How Do I Scale My Personal Training Business Significantly?

[JLE]

Just two things:

1) When you're working out over the next two years and someone asks if you can give them tips, do it. If they ask if they can pay you for more tips, say Yes.

2) Don't beat yourself up. You're maybe not ready because it doesn't hurt bad enough.

I'm reminded of this thread:

GOLD! - MINDSET - Does It Hurt Bad Enough?

A traveling salesmen was passing thru a small country town and stopped at a mom and pop convenient store to pick up snacks and a drink. The place was an old building with old wooden floors and owned by a man well into his later years. As the salesman shopped he noticed a bloodhound laying in...

www.thefastlaneforum.com

Thank you Andy.

I do get asked for tips from random guys in the gym at least once a week. I'm in better shape than most men and so others frequently seek my advice. I've even recently seen a bunch of 16-19 year old guys at the gym I go to doing the exact exercises I do and in the way that I do them. Either it's a coincidence or they're imitating me in hopes of achieving the progress I have. I thought it was an amusing observation.

Additionally I've been coaching @O1i here on the fastlane forums over email/text for the past month and he's making great progress. He's gained 4kg and is well underway towards his goal physique.

So I know I have the knowledge to succeed in this business, but the problem is that I'm not satisfied with the product I'm selling yet. I want to improve myself further before identifying myself online as some sort of expert.

I wouldn't buy a book on making millions from someone who's never made millions. I wouldn't learn piano from someone who couldn't play Für Elise. Those with mastery of something, very clear observable skill, are highly sought after. My credibility, and thereby reputation, should never put into question; especially in the age of the internet.

I realize you're all coming from a good place so thank you again. I can and will get there. But it's going to take time.

 

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[Andy Black]

Thank you Andy.

I do get asked for tips from random guys in the gym at least once a week. I'm in better shape than most men and so others frequently seek my advice. I've even recently seen a bunch of 16-19 year old guys at the gym I go to doing the exact exercises I do and in the way that I do them. Either it's a coincidence or they're imitating me in hopes of achieving the progress I have. I thought it was an amusing observation.

Additionally I've been coaching @O1i here on the fastlane forums over email/text for the past month and he's making great progress. He's gained 4kg and is well underway towards his goal physique.

So I know I have the knowledge to succeed in this business, but the problem is that I'm not satisfied with the product I'm selling yet. I want to improve myself further before identifying myself online as some sort of expert.

I wouldn't buy a book on making millions from someone who's never made millions. I wouldn't learn piano from someone who couldn't play Für Elise. Those with mastery of something, very clear observable skill, are highly sought after. My credibility, and thereby reputation, should never put into question; especially in the age of the internet.

I realize you're all coming from a good place so thank you again. I can and will get there. But it's going to take time.

Ok, I feel we're getting somewhere.

The title of this thread is "How do I scale my personal training business significantly?"

I understand you wanting to scale significantly by building a big audience, and/or selling ebooks or online coaching/courses.

I contend that you start by getting the people you know and in your gym results, and scaling from there.

I think business is simple: Help people. Get paid. Help more people.

Start. Sell. Scale.

I contend you need to start and make sales before scaling.


Maybe read this essay from Paul Graham about doing things that don't scale:

Do Things that Don't Scale

paulgraham.com

 

[JLE]

I understand you wanting to scale significantly by building a big audience, and/or selling ebooks or online coaching/courses.

I contend that you start by getting the people you know and in your gym results, and scaling from there.

Hi Andy, you've been persistent in trying to help me. I've read every article you've linked me, including the one by Paul just now.

I understand your premise of: "Just start. Help people. Do it in-person. Get paid. Help another person."

There is no argument from me. I know it would work. I would probably find at least one client to help with personal training in-person in under 24 hours were I to actually go offering my services at my local gym. There's plenty of guys there that clearly value my input.

The problem is: I want to start an online fitness coaching service.

Could I transition from offline to online? Probably. It's just a matter of flat-out not wanting to do it. I work 7 days a week in the slowlane, have a wife, and a rigorous workout schedule from trying to be a bodybuilder ⁠— training in-person clients on top of that just isn't something I want to do. Even if I were to completely quit my job or reduce my work-days to 5 days a week and pick this up, it isn't something I would enjoy doing in-person. I know that's selfish and me-focused but that's the truth of it.

