitness organizations. They utilize their own networking, sales, and marketing skill sets to drive leads and ultimately generate new clients.

For that reason, many private personal trainers struggle to make a decent income. You can’t simply get a personal trainer certification and expect leads to come your way. (Check out this course to learn how to build your business and get clients). This is also why so many trainers start out in the gym, get experience, make relationships, begin taking on private clients on the side, and eventually leave the corporate gym environment behind.

How Much Do Private Personal Trainers Make?

A respectable private personal trainer can make upwards of $70,000 per year.

Compare this to the full time salary of a respectable personal trainer at 24-Hour Fitness which would likely fall in the low $40,000 range. And by respectable I mean one with a couple thousand hours of sessions under their belt and training 20-30 sessions per week. This low $40,000 range is also commensurate with what NASM says their average trainer makes.

For example, a 24-Hour Fitness trainer in their middle tier (PT3) makes $13 an hour when training. If you compare a potential salary of an entry-level trainer at 24-Hour Fitness, $22,440/year, to that of a Master Trainer at 24-Hour Fitness, $58,464, and split it down the middle (which is more or less where a PT3 would be), you’d get $40,452.

Now, let’s compare the above salary of a gym trainer to that of a private personal trainer.

The average private personal trainer in the U.S. charges around $50 session. Let’s say this trainer works a total of 30 hours per week and making $1,500 in that time. Multiple this time the weeks in a year, 52, and you have a respectable private trainer who is making $78,000 a year.

Potential Salary of Private Personal Trainer

  • Charges $50/session
  • Works 30 hours per week (sessions)
  • Makes $1,500/week
  • Makes $78,000/year

That same trainer can charge $100 a session, work 15 hours a week, and make the same salary.

Gym trainers typically have to work a lot more hours than private personal trainers for a fraction of the salary which is why private training is often the more desirable route. But as we’ll learn, private personal training is not the only way to make money as a trainer outside the gym.

Interested in getting a CPT with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and business development? Check out the FM-CPT for more info.

Next Steps for Aspiring Personal Trainers

Now you know what you can potentially make when you become a personal trainer at a gym. With this information, you may understand the gyms you want to work at and those you potentially want to stay away from.

One thing that should be clear with this information is that personal growth equates to more money as revealed by the tier systems many of these gyms have. The goal of continually developing yourself as a personal trainer is so you can build your book of business and generate a better income for yourself.

If you are interested in becoming an all-around better personal trainer and business-savvy individual, check out my book and online course I’ve made specifically for hungry self-starters looking to earn the income they deserve: Business and Sales: The Guide to Success as a Personal Trainer.

In addition to understanding which gym to kickstart your career, you’ll still want to have an understanding of which personal trainer certification is right for you. Amongst the three most popular certifications are Fitness MentorsNASM and ACE, of which we cover side-by-side in this in-depth blog post

If you liked this post or want us to try and find additional information, please let me know in the comments. If you have experience at other big brand gyms and want to share the salary information, please help us educate other personal trainers by sharing your thoughts below.

Check out our Top 5 Exercise Science Careers and The Best Education Paths

Instructor

CEO of fitnessmentors.com – Teaching 30,000+ students how to become CPT’s


BS Kinesiology, NASM-CPT, CES, PES FNS, MMAS, WLS, FM-CPT, ACE-CPT, Master Personal Trainer

Eddie Lester is the founder and CEO of Fitness Mentors. With more that 17 years experience in the health, fitness and athletics field, he has helped tens of thousands of personal trainers transform their careers and reach their business goals. With a background in Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology Eddie has assisted in research that is spearheading the exercise science field.

His in-depth knowledge of the Health, Wellness and Fitness industry has earned him a place as a regular contributor on high profile sites such as the Personal Trainer Development Center, (Dan to list top sites) online where he writes about nutrition and personal training.

His contributions to help personal trainers include a weekly blog, podcast, youtube channel and multiple books including: Business and Sales: the Guide to Success as a Personal Trainer.

Eddie’s Philosophy often times includes focusing on the bigger picture in which daily positive contributions lead to a major impact on himself, his family, his community and the world.

Eddie is commonly found at the beaches of Southern California with his wife Courtney and five kids.

Sports and Injuries: Which Activities Pose the Greatest Risk to Your Health?

