Data provided here comes from our team of experts who have been working on business plan for a personal training business. Furthermore, an industry specialist has reviewed and approved the final article.
Is operating a personal training business profitable, and what is the typical income range for trainers?Let's check together.
Revenue metrics of a personal training business
How does a personal training business makes money?
A personal trainer makes money by charging clients for their services.
What do personal training businesses sell?
Personal training businesses primarily sell fitness and wellness services tailored to individual clients' needs and goals.
These businesses offer expert guidance, support, and motivation in various aspects of physical health, including exercise routines, nutrition plans, and lifestyle adjustments. Personal trainers work closely with clients to design customized workout programs that target specific fitness objectives, whether it's weight loss, muscle gain, increased stamina, or overall well-being.
They provide one-on-one or group sessions, demonstrating proper exercise techniques, monitoring progress, and ensuring safety to prevent injuries
Additionally, personal training businesses often offer accountability and encouragement, helping clients stay committed and motivated on their fitness journey.
Some businesses may also provide virtual training options, online resources, and workshops to cater to different preferences and circumstances.
Ultimately, these businesses aim to empower clients to achieve their desired fitness outcomes and lead healthier, happier lives.
What about the prices?
A personal training business offers a variety of services and pricing options to cater to different needs and budgets.
Generally, the prices can range from around $30 to $150 or more per session, depending on factors like the trainer's expertise, location, session duration (typically 30 minutes to 1 hour), and whether it's a one-on-one session or a group class. Monthly packages might range from $200 to $800 or more, including a certain number of sessions per week.
Some businesses also provide specialized programs like weight loss, muscle building, or sports-specific training, which can be priced higher, often ranging from $500 to $1500 for a multi-week program.
Additionally, online personal training can offer more affordable options, starting from around $50 per month for customized workout plans and remote guidance.
| Service | Price Range ($) |
|---|---|
| Single Session | $30 - $150+ |
| Group Class | $20 - $100+ |
| Monthly Package | $200 - $800+ |
| Specialized Program | $500 - $1500+ |
| Online Training | $50 - $200+ |
What else can a personal training business sell?
Personal training businesses can also enhance their revenue streams by:
- Conducting specialized fitness workshops or classes tailored to individual goals
- Collaborating with physical therapists to utilize the training space for rehabilitative exercises
- Guiding clients in creating personalized meal plans to complement their training routines
- Creating engaging fitness challenges or competitions to keep clients motivated
- Providing facility rental options for private events or video shoots
- Establishing partnerships with local enterprises to offer exclusive wellness packages
- Delivering online training programs to cater to clients unable to attend in-person sessions
Who are the customers of a personal training business?
Personal training businesses cater to a variety of customers, ranging from athletes to those looking to improve their overall health and fitness.
Which segments?
We've made many business plans for projects like this. These are the groups of customers we usually see.
| Customer Segment | Description | Preferences | How to Find Them |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young Professionals | Busy individuals in their 20s and 30s, seeking convenient and efficient workouts. | Flexible scheduling, time-efficient workouts, tech-savvy training tools. | Social media advertising, fitness apps, corporate wellness programs. |
| Fitness Enthusiasts | Experienced gym-goers who want specialized training to achieve specific goals. | Advanced training programs, personalized coaching, performance tracking. | Gym partnerships, fitness expos, online forums. |
| Seniors & Retirees | Older adults looking to improve mobility, strength, and overall well-being. | Gentle exercises, joint-friendly routines, social interaction. | Local community centers, senior clubs, healthcare referrals. |
| Weight Loss Seekers | Individuals aiming to lose weight through a combination of exercise and diet. | Goal-oriented programs, nutritional guidance, motivational support. | Weight loss clinics, wellness seminars, online weight loss communities. |
How much they spend?
In our detailed analysis of the financial aspects of a personal training business, we find that clients usually spend between $150 to $500 per month on personal training sessions. This expenditure fluctuates based on the number of sessions, specialist services, and the qualifications of the personal trainer they choose to work with.