I'd like to do something to build an online following for myself as a bodybuilder. Give it time, as long as it needs. Then generate an income from that audience. That is the path I would like to take. I'm in no rush.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A better question might be: What project can I work on privately for the next 2 years that will help people massively once it's released? That way I can work on my shape in private for 2 years, and I'll have a video/course/book/app/product/supplement/something to release in unison that is interesting/helpful/entertaining for others to watch/use/read/take. This is where my thinking has been going...

What type of media (video/book/audio) or product would you personally (or anyone) like to see/have that entertains/educates/inspires/helps you as it pertains to the bodybuilding niche?

 

[consultwithu]

I appreciate the tip, I know you had good intentions with it, though that sounds like a surefire way to do what everyone else is doing with no results.

How do I PULL my customers in?

What value can I potentially add? What seperates me from every other trainer?

Usually you should be present on all major social platforms. I.E.: FB, Insta, TikTok, YT.
Plan 1h/day for the start to cover those. Create an website with your brand-name and reserve the same name on social media.
Post small tips every day on your core competency topics.
Via FB ads you can start small campaigns for the begining.

CryptoCurt is giving you gold here JLE. The second you approach someone they are going to search your social media accts. If you have none then you have just turned yourself in to Sisyphus.

 

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[JLE]

CryptoCurt is giving you gold here JLE. The second you approach someone they are going to search your social media accts. If you have none then you have just turned yourself in to Sisyphus.

I agree with CryptoCurt now. Gotta understand how dated this forum post is. I no longer hold the opinion that I shouldn't be on social media. I now think being on social media is quite literally make-or-break to success in this business.

 

[Roli]

I don't wish to turn my personal training services into an e-book. I'm fine with sacrificing my time.

However, how can I market myself efficiently in order to attract clients for personal training services both online + offline?

I'm a Certified Personal Trainer living in the middle of Ontario and an aspiring competitive heavyweight bodybuilder.

I'm presently getting business cards printed.

Any advice?

I would go the Jeff Cavaliere route. He is the most successful fitness guy on Youtube because his knowledge comes across with passion.

 

[JLE]

I would go the Jeff Cavaliere route. He is the most successful fitness guy on Youtube because his knowledge comes across with passion.

I'm very much interested in using Youtube to grow a following as a bodybuilder. I'm not set on any one venture but that is something I have been considering. There's a few different ideas I have on building something in the bodybuilding niche but I'd love to have the input of others.

So I'm going to pose this question again.

I asked it above. But I'm gonna ask it again. It's available for anyone to answer.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What project can I work on privately for the next 2 years that will help people massively once it's released?

What video/course/book/app/product/supplement/something would be interesting/helpful/entertaining for others to watch/use/read/take in the bodybuilding niche?

What type of media (video/book/audio) or product would you personally (or anyone) like to see/have that entertains/educates/inspires/helps you as it pertains to the bodybuilding niche?

What do you guys think of a documentary? A course? A book? A membership forum? A really elaborate and quality 30+ minute Youtube video guide on bodybuilding? A phone app? A web app? What problems are you having in bodybuilding that could be improved through technology or media? A high-protein and low/no fat food product? Another supplement company? Another fitness clothing company, but somehow better?

I'd love to hear anyone's answers to these questions if anyone is interested in giving it a shot.

 

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[O1i]

I think for your goals the foundation is an audience so it wouldnt be smart to work on a phone app atm because with the audience you can sell them this phone app later but you cant build the app and sell to a none existing audience after.

So my answer is probably starting with problem solving/interesting YouTube Videos.

What video would i be interested to watch about fitness/bodybuilding if i go to youtube rn?
- A really elaborate and quality 30+ minute Youtube video guide on bodybuilding? Yes.
- How to become a bodybuilder? Yes, interesting.
- How to go from skinny to bodybuilder body! Yes, solves a problem.
- How to get the perfect body you ever wanted? Yes, sounds good.
- If you start doing THIS then you will never be skinny agin! Yes, TELL ME THE SECRET!!
...
if you want to catch some people who are looking for shortcuts then add at the end something like "...FAST." or "..EASY." you know haha

What project can I work on privately for the next 2 years that will help people massively once it's released?