Understanding the Intersection of Sports and Health Risks

From better physical condition to encouraging discipline and teamwork, sports and physical activities offer many advantages. But equally crucial is to recognize and grasp the hazards involved, especially the possibility of injury. The issue of what sport has the most injuries brings attention to the urgent need for prevention and awareness measures. High-risk sports and knowledge of typical injury patterns help athletes, coaches, and doctors to be proactive in lowering risks. This covers stressing recuperation and fitness programs, using improved protective gear, and pushing correct technique. In the end, striking a balance between the pleasures of sports and a concentration on safety guarantees that participants may enjoy long-term athletic involvement with minimum chance of injury.

When one considers the junction between sports and health hazards, it becomes imperative to take physical toll that athletic activities can inflict on players under consideration. Many people question, what sport has the most injuries? While the answer may vary depending on the source, studies usually point to sports like football, basketball, and soccer as main contributors owing of their great amount of physical contact and intense gameplay. Particularly at professional and collegiate levels, football is notably underlined for its connection with concussions, ligament damage, and repeated strain. Knowing these hazards highlights the necessity of better safety precautions, appropriate instruction, and awareness to make sure athletes may participate with minimum long-term health effects.

Impact of Sports Injuries on Health and Lifestyle

Usually involving muscles, bones, ligaments, or tendons, sports injuries are physical damages suffered during physical activity. Acute injuries—such as sprains or fractures brought on by unexpected trauma—as well as chronic injuries—that result from repeated stress on particular body parts—can be categorized here. Football and basketball are among the high-impact sports with most injuries; their strong physical demands and frequent collisions help to explain why. Sports injuries often result from incorrect training methods, overuse, lack of warm-up, or insufficient safety gear; all of these factors raise an athlete’s risk of injury. Prevention of injuries and preservation of long-term physical health with the stem cells for athletes depend on an awareness of these elements.

Particularly in cases involving the worst sport injuries, sports injuries can have significant effects on health and way of life. Severe injuries such dislocations, ruptured ligaments, or spinal damage can cause long-term physical restrictions, severe pain, or perhaps lifelong disability. Beyond the physical effects, these injuries sometimes provide major psychological difficulties including stress, depression, or loss of confidence as athletes negotiate protracted recuperation times and possible career constraints. Furthermore, such injuries can interfere with daily life and make ordinary chores challenging as well as needing significant medical treatment or rehabilitation. Athletes’ route to recovery involves not only physical mending but also mental resilience rebuilding and lifestyle adaptation.

Factors Contributing to Sports Injuries

Among the several causes of sports injuries include incorrect conditioning, insufficient training, and the physical demands of certain activities. High-intensity sports sometimes cause great physical strain on the body, which increases the injury risk. For example, because of their fast-paced and collision-heavy character, contact sports like football and basketball routinely cause sprains, fractures, and concussions. Furthermore, inadequate training and preparation could raise vulnerability to injuries since unconditioned muscles and joints are less suited to manage stress. Football, basketball, and soccer are frequently mentioned as the sports with the highest injury rates in research, however understanding what sport has the most injuries largely depends on the scope of participation as well as the inherent dangers of the activity. Close attention to technique, strength training, and enough warm-ups help to greatly lower these hazards.

Even beyond the physical demands of the activity itself, factors including equipment, safety gear, and ambient circumstances significantly affect the likelihood of sports injuries. While old or inappropriate gear may increase vulnerabilities, properly maintained, sport-specific equipment can significantly reduce dangers. For instance, badly fitted helmets or shoulder pads can fail to offer sufficient protection against hits in the sport with most injuries—that of football. Comparably, surface and environmental elements like uneven playing grounds or slick courts can cause falls, sprains, and other injuries. Not only improves safety but also performance by lowering the possibility of avoidable injuries by making sure surfaces are kept in good condition and athletes have suitable equipment.

High-Risk Sports and Their Injury Profiles

Because football, or soccer, is one of the most played games globally and also prone to injuries, many wonder what sport has the most injuries. Because of their frequent contact and quick direction changes, soccer ankle sprains are rather prevalent Sometimes quick pivoting or tackling causes ACL tears in players; these injuries take longer to recover. The requirement of protection is emphasized since head injuries and falls can lead to concussions. Knowing these risks emphasizes the need of preventive actions and player care both on and off the field.

