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Personal Trainer Business Plan

Today, millions of people are prioritizing their health and wellness more than ever before whether it’s for weight loss, muscle building, or just feeling good about themselves.

As a result, the personal fitness industry is on the rise, valued at $39.06 billion globally in 2023, and expected to reach $51.69 billion in 2028. 

This shows no signs of slowing down. So, now is the perfect time for fitness enthusiasts to enter this lucrative market and turn their passion into a successful business venture.

However, it requires a well-thought-out business plan to guide every step of the way and set a strong foundation for long-term success.

Need help writing your plan? Worry not! 

This personal trainer business plan template will help you get started and guide you on how to draft a solid plan for personal training services. But first, let’s understand…

Why do you need a personal trainer business plan?

A personal trainer business plan is a professional, living document that serves as a strategic roadmap for starting, managing, and growing your personal training services.

It’s essential for driving your business growth and achieving success in the fitness industry. Explore a few reasons why you need one:

1. Sets clear goals and objectives

Preparing a business plan helps you define your personal training business concept and set specific, measurable goals. This will provide clear direction and allow you to stay focused on what’s important for your business growth.

2. Attracts investors and secures funding

If you want to get external funding for starting or growing your personal training business, a professional business plan is integral. This is so because potential investors or lenders ask for a clear strategy that showcases your business’s financial viability and profitability.

3. Helps identify the target market

Knowing your target customers and their needs is essential for the success of your personal training business. Writing a business plan forces you to conduct thorough market research and analyze target demographic profiles to define ideal clients. Also, it helps you customize your services, and marketing plan to attract potential customers.

4. Analyzes risks and challenges

With the help of a business plan, you can evaluate potential challenges, like economic downturns, changes in fitness trends, or increased competition. Knowing these risks earlier lets you develop effective strategies to mitigate them, reducing their impact on your business.

With that said, let’s explore what to include in a personal training business plan and how to make it compelling for investors.

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How to write a personal training business plan?

Drafting a personal training business plan involves several key components to describe your business concept, goals, and strategies. Here’s a detailed guide on how to write each section in detail:

1. Executive summary

An executive summary would be your personal trainer business plan’s first section which helps you create a good impression on potential investors or partners.

Though it’s an introductory part, writing your plan summary would be more convenient at the end (after completing other sections). This is so because it summarizes all the important aspects of your business.

To plan this section, consider including the following:

• Your company’s name along with the location
• Business concept and its core values
• Market opportunities and potential clients
• Personal training services you’ll provide
• Sales and marketing plan
• Financial forecast for the first 3-5 years

Overall, this section presents a quick, high-level overview of your personal training business and captures readers’ interest. So, keep it short, simple, and compelling.

2. Business description

The business description section expands on the brief overview given in the executive summary and presents your personal training concept in detail.

Typically, it provides detailed information about your personal training business, including its foundational elements and business-specific facts that every financial backer needs to know.

So, while drafting this section, first outline the registered business name and type of personal training company you operate. It could be any kind—like in-home, mobile, online, or gym trainer. After that, highlight these points:

• Legal business structure (sole proprietorship, Limited Liability Company, or partnership)
• Vision and mission statement
• Business owners or founders
• A brief history and milestones achieved (if any)
• Short-term and long-term objectives
• Regulatory requirements and legal considerations

Simply put, this section offers an in-depth understanding of your personal training business as well as explains what it’s all about.

3. Market analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan provides valuable insights into the fitness industry as well as determines the demand for personal training services in your chosen area.

This will help you analyze the specific target market niche in which your personal training business intends to operate, the target customers you expect to serve, emerging market trends, and the competitive environment.

Hence, conduct thorough market research and answer the following questions to draft this section carefully:

• What’s the size of an international personal trainer’s market?
• How big is the fitness training industry in the USA? Is it growing or declining?
• What’s the growth forecast for the next decade?
• Who are your potential customers? (fitness enthusiastic, athletes or sports person, pre/post-natal women)
• Who are the primary competitors in the local market? What are their strengths, weaknesses, and pricing strategy?
• What are the recent trends in the personal training and fitness industry?

In addition to that, consider performing an effective SWOT analysis to explore the positive and negative aspects of personal training businesses. For example:

Doing so will help you easily identify the internal strengths and weaknesses as well as the external opportunities and threats in the industry. Further, it lets you recognize the market gap and develop practical strategies for the future.

4. Products or service offerings

In this section, give a detailed explanation of your personal training services and related products.

This will help readers better understand what you offer to your clients and how you plan to meet their individual needs. So, clearly highlight your service offerings, along with their specifications and pricing structures.

Here’s a list of different types of services you might include in your PT business plan:

• Personal training sessions (online or face-to-face)
• Indoor and outdoor training sessions
• Nutrition consultations
• Group classes for fitness training (large and small group training)
• Specialized fitness programs (weight loss, post-rehabilitation, or athletic performance training)

If applicable, mention any unique offerings, such as speaking at fitness events, merchandising nutritional products or diet supplements, community involvement activities, and even selling workout guides or ebooks.

5. Marketing strategy

Developing solid sales and marketing strategies is essential if you want to establish a strong presence in a competitive industry.

This will help you streamline your marketing efforts and build effective promotional campaigns to reach your target audience. Also, it allows you to track return on investments while focusing on marketing costs.

For instance, you may consider the following strategies to attract clients:

• Employing social media marketing (via social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X)
• Engaging in email marketing campaigns
• Advertising through word of mouth
• Distributing flyers or posters
• Building an SEO-friendly website
• Networking or partnering with local businesses
• Participating in fitness or community events

Moreover, describe your client retention strategies, such as special offers, loyalty programs, personalized training plans, or regular progress assessments. This will generate more bookings and maintain your brand identity.

In simple terms, your marketing strategies show potential funders that you keep a clear plan to grow your loyal customer base and ensure long-term success.

6. Operations plan

The operations plan section offers a clear picture of the day-to-day activities and procedures required for the smooth running of your PT business.

So, try to cover all your operational aspects, such as scheduling training sessions, managing records of old and new clients, handling cancellation policies, maintaining necessary equipment, billing, tracking client progress, following client safety procedures, cleaning the facility, etc.

Likewise, discuss the resources and staffing requirements to deliver your training services. It might involve hiring additional personal trainers, administrative staff members, or specialized instructors for group classes.

In short, outlining a comprehensive operations plan will help you achieve your business’s long-term goals and fulfill client commitments while ensuring exceptional results.

7. Management team

The management team section introduces the business owners, key managers, and their relevant skills and expertise.

It will help potential investors or stakeholders understand the key players in your business and how they work together to achieve long-term objectives.

So, consider highlighting the resume-styled summary of your key team members, such as the business owner, assistant manager, lead trainer, other personal trainers, marketing coordinator, etc.

Also, include their roles and responsibilities, educational qualifications, and industry experience that benefits your business growth.

Next, create an organizational chart with all the knowledge you’ve gathered to represent how your team is structured and how the key roles are interconnected. Here’s an example:

8. Financial projections

Creating realistic and accurate financial forecasts is the most crucial element of your personal trainer business plan. Why? Because it helps you attract investors or lenders while securing enough funding to launch your successful personal training business.

Generally, it provides a comprehensive analysis of the financial stability and viability of your PT business.

So, while framing your personal trainer financial plan , cover all the projected financial statements, detailed budget plans, and strategies to achieve financial goals within a few (3-5) years of operation.