A video guide on every exercise your clients will need to do.
go one level up:
A video guide with exactly the exercises back to back to do them at the same time.

why? first its a value skew and your student doesnt need to watch random youtube videos.
- less time work
- build a connection to the client
- do work for future projects like if you build a app for the exercises you already made them.

after you got even a small audience you can start to build your course or make a book.

the good part? you will already have experience in makeing videos so it will help you again.

here is a random idea i got while im writing this:
a video coaching app to have the client, the coach and the exercise video played at the same time to give the client tipps in realtime on there execution of the exercises.
tracking the students meals in the app?
tracking the clients progress in the app? like how many reps and weight to see the progress.
payment processes with automated billing each month.

everything we are doing with email right now just with an app.

if you want more video ideas, just tell me haha im your target audience to some degree.

 

[Roli]

What video/course/book/app/product/supplement/something would be interesting/helpful/entertaining for others to watch/use/read/take in the bodybuilding niche?

You are the fitness expert, choose one of these things and then ask the business experts on here how to perfect whatever you decide to execute.

Keep looking around and try and find a need other fitness influencers aren't filling.

 

[Roli]

I'm very much interested in using Youtube to grow a following as a bodybuilder. I'm not set on any one venture but that is something I have been considering. There's a few different ideas I have on building something in the bodybuilding niche but I'd love to have the input of others.

So I'm going to pose this question again.

I asked it above. But I'm gonna ask it again. It's available for anyone to answer.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What project can I work on privately for the next 2 years that will help people massively once it's released?

What video/course/book/app/product/supplement/something would be interesting/helpful/entertaining for others to watch/use/read/take in the bodybuilding niche?

What type of media (video/book/audio) or product would you personally (or anyone) like to see/have that entertains/educates/inspires/helps you as it pertains to the bodybuilding niche?

What do you guys think of a documentary? A course? A book? A membership forum? A really elaborate and quality 30+ minute Youtube video guide on bodybuilding? A phone app? A web app? What problems are you having in bodybuilding that could be improved through technology or media? A high-protein and low/no fat food product? Another supplement company? Another fitness clothing company, but somehow better?

I'd love to hear anyone's answers to these questions if anyone is interested in giving it a shot.

Here's one for you, focus on time. We all want to get the maximum fitness in the shortest amount of time. Maybe do an entrepreneurs fitness program whereby you focus on the best exercises to get fit doing only 10-20 minutes a day.

This doesn't have to be limited to exercise, you can expand it to lifestyle in general.

There's a lot out there, but I think ultimately you know better than us, because you're a pro and you know what you're passionate about within the industry.

 

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[JLE]

I'm ready to take action.

The past few weeks I've had a lot of activity on the forum. Mainly comments justifying why I'm not ready to start, or DM's asking notable members for special advice that they truly can't give. All of you have told me the same thing repeatedly.

"Just start."

After an armageddon of excuses, I'm ready to start. No more hellfire. No waiting 2 years. I'll start now.

However, and here's the part I'm sure I'll be lynched for: I won't be monetizing myself yet. I'm going to start posting to Instagram and marketing myself as a bodybuilder. My sole focus is to build up a following. I won't be selling anything for the time being.

Maybe this isn't what you all wanted to hear, but this is my start. It's more than I have done in the past 2 years.

The way I look at it, as a part of me still does wish to wait 2 years, is that I could always archive any Instagram posts I don't want to have publicly available anymore. The whole reason I didn't want to start now is because I picture my Instagram feed as an actual resume. I didn't wish to showcase anything but the best. I've overcome that and I'll be starting now and archiving any posts I no longer want up in the future. It'll still probably take me 2 years to get to the standard I'd like for myself as a bodybuilder to represent, but at least by then I should have amassed some form of a following. I even know of coaches with only 15k Instagram followers making over $100k a year. I think this is a good start.

----------------------------------------------------------------

March 17th, 2023:
Followers: 17 (half of which are bots that followed me)
Posts: 0
Stories: 0
Reels: 0

I'd also like to keep my real name and Instagram private. I'd prefer to not have a history of my activity on the internet. That being said, I'm willing to share my personal information over DM with a select few members to prove that I'm being sincere in my claims.

This is my start.

