6 marketing tips for personal trainers

With the benefits of fitness being promoted all the time, more and more people are looking for a training solution to improve their health, body or self-esteem (or all three) and capitalising on this interest is key in developing an effective marketing strategy for your personal training business. However, you will need to approach your marketing in the right way in order to find new clients. Here are some simple guidelines to follow to help you achieve this.

1. Social networking

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google Plus are excellent ways of communicating your expertise with new and existing customers. Of course, the main advantage is that they are free, meaning they won't dent your marketing budget. Make sure you allocate a certain amount of time per day to post and tweet, and always respond to any questions or comments so your clients will know they are valued. Invite existing customers to follow you and share content you post, and retweet useful tips from other influential sources.

2. Website

A website is not just a 'nice to have'; it's essential. Ask yourself, would you use a personal trainer that didn't have a professional looking website? Your website is like a brochure or shop window for your business - it should be clear and concise and include all crucial information such as your programs, prices, credentials and location. Testimonials are a very effective way of gaining trust with new clients, so consider adding a section with comments from existing clients to your website.

3. Blogging

Providing useful information to your target audience (such as workout tips, nutritional facts, announcements about your services etc.) will mean you are a source they will keep returning to. It also adds some personality behind your business and can drive targeted traffic from search engines.

4. Newsletters

Similarly, newsletters should be sent out to both prospects and clients on a regular basis (for example, two per quarter). Deliver ones with the latest blog posts in order to engage them. This is one of the best ways to stay at the top of your prospects' minds.

5. Referrals

Another inexpensive marketing trick is to ask for referrals from your clients. You could offer special deals whereby the existing client receives a reward (such as a free session or gift voucher) as an incentive for putting someone your way. Similarly, you could team up with a related business in your area (such as a local gym, health food shop or running group) and suggest reciprocal advertising for one another, or offer a referral fee.

6. Offline efforts

While it's clear that online marketing is crucial, you shouldn't completely neglect your offline activities. As a personal trainer, you will usually be trying to appeal to people in your local area, so make sure you do all you can to attract their attention. Try to get some press coverage in your local newspaper, magazine or radio, for example. You could also print out eye-catching flyers and leave them in relevant places, for example doctors' surgeries, local weight loss groups, NCT classes and health stores (before you do, however, always check with the relevant authorities that you are allowed to do so).

Ultimately, marketing your business is just like any fitness plan; it requires patience, skills and consistent efforts in order to see the best results.