Here’s a list of financial information and reports that you must incorporate:

• Initial startup expenses
• Revenue streams and forecasts
• Operating costs (like rent, equipment purchases, or any administrative fees)
• Cash flow estimates
• Income statement

Balance sheet

• Break-even analysis
• Funding needs and use of funds

If applicable, mention your repayment plan for any loans or investments, including interest and timeline. Also, summarize sensitivity analyses for the different types of scenarios.

For an easy understanding, you may refer to the following key financial forecasts to formulate yours:

Income statement (profit and loss statement)

Cash flow statement

9. Appendix

The appendix isn’t a mandatory section, but it helps you include additional information or supporting documents that don’t fit into specific sections. Here’s what you can add to your business plan appendix:

• Resumes of the key executive team members
• Necessary certifications and business licenses
• Sample marketing materials
• Client testimonials or case studies
• Financial statements for a tax return or credit history (if any)
• Safety policy details for your fitness business

By incorporating the above documents, you back up your claims and allow readers to clearly understand or validate your strategies outlined in the personal training business plan.

Download a personal trainer business plan template

So, ready to start writing your personal trainer business plan from scratch? But need more help? Well, look no further; download our personal trainer business plan template pdf to get started.

This investor-friendly business plan sample has been crafted specifically for personal training businesses. It comes with practical insights and examples that you may use as a guide for developing your own business plan including a thorough mission statement, marketing plan, and financial forecast.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

Now that you’ve got a clear understanding of how to draft a personal training business plan, it should be much easier for you to write a detailed plan.

But if you’re still confused or looking for an easy way to draft your plan, consider using modern business plan software like Upmetrics . It will help you create an effective personal trainer business plan quickly and more effectively.

So, why wait? Start planning today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should i review and update my personal training business plan.

You should review and update your personal training business plan regularly, at least once a year. Or more often when significant transitions happen like—market and industry changes, service expansions, new training models for the coming year, financial performance monitoring, etc.

What is a personal trainer business plan used for?

A personal trainer business plan is used for:

• Outlining business goals, core values, and strategies.
• Identifying the target market and services offered.
• Navigating daily operations and business growth.
• Attracting new clients by drafting unique selling points.
• Getting funds from investors or lenders by showcasing profitability.

Can I use my business plan to attract investors or partners?

Of course, you can use your business plan to attract investors or partners. A well-written plan illustrates your business strategies, financial projections, operating costs and aspects, as well as growth potential.

So, this will allow you to win financial backers as well as build confidence in your ability to achieve success and profitability.

How do I create a financial plan for my personal trainer business?

Follow these steps to create a financial plan for your personal trainer business:

• Estimate the start-up expenses
• Forecast your revenue streams and expected income
• Calculate the business operating expenses
• Prepare key financial statements (income statement, cash flow statement, balance sheet)
• Conduct a break-even analysis
• Identify tax provisions and plan for savings
• Update your financial plan regularly

Besides that, you can use advanced financial forecasting software to develop comprehensive and realistic financial projections effortlessly.

What financing options are available for my personal training business?

There are multiple financing options available for your personal training business:

• Personal savings
• Loans from family & friends
• Traditional bank loans
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loans
• Grants and Crowdfunding platforms
• Angel investors or venture capitalists

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Gym Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Gym Business Plan & Example

You’ve come to the right place to create a gym business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their gyms.

Gym Business Plan Example

Use the example below as a template to write a gym business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Steven’s Gym is a startup locally owned gym located in El Paso, Texas. Steven’s Gym will include various exercise equipment, strength training equipment, free weights, aerobic equipment, and plenty of cardio equipment. The gym will also offer HIIT group classes, spin classes, strength training instruction, and personal training.

Located in an up and coming, newly developed, and highly trafficked area of town, Steven’s Gym will attract both men and women ages 16 to 75+. There is something for everyone at Steven’s Gym, whether someone is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete and gymrat. The gym will have a welcoming atmosphere, experienced personal trainers, friendly staff, and frequently cleaned equipment and restrooms.

The membership options are affordable and will be offered on a month-to-month basis, a 6 or 12 month contract, or the ability to pay for an entire year upfront. Discounts will be offered to military, teachers, and healthcare workers.

Service Offering

The following are the services that Steven’s Gym will provide:

• Strength training equipment
• Cardio equipment
• Free weights/dumbbells
• Aerobic equipment
• HIIT group classes
• Strength training instruction

Customer Focus

Steven’s Gym will target all men and women ages 16 – 75+ who are interested in achieving and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. El Paso is a very diverse city that includes men and women from all walks of life. There are numerous blue collar individuals, white collar individuals, government employees, and military members as the local Army base is one of the largest in the country. Since Steven’s Gym will be very affordable, it will be able to attract people from all walks of life.

Management Team

Steven will manage the day-to-day tasks of running the gym. Steven will hire a gym manager to manage membership and three trainers. Steven will outsource a local CPA to handle payroll, accounting, and tax payments. He will also outsource a local advertising company to develop the gym’s logo, branding, photography, social media accounts, website, and billboard design.

Success Factors

Steven’s Gym will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Large, clean, and spacious fitness center that has all the necessary equipment for their fitness routine.
• Knowledgeable and friendly staff of trainers.
• Best value for membership pricing. The membership pricing options are affordable and offer military, teacher, and healthcare employee discounts.
• Convenient hours of operation.

Financial Plan Highlights

Steven’s Gym is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to begin operations of the business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the warehouse space, gym build-out, and purchase of the equipment. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and working capital. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Securing warehouse space, gym build-out, and design: $25,000 to $125,000
• Gym equipment purchase: $50,000 to $100,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $15,000 to $55,000
• Marketing & advertising: $15,000
• Working capital: $10,000

Company Overview

Who is steven’s gym.

Steven’s Gym is a new, locally owned gym located in El Paso, Texas. Steven’s Gym will include strength training equipment, free weights, aerobic equipment, and plenty of cardio equipment. The gym will also offer fitness classes, strength training instruction, and personal training. Located in an up and coming, and highly trafficked area of town, Steven’s Gym will attract both men and women ages 16 to 75+. There is something for everyone at Steven’s Gym, whether someone is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete and gymrat. The gym will have a welcoming atmosphere, experienced trainers, friendly staff, and frequently cleaned equipment and restrooms. The membership options are affordable and will be offered on a month-to-month basis, a 6 or 12 month contract, or the ability to pay for an entire year upfront. Discounts will be offered to military, teachers, and healthcare workers.

Steven’s Gym History

Steven’s Gym is owned by Steven Malone, a retired Army Master Sergeant who is also a seasoned powerlifter. Steven was stationed at El Paso’s Fort Bliss for many years before eventually retiring and deciding to stay in El Paso and embark on his dream of eventually owning his own gym. As a frequent gym goer, Steven recognized that El Paso lacks high quality independent gyms. The nicest and most equipped gyms in El Paso are large franchises that have too many rules and regulations. Steven envisioned a gym that was welcoming to all types of people that is encouraging, clean, and adequately equipped for those who are focused on sustaining an active, healthy lifestyle.

Since incorporation, Steven’s Gym has achieved the following milestones:

• Found a 10,000 square foot warehouse space for lease in El Paso, Texas that can easily be converted to a gym.
• Registered Steven’s Gym, LLC to do business in the State of Texas.
• Began the branding image, logo, website, and social media accounts for the gym.
• Began researching and pricing out equipment.

Steven’s Gym Services

The following will be the services Steven’s Gym will provide:

Industry Analysis

The Gym industry is expected to grow to an annual revenue of $38 billion in the next five years. This growth is likely a result of increased per capita disposable income, in addition to growing health-consciousness. As consumers’ disposable income levels rise, individuals are usually more willing to purchase gym memberships. Additionally, time spent on leisure and sports is expected to increase over the next five years, effectively increasing the potential pool of consumers.