Research indicates that a client-trainer relationship lasts from 1 to 6 months on average, considering factors such as the client's fitness goals, satisfaction, or the attainment of the desired results. Some clients prefer short, intensive programs, while others maintain a regular schedule with their trainers for extended periods.
Given these figures, the estimated lifetime value of an average personal training client would be from $150 (1x150) to $3,000 (6x500), reflecting a wide range due to the variables mentioned earlier.
With this data, we can infer that the average revenue a personal trainer might expect from each client would be around $1,075, balancing out those who opt for fewer, less expensive sessions with those who invest in comprehensive, higher-cost training programs.
(Disclaimer: the numbers provided above are averages and may not accurately represent the specific financial dynamics of your personal training business. Various factors, including location, clientele, and economic conditions, can influence these figures significantly.)
Which type(s) of customer(s) to target?
It's something to have in mind when you're writing the business plan for your personal training business.
The most profitable customers for a personal training business often belong to the demographic of working professionals with disposable income, aged between 25 and 45, who prioritize health and fitness.
These individuals are willing to invest in their well-being and value personalized, efficient fitness solutions that accommodate their busy schedules.
To target and attract them, focus on online marketing through platforms like social media, where this demographic is active. Utilize engaging content, testimonials, and before-and-after success stories to showcase the tangible results your personal training services can provide. Offer flexible training schedules and emphasize time efficiency to cater to their busy lifestyles.
To retain these clients, provide a high level of personalized attention, continuously assess and adjust their fitness plans, and foster a sense of community through group activities or online forums. Regularly communicate progress and celebrate milestones to keep them motivated and engaged. Building a strong rapport and delivering consistent, tangible results will contribute to long-term client retention and the overall profitability of your personal training business.
What is the average revenue of a personal training business?
The average monthly revenue for a personal training business can range significantly, typically between $2,000 and $20,000. Below, we explore different scenarios to understand these variances.
You can also estimate your own revenue as a personal trainer, using different assumptions, with our financial plan for a personal training business.
Case 1: A solo personal trainer starting out
Average monthly revenue: $2,000
In this instance, the personal trainer is likely working independently, perhaps offering services to clients in public parks, client homes, or through a rented space in a local gym. At this stage, the client base is still growing.
Such a business might not offer additional products or wellness services, focusing primarily on standard personal training sessions.
Assuming an average session cost of $50 and a total of 40 sessions conducted monthly (10 sessions weekly), the revenue generated would amount to $2,000 per month. This figure may fluctuate based on client retention, referrals, and marketing efforts.
Case 2: An established personal trainer with a private studio
Average monthly revenue: $10,000
This scenario represents a personal trainer who has advanced in their career, possibly owning or renting a private studio in an urban area, equipped with moderate exercise equipment, and having established a loyal client base.
Additional wellness options might be available, including nutritional guidance, specialized fitness plans, and group training sessions, contributing to a higher overall service charge.
With an enhanced rate, possibly around $70 per session and an ability to conduct up to 40 sessions per week due to increased demand and perhaps hiring additional trainers or staff, the business could see revenues of $10,000 per month (based on approximately 140 sessions monthly).
Case 3: A high-end personal training facility with multiple trainers
Average monthly revenue: $20,000
This high-end facility is likely located in a premium urban neighborhood, boasting state-of-the-art equipment, various fitness technology, and a team of experienced trainers specializing in different fitness aspects.
Here, clients are not just buying personal training sessions; they are purchasing a comprehensive fitness experience. This can include advanced fitness assessments, physiotherapy, lifestyle coaching, and access to luxury recovery and wellness areas.
Given the premium nature of services, session rates could be significantly higher, approximately $100 or more. Assuming the facility conducts around 50 sessions per day (reflecting a mix of individual and group sessions and considering the multiple trainers available), the potential monthly revenue could soar to $20,000 or more, calculated on an average 20 working days per month.