 

[Kak]

I searched for an independent personal trainer on FB marketplace. I wanted to find someone that had access to my country club gym so I didn’t have to join another gym.

I would definitely post some stuff on FB marketplace and Craigslist.

 

[BizyDad]

Up. Your. Fee.

Charge more for in person than you will charge online.

I know you didn't believe me that I paid what I paid, but now that you know, I will tell you this...

I met a guy on Wednesday that pays twice what I do. TWICE.

He fell for the trainer with a big following, when my guy is just as good but no following. I know the big time trainer and he flat out told me my trainer is just as good, so this isn't simply my opinion.

Anyways, up your fee TODAY.

Then up it again "in 2 years" *chuckle* when you have a massive following.

I'm glad you're getting started. For all you know, Instagram might be worthless for marketing in 2 years. Seize the day.

 

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[Andy Black]

I'm ready to take action.

The past few weeks I've had a lot of activity on the forum. Mainly comments justifying why I'm not ready to start, or DM's asking notable members for special advice that they truly can't give. All of you have told me the same thing repeatedly.

"Just start."

After an armageddon of excuses, I'm ready to start. No more hellfire. No waiting 2 years. I'll start now.

However, and here's the part I'm sure I'll be lynched for: I won't be monetizing myself yet. I'm going to start posting to Instagram and marketing myself as a bodybuilder. My sole focus is to build up a following. I won't be selling anything for the time being.

Maybe this isn't what you all wanted to hear, but this is my start. It's more than I have done in the past 2 years.

The way I look at it, as a part of me still does wish to wait 2 years, is that I could always archive any Instagram posts I don't want to have publicly available anymore. The whole reason I didn't want to start now is because I picture my Instagram feed as an actual resume. I didn't wish to showcase anything but the best. I've overcome that and I'll be starting now and archiving any posts I no longer want up in the future. It'll still probably take me 2 years to get to the standard I'd like for myself as a bodybuilder to represent, but at least by then I should have amassed some form of a following. I even know of coaches with only 15k Instagram followers making over $100k a year. I think this is a good start.

----------------------------------------------------------------

March 17th, 2023:
Followers: 17 (half of which are bots that followed me)
Posts: 0
Stories: 0
Reels: 0

I'd also like to keep my real name and Instagram private. I'd prefer to not have a history of my activity on the internet. That being said, I'm willing to share my personal information over DM with a select few members to prove that I'm being sincere in my claims.

This is my start.

I'm delighted and relieved.

People love a story, and love following people who are in motion. Both here in the forum, and on Instagram and other channels.

I don't know Instagram much (I had a wee play but got fed up with the bots). Are you posting videos? Are they short form (vertical and under 60s)? If so then consider posting them to YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Facebook Reels, Snapchat, etc.

Put something into your bio so people can visit a page and signup to an email list. You don't even have to mention it in your posts. Those most interested in your content will check it out and opt-in.

This is a new learning curve for you. Treat it exactly the same as you do the gym. Be consistent, keep doing the right thing, don't get disheartened when you don't grow as fast as you hoped, be in it for the long term, adjust based on feedback, etc.

Good luck.

 

[heavy_industry]

I'll start now.

The wisest thing I've read on the forum today.

Congratulations for understanding the importance of this. Your future self 2 years from now will thank you endlessly for this decision.

Do not stop until you get what you want.

Good luck in your journey.

 

[JLE]

I'm delighted and relieved.

People love a story, and love following people who are in motion. Both here in the forum, and on Instagram and other channels.

I don't know Instagram much (I had a wee play but got fed up with the bots). Are you posting videos? Are they short form (vertical and under 60s)? If so then consider posting them to YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Facebook Reels, Snapchat, etc.

Put something into your bio so people can visit a page and signup to an email list. You don't even have to mention it in your posts. Those most interested in your content will check it out and opt-in.

This is a new learning curve for you. Treat it exactly the same as you do the gym. Be consistent, keep doing the right thing, don't get disheartened when you don't grow as fast as you hoped, be in it for the long term, adjust based on feedback, etc.

Good luck.

Hi Andy,

I've done some research on the topic. I've had no plans for starting a TikTok alongside this but truly there isn't a reason for me not to so I might start one of those as well. I don't have a fully defined plan in place but I've done some research on the topic and wrote myself some notes.