During this period, demographic changes are expected to drive revenue growth for operators. In particular, as healthcare costs continue to escalate, health insurance providers may implement incentives to promote preventive health practices, including the use of fitness centers among individuals within their provider network. Additionally, initiatives that promote the health benefits of exercise will likely increase over the next five years, stimulating industry revenue.  

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Steven’s Gym’s target audience will include all men and women ages 16 – 75+ who are interested in achieving and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. El Paso is a very diverse city that includes men and women from all walks of life. There are numerous blue collar individuals, white collar individuals, government employees, and military members as the local Army base is one of the largest in the country. Since Steven’s Gym will be very affordable, it will be able to attract people from all walks of life.

Customer Segmentation

Steven’s Gym will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• High school and college students
• Locally-based Military
• Athletes who frequently train for fitness competitions

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Steven’s Gym will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below. Gold’s Gym Gold’s Gym is a large franchise-owned gym with two locations in El Paso. Gold’s Gym gives access to everything one needs to transform their life: state-of-the-art amenities, a variety of fitness classes tailored towards someone’s fitness needs, and the world’s best trainers. There are weekly fitness classes for group workouts ranging from martial arts-inspired cardio classes to foundational yoga sessions. There are also certified trainers if someone is new to exercise or just looking for more guidance and coaching. Gold’s Gym’s amenities include cardio equipment, group exercise, personal training, a pro shop, sauna/steam rooms, group cycle, free weights, functional training, kids club, locker rooms, and wifi.

Planet Fitness Planet Fitness is for people from all walks of life, whether they’re a first-time gym user or a veteran member, they are there to provide a workout environment in which anyone and everyone can be comfortable. All Planet Fitness members enjoy unlimited access to their home club and the support of their friendly, knowledgeable staff anytime they need it. PF Black Club members receive additional benefits, including the ability to bring a guest for free and access to any of their 2,000+ PF locations. Also, the PF member can take advantage of their free fitness training or find motivation by reading real member experiences on Planet of Triumphs. The goal of Planet Fitness is to provide a clean, safe, welcoming environment for anyone who walks through the door, and all the equipment, amenities, and support they need once they arrive.

Anytime Fitness Anytime Fitness is a welcoming gym that exists to help someone get to a healthier place – by giving the right support at the right times, in the ways the member wants. Every member receives a free, personalized Get Started Plan when they join. Their friendly, professional staff is trained to help someone along their fitness journey, no matter how much support they need. Aside from a large selection of strength and cardio equipment, Anytime Fitness offers the following services – 24-hour access, 24-hour security, convenient parking, anywhere gym access, private restrooms, private showers, health plan discounts, wellness programs, cardio TVs, and HDTVs.

Competitive Advantage

Steven’s Gym will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Large, clean, and spacious facility that has all the necessary equipment for their fitness routine.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Steven’s Gym will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Large, clean, spacious, and well-equipped facility.
• Dedicated team of trainers.
• Affordable membership pricing plans.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Steven’s Gym is as follows: Social Media Marketing Strategy Steven’s Gym will invest in advertising the gym on social media platforms Facebook and Instagram. By using targeted social media marketing, Steven’s Gym will be able to reach the appropriate target audience of El Paso. Before opening, Steven will hire an advertising agency to develop the branding and photography needed to create captivating social media posts.

Billboards Steven will invest in two billboards strategically located at busy intersections that receive thousands of traffic daily. The advertising agency will develop the print for the billboard design. Website/SEO Marketing Strategy Steven’s Gym will invest in a strong SEO presence so that when someone enters “El Paso gym” or “local gym near me” in their Google or Bing search bar, Steven’s Gym is at the top of the list. Their website will list all of Steven’s Gym’s services, location, pricing, and contact information. Word of Mouth Word quickly spreads around town and once a few people experience the clean, affordable, and professional staff at Steven’s Gym, more and more people will come in to see for themselves and sign up for a membership plan.

The pricing of Steven’s Gym will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their services.  

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Steven’s Gym.

Operation Functions:

• Steven Malone will be the sole gym owner and operator of Steven’s Gym. He will oversee the staff, maintain that the cleaning schedules are being enforced, and ensure that all equipment is working per standard and safely. He will also manage all ordering of new and replacement equipment, schedule the group HIIT classes, and daily management tasks.
• Steven will hire a gym manager to be in charge of members and member management.
• A team of three trainers will run all of the fitness classes. As the membership grows and clients require more attention, more trainers and fitness classes will be added.
• A local CPA will manage all high level accounting functions, such as payroll and tax payments.
• Steven will also hire an advertising agency to develop the gym’s branding, photography, website, social media accounts, and billboard design.

Milestones:

Steven’s Gym will have the following milestones completed in the next six months. 8/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease warehouse space. 8/15/202X – Begin build-out and design converting warehouse space into a functional gym. 9/1/202X – Hire advertising company to begin developing gym’s branding, logo, social media accounts, website, and billboard design. 9/15/202X – Order all equipment. 10/5/202X – Hire gym manager and team of personal trainers. 10/15/202X – Train staff on proper policies and procedures. 11/1/202X – Grand Opening of Steven’s Gym.  

Steven’s Gym will be solely owned by Steven Malone. Steven is a retired Army Master Sergeant who has been stationed off and on at El Paso’s Fort Bliss for the past twelve years. Upon retirement, Steven decided to make El Paso his permanent home and embark on his dream of owning his own gym. Steven recognizes the lack of quality, independent gyms in El Paso and wants to open a gym that fits his idea of what a high-quality gym should be.

As a former powerlifter and personal trainer while serving in the military, Steven is aware of the proper equipment and facilities a gym should have. Steven envisions his gym to be friendly, clean, well-equipped, and affordable for the average person so that people from all walks of life will feel comfortable going to the gym and achieving their fitness goals. Steven will dedicate his life and focus on ensuring that his gym is always clean, staffed with the best trainers, and members are happy with what the gym has to offer.  

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Steven’s Gym are the membership fees it will charge each person that signs up to become a member. Each member will be placed on a membership plan where they can either pay month to month, enroll in either a 6 or 12 month contract, or pay for the entire year upfront.

The cost drivers will be the payroll for the staff, rent, utilities, cleaning supplies and equipment, and gym equipment purchase and maintenance. Other cost drivers will be the targeted marketing costs on social media and monthly fees for the CPA and advertising company.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Initial Number of New Clients per Month: 60
• Average Monthly Membership Fee: $150
• Gym Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income Statement

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Gym Business Plan FAQs

What is a gym business plan.

A gym business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your gym. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing strategies and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your gym business plan using our gym business plan template here .

What Are the Main Types of Gyms?

There are many types of gyms or fitness centers. There are large, franchise gyms that have multiple locations across the country. There are also large single facility gyms. Finally, there are smaller gyms that tend to focus on a particular fitness segment, such as strength training, CrossFit, or group HIIT training.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Gym Business?

The primary source of revenue for a gym or fitness center are membership fees. Typically, members pay month-to-month, or fulfill a year-long contract.

The key expenses for a gym or fitness center are the costs associated with payroll, purchase and maintenance of equipment, cleaning supplies, marketing costs, and working capital. Other expenses will be rent, utilities, taxes, accounts payable, and other licensing fees (if necessary).

How Do You Get Funding for Your Gym?

Gym businesses are most likely to secure funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your gym business plan to them. Family and/or friends could also be potential investors and other types of capital-raising such as crowdfunding are other common funding sources.

A well-crafted gym business plan, complete with a solid financial plan is essential for attracting any type of potential investor. This is true for a new gym business or established businesses looking to grow.

