The KIPS Podcast with Tyler Valencia

Enhancing client retention as a personal trainer is crucial, as it can determine whether your monthly income grows or if you risk exiting the fitness industry. Maintaining consistent clients provides a steady income, easing the challenge of constantly finding new clients. This stability helps with financial planning and growth opportunities. Additionally, building long-term relationships builds trust, allowing you to design personalized training plans that suit individual goals and preferences. This customization leads to better results, increased client satisfaction, and loyalty. Happy clients are also more likely to refer friends and family, helping you grow your business through word-of-mouth. Finally, fostering a strong client community boosts engagement and motivation, creating a positive, supportive training environment for everyone. Focusing on retention ensures long-term success and professional fulfillment.Jessica Maurer, a business consultant and fitness presenter, discusses key strategies for client retention and highlights the significance of personal touches in training. With more than 20 years of experience, she has conducted workshops, delivered keynote speeches, and offered consulting services across various industries and international platforms. Jessica is also a prolific author whose work impacts how fitness and wellness experts approach physical and mental health.What is client retention?Client retention for personal trainers refers to the ability to keep clients engaged and committed to their fitness journey over a sustained period. It involves creating strong relationships, providing consistent support, and delivering personalized training experiences that meet clients' individual needs and goals. Effective retention strategies may include regular communication, feedback, and motivation, as well as adapting programs based on clients' progress. Ultimately, high client retention signifies a successful trainer-client partnership, leading to improved client outcomes and a stable, thriving business for trainers. It highlights the importance of client satisfaction and loyalty in the competitive fitness industry.Follow Jessica on IG - CLICK HERE. More about Jessica - CLICK HERE. Join our email list - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS on Instagram -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS Education Courses -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CLICK HERE. ⁠

Creating effective training programs is vital for personal trainers to optimize client success and satisfaction. A well-structured program addresses individual goals like weight loss, muscle gain, or athletic improvement, while considering clients' needs, limitations, and preferences (Smith & Jones, 2021). This is especially important in niche markets, such as training older adults or athletes, where understanding specific physiological and psychological factors ensures safe and effective programming (Johnson, 2020). In an era of information overload and diverse training trends, trainers must develop evidence-based programs combining strength, conditioning, and recovery to boost motivation, reduce injury risk, and encourage long-term adherence. Continuous education and adapting to new research further cement the trainer's role as a knowledgeable guide (Brown, 2021).Guest Garrett Conn joins the KIPS Podcast to share his insights on program design and how new trainers can improve this essential skill. Garrett Conn owns Conn Human Performance, with over 12 years of experience in human performance and strength & conditioning. He guides clients in athletics, injury recovery, or fitness through support, education, and enjoyment.What is program design?Program design for personal trainers refers to the structured approach to creating personalized fitness regimens tailored to clients' individual needs, goals, and capabilities. It involves assessing each client’s current fitness level, understanding their specific objectives—such as weight loss, muscle gain, or improved athletic performance—and incorporating various training modalities to enhance overall effectiveness (Smith, 2020). A well-designed program also considers factors such as exercise selection, progression, frequency, and recovery, ensuring that clients remain engaged while achieving their goals. Essential elements of program design include the principles of progressive overload, specificity, and individualization, allowing trainers to adapt programs as clients progress and their needs evolve (Johnson & Lee, 2021). Ultimately, effective program design fosters a supportive environment that not only enhances client satisfaction but also promotes long-term adherence to fitness routines (Thompson, 2019).Learn about Garrett - CLICK HERE.Follow Garrett - CLICK HERE.Join our email list - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS on Instagram -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS Education Courses -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠

Becoming a successful personal trainer goes beyond just knowledge of fitness; it requires a multifaceted approach that includes responsible business practices, authenticity, and a commitment to continuous education. As a trainer, understanding the nuances of running your own business is crucial for long-term success and client retention. Authenticity fosters trust and rapport with clients, enabling more meaningful connections and more effective training outcomes. Additionally, valuing education ensures you stay up to date on the latest techniques and trends, allowing you to provide the best possible services. Together, these elements create a solid foundation for a thriving career in the fitness industry.Dennis Dunphy is joining the KIPS Podcast to share insights into how he co-founded Stick Mobility, the evolution of his career as an established personal trainer, and tips for managing the administrative duties of running a trainer business. Dennis Dunphy and Neal Valera co-founded Stick Mobility out of their passion for creating a system that combines stretching, mobility, and strength using the Stick Mobility Training Stick. Designed for athletes, injury recoverers, or those looking to maintain flexibility and strength with age, it promotes long-term mobility and well-being.What is Stick Mobility?Stick Mobility is a comprehensive training system that integrates stretching, mobility, and strength using a specialized Training Stick. Created by fitness pioneers Neal Valera and Dennis Dunphy, this innovative approach enhances movement patterns and promotes long-term mobility, making it an invaluable tool for personal trainers (Stick Mobility, n.d.). Incorporating Stick Mobility into training regimens provides numerous benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and joint stability (Stick Mobility, n.d.). By using the Training Stick, trainers can facilitate greater kinesthetic awareness and help clients track their mobility progress over time. Moreover, Stick Mobility can be effectively integrated into various training programs, complementing strength and conditioning to reduce injury risk and boost athletic performance. This system empowers trainers to offer clients a holistic approach to fitness, ensuring they can achieve greater freedom of movement both now and in the future.Stick Mobility IG - CLICK HERE.Stick Mobility Facebook - CLICK HERE.Stick Mobility YouTube - CLICK HERE.Stick Mobility Website - CLICK HERE. Join our email list - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS on Instagram -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS Education Courses -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠

Sales skills are essential for personal trainers, as they directly impact the capacity to attract and retain clients. In a competitive fitness industry, the ability to effectively communicate the value of services can set a trainer apart from the rest. Proficiency in sales not only helps trainers articulate their offerings and drive home the benefits of their programs but also fosters trust and rapport with potential clients. Michelle Blakely, a former personal trainer turned business consultant, shares her insights on making sales feel genuine and integrated into your routine as a personal trainer. Michelle has spent over 12 years developing solutions at her training company, Blakely FIT, earning a top trainer reputation and being named the city’s best twice by the Chicago Reader. As a nationally recognized expert, she writes for trade publications like PFP and Club Industry, speaks at events such as the NSCA, and is consulted by media including Prevention, Good Housekeeping, and Oprah.com.Why isn’t sales a key component of a CPT program?Since sales are a key part of a personal trainer's role, why isn’t it emphasized more in fitness industry training? First, it’s hard to evaluate sales skills through a standardized test. People can’t easily show their personalities and soft skills, which are essential to sales. Second, sales skills are better learned through hands-on practice with real clients who can give useful feedback.Understanding and overcoming client objections can improve the chances of closing sales, while personalized pitches based on a client's background make services more relevant and appealing. Also, strong sales skills help trainers follow up effectively, keeping potential clients interested without seeming pushy. In the end, a trainer's ability to sell their expertise leads to steady business growth, so they can focus on what they love—helping clients reach their fitness goals.Five Tips to Improve Your Personal Trainer Sales SkillsImproving sales skills is crucial for personal trainers looking to grow their business and better serve their clients. Here are several tips to enhance those skills:1. Understand Your Audience: Take the time to know your potential clients. Assess their fitness goals, backgrounds, and concerns. Tailoring your pitch to meet their specific needs will make your services more appealing.2. Build Rapport: Establishing a personal connection is vital. Use active listening and show genuine interest in your clients’ stories and challenges. The stronger the relationship, the more likely they are to trust you and invest in your services.3. Highlight Value: Focus on communicating the benefits of your training programs rather than just the features. Explain how your services can help clients achieve their goals, improve their health, or enhance their quality of life.4. Handle Objections Gracefully: Anticipate common objections and prepare thoughtful responses. Addressing concerns about pricing, time commitments, or past failures can ease potential clients’ apprehensions and facilitate a smoother decision-making process.5. Follow Up: After initial consultations, don’t hesitate to follow up with potential clients. A personalized message can keep you top-of-mind and demonstrate your commitment and investment in their success. By honing these skills, personal trainers can significantly boost their client acquisition and retention rates.Schedule a Call with Michelle - CLICK HERE.Michelle's Website - CLICK HERE.Join our email list - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS on Instagram -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS Education Courses -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠

Medical fitness is a specialized niche that focuses on integrating exercise and rehabilitation within clinical care, targeting individuals with chronic conditions or those recovering from injuries. Personal trainers can significantly advance their careers by gaining expertise in medical fitness, enabling them to design tailored exercise programs that meet the unique needs of their clients. This knowledge not only enhances their credibility but also facilitates collaboration with healthcare professionals, improving communication around client fitness requirements. As the demand for personalized fitness solutions grows, trainers with medical fitness qualifications can attract a broader clientele, positioning themselves for career growth and advancement in a competitive market.Lisa Dougherty, founder of the MedFit Network, discusses the importance of medical fitness for personal trainers on the KIPS Podcast. A former securities professional, she launched MFN in 2013, serving as a membership group and online directory for fitness and healthcare providers focused on prevention and rehabilitation for those with chronic conditions.What is medical fitness?Medical fitness refers to a specialized branch of fitness that emphasizes the integration of exercise, health, and rehabilitation in the context of medical and clinical care. It is designed to help individuals manage chronic conditions, recover from injuries, and enhance their overall well-being through personalized exercise programs. For personal trainers, understanding medical fitness is crucial, as it allows them to collaborate more effectively with healthcare professionals, such as physicians and physical therapists, to create safe and effective fitness plans for clients with specific health needs (Woods et al., 2020). By focusing on medical fitness, trainers can differentiate themselves in a competitive industry, broaden their skill sets, and address the diverse needs of clients, ultimately leading to enhanced client outcomes and satisfaction. Embracing this field not only fulfills a moral obligation to protect client health but also opens new opportunities for career advancement within niche markets (American Council on Exercise, 2021).MedFit Global Virtual ConferenceMedFit Education Foundation has collaborated with the Fitness Business Association (FBA) to host a virtual, worldwide medical fitness conference scheduled for October 22-26, 2025. The event will feature three main tracks: Education/Latest Updates, Exercise Programming, and Business.Use Code KIPS for a 40% discount - CLICK HERE. Join our email list - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS on Instagram -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠KIPS Education Courses -⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CLICK HERE. ⁠