Another physically taxing game with some of the worst sport injuries is rugby, especially with regard to shoulder and neck injuries. Tackle and scrummaging strains these areas by their extreme physical contact. Often suffering shoulder dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and cervical spine injuries are rugby players. High-impact tackles and collisions can result in major injuries needing either long-term rehabilitation or surgery. To prevent incapacitating injuries, players have to apply good technique, training, and preventive behaviors.

Due to its fast-paced gameplay and frequent physical contact, hockey, both ice and field versions, is another contender when determining what sport has the most injuries. Ice hockey players routinely collide with other players, boards, and the ice, which is dangerous. Head impacts cause concussions, stick or puck hits cause fractures, and mouth guard misuse causes oral injuries. Field hockey sticks and balls can cause severe bruising or fractures, especially during intense play. Helmets, face shields, and padding, together with tight safety standards, can reduce these hazards and keep players safe in this adrenaline-packed sport.

Gymnastics is typically mentioned when discussing what sport has the most injuries owing to its demanding routines that require flexibility, balance, and strength. Repetitive and severe movements can stress the body, causing wrist, spine, and knee ailments. Handstands and tumbling passes put continual weight on the wrists, and extreme arching and twisting can strain or harm the spine. High-impact landings, especially on unpadded surfaces, also strain knees. Proper training, conditioning, and supportive equipment can reduce these injuries in this precision sport.

Joint dislocations and ligament rips are prevalent in wrestling, another competitor in the dispute over what sport has the most injuries. The sport’s grappling, twisting, and extreme body-to-body contact strain shoulders, elbows, and knees. Forceful throws or holds can tear ligaments, which stabilize these joints. Bending and stretching actions that press joints beyond their usual range of motion may dislocate shoulders. To avoid these injuries, thorough technical training, muscle building, and flexibility workouts are needed to prepare the body for this intensive sport.

Psychological Impact of Sports Injuries

Athletes can experience frustration, worry, and sadness after a long injury. The unexpected disruption of habit and incapacity to compete might cause identity loss. Team support, mindfulness, and setting modest, manageable recovery goals can help throughout this difficult period. Moving on to mental strategy or analytical preparation helps sustain their interest for their sport. Recognizing recuperation as a process helps athletes adjust while maintaining long-term goals. When studying what sport causes the most injuries, research frequently point to high-contact sports like football and basketball, emphasizing the necessity of mental resilience alongside physical healing.

Particularly for players in the sport with most injuries, such as football, mental health assistance and physiotherapy are essential in the rehabilitation process. Mental health professionals can assist athletes manage stress and regain confidence during rehabilitation. Physiotherapy and medical intervention must work together for safe and effective healing. Professional care promotes recovery and reduces re-injury by establishing personalized workout programs and monitoring healing progress. These methods promote comprehensive rehabilitation, preparing athletes physically and emotionally for competition.

Balancing Enjoyment and Safety in Sports

Due to their physical demands and challenges, high-risk sports like football, basketball, and rock climbing can cause injury. Many wonder what sport has the most injuries as football constantly scores high in injury statistics. These activities test human endurance and talent, but they also emphasize safety precautions including training, gear, and rules. Precaution and preparation allow participants to enjoy these thrilling sports safely. Remember, safe sports promote personal growth and long-term enjoyment.

Last comments on balancing sports enjoyment and safety underline the need of educated judgments when participating in high-risk activities. Sports are fun, but the worst sport injuries should be avoided. Conditioning, skill training, protective gear, and safety measures can achieve this. Fun and awareness allow players to exceed their limits without sacrificing their health, keeping sports a source of love and joy rather than harm.

Top 7 US States With an Active Fitness Culture

Most people don’t know this, but where you live has the potential to affect how active and healthy you’ll be. Some cities or states simply provide the right resources that encourage people to move actively and exercise more while others don’t.

For instance, natural or geographical features such as the presence of hiking trails makes it more likely for people to jog or take walks. Similarly, man-made town-planning features like nature parks and open spaces encourage physical activity as well. People who live in cities with these features are more likely to form highly engaged communities of fitness enthusiasts.

When deciding where to live, affordability is often one of the most important factors. There’s a list at Slotozilla that ranks US states based on the cost of living. If living a healthy, active life is important to you, it makes sense to also consider whether a state offers things like public parks, walkable neighborhoods, fitness centers, and community activities that promote physical wellness.

