Are you a gym owner looking to hire a trainer for your strength and conditioning gym?
You’re not alone.
The fitness industry has seen a steady increase in demand for personal trainers for years, especially in the strength and conditioning niche. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 19 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to Bis.gov.
But with so many trainers to choose from, how do you find the right fit for your gym and clients?
How do you even know which trainers are a good fit for a strength and conditioning gym?
Hire the wrong person, and your members won’t see any results; worse, might leave!
Well, that’s why we’ve put this guide together.
Here, we’ll help you navigate the hiring process and find the best fit for your gym and clients. We’ll go over everything, from understanding the kind of trainer you need to the trainer interview process.
Let’s dive in.
This Article in a Nutshell
- Strength and conditioning gyms need experienced trainers to foster great relationships with members, help people achieve their goals, and boost revenue.
- When hiring a trainer, look for skills like interpersonal skills, the ability to keep members motivated, and a desire for continuous improvement.
- Some of the best questions to ask trainers when interviewing them are: “How do you determine what’s best for a client?” and “How do you stay up to date with the latest research and trends in the fitness industry?”
What is the Cost of Hiring a Personal Trainer?
Be prepared to spend at least a few thousand dollars on a personal trainer. The cost of hiring a good personal trainer can vary based on their experience, location and the type of services they offer.
For example, if you live in New York City and want an Olympic athlete as your trainer, expect to pay more than if you were hiring someone with the same credentials from rural Iowa.
In addition, some trainers charge by the hour while others charge by session or package deals (e.g., 10 sessions for $500)
The best way to calculate the cost of hiring a personal trainer is by looking at how many sessions per week they recommend doing at first. This should help you determine if it makes financial sense for both parties involved.
Why Hire a Personal Trainer for Your Gym?
There are many benefits to having a personal trainer in your gym. Personal trainers can help you increase membership and revenue, as well as build better relationships
Increased Membership
Personal trainers often have their own websites to advertise their services, which means that potential clients can find them online.
Having a trainer available at the gym is also an incentive for people who may not have considered joining before because they didn’t think they could afford it or didn’t know how to get started working out on their own–now they do!
Better Relationships With Members
Personal trainers are trained professionals whose job is to motivate people through fitness goals and provide individualized attention based on each client’s needs (e.g., “I want to lose weight,” “I need help getting back into shape after being injured”).
Having a skilled personal trainer on-site can make your clients feel comfortable asking questions about exercises, workout frequency, and other common starter fitness questions.
Consistent Presence
When you hire a full-time personal trainer, you can count on them to be available for your members on a regular basis.
The consistency provides an opportunity for trainers to build relationships with members, gain insight into their fitness goals and work with them to develop personalized workout plans. This translates to better engagement, retention and overall satisfaction for your members
More Accountability
When a personal trainer is part of your team, they can hold members accountable and motivate them to stay on track with their fitness goals. This helps members achieve their goals faster but also helps to build trust and loyalty between the trainer and members.
Greater Flexibility
A full-time personal trainer can provide greater flexibility in scheduling, as they can work with members during peak and off peak hours. This makes it easier for members who have busy schedules and need to work out at different times of the day.
Customization
A full-time personal trainer can work with members to develop customized workout plans based on their individual needs and goals. A personalized approach can lead to better results and members who feel more invested in their fitness journey
Increased Revenue
Hiring a full-time personal trainer can increase revenue for your gym. Members are more likely to sign up for personal training sessions if they know that a trainer is available at most hours of the day. A full-time personal trainer will also improve member retention.
Once members get comfortable with a trainer, they’ll naturally want to renew their membership.
Deciding Between a Full-Time vs Freelance Personal Trainer
You have two main options when you’re looking to hire personal trainers: full-time or freelance.
The difference between the two is simple.
A full-time trainer works at your gym on a regular basis and may have other duties besides training clients (e.g., managing trainers), while a freelance personal trainer works as an independent contractor and can choose which gyms he or she wants to work out of.