This is how I'm going to begin posting to Instagram throughout the week, here are my notes:
1 Reel A Day (make it high-quality, under 15 seconds, between 9AM-1PM, ideally Mon-Thurs)
2 Posts A Week (58.6% photo posts, 21.5% video posts, 19.9% carousel posts)
6+ Stories A Day (make them relevant to bodybuilding in some way)
3 High-Value Account Comments A Day

Engage with those who follow you by liking & responding to comments directly or through stories.
Reply to all DM's as kindly as possible.
Use 3-5 hashtags per feed post (don't use popular ones, use RELEVANT niche ones with less competition).
Write an effective bio (keywords are important, tell visitors what you are all about, helps algorithm).

About the reels, ideally it would be 1 a day, but if you can do 4 HIGH-QUALITY ones a week, that's good.

So that's what I've got for a schedule, but then the next question is: what sort of content would someone want to see if they were to follow a bodybuilder on Instagram? I've really thought about this and I've came to the conclusion that it isn't educational content, even though that's the natural assumption. For my niche, I think it's to see someone that's in amazing shape doing cool things. I don't think Instagram is best suited towards educational content and is moreso all about doing things that are funny/surprising/attractive. That's my assumption of what the typical Instagram user is looking for anyhow, especially when they follow a bodybuilder...

For now I'm gonna try to not overthink it. Just post myself as a bodybuilder and build a following. Most of what I post will likely be archived (this means made private) at a later date as it is. Post bodybuilding and build an audience. That's it.

Already made a few bodybuilding relevant posts to my daily story, gonna keep that up every day.

I need to buy a tripod.

 

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[Roli]

Hmm, sounds like a big action fake to me. You are slipping into what's easiest to do, make Instagram posts without actually putting yourself out there as a trainer.

Trying to get one client would be better for your mental health than weeks of Insta posting.

Good luck, but I'd be surprised if you keep this up using these tactics.

#ToughLove

 

[JLE]

Hmm, sounds like a big action fake to me. You are slipping into what's easiest to do, make Instagram posts without actually putting yourself out there as a trainer.

Trying to get one client would be better for your mental health than weeks of Insta posting.

Good luck, but I'd be surprised if you keep this up using these tactics.

#ToughLove

The ultimate goal is to have an online fitness coaching service that follows the guidelines of CENTS. To build such a business it requires me to have an online following of some sort. From what I know of the successes of other coaches I've seen incomes ranging from $30k a year all the way up to $800k a year.

I've private messaged many established coaches. In particular, there's one making $30k a year and only has 2000~ Instagram followers, and there's one making $800k and has 32,000~ Instagram followers.

The largest determinates of their success, at least I'm led to believe, is their: current physique as a bodybuilder, previous accomplishments as a bodybuilder, successful client transformations, and following on social media.

Really never been a fan of the in-person coaching to begin with. I could do it if I found the time but it's not the quintessential location-independent and time-independent business I'm after.

I appreciate the tough love though, it's welcome anytime even if I don't end up agreeing with you.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Complete sidenote. I was DM'ing @BizyDad the other day and I'd sought out some tough love from him as well. Seems like I need an elongated verbal beatdown before very simple concepts seem to actually resonate with me. I'm incredibly hardheaded. I appreciate @BizyDad talking some sense into me. I really like the idea of starting a flooring installation business now that I've been mulling over it the past few days. He planted the idea of starting a local handyman/flooring installation business in my mind, building a website, business cards, and just cold calling. I really can't seem to shake that idea of his away as I know it would be successful. It's passed my mind several times for a few days. It's a great idea. I've watched my father make over $120k+ a year as a self-employed tradesman and I already have a hint of the knowledge it takes to do a lot of house repairs as I've previously worked in construction.

Anyway... Yeah just throwing out there that I've been thinking of that as a route a lot. Really been considering buying a car, starting a tradesman business with a very clear demand instead, and then using that to fund my bodybuilding ambitions (as I truly don't think I'm gonna break a great income in bodybuilding until the next 2+ years even if I do start now).

I need to start saving for a car and re-evaluate my options. I'm still pursuing bodybuilding 100% but wanted to throw this idea out there.