It's essential to note that these figures can vary widely depending on several factors, including geographic location, specific services offered, the competitive landscape, and overall business and marketing acumen.
The profitability metrics of a personal training business
What are the expenses of a personal training business?
A personal training business's typical expenses consist of fitness equipment, rent or lease payments for training space, staff wages, and marketing efforts.
| Category | Examples of Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (Range in $) | Tips to Reduce Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facility Costs | Rent, utilities, maintenance | $500 - $2,000 | Consider a shared space or home-based training to reduce rent costs. Use energy-efficient appliances. |
| Equipment | Dumbbells, exercise machines, mats | $100 - $500 | Buy used equipment, prioritize essential items, and negotiate bulk discounts. |
| Insurance | Liability insurance, health insurance | $50 - $200 | Shop around for insurance providers, consider higher deductibles for lower premiums. |
| Marketing and Advertising | Website, social media ads, flyers | $100 - $500 | Focus on free or low-cost marketing methods like social media and word-of-mouth referrals. |
| Professional Fees | Certifications, licenses | $50 - $200 | Look for discounts on certification courses, and keep your credentials up to date to avoid penalties. |
| Administrative Expenses | Software, office supplies | $50 - $150 | Use free or affordable software tools and buy office supplies in bulk. |
| Transportation | Gas, maintenance, public transit | $50 - $200 | Carpool with clients, use fuel-efficient vehicles, or consider biking/public transit. |
| Training Materials | Books, online courses | $20 - $100 | Use public resources, borrow books, or explore free online courses. |
| Miscellaneous | Refreshments, cleaning supplies | $20 - $100 | Limit non-essential expenses, buy cleaning supplies in bulk. |
When is a a personal training business profitable?
The breakevenpoint
A personal training business becomes profitable when its total revenue exceeds its total fixed and variable costs.
In simpler terms, it starts making a profit when the money it earns from individual training sessions, group sessions, online programs, and other services becomes greater than the expenses it incurs for equipment, travel, marketing, and any other operating costs, including payments for any space used for training.
This means that the personal training business has reached a point where it covers all its expenses and starts generating income; this crucial milestone is known as the breakeven point.
Consider an example where a personal training business has monthly fixed costs that amount to approximately $3,000.
A rough estimate for the breakeven point of a personal training venture, would then be around $3,000 (since these are the total fixed costs to cover), or around 30 to 75 clients paying for sessions ranging from $40 to $100.
It's important to understand that this indicator can vary widely depending on factors such as the region, clientele, session fees, operational costs, and competition. A personal trainer specializing in high-end clients or niche markets may have a higher breakeven point than a general fitness trainer due to different pricing structures and business costs.
Curious about the profitability of your personal training business? Try out our user-friendly financial plan crafted for personal trainers. Simply input your own assumptions, and it will help you calculate the amount you need to earn in order to run a profitable business.
Biggest threats to profitability
The biggest threats to profitability for a personal training business can include fierce competition within the fitness industry, as an oversaturated market can drive down prices and make it harder to attract and retain clients.
Additionally, fluctuations in the economy can impact people's discretionary spending on fitness services, potentially leading to a decrease in clients.
A lack of effective marketing and branding efforts can hinder customer acquisition, while high operating costs, such as rent for a physical gym space and equipment maintenance, can eat into profits.
Health and safety regulations, liability concerns, and the risk of client injuries can result in legal and insurance costs.
Finally, personal trainers face burnout risks from long working hours and irregular schedules, potentially affecting their performance and overall business sustainability.
These threats are often included in the SWOT analysis for a personal training business.
What are the margins of a personal training business?
Gross margins and net margins are crucial financial metrics used to gauge the profitability of a personal training business.
The gross margin is the financial difference between the revenue earned from personal training sessions, both one-on-one and group, and the direct costs associated with delivering these services, such as equipment, travel expenses, and the trainer's wages.
Essentially, it's the profit remaining after covering the costs directly linked to providing the personal training services.