Consider these questions when deciding between hiring a full-time vs freelance personal trainer:
What Experience Do I Want My Trainer To Have?
A freelancer might have more experience working with all sorts of clients with physical and health issues due to the virtue of their job. A full-time trainer in comparison might be less diversified but typically have a tailored set of skills they’ve honed to perfection working at a singular or multiple gyms over the years.
What Is Your Budget For Hiring A Personal Trainer?
Full-time trainers typically cost more due to their benefits and salary requirements. A freelance personal trainer in comparison, may charge less but require additional expenses and insurance.
What Level Of Experience Do You Want Your Personal Trainer To Have?
Full-time trainers may have more experience and be able to provide consistent training, while freelance trainers may have more specialized skills or experience in a particular area.
What is the scope of work for the personal trainer? Do you need someone to provide training for specific classes or programs, or do you need someone to provide general fitness training to your members? Full-time trainers may be better suited for ongoing programs, while freelance trainers may be better suited for one-time events or specialized training.
What Is Your Management Style?
Full-time trainers may require more direct supervision, while freelance trainers may work more independently. It’s essential to consider your management style when deciding which type of trainer would work best for your gym.
What Is The Availability Of The Trainer?
Full-time trainers typically work regular hours, while freelance trainers may have more flexible schedules. Consider what hours you need a trainer and if your candidates are available.
What Type Of Liability Insurance Does The Trainer Have?
It’s important to ensure the trainer has proper insurance in case of any injuries or accidents during training sessions.
What are the Different Types of Trainers?
There are many different types of personal trainers, and each one has its own speciality. This can make it hard to know which one is right for your gym. To help you decide, here are some common specialities:
Sports Performance Trainer
This type of trainer specializes in helping athletes improve their performance through strength training and conditioning programs. They may also work with non-athletes who want to get into better shape but don’t have any specific goals related to sports performance (for example, someone who wants to lose weight or build muscle).
Weight Loss Specialist
A weight loss specialist focuses on helping clients reach their goals by focusing on nutrition as well as exercise. They often have experience working with people who have struggled with obesity or diabetes before and know how hard it can be to try out new diets or start an exercise program!
Where to Find Personal Trainers
There are tons of talented personal trainers out there, if you know where to look. Here are some of the best places you can start your search:
Your Local Gym
If you’re a member of a gym or fitness center that offers personal training services, this is probably your best bet. You can ask around and see if anyone knows any good trainers who work there–or even ask for recommendations directly from the gym itself!
Online Job Sites like Craigslist and Monster (and even LinkedIn)
These sites often have listings for open positions at gyms and other health clubs throughout your city or town. You can scout for talented Personal trainers by reviewing multiple applications and interviewing the candidates that fit best with your business.
Make sure to include all relevant information about yourself and your business when you’re making a listing on Linkedin or any other recruitment sites.
Skills to Look for in a Great Personal Trainer
While you’re searching for a personal trainer, it’s important to ensure they have all the proper qualifications and experience. Here are some things to look for:
Certifications
You should only hire trainers with certifications from reputable organizations like ACSM (the American College of Sports Medicine), NSCA (National Strength & Conditioning Association) or ACE (American Council on Exercise).
These certifications demonstrate that your trainer has been trained in exercise science and understands how the body works when performing different types of exercises.
Next, check out our post on Personal Training Certification Guide
Specialization In Strength Training Or Conditioning
If you’re looking for someone who specializes in strength training or conditioning, then make sure they have at least one certification from an organization such as NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) or CSCCa (Canadian Society For Clinical Chiropractic Applied Research).
These certifications show that your trainer has completed specific courses on anatomy & physiology related towards developing muscular strength/endurance; injury prevention/treatment; nutrition counseling, etc.