In this guide, we present a list of the top most active US states with the most engaged fitness communities.

Vermont

Vermont is not only the second smallest US state but also one of the healthiest populations in the country. The state boasts a natural geography that encourages residents to actively pursue fitness activities.

Vermont is filled with mountainous natural parks where people can hike and cycle. Being able to tap into nature’s resources, people are more likely than not to stay active and healthy. Due to this, the people living in this state engage in individual as well as group fitness activities. Statistics show that up to 65.3% of adults living in Vermont report exercising for at least 30 minutes, three or more days in a week.

Colorado

Colorado is another US state where fitness and physical exercise is hugely popular. The state boasts some of the highest percentages in the country for physical activity with residents actively participating in snow and mountain activities. Some of the most popular include:

  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Skating
  • Snowmobiling

Colorado has a highly evolved outdoor fitness culture, and the majority of the population is engaged in team sports. There are many fitness clubs and gyms, especially in the state’s two largest cities, Boulder and Denver. With the physical activity level of Colorado residents, it’s no surprise that obesity and diabetes rates in Colorado are significantly lower than the national average.

Montana

Montana is an extremely rural state. It’s no surprise that it has one of the highest percentages of people who work out regularly and form active fitness communities. People in this state are not forced into the sedentary lifestyle that characterizes most conventional urban regions.

Montana also ranks high in states with high gym membership. This points to the reality that there’s a culture within the state that prioritizes fitness and recreation. Though Montana does not have a major league sports team, there are several minor league teams and great involvement in sport at the collegiate and high school levels across the state.

California

The state of California has always had a reputation of being healthy. In fact, 100% of residents in San Francisco, California, live within a 10-minute walk to a park. This is why it isn’t surprising that the state is ranked as one of the fittest in the country. In addition to being exercise buffs, residents in this state also participate actively in sports. Examples of classic sports that are popular in this state include:

  • Football
  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Water sports (surfing, sailing and water polo)

The state also has the largest number of gyms in the United States (over 5,000 gyms). As of 2019, roughly 30% of residents in this California have an active gym membership, demonstrating just how health conscious Californians are.

Connecticut

The state of Connecticut prioritizes personal fitness activities as well as community-based health initiatives. This goes a long way in promoting the overall health and fitness of residents in the state.

In a way, residents of this state owe their level of fitness and physical activity to the state’s geography, which promotes outdoor sports. There are a lot of great areas for hiking and biking. Residents also play a lot of golf, and practice water sports on the numerous river courses, leading to a generally healthier population compared to other places.

Utah

Many of the people living in Utah prioritize sports and fitness activities, particularly mountain sports such as climbing. This has been attributed to the presence of remarkable climbing spots in the state due to its location in a mountainous region.

In addition to this, Utah residents also participate in home workouts as well as team sports like football and soccer. Beyond being spectators of these sports, residents also love to play actively. Up to 80% of the state’s total population participates in some form of physical activity or the other, making Utah one of the best states to live in if you prioritize physical activity.

Hawaii

Hawaii is one US state that has always been about the outdoor life. One of the most famous holiday destinations in the United States, people visit the Island from all over the world to explore the pristine beaches and participate in various physical activities.

However, in addition to the water sports (which is clearly the main interest of Hawaiians), the Island also has several beautiful trails, perfect for hiking and a long list of other outdoor activities. It is clear that the state’s stunning natural scenery is a major part of the reason why its citizens spend more time outside and are more actively involved in physical activity. Subsequently, Hawaii has one of the lowest obesity rates in the entire country.

As a summary of the points outlined in this article, the following table represents the most favored sport activities in each of the states above.

State

Most Popular Sporting Activities

Vermont

Hiking and mountain biking

Colorado

Skiing and snowboarding

Montana

Hiking and horseback riding

Connecticut

Basketball, football and golf

Utah

Skiing, hiking and mountain biking

Hawaii

Surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and swimming

California

Surfing, water polo, football


Conclusion

These states listed in this guide have a larger number of people who take up active exercise compared to other states within the country. This also means that residents here are likely to form fitness communities and join group exercises, motivating one another to a healthy lifestyle. These are the best places to live if you are an active person and enjoy a healthy regimen.