What are the Steps To Start a Gym Business?

Starting a gym or fitness center can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Write A Gym Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a solid gym business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include market research on the fitness industry and potential target market size, information on the services and/or products you will offer, marketing strategy, mission statement, business model and pricing strategy and a detailed financial plan.  Our business plan template is the perfect guide to show you how to start a gym business plan.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your fitness   business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your gym business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Gym Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your gym business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your gym business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Gym Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your gym business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your gym or fitness   business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising to reach your target audience.

Learn more about how to start a successful gym or fitness business:

• How to Start a Gym Business

Where Can I Get a Gym Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free gym business plan template PDF here. This is a sample gym business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Personal Training Business Plans

Create a successful fitness venture with a Personal Training Business Plan. Strategize growth, attract clients, and achieve your goals in the industry.

By Joshua Napilay on Jul 15, 2024.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

What is a Personal Training Business Plan?

A Personal Training Business Plan is a comprehensive document outlining the strategies, goals, and operational details of establishing and running a successful personal training business. This plan serves as a roadmap for individuals looking to enter the fitness industry as entrepreneurs. It outlines their approach to attracting clients, delivering effective training programs, managing finances, and achieving long-term growth.

A well-structured business plan typically includes several key components:

• Executive Summary: A concise overview of the business idea, its mission, and the main objectives of the personal training business.
• Business Description: A detailed explanation of the services offered, target clientele, and the unique value proposition of the personal training business in the competitive fitness market.
• Market Analysis: An examination of the local fitness industry, target market demographics, and competition, along with potential opportunities and challenges.
• Marketing and Sales Strategies: A plan to attract and retain clients, including branding, pricing, advertising, and social media strategies.
• Service Offerings: A description of the types of training programs offered, whether it's one-on-one coaching, group classes, online training, or a combination.
• Operational Plan: Details about the day-to-day operations, including scheduling, location, equipment, and staffing needs.
• Financial Projections: A projection of revenue and expenses, including start-up costs, ongoing expenses, and potential income, over a specified period (often three to five years).
• Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks and challenges the business might face, along with contingency plans to mitigate these risks.
• Long-Term Vision : An outline of the business's long-term goals, expansion plans, and strategies for sustained growth.

Creating a is essential for various reasons. It helps entrepreneurs clarify their business concept, secure funding from investors or lenders, and maintain focus on their objectives. Additionally, it offers a structured approach to navigating challenges and adapting to changes in the fitness industry.

Personal Training Business Plans Template

Personal Training Business Plans Example

How does it work?

Access the Printable Personal Training Business Plan form from a reliable source, ensuring it's in a downloadable and printable format.

Personal Information

Enter your details, including your name, contact information, and professional certifications.

Business Description

Provide a brief overview of your training business, including its mission, goals, and fitness services you intend to offer.

Target Market

Specify your target clientele, such as age groups, fitness levels, and specific fitness goals your training programs cater to.

Competitive Analysis

Describe the local fitness landscape and identify key competitors. Highlight what differentiates your business from others regarding services, pricing, and approach.

Marketing Strategy

Share your marketing plan, both online and offline, to attract clients. This may include social media, partnerships, or community events.

Service Offerings

Detail the different training programs you will provide, mentioning if it's one-on-one coaching, group classes, virtual training, or a combination.

Operational Plan

Explain how you plan to run the day-to-day operations of your business, covering aspects like scheduling, location, equipment, and any additional staff.

Financial Projections

Present your expected revenue and expenses for the first few years of operation. This includes startup costs, recurring expenses, and anticipated income.

Risk Management

Identify potential business risks, such as economic downturns or legal considerations. Discuss how you plan to mitigate these risks.

Long-Term Goals

Share your vision for the future of your personal training business, including expansion plans, new service offerings, and ways you intend to adapt to industry trends.

Review and Finalize

Carefully review the completed form for accuracy, coherence, and completeness. Make any necessary revisions before finalizing the document.

Professional Advice

Consider seeking input from a business advisor, fitness industry expert, or mentor to ensure your plan is thorough and well-structured.

Implementation

Once your Personal Training Business Plan is complete, use it as a guide to implement your strategies and work towards achieving your business goals.

When would you use this Plan?

A Personal Training Business Plan is an invaluable tool for fitness enthusiasts and professionals looking to venture into the personal training industry as entrepreneurs. This resource helps them strategically plan and execute their fitness business ventures. Here are some instances when this form would be particularly useful:

• Startup Stage: Aspiring personal trainers can use the form when starting their fitness business. It provides a structured approach to defining their business concept, target market, and service offerings, which are crucial foundations for success.
• Securing Funding : A well-documented business plan is essential when seeking investors or loans to launch or expand their personal training business. The form helps outline revenue projections, expenses, and growth strategies, demonstrating the business's viability to potential stakeholders.
• Operational Guidance : Established personal trainers can benefit from the form when seeking to streamline their operations or introduce new services. It assists in refining marketing strategies, updating service offerings, and aligning business practices with changing industry trends.
• Strategic Growth: For personal trainers aiming to expand their client base or open multiple locations, the form aids in mapping out expansion plans, financial projections, and strategies for scaling the business sustainably.
• Professionalism: The form enhances professionalism in the personal training industry. It allows trainers to present a well-structured plan to clients, showcasing their commitment to delivering quality services and achieving clients' fitness goals.
• Adapting to Changes: The fitness industry is dynamic, with trends and client preferences evolving. Personal trainers can use the form periodically to review and adjust their strategies to stay relevant and competitive.
• Succession Planning: Established personal trainers nearing retirement may use the form to outline their succession plans, ensuring a smooth business transition to new owners or trainers.

Enhanced Business Strategy

The form guides personal trainers in articulating their business goals, target market, and unique value proposition, leading to a more focused and effective strategy.

Investor Attraction

A well-structured plan showcases the potential of the personal training business, instilling confidence in investors and increasing the likelihood of securing funding.

Operational Efficiency

The form aids in planning day-to-day operations, from scheduling sessions to managing resources, leading to streamlined and organized business management.

Marketing Effectiveness

By defining the ideal client and specifying marketing strategies, trainers can attract their desired clientele more effectively, optimizing marketing efforts.

Financial Planning

The form's financial projections help trainers understand startup costs, operating expenses, and projected revenue, enabling better financial planning and management.

Adaptability and Growth

With a well-documented plan, trainers can proactively adapt to changing industry trends, keeping their services relevant and fostering sustainable growth.

Research & Evidence

The use of personal training business plans has evolved alongside the growth of the fitness industry and the increasing number of individuals pursuing careers as personal trainers. As the demand for fitness services expanded, it became evident that having a structured business plan was crucial for success in a competitive market. Over the years, this resource has gained significance due to the following factors:

In the past, personal training was often limited to elite athletes or wealthy individuals. However, as awareness of fitness and health benefits spread, more people sought professional guidance. This shift led to a proliferation of personal training businesses, necessitating the development of effective business strategies.

Studies and industry reports have highlighted the advantages of having a well-defined business plan in the personal training sector. Research by industry associations, such as the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), consistently emphasizes the value of strategic planning for fitness businesses.

With the fitness industry becoming more saturated, personal trainers realized that merely having expertise in exercise science wasn't enough. Business acumen and effective marketing strategies were essential to stand out. Research-backed business plans emerged as tools to help trainers navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

As the fitness industry expanded, entrepreneurs sought external funding to establish or grow their personal training businesses. Financial institutions and investors require evidence of a sound business strategy before providing funding. This prompted personal trainers to develop detailed business plans to secure backing.