The net margin, however, encompasses all expenses the business incurs, including indirect costs like advertising, administrative expenses, rental fees for training spaces, and professional insurance and certifications.
Thus, net margin offers a more comprehensive view of the personal training business's profitability, considering all operating expenses.
Gross margins
Personal training businesses generally have an average gross margin in the range of 70% to 80%.
For instance, if your personal training business earns $20,000 per month, your gross profit would be approximately 75% x $20,000 = $15,000.
Here's an example for further clarification:
Consider a personal trainer who manages 20 clients, with each client paying $50 per session. If each client attends four sessions a month, the total monthly revenue would be 20 clients x $50/session x 4 sessions = $4,000.
The direct costs for the trainer, including equipment, commuting expenses, and possibly space rental, might total $800. Therefore, the business's gross profit calculates as $4,000 - $800 = $3,200.
In this scenario, the gross margin for the personal training business would be $3,200 / $4,000 = 80%.
Net margins
Typically, the average net margin for personal training businesses ranges from 25% to 45%.
To simplify, if your business is generating $20,000 monthly, your net profit might be around $7,000, representing a 35% net margin.
Let's continue with the previous example for consistency:
Our personal trainer, earning $4,000 monthly, incurs direct costs of $800. However, there are additional indirect costs, such as marketing, administrative expenses, and professional insurance, amounting to, let's say, $700.
After deducting both direct and indirect costs ($800 + $700), the personal trainer's net profit calculates as $4,000 - $1,500 = $2,500.
Consequently, the net margin for the personal training business is $2,500 / $4,000 = 62.5%. This example portrays a very successful month or a high-performing business model, with margins on the upper end.
As a personal trainer entrepreneur, recognizing the difference between net margin and gross margin is vital. It's the net margin that gives you a complete understanding of the actual earnings of your personal training business, as it accounts for every cost you incur.
So, what might you earn as a personal training business owner?
Understanding that the net margin is critical in determining the profitability of your personal training business is vital. It reflects what’s financially left after covering all your business expenses.
The earnings vary significantly based on your business acumen and execution proficiency.
Struggling personal trainer
Earns $500 per month
Imagine you are a personal trainer who is just starting, perhaps lacking in self-promotion, underpricing services, not actively seeking client feedback for improvement, or failing to offer tailored or diverse training options. In such cases, your total revenue might hover around $3,000 per month.
If your expenses are high due to rental costs, equipment purchases, or other overheads, your net margin might be as low as 15%.
This scenario leaves you with a modest $500 of monthly earnings (15% of $3,000), representing a financial struggle and potential burnout situation in your personal training career.
Standard personal trainer
Earns $4,500 per month
Now, consider you’re a personal trainer with a steady clientele. You keep up with fitness trends, offer a range of group and individual sessions, and perhaps sell related health and fitness products. With these strategies, you could push your total revenue to around $20,000 per month.
Assuming you keep a keen eye on expenses — perhaps by renting less costly space or strategically investing in equipment and marketing — you could maintain a net margin of around 25%.
This situation means you'd bring home about $4,500 each month (25% of $20,000), reflecting a stable and sustainable approach to your personal training business.
Elite personal trainer
Earns $15,000 per month
At the top end, suppose you’re a highly driven personal trainer with a robust, diverse client base, including high-profile clients. You leverage digital marketing, offer online training sessions, provide nutritional advice, and regularly upskill to ensure a premier service. This dedication could elevate your total revenue to $50,000 per month or more.
Efficient management of expenses, possibly through selective partnerships, bulk equipment purchases, or exclusive, high-margin services, could see your net margin rise to 30%.
Here, you're looking at very healthy monthly earnings of $15,000 (30% of $50,000), placing you at the pinnacle of the personal training business landscape.
Your journey to becoming a successful personal training business owner starts with a comprehensive business plan, commitment, and continuous learning. We hope this insight encourages you to strive for the upper echelons of the fitness training world!