 

[Vigilante]

Hi Andy,

I've done some research on the topic. I've had no plans for starting a TikTok alongside this but truly there isn't a reason for me not to so I might start one of those as well. I don't have a fully defined plan in place but I've done some research on the topic and wrote myself some notes.

This is how I'm going to begin posting to Instagram throughout the week, here are my notes:
1 Reel A Day (make it high-quality, under 15 seconds, between 9AM-1PM, ideally Mon-Thurs)
2 Posts A Week (58.6% photo posts, 21.5% video posts, 19.9% carousel posts)
6+ Stories A Day (make them relevant to bodybuilding in some way)
3 High-Value Account Comments A Day

Engage with those who follow you by liking & responding to comments directly or through stories.
Reply to all DM's as kindly as possible.
Use 3-5 hashtags per feed post (don't use popular ones, use RELEVANT niche ones with less competition).
Write an effective bio (keywords are important, tell visitors what you are all about, helps algorithm).

About the reels, ideally it would be 1 a day, but if you can do 4 HIGH-QUALITY ones a week, that's good.

So that's what I've got for a schedule, but then the next question is: what sort of content would someone want to see if they were to follow a bodybuilder on Instagram? I've really thought about this and I've came to the conclusion that it isn't educational content, even though that's the natural assumption. For my niche, I think it's to see someone that's in amazing shape doing cool things. I don't think Instagram is best suited towards educational content and is moreso all about doing things that are funny/surprising/attractive. That's my assumption of what the typical Instagram user is looking for anyhow, especially when they follow a bodybuilder...

For now I'm gonna try to not overthink it. Just post myself as a bodybuilder and build a following. Most of what I post will likely be archived (this means made private) at a later date as it is. Post bodybuilding and build an audience. That's it.

Already made a few bodybuilding relevant posts to my daily story, gonna keep that up every day.

I need to buy a tripod.

For as big of a pain in the a$$ as you are, this is super exciting. Go.

 

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[BizyDad]

The ultimate goal is to have an online fitness coaching service that follows the guidelines of CENTS. To build such a business it requires me to have an online following of some sort. From what I know of the successes of other coaches I've seen incomes ranging from $30k a year all the way up to $800k a year.

I've private messaged many established coaches. In particular, there's one making $30k a year and only has 2000~ Instagram followers, and there's one making $800k and has 32,000~ Instagram followers.

The largest determinates of their success, at least I'm led to believe, is their: current physique as a bodybuilder, previous accomplishments as a bodybuilder, successful client transformations, and following on social media.

Really never been a fan of the in-person coaching to begin with. I could do it if I found the time but it's not the quintessential location-independent and time-independent business I'm after.

I appreciate the tough love though, it's welcome anytime even if I don't end up agreeing with you.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Complete sidenote. I was DM'ing @BizyDad the other day and I'd sought out some tough love from him as well. Seems like I need an elongated verbal beatdown before very simple concepts seem to actually resonate with me. I'm incredibly hardheaded. I appreciate @BizyDad talking some sense into me. I really like the idea of starting a flooring installation business now that I've been mulling over it the past few days. He planted the idea of starting a local handyman/flooring installation business in my mind, building a website, business cards, and just cold calling. I really can't seem to shake that idea of his away as I know it would be successful. It's passed my mind several times for a few days. It's a great idea. I've watched my father make over $120k+ a year as a self-employed tradesman and I already have a hint of the knowledge it takes to do a lot of house repairs as I've previously worked in construction.

Anyway... Yeah just throwing out there that I've been thinking of that as a route a lot. Really been considering buying a car, starting a tradesman business with a very clear demand instead, and then using that to fund my bodybuilding ambitions (as I truly don't think I'm gonna break a great income in bodybuilding until the next 2+ years even if I do start now).

I need to start saving for a car and re-evaluate my options. I'm still pursuing bodybuilding 100% but wanted to throw this idea out there.

Congrats. And don't forget the tip I gave you on personal training as well...

Up. Your. Fee.

Charge more for in person than you will charge online.

I know you didn't believe me that I paid what I paid, but now that you know, I will tell you this...

I met a guy on Wednesday that pays twice what I do. TWICE.

He fell for the trainer with a big following, when my guy is just as good but no following. I know the big time trainer and he flat out told me my trainer is just as good, so this isn't simply my opinion.

Anyways, up your fee TODAY.

