Six questions personal trainers need to be able to answer

Personal trainers are sure to be on the receiving ends from both clients and prospective clients. Being able to answer those queries could be the difference between a booking and a missed opportunity.

Attracting clients isn’t necessarily all about achieving results. Someone looking for a PT is far more likely to sign up to a trainer with an approachable, knowledgeable personality, than one that simply trains, and little else.

Here are seven questions you should be able to answer if a potential client asks:

Will hiring a personal trainer really help?

According to Google, there are, on average, 110 searches a month for “Are personal trainers worth it?” (and close variants). That is a large number of people that personal trainers need to convince of their merit.

When advertising your business, or meeting a potential client it’s important to have a clear answer to this question. Being able to pin-point the specific things you can help that person with will act as a check-list of the things they are looking for. Think about not only why hiring a personal trainer in general is worth it, but also about why you in particular are the trainer for them.

What qualifications do you have?

One of the questions that doesn’t have an open answer. Ensuring you are qualified to teach is vital – as you are unlikely to get insurance without it. Be clear in your mind which courses you have completed and relay that information proudly to your customers.

If you’ve taken a slightly unusual or more advanced course, make sure you shout about it. Advertising this without clients having to ask can only be a good thing.

What is your fitness philosophy?

Although every client is going to have different goals, it’s likely you have your own targets for each client. It could be that you are of the belief that stronger is simply better. Maybe you are more focused on better all-round health, or even simply focused on building a client’s self confidence.

There is no right or wrong answer here, but knowing what your fitness philosophy is will help a prospective client make up their mind easier.

What is your training style?

Like the question above, different fitness professionals will approach sessions in different ways. Some will simply give instructions and step back and observe, others will be train in a more full-on boot camp-style manner. Some clients might not like a trainer who is particularly loud and strict, others may want that encouragement and direction.

There is no right or wrong answer here, but knowing what your fitness philosophy is will help a prospective client make up their mind easier.

What should I eat before/after my workout?

Although to give complete, in-depth dietary advice you may need a qualification in nutrition, all personal trainers should be able to help if a client needs general guidance. Whether that is knowing which type of carbohydrates to eat before a workout, or what snacks are better in between sessions, having some basic knowledge goes a long way to build trust.

How long will it take for me to see results?

Although results might not be the be-all-and-end-all when it comes to attracting clients, once you have them, it’s all about reaching their goal. Of course, the length of time it takes for clients to achieve their target depends on their input too, but having some plan is ideal.

From there, clients can more easily see their progress. So if their goal is to lose two stone in 10 weeks for example, they know they’re on target if they’re a stone down after five.

Managing expectations is a major part of being a personal trainer. It is likely you will get questions surrounding hitting results when speaking to clients. By being able to answer them clearly you will instil confidence in them.

Where are you insured?

OK, we may have stuck a seventh question in there, but make sure you know the answer. Protectivity Personal Trainer Insurance starts from just £4.09 a month with full Public Liability and Professional Indemnity cover. Get a quote today!

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