Last updated on May 28, 2025
Starting Strong as a New Personal Trainer
You’ve completed your personal training certification, studied anatomy, learned how to design effective programs, and passed your exam. But now comes the part that no exam can fully prepare you for—landing your first client.
Getting started can feel intimidating, especially when you’re competing with more established trainers. But remember this: everyone starts somewhere. Your first client is out there—they just need to know who you are and how you can help them.
Marketing and sales are part of the job, especially in the early stages. The more visibility you create and value you provide, the faster you’ll build trust and credibility. Once clients start seeing results, referrals tend to follow. Until then, here are five practical, approachable strategies to land your first personal training client and start building your fitness business with confidence.
1. Lead by Example: Train in Public and Be Approachable
People notice consistency. When you work out in a gym or fitness facility, treat it as both a workout and a marketing opportunity. You don’t need to talk about your credentials—let your form, energy, and presence do the talking. When others see you training with proper technique, trying new exercises, and staying consistent, they’ll naturally associate you with someone who knows what they’re doing.
Smile, be approachable, and don’t hesitate to make small talk. Often, casual gym-goers are looking for help but don’t know who to ask. Your presence and professionalism can invite those first questions: “Hey, how do you do that movement?” or “What do you think about this form?” These conversations can organically lead to a conversation about personal training—and your first potential client.
2. Provide Friendly, Consent-Based Coaching Cues
You’ve probably seen someone struggle with equipment, perform risky lifts with poor form, or avoid entire movement patterns out of uncertainty. As a certified trainer, this is your chance to add value. However, the key is to approach with empathy and respect. Before offering help, always ask: “Would you mind if I made a quick suggestion?” This shows respect and opens the door to a positive interaction. Keep your feedback brief and encouraging. If they’re receptive, you can mention that you’re a trainer and happy to help with questions anytime. Being generous with your knowledge—not pushy—can create goodwill and establish your reputation as someone who adds value without expecting anything in return. That kind of impression is memorable and referral-worthy.
3. Offer Free Fitness Assessments and Actionable Insights
People love free value—especially when it’s tailored and relevant. Offering complimentary fitness assessments is one of the most effective ways to convert a conversation into a training session. You can do this in a low-pressure format with just a clipboard, stopwatch, and basic assessment tools.
Try offering a 30-minute session that includes:
- A body composition estimate or circumference measurements
- Movement screening (e.g., overhead squat, step-down)
- A basic strength or endurance test (e.g., push-up, plank, or walk test)
After the assessment, provide quick insights and recommendations: “Based on your squat mechanics and posture, I’d recommend starting with some core and glute activation drills. If you’d like, I can show you a few.” From there, you can invite them to schedule a follow-up session. This strategy works especially well in community centers, apartment gyms, or small fitness studios where casual exercisers may never have had a trainer take an interest in their form before.
4. Leverage Your Existing Network
Your first client might be closer than you think. Friends, family, co-workers, or former classmates can be your earliest supporters. Let your network know what you’re doing through a short message or email: “Hey! I recently got certified as a personal trainer, and I’m starting to take on clients. If you or someone you know wants help with strength, energy, or weight loss goals, I’d love to chat.” If someone expresses interest, offer to meet for a casual goal-setting session. You can even offer a discounted rate or a free first session to make the transition feel lower-risk for both of you.
Another great idea: work with a local micro-influencer—someone with a strong personal or professional network (not necessarily online fame). Offer them a free trial of your services in exchange for honest testimonials, word-of-mouth referrals, or social media shoutouts. This can help build buzz and credibility fast.
5. Use Social Media to Build Presence and Trust
You don’t need a huge following to build a personal training business—you just need consistency and a voice that’s authentic. Pick one platform (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or LinkedIn) and post at least 3–4 times per week. Focus on:
- Educational content (e.g., “3 tips for avoiding lower back pain during squats”)
- Behind-the-scenes glimpses of your own training
- Personal stories or client shoutouts (with permission)
- Short how-to videos and reels demonstrating simple movements
Use hashtags relevant to your niche and community, engage with other local fitness accounts, and always respond to comments and DMs. Over time, people will start to associate your name with helpful, trustworthy fitness content—which can convert casual followers into real-life clients.
Bonus tip: Go live or host a “Free Q&A Friday” on Instagram to start conversations and answer questions in real time. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise and show your face to your audience.
You Only Need One Client to Start
Many new personal trainers think they need a logo, business cards, and a full website to get started. But in reality, you only need one client to begin—and one client often leads to two. Focus on offering value, building relationships, and showing up consistently, whether online or in-person. Be helpful. Be visible. Be genuine. The first few conversations might feel awkward, but the more you practice sharing your expertise and inviting people to work with you, the easier it becomes.
If you’re looking for a certification program that includes business-ready tools and resources, check out AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification. This 100% online program includes everything you need to start a thriving personal training business from day one and is taught by 15 expert certified personal trainers, fitness business owners, and PhD-level exercise physiologists.
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