The fitness industry is dynamic, with trends like virtual training, wellness coaching, and specialized programs constantly emerging. Research-backed business plans allow personal trainers to incorporate these trends strategically, ensuring their businesses remain relevant and profitable.

• Crump, D. (2022, January 28). Create a personal trainer business plan in six steps . The PTDC. https://www.theptdc.com/articles/personal-trainer-business-plan
• How to write a business plan for personal trainers | ISSA . (n.d.). https://www.issaonline.com/blog/post/how-to-write-a-business-plan-for-personal-trainers
• Lavinsky, D. (2023). Personal Training Business Plan Template. Growthink . https://www.growthink.com/businessplan/help-center/personal-training-business-plan
• Origym. (2023, March 23). 7 Simple Steps for Writing a Personal Trainer Business Plan (with Templates). Origym . https://origympersonaltrainercourses.co.uk/blog/personal-trainer-business-plan
• Wellness Creative Co. (2023). How To Write A Personal Training Business Plan [+ Examples & Templates]. Wellness Creative Co . https://www.wellnesscreatives.com/personal-training-business-plan/

Commonly asked questions

Personal Training Business Plans are crucial for fitness entrepreneurs to achieve their business goals.

Personal Training Business Plans outline a fitness entrepreneur's business concept, target market, growth strategies, and potential profitability. Trainers review and adjust them periodically to adapt to industry trends and ensure continued success.

Personal Training Business Plans guide fitness businesses on strategy, marketing, operations, and finances. They help trainers make informed decisions.

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7 Simple Steps for Writing a Personal Trainer Business Plan (with Templates)

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20.3 minutes

Jessie Florence Jones

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Abbie Watkins

If you’re just starting on your own as a PT, writing a personal trainer business plan is one of the most important first steps you’ll have to take.

In this article we’ll cover:

Why Do I Need a Personal Training Business Plan?

Step 1: write your personal trainer business plan summary.

• Step 2: Detail Your Qualifications on Your PT Business Plan
• Step 3: Pinpoint What You Sell When Writing a Personal Trainer Business Plan

Step 4: Perform a SWOT Analysis as Part of Your Personal Training Business Plan

• Step 5: Outline Your Marketing Strategies in Your PT Business Plan
• Step 6: Include Your Financial Plans & Projections in a Personal Trainer Business Plan
• Step 7: Conclude Your Personal Training Business Plan with a Closing Statement

Before you start with your PT business plan, there’s one thing you should always factor in, and that’s professional development.

With  our Level 4 Sports Nutrition Course , you’re able to set yourself apart from the competition and ensure your business can thrive in a competitive industry.  Download our free course prospectus to find out more !

Before we look in detail at the process of writing a personal trainer business plan, it’s vital to understand why you should produce one. 

In short, a personal trainer business plan acts as the guide for where your business currently is, where you aspire to be, and how you’ll get there.

As you can imagine, this is vital for establishing your business and plays an integral role in:

• How to make money as a personal trainer
• How many, and the kind of, clients you attract
• How you market yourself
• Who your competitors are, and how you’ll beat them

It’s easy to assume that you’ll be the only person who’ll see the business plan for your personal trainer business but it will play a vital role in securing external funding if that’s what you need.

You will have to show prospective investors what you plan to do with your business and outline every detail if you’re looking to secure money from a third party.

Ultimately your personal trainer business plan is an opportunity to showcase your brand and display what you’ll be contributing to the fitness industry. 

Every successful personal trainer business plan should start with a summary. This is an overview for readers and potential investors, covering:

• Who you are
• What your business offers, and your target market
• Your financial state, and projections for the future
• Your marketing strategy
• Plans for the future

Despite it seeming simple, this is one of the most crucial parts of any business plan for a personal trainer because it’s the first impression you’ll make. 

You’ll need to summarise for the reader what you’ll be covering so they’ve got a good snapshot of your business and the service you will provide.

This personal trainer business plan example from CIBT Visas, a global financial company, is a great illustration of how it should be done:

Just from this short section, we find out a few key points about CIBT, including:

• What they do
• Where they operate
• Their core values
• What they aim to achieve

This should essentially contain your personal trainer mission statement and what you intend your brand to achieve and fulfil!

Your next sections will expand on these key features, and offer a more in-depth look at what you do, and where you can take your business.

Step 2: Detail Your Qualifications on Your Personal Trainer Business Plan

Following your summary, your personal training business plan should lead into a comprehensive inventory of your qualifications and certifications.

This serves a few different purposes. For any potential investors or banks, you’re proving that you’re well-positioned to provide a service to your clients.

Each qualification is an indicator to those who want to put money into your business that you’re a professional able to bring return on their investment with trustworthy expertise.

Each one is also an example of the different areas your business could branch into in order to grow and develop. For example, any specialist Level 4 master personal trainer courses you’ve completed  show a potential for advancement .

You should include a list of qualifications as well as where they come from. This will show that you’ve completed a course with a reputable provider and allows potential investors to see your credentials.

You should list them simply, like in our own personal trainer business plan sample below:

Diploma in Personal Training – OriGym COE Level 3 Exercise Referral – OriGym COE Level 4 Advanced Sports Nutrition – OriGym COE First Aid for Sports – British Red Cross CPD in Strength and Conditioning – OriGym COE

This list offers a comprehensive overview of our example PT’s qualifications, as well as where they were achieved. 

CPD fitness courses will also help demonstrate a wide ranging skill set and areas that your business could potentially branch into! 

Step 3: Pinpoint What You Want to Sell When Writing a Personal Trainer Business Plan

Next up for your personal trainer business plan is detailing exactly what it is that you intend to sell and how you plan to cater to a particular audience and customer base.

This should be one of the most extensive sections of your business plan template. As a personal trainer you need to put trust in your services and your ability to meet other people’s fitness goals as well as those you have for your business.

This is your opportunity to detail all of your revenue streams and the different ways in which you intend to make money for your business.

This is also a way of illustrating why there’s room in the market for your business to cater to a particular demographic and offer a service that there’s a want or need for!

This may sound simple but plenty of trainers will miss out revenue streams from their personal training business plan, or don’t detail potential opportunities for expansion and selling other services or products.

Most PTs will have several revenue streams and you want to make sure you detail all of these without putting too much emphasis on the most lucrative ones.

For example, you don’t want to just detail your one-to-one training, despite it probably being your main source of income!

Some of the revenue streams you might want to include on top of this are:

• Online or face to face seminars
• Nutrition consultations
• Affiliate marketing with prominent brands such as sportswear and supplement brands
• Personal trainer tutor for a training provider
• Workout guides or ebooks
• Speaking at fitness or educational events

You also need to find your personal training target market . 

Something holistic like ‘gym goer’ is too broad and will hinder your ability to create marketing strategies and develop your business.

Your target market is the ideal customer and should be directly linked to the services you’re offering. 

You need to be able to show why you’ve chosen this demographic and how your product or service answers their specific needs.

Again, the more specific you can be the better. Some examples include:

• People with physical health conditions or impairments
• People with long term health conditions during rehabilitation 
• Women under 30 looking for postnatal classes
• Athletes looking for strength and conditioning training

We’ve written our own personal trainer business plan example for this particular section that you can use as a template:

My business offers one-to-one, bespoke, personal training sessions for women who are 40 years of age or older.  My services predominantly focus on helping women use exercise and nutrition to deal with the symptoms and stresses of menopause. My research suggests there is a huge need for a combination of services such as mine, offering nutrition and exercise programmes to help women with some of these issues. All of my qualifications uniquely equip me to work with this demographic to provide a much needed service. I offer nutrition sessions one-to-one, building recipes and selling them as a recipe guide, or working with individual clients to build bespoke nutrition plans. I also offer personal training sessions one-to-one or in groups with other women of the same age or same symptom experience.  Because of how common these issues are in this demographic there’s also a huge demand for seminars and educational sessions in partnership with women’s charities and other healthcare professionals. I provide consultancy on these issues as well as being available for talks and seminars online or in-person for various institutions.