Soft Skills Every Personal Trainer Should Have
There are several skills to look for in a great personal trainer. Here are some of the most important ones:
Communication Skills
A great personal trainer should be able to explain exercises and complicated movements in a clear, concise, and digestible format. They should also be great at providing feedback, making effective corrections and listening to their clients’ concerns and questions.
Knowledge of Exercise Science
A great personal trainer should have a strong foundation in exercise science, anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics. They should be able to design safe and effective workout programs tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
Motivational Skills
It’s a prerequisite for a good personal trainer to be able to inspire and motivate their clients to reach their fitness goals. Through their words and actions, they should be able to keep their clients focused and engaged through their workouts and help them rediscover their convictions when they inevitably fall off the wagon.
Adaptability
Your ideal candidate should have experience with different kinds of clients and success adapting their training style to their unique needs. They should be able to think on their feet, and modify exercises and workout programs based on their clients’ medical history, fitness level, injuries and limitations, and personal preferences.
Interpersonal Skills
A great personal trainer should be personable and able to build strong relationships with their clients. They should be able to create a positive and supportive environment that encourages clients to stay committed to their fitness goals.
Time Management Skills
As your business grows and attracts new clients, juggling appointments, creating quick workout plans, and tracking individual progress will become even more critical. Your personal trainer should be able to handle all of this responsibility, while maintaining the quality of their sessions.
Continuous Learning
The fitness industry is ever-evolving. As new research is published and old concepts are merged with the new, it’s crucial more than ever to be up-to-date. A great personal trainer should be able to keep up with new developments and trends and adapt quickly.
Writing a Personal Trainer Job Description for Your Gym
A well-written personal trainer job description is your call card for all potential candidates. It helps communicate your standards and expectations, as well as the benefits you can provide for the right candidate. A well-written job description can shave days off the recruitment process.
Example 1:
Position: Personal Trainer
Location: Fitness Center
Job Description:
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced personal trainer to join our fitness center. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and implementing customized workout plans for our clients and providing guidance and support to help them achieve their fitness goals.
The ideal candidate must have a strong foundation in exercise science, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others live healthier lives.
Responsibilities:
- Design and implement customized workout plans for clients based on their fitness level, goals, and preferences
- Provide guidance and support to help clients achieve their fitness goals
- Monitor clients’ progress and make adjustments to their workout plans as needed
- Educate clients on proper exercise form and technique
- Maintain a clean and safe workout environment
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field
- Certified personal trainer (NASM, ACE, ACSM, or equivalent)
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
- Passion for helping others live a healthier lifestyle
Example 2:
Position: Group Fitness Trainer
Location: Boutique Gym
Job Description:
We are seeking a dynamic and energetic group fitness trainer to lead a variety of fitness classes at our boutique gym. The ideal candidate will be responsible for creating and delivering engaging and effective workouts that challenge and motivate our clients. They should also have a strong background in group fitness instruction, excellent communication skills, and a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals.
Responsibilities:
- Design and deliver engaging and effective group fitness classes (e.g., HIIT, spin, yoga, Pilates, etc.)
- Develop and modify workout routines to accommodate different fitness levels and abilities
- Provide guidance and support to help clients achieve their fitness goals
- Motivate and challenge clients to push themselves to their limits
- Create a positive and supportive workout environment
Requirements:
- Certified group fitness instructor (ACE, AFAA, NASM, or equivalent)
- Strong background in group fitness instruction
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends
- Passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals
Example 3:
Position: Personal Training Manager
Location: Health Club
Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven personal training manager to oversee our team of personal trainers and ensure the highest level of service and client satisfaction. When hired, they will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the personal training department and developing and implementing strategies to grow the business.
The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of success in personal training management, excellent leadership and communication skills, and a passion for helping others live a healthier lifestyle.