Then up it again "in 2 years" *chuckle* when you have a massive following.

I'm glad you're getting started. For all you know, Instagram might be worthless for marketing in 2 years. Seize the day.

I just want to say also, I couldn't be happier. Four years on the forum. I know I've had some impact on some people's lives. I know people have read what I've written and gotten ideas or encouragement or whatever.

This might be the first time someone has decided to make a dramatic shift because of something I wrote. That. Is. Amazing.

Thank you for this feedback. It means a lot.

So this is what @Kak or @ZCP or @Vigilante and others feel like when they blow someone's mind and watch the lesson sink in...

You're not waiting 2 years to get started and I'm not waiting 4 years to have this happen again.

 

[Roli]

The only reason I'm replying to you with such fervor, is you remind me of me (do you have ADHD?) in that you have the ability to take on large quantities of information and be energised by it. Anyway, a couple of thoughts below.

The largest determinates of their success, at least I'm led to believe, is their: current physique as a bodybuilder, previous accomplishments as a bodybuilder, successful client transformations, and following on social media.

I would argue the largest determinates of their success would be their work ethic. I can guarantee you'll find people on Insta with bigger more impressive muscles. However they're not as driven and focused when it comes to attaining those clients and managing their social media accounts.

I've private messaged many established coaches. In particular, there's one making $30k a year and only has 2000~ Instagram followers, and there's one making $800k and has 32,000~ Instagram followers.

Absolutely fantastic move! I like this because not only has it given you some inside info, it also demonstrates you have the type of personality whereby people are happy talking to you and giving you information (case in point, I'm taking time out of my morning to do just that!). So you're obviously very personable and this will definitely help you in your quest to become a successful fitness influencer.

Hmm, actually on that note, I'm thinking you'd be a good guest on an established podcast, maybe try and get on one.

I really like the idea of starting a flooring installation business now that I've been mulling over it the past few days.

This is why I asked if you have ADHD. Everyone's brain loves novelty, but an ADHD brain LOVES novelty.

Just make sure this isn't you, because otherwise you'll do what I have done and spend thirty odd years starting and never finishing projects and wondering what the hell's wrong with you!

Like I say, you're personality and enthusiasm comes across really well, my two cents is stick to the fitness, or at least something client facing.

 

[Andy Black]

Can you combine your fitness and handyman skills? Maybe you can do home gym equipment installations, or help gyms somehow?

I don't know if you've listened to this @JLE:

(Radio Interview) Freedom, Motivation, & Grow What You Know

(Radio Interview II) Freedom, Motivation, & Grow What You Know Here's my second interview on Dublin South FM. We talk about "freedom". I wonder why people need motivation. I give my hack to get out of your own way. I wonder why people can't see the grass under their own feet. I'll...

www.thefastlaneforum.com

 

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[JLE]

This is why I asked if you have ADHD. Everyone's brain loves novelty, but an ADHD brain LOVES novelty.

Just make sure this isn't you, because otherwise you'll do what I have done and spend thirty odd years starting and never finishing projects and wondering what the hell's wrong with you!

Like I say, you're personality and enthusiasm comes across really well, my two cents is stick to the fitness, or at least something client facing.

I wont ever be quitting bodybuilding. I'm also not led to believe I have ADHD. The entire flooring installation idea blossomed out of sheer desperation to make more money. My father has been self-employed in flooring installation for the past 25 years and I've personally watched him pull in over $120k annual during his best runs. It's something I have slight previous experience doing and that I know actually has market value. That, alongside @BizyDad pummeling into me the concept that maybe I shouldn't be so comfortable with my current financial situation is the cause of my enthusiasm.

But still yet again, as with seemingly all things, there's a problem with this route.

I don't have a car, I don't have any savings, and I don't have the tools needed for flooring installation.

@BizyDad recommends that I start with a handyman service as I mentioned it previously, but I think I was a little too liberal with claiming that I had much knowledge with handyman work. All I have experience doing is drywall, flooring, and framing. I know nothing else trade-related outside of that.

-----------------------------------------

In short, I'm motivated to do what I must to make a better living. Working 7 days a week at a minimum wage job is senseless. I'm still pursuing bodybuilding and will never quit that, but I'm open to work that has a greater demand and market.