This business plan template for a personal trainer company can be used as a jumping off point and fleshed out for your own brand!

The next thing you will need to perform for your personal trainer business plan is SWOT analysis.

Personal trainer SWOT analysis is vital for determining what you’re doing well and if there’s any sticking points, preventing your business from growing and developing as it should. 

SWOT stands for:

• Strengths – these are the elements you think makes you stand out as a PT making your business unique 
• Weaknesses – this is where you’ll reflect on any areas for improvement or development 
• Opportunities – building on the above, decide on actions that can be taken to improve your business and develop your brand
• Threats – this last step is to assess whether there’s anything stopping these actions from being taken or potential disruptions to how you might want to grow and develop your business

By performing these steps you’ll have an idea of how you can promote your USP and reinforce the other sections of your business plan, realising what gap you’re filling in the market.

You’ll also be able to identify any room for improvement and things that you can do to allow your business to grow.

This will help you by identifying exactly what your next moves are and how you can grow your business moving forward.

This will also help to show potential investors that you’re aware of the challenges your business might face and how you’re prepared to meet them and adapt your business accordingly.

This makes you seem like a more trustworthy investment and somebody who’s aware of how best to return on that investment and grow your business and income!

Step 5: Outline Your Marketing Strategies in Your Personal Trainer Business Plan

Another vital part of a business plan for any personal trainer is outlining your marketing strategies. 

This is vital for both you and any potential investors or collaborators. Here, you’ll outline the specific techniques and campaigns you will use to grow your business and gain new clients!

Showing your marketing plan will also reinforce your understanding of your target market because the particular strategies you use should be dictated by who you’re marketing to.

Identifying Your Target Market

If you’re writing a business plan to open a personal training studio , what’s the age range of your prospective clientele?

As we mentioned earlier, you need to make sure you’re as specific as possible with your target market.

The more specific you can be about the demographic the more specific you can be in targeting them, based on their behaviour and interaction with different platforms.

Using Social Media Platforms Relevant to Your Target Market

You need to make sure you’re aware of which platform is most used by your target age range. 

This is so that you can demonstrate that you understand the best way to target this specific audience with your marketing. 

If you’re looking to target an older age range, you may want to get clients from Facebook , as the social media site  tends to be used by an older generation of users.

If you’re targeting young women, for example, you should target platforms such as TikTok and Instagram that are dominated by this younger demographic.

However, some platforms such as Google are frequented by everyone and are a worthy investment no matter your target market.

Using Ads on Social Media

You should also include information about any existing personal trainer marketing strategies you’ve implemented. 

This will show your progress and illustrate your understanding of including this in your SWOT analysis and your awareness of how best to reach your target market.

You can include a screenshot of any existing ads you have on social media but you also need to ensure you include details of any spending and your projected spends on future strategies.

You should also detail any spending you’ve already done for advertising and marketing efforts.

This should include the costs for the maintenance of your existing marketing strategies, as well as any projections for future ones such as getting PT referrals or affiliate marketing.

Showing the Impact of Your Marketing Strategies

You should also make sure you include figures you have about the impact of any existing strategies you have in place.

For example, you might show the reach and engagement of certain ads you’ve had on social media platforms.

This will show what’s worked already and support any request for funds if you can show how and to what end your budget for marketing has worked.

In terms of showing what you’ve already done, this might be simply including a screenshot of what you’ve already spent on your advertising and any leads or impressions generated as a result.

For example, here’s an image of the leads generated by our own Facebook ads within a month:

And here’s what it might look like to show what you’ve spent in order to generate those leads:

This will show a potential investor that your existing spends have been successful and will be considered in terms of how much you can borrow or get.

This way you’re showing that what you’ve spent already has been successful and what you need to continue to spend in order to maintain that success.

However, you may not have already done any marketing in this way. If you’ve worked in a gym chances are you have to promote your own services but you might not have been solely responsible for things like ads and email marketing. 

If you’re just starting out, and this is the case, you should just include projections based on your market research.

Make sure to focus on the aforementioned factors, including any financial projections you can make. 

This way you’re still showing you’re aware of exactly what you need to do and what you need to monitor to have a successful marketing campaign!

If you found this section helpful, you can find out more about marketing your personal trainer business with some of our other articles below:

• Strategies for Personal Trainer Lead Generation
• How to Use Google My Business as a Personal Trainer
• Personal Trainer Social Media: Ideas, Examples & Schedule

Step 6: Include Your Financial Plan and Projections in a Personal Trainer Business Plan

If you’re trying to secure money from a third party for your business, probably the most important sample of your personal trainer business plan is your financial projections.

The level of detail you include will depend on where you’re trying to secure funding from and how far into your business you are.

For example, this will look different for a personal training studio business plan than if your services are online or from home. 

It will also depend on some of the other features from our personal trainer business plan examples, such as marketing.

If you’ve only just started then your marketing costs will be projections rather than the screenshots we included in our own personal trainer business plan sample. 

You’ll need to detail not only what your expenses are or will be, but exactly how you see your business making and maintaining a steady financial flow.

No matter what your brand is, when you’re writing a personal trainer business plan you need to make sure you include the following crucial elements:

• An income statement
• A balance sheet
• A cash-flow statement

We’ll run through each of these now so you know exactly what they entail and why they’re important for any successful personal trainer business plan.

An Income Statement 

An income statement is a crucial part of any business plan template and a personal trainer business is no exception.

This is a statement that shows how much money you’ve made after your expenses and taxes are deducted from your income. 

Any business will keep this anyway for tax purposes and it can be helpful to have those numbers in front of you when you’re looking at ways to grow or streamline your business.

This is especially useful for anybody looking to invest or support your business financially because it shows your business’s profit and success.

It will also show any losses made and where they’ve come from so you can make any alterations.

This will inform and reinforce other parts of your personal trainer business plan. For example, having these figures ready will help you with your SWOT analysis.

Throughout your career you will have to complete an income statement for your business every fiscal quarter.

However, when you’re starting out, and for the purposes of the personal training business plan, you should do one every month for a year where possible.

This will also depend on your personal trainer business registration because your taxes will depend on whether you’re a sole trader or a limited company.

You should check this or use a business plan template for your personal trainer income statement.

A Balance Sheet

Your balance sheet is a calculation of what you have versus what you owe, giving a sum that shows the equity of your business. 

On one side it will list your business assets, which are things you own and could be liquidated and turned into cash. On the other side it will show liabilities, which are what you owe.

Most people will have a mixture of short and long term assets, called ‘current’ and ‘noncurrent’. 

Current assets are those which you could turn into cash within the year so either cash you currently have or accounts receivable (invoices from clients who are yet to pay).

Noncurrent assets are those which you don’t expect to liquidate in the near future.

This includes things like equipment or, if you’re writing a personal training studio business plan, you’d include property on this list too.

This is only in the list of assets if you own the property, though. If you’re renting a space or you’re paying off a mortgage, this would be in the liabilities section.

Liabilities will mostly be related to starting your business and any loans or any costs you got on finance.

Being able to show a healthy balance of these two things is a vital part of your business plan as a personal trainer because it shows the financial health of your company.

Showing that these things are well balanced will demonstrate to a bank or any potential investors that you’re a trustworthy business and will be financially stable enough to repay any money lent.

You should subtract the amount of liabilities from your assets to show the equity of your company.