Responsibilities:
- Manage day-to-day operations of the personal training department, including scheduling, staffing, and client management
- Develop and implement strategies to grow the personal training business
- Recruit, train, and mentor a team of personal trainers
- Monitor and evaluate personal trainer performance and provide feedback and coaching as needed
- Ensure the highest level of service and client satisfaction
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or a related field
- Certified personal trainer (NASM, ACE, ACSM, or equivalent)
- Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in personal training management
- Excellent leadership and communication skills
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
- Passion for helping others live a healthier lifestyle
These are just a few examples of how you can write a personal trainer job description. It should go without saying, but remember to clearly define your position, responsibilities, and requirements if you want to hire the right candidates.
Interviewing Personal Trainer Candidates
Interviewing personal trainer candidates is a critical step in finding the right fit for your strength and conditioning gym. Here are five great example questions to ask during the interview process:
1. What Inspired You To Become A Personal Trainer And What Motivates You To Continue In This Profession?
This question helps you understand the candidate’s personal motivations for becoming a personal trainer and what keeps the fire burning. Their response can offer insights into their commitment to the profession and their willingness to go above and beyond for their clients.
2. What Is Your Training Philosophy, And How Do You Determine The Best Approach For Each Client?
This question allows you to assess the candidate’s training philosophy and ability to tailor their approach to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. Their response can help you determine if their training style aligns with your gym’s values and if they have the flexibility to adapt to a variety of clients.
3. How Do You Stay Up To Date With The Latest Research And Trends In The Fitness Industry?
Personal trainers should be committed to continuous learning and professional development. Their response can indicate if they have a growth mindset and are willing to invest in their ongoing education to stay current with the latest research and trends in the fitness industry.
4. Can You Describe A Time When You Faced A Challenging Situation With A Client And How You Handled It?
This question allows you to assess the candidate’s problem-solving skills and ability to handle difficult situations with clients. Their response can help you determine if they have the communication and interpersonal skills necessary to build strong relationships with clients and address concerns in a professional and effective manner.
5. Can You Provide References From Previous Clients Or Employers?
You can tell a lot about a personal trainer by their references and previous work experience. Despite what their resume might say, you can’t hire a candidate until you’ve checked their references. They provide insight into the candidate’s overall work ethic, professionalism, and ability to deliver results for clients.
Asking these and other relevant questions during the interview process can help you find the right personal trainer for your strength and conditioning gym.
FAQs About Hiring a Trainer for a Strength and Conditioning Gym
1. Is It Worth It To Pay For A Trainer At A Gym?
Hiring a personal trainer has multiple benefits for your strength and conditioning gym. Aside from bringing in more clients and allowing you to scale up your business, they can also complement your skill as a personal trainer and help you grow in certain aspects.
As for your clients, they are great because they help them improve their overall health and remain accountable to their fitness goals.
However, taking on a personal trainer, especially when you’re in the beginning stage of your business, can be prohibitively pricey. Depending on their skill level, they can charge anywhere from $12 to $40 per hour, according to Indeed.
Ultimately, if you have plans set in place and the members to support the extra pay, the benefits of having a strength and conditioning trainer far outweigh the costs.
2. Is A Personal Trainer A Strength And Conditioning Coach?
Personal trainers and strength and conditioning coaches have different roles, duties, and requirements.
Personal trainers work one-on-one with individuals in a gym setting, while strength and conditioning coaches work with athletes. Both roles require in-depth knowledge about exercise instruction, program development, anatomy, and nutrition, and both have the ability to change people’s lives for the better.
3. What Is The Difference Between A Personal Trainer And An S&C Coach?
The primary difference between a personal trainer and a strength and conditioning coach is the type of client they work with. Personal trainers work with individuals in a gym setting to help them meet their fitness goals, while strength and conditioning coaches work with athletes to improve their athletic performance.
While the roles may require similar knowledge and skills, the focus and context of their work are different.
4. How Long Should You Hire A Personal Trainer For A Strength And Conditioning Gym?
That depends on your individual goals as well as your gym members. Some gym members might benefit from working with a personal trainer for a few sessions to develop an exercise program, while others may need several months to make significant progress. Ultimately, the demand should influence the length of the contract.