 

[JLE]

I don't know if you've listened to this @JLE:

(Radio Interview) Freedom, Motivation, & Grow What You Know

(Radio Interview II) Freedom, Motivation, & Grow What You Know Here's my second interview on Dublin South FM. We talk about "freedom". I wonder why people need motivation. I give my hack to get out of your own way. I wonder why people can't see the grass under their own feet. I'll...

www.thefastlaneforum.com

Hey Andy,

I listened to some of this radio interview. Very irish. I gathered your point of "helping people by doing what you already find yourself doing naturally" and I do think bodybuilding is that for me.

I'm honestly not the greatest handyman, nor have I ever sought out handyman work. But I'm willing to learn as I do think there's a greater demand for it.

Willing to pursue any business venture as long as it isn't demoralizing. Truly need to make a better living.

 

[Kevin88660]

The ultimate goal is to have an online fitness coaching service that follows the guidelines of CENTS. To build such a business it requires me to have an online following of some sort. From what I know of the successes of other coaches I've seen incomes ranging from $30k a year all the way up to $800k a year.

I've private messaged many established coaches. In particular, there's one making $30k a year and only has 2000~ Instagram followers, and there's one making $800k and has 32,000~ Instagram followers.

The largest determinates of their success, at least I'm led to believe, is their: current physique as a bodybuilder, previous accomplishments as a bodybuilder, successful client transformations, and following on social media.

Really never been a fan of the in-person coaching to begin with. I could do it if I found the time but it's not the quintessential location-independent and time-independent business I'm after.

I appreciate the tough love though, it's welcome anytime even if I don't end up agreeing with you.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Complete sidenote. I was DM'ing @BizyDad the other day and I'd sought out some tough love from him as well. Seems like I need an elongated verbal beatdown before very simple concepts seem to actually resonate with me. I'm incredibly hardheaded. I appreciate @BizyDad talking some sense into me. I really like the idea of starting a flooring installation business now that I've been mulling over it the past few days. He planted the idea of starting a local handyman/flooring installation business in my mind, building a website, business cards, and just cold calling. I really can't seem to shake that idea of his away as I know it would be successful. It's passed my mind several times for a few days. It's a great idea. I've watched my father make over $120k+ a year as a self-employed tradesman and I already have a hint of the knowledge it takes to do a lot of house repairs as I've previously worked in construction.

Anyway... Yeah just throwing out there that I've been thinking of that as a route a lot. Really been considering buying a car, starting a tradesman business with a very clear demand instead, and then using that to fund my bodybuilding ambitions (as I truly don't think I'm gonna break a great income in bodybuilding until the next 2+ years even if I do start now).

I need to start saving for a car and re-evaluate my options. I'm still pursuing bodybuilding 100% but wanted to throw this idea out there.

If I were you I will just talk to my phone camera and starts recording youtube video on fitness. This can be done during your bus journey to work.

I had a crypto/finance channel started literally with zoom share screen function. If you have the expertise you don’t need super good presentation and editing skill.

Working seven days a week trying to compete in bodybuilding itself is an interesting and inspiring story. You are likely competing against dudes with rich parents who can afford more time and money, and by not giving up itself is quite a motivational story.

 

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[Roli]

All I have experience doing is drywall, flooring, and framing. I know nothing else trade-related outside of that.

That's more experience than a total rookie, don't do yourself down. I know someone who started a trade business and all they knew how to do was plaster.

The entire flooring installation idea blossomed out of sheer desperation to make more money.

I hear ya.

In short, I'm motivated to do what I must to make a better living. Working 7 days a week at a minimum wage job is senseless. I'm still pursuing bodybuilding and will never quit that, but I'm open to work that has a greater demand and market.

My friend was a bodybuilder and he has written a book on fitness, started a boxing coaching business and also runs a luxury sportswear brand. He still feels there is more to go, but he has at least used his passion for fitness to build a brand.

The things I listed above were in order and if you see he did the least resource-hungry things first. Write a book (all you need is time), become boxing coach (start at client's houses before finding a personal space), start a fashion brand (use money from the first two things to buy stock, etc.)

I'll send you a link to his site, not because I'm saying you should do the same, but just to give you inspiration.

Also the human mind is naturally negative, focus on what you do have right now. As with your trade experience, you'll probably find you're being harder on yourself than necessary.