A Cash Flow Statement 

Any business plan template for a personal trainer business should also include a cash flow statement. 

This is similar to an income statement but instead of just showing how much money you have after your outgoings this calculates the ‘flow’, i.e how much you have consistently coming in and out of your business.

Ideally, you want to be able to show that the flow of money is always positive, meaning you take in more money than you’re spending on expenses. 

Including this in your business plan serves a similar purpose to an income statement in regards to the SWOT analysis too.

Having these figures showing the cash flow will help you identify what’s working best to make money as a personal trainer , and where you could improve or cut back on expenses. 

The cash flow statement should show where your money is low and where there may be a surplus, meaning you have some opportunity to spend or redistribute some funds.

Having these figures will not only help you adjust your business but will also give a good indicator to investors or potential lenders of your financial stability as a business.

Step 7: Conclude Your Personal Trainer Business Plan with a Closing Statement

Last but not least, you should end your personal trainer business plan with a closing statement.

This will serve a similar purpose to your summary from step one but you can now summarise based on everything from the other sections.

This will act as a conclusion and an indication of where your business is up to and what you see as the next important steps.

This will help you to decide what you want to do with your business and the most immediate concerns and actions you need to take.

This will also act as an indicator to investors and lenders that you understand and know what to do with the data from previous sections.

If you can assess your business and read through your PT business plan to make some decisions, this reinforces your understanding of your business and your trustworthiness as a business owner!

After all, in any sample personal trainer business plan this is your opportunity to summarise your successes and illustrate that you understand how to fix any issues, and adjust accordingly.

Before You Go!

Hopefully now you’ve seen our personal trainer business plan examples, you feel ready to start writing your own!

Don’t forget you can grow your business by learning new expertise and skills and offering new services. You can do this with our  Level 4 Sports Nutrition qualification .

Find out more by getting in touch with our team today and download our course prospectus to see how else you can continue to grow your business.

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Personal Trainer Business Plan Template (FREE)

Get this free personal trainer business plan template to learn how to create a personal trainer business plan. Use the free personal trainer business plan examples and then modify as needed.

Scroll down for a free personal training business plan template, and then be sure to check out our guide on how to create a gym business plan and then utilize the gym business plan template and fitness business plan template to get inspiration for creating your PT business plan.

Remember though, the important part is to get certified and then get started. Don’t delay, what you can start today. Learn how to start a fitness business , and how to start a personal training business , but don’t forget that you technically don’t have to be certified to sell workouts (though you should get certified!) so there are many ways to make money from fitness , one of which is making money selling workout plans online .

Then be sure to find the tools you need to grow a fitness influencer business. From the best software for gym management to the best software for personal training to the best fitness software for fitness influencers , the Exercise.com platform has the tools you need to grow and manage your fitness business.

Sell workout plans online .

Run online fitness challenges .

Create and sell fitness memberships, products, and digital offers.

Manage, message, and market to your leads and customers.

All from your very own custom branded fitness apps .

Get a demo now!

Personal Trainer Business Plan Template

Creating a business plan is a crucial step for personal trainers aspiring to establish a successful fitness business. A well-crafted business plan serves as a roadmap, outlining your goals, strategies, and the steps you need to take to achieve them. It provides clarity on your business model, target market, services offered, marketing and sales strategies, and financial planning. This plan is not only vital for your own reference and guidance but also essential if you’re seeking funding or partnerships.

A comprehensive business plan for a personal trainer should encompass several key components, including an executive summary, market analysis, business structure, services offered, marketing and sales strategies, and financial planning. Below is a detailed template that personal trainers can use as a guide to creating their own business plan.

Executive Summary

• Business Name and Location : Your business name and the location where you will operate.
• Mission Statement : A brief statement outlining your business’s purpose and goals.
• Business Goals : Short-term and long-term objectives for your personal training business.
• Owner’s Background : Your qualifications, experience, and any unique skills that set you apart.

Market Analysis

• Industry Overview : Current state and future outlook of the fitness industry.
• Target Market : Specific demographic and psychographic details of your ideal clients.
• Competitor Analysis : Overview of competitors, their offerings, strengths, and weaknesses.
• Market Trends : Emerging trends in personal training and fitness.

Business Structure

• Type of Business Entity : Whether you are a sole proprietor, partnership, LLC, etc.
• Business Model : How you plan to charge for your services (e.g., hourly rates, package deals).
• Facility and Equipment : Details about your training facility and equipment needs.

Services Offered

• Training Services : Types of personal training services you will offer (one-on-one, group sessions, online coaching).
• Special Programs : Any specialized programs or niche training services (e.g., weight loss, athletic training, rehabilitation).
• Additional Services : Other services like nutrition counseling, fitness assessments, etc.

Marketing and Sales Strategies

• Branding : Your business’s branding strategy, including logo, colors, and overall image.
• Marketing Channels : How you plan to market your services (social media, local advertising, partnerships).
• Sales Techniques : Strategies for selling your services and converting prospects into clients.
• Client Retention Strategies : Methods for retaining clients and encouraging long-term commitments.

Financial Planning

• Startup Costs : Initial costs involved in setting up your personal training business.
• Pricing Strategy : How you will price your services.
• Revenue Projections : Estimated earnings for the first few years.
• Expense Forecast : Ongoing operational costs (rent, equipment maintenance, marketing costs).
• Break-Even Analysis : The point at which your business will start to make a profit.

Additional Components

• Legal and Insurance Considerations : Necessary permits, licenses, and insurance policies.
• Risk Analysis : Potential risks your business may face and how you plan to mitigate them.
• Growth and Expansion Plans : How you plan to grow and scale your business in the future.

This template provides a comprehensive framework for a personal trainer business plan. Tailoring each section to reflect your unique vision, goals, and strategies will result in a robust and effective business plan, guiding your venture towards success.

• Personal Trainer Marketing
• Personal Trainer Mission Statements
• Personal Trainer Insurance
• Best Personal Trainer Software

#1 Example Mobile Personal Training Business Plan

“Fit On The Go” is a mobile personal training business catering to busy professionals and parents who struggle to find time for gym visits. Our mission is to bring customized fitness solutions directly to clients, offering convenience, flexibility, and personalized attention. We aim to tap into the local market of working professionals in urban areas, delivering tailored workout sessions at their homes, offices, or outdoor spaces.

• Type : Sole Proprietorship
• Business Model : Charging clients on a session-by-session basis or through monthly packages.
• Facility and Equipment : No fixed facility; equipment is portable and suitable for various environments.
• Training Services : One-on-one and small group training sessions, including strength training, cardio, and flexibility workouts.
• Special Programs : Corporate wellness programs, post-natal fitness, senior fitness.
• Additional Services : Basic nutritional advice and online support.
• Industry Overview : Growing demand for personalized and convenient fitness options.
• Target Market : Busy professionals aged 30-50, new parents, and corporations.
• Competitor Analysis : Other local personal trainers and fitness apps.
• Market Trends : Increasing interest in health and well-being, especially post-pandemic.
• Branding : Professional, approachable, and tailored to busy lifestyles.
• Marketing Channels : Social media marketing, local networking events, partnerships with local businesses.
• Sales Techniques : Free first sessions, referral incentives.
• Client Retention Strategies : Personalized progress tracking, flexible scheduling.
• Startup Costs : Minimal – mainly for equipment and marketing.
• Pricing Strategy : Competitive pricing with discounts for package purchases.
• Revenue Projections : Aim to achieve a steady client base within the first year.
• Expense Forecast : Ongoing costs including travel expenses, equipment maintenance, and marketing.
• Break-Even Analysis : Expected within the first six months.

Read More: Mobile Fitness Business Guide

#2 Example Boutique Personal Training Studio Business Plan

“Elite Fitness Studio” is a boutique personal training studio located in a high-end neighborhood, focusing on providing exclusive, high-quality fitness experiences. Our goal is to create a community of fitness enthusiasts who value personalized attention, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive environment.

• Type : Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Business Model : Membership-based with additional charges for personal training sessions.
• Facility and Equipment : Well-equipped studio with modern fitness equipment.
• Training Services : Individual and small group personal training, specializing in weight loss, muscle building, and athletic performance.
• Special Programs : Wellness retreats, fitness workshops, and seminars.
• Additional Services : In-house nutritionist consultations, physiotherapy services.
• Industry Overview : Increasing demand for exclusive and specialized fitness services.
• Target Market : Affluent individuals aged 25-55, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts.
• Competitor Analysis : Other high-end fitness studios and luxury gyms.
• Market Trends : Personalization in fitness and holistic health approaches.
• Branding : Luxurious, exclusive, and results-driven.
• Marketing Channels : High-end local magazines, community events, influencer partnerships.
• Sales Techniques : Membership exclusivity, premium pricing.
• Client Retention Strategies : Customized fitness plans, member-only events, loyalty rewards.
• Startup Costs : Significant – for studio setup, equipment, and initial marketing.
• Pricing Strategy : Premium pricing reflecting the exclusivity and quality of services.
• Revenue Projections : Gradual growth with an expansion of services and client base.
• Expense Forecast : High, including rent, equipment maintenance, staff salaries, and marketing.
• Break-Even Analysis : Expected within the first 18 months.

Read More: Best Boutique Fitness Studio Software

#3 Example Online Personal Training Business Plan

“Virtual Fitness Coach” is an online personal training business providing remote fitness coaching and virtual workout sessions. We focus on offering convenient, accessible, and customized fitness solutions to individuals globally, utilizing technology to bridge geographical gaps.

• Type : Partnership
• Business Model : Subscription-based online services with various tiered plans.
• Facility and Equipment : Home office setup with necessary tech equipment for virtual sessions.
• Training Services : Live virtual training sessions, pre-recorded workout programs.
• Special Programs : Weight loss challenges, fitness boot camps, yoga and mindfulness sessions.
• Additional Services : Online nutrition coaching, fitness blogs, and webinars.
• Industry Overview : Surge in demand for online fitness services.
• Target Market : Tech-savvy individuals, those with limited access to gyms, global clientele.
• Competitor Analysis : Other online fitness platforms and apps.
• Market Trends : Digital transformation in fitness, growing popularity of home workouts.
• Branding : Modern, accessible, and tech-friendly.
• Marketing Channels : Social media advertising, content marketing, online fitness communities.
• Sales Techniques : Free trials, tiered pricing plans.
• Client Retention Strategies : Engaging online community, regular program updates, personalized feedback.
• Startup Costs : Moderate – mainly for software, website development, and initial marketing.
• Pricing Strategy : Subscription-based with different tiers for various needs.
• Revenue Projections : Aim for global reach and a substantial subscriber base within the first year.
• Expense Forecast : Moderate, including website maintenance, marketing, and software subscriptions.
• Break-Even Analysis : Projected within the first 12 months.

Each of these fitness trainer business plans caters to different market segments and operational models, offering a diverse range of services and experiences. Personal trainers can adapt these templates to align with their specific goals, target audience, and available resources.

Read More: Best Online Fitness Coach Software

The Importance of Having a Business Plan as a Personal Trainer

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on creating a successful personal trainer business plan. In this article, we will explore the importance of having a business plan as a personal trainer, delve into the key elements to include in your plan, and provide detailed insights into various aspects of running a thriving personal training business.

Looking to start your own personal training business? This comprehensive personal training business plan template will guide you through the process, helping you outline your goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and more.

As a personal trainer, having a well-defined business plan is crucial to your success. It serves as a roadmap that outlines your goals, strategies, and tactics for achieving them. A solid business plan helps you stay focused, organized, and accountable. It allows you to clearly articulate your mission, vision, and unique value proposition to potential clients, partners, and investors.

Furthermore, a business plan helps you foresee challenges and identify opportunities in the ever-evolving fitness industry. It allows you to devise strategies to effectively navigate market fluctuations, competition, and changing consumer preferences. Ultimately, a well-crafted business plan sets the foundation for your personal training business and increases your chances of long-term success.

One key benefit of having a business plan as a personal trainer is that it helps you establish a clear financial strategy. By outlining your revenue streams, expenses, and pricing structure, you can ensure that your personal training business remains profitable. Additionally, a business plan allows you to set financial goals and track your progress towards achieving them, providing you with a benchmark for success.

Another advantage of having a business plan is that it enables you to effectively market and promote your personal training services. With a well-defined target market and a comprehensive marketing strategy, you can identify the most effective channels to reach potential clients. Your business plan can also include a detailed analysis of your competition, allowing you to differentiate yourself and highlight your unique selling points.

Key Elements to Include in Your Personal Trainer Business Plan

A comprehensive personal trainer business plan should consist of several key elements. These include:

1. Executive Summary: Summarize your business concept, mission statement, and unique selling proposition. This section provides an overview of your plan and entices readers to continue reading.

2. Company Description: Outline your personal training business, including its legal structure, location, services offered, and target market.

3. Market Analysis: Conduct thorough market research to gain insights into your target market, competitors, and industry trends. Analyze the demand for personal training services in your area and identify gaps you can capitalize on.

4. Marketing and Sales Strategies: Detail your marketing and advertising tactics, such as online and offline promotion, partnerships, and referrals. Create a pricing structure that reflects the value you provide and consider offering introductory packages or discounts to attract new clients.

5. Organizational Structure: Define your business’s organizational structure, roles, and responsibilities. If you plan to hire additional trainers or administrative staff, outline their job descriptions and qualifications.

6. Financial Projections: Create a comprehensive financial plan that includes startup costs, revenue projections, expense forecasts, and cash flow analysis. This section helps you understand the financial feasibility of your business and secure funding if needed.

7. Operations and Systems: Develop strategies for efficient operations, such as scheduling, client management, and record-keeping systems. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track your business’s performance and identify areas for improvement.

8. Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential risks and challenges that may impact your personal training business. Identify strategies to mitigate these risks, such as obtaining appropriate insurance coverage, implementing safety protocols, and developing contingency plans.

9. Professional Development: Outline your commitment to ongoing professional development and staying up-to-date with industry trends and certifications. Include plans for attending workshops, conferences, and continuing education courses to enhance your skills and knowledge as a personal trainer.

Defining Your Target Market and Identifying Your Niche

Before diving into the details of your business plan, it’s crucial to define your target market and identify your niche as a personal trainer. Understanding your ideal clients’ demographics, psychographics, and fitness goals will help you tailor your services and marketing efforts to attract the right audience.

When defining your niche, consider your expertise, passion, and unique selling proposition. Are you passionate about weight loss? Do you specialize in strength training for athletes? Identifying your niche allows you to position yourself as an expert in a specific area and stand out from the competition.

Conducting Market Research for Your Personal Training Business

Thorough market research is essential for developing a successful business plan as a personal trainer. It provides insights into your target market’s needs, preferences, and willingness to pay for your services. Start by analyzing the local fitness industry, demographics, competition, and consumer trends.

Utilize online research tools, conduct surveys, and talk to potential clients to gather data on their fitness goals, challenges, and expectations. This information will help you fine-tune your services, pricing, and marketing strategies to meet your target market’s demands effectively.

Setting SMART Goals for Your Personal Trainer Business

To ensure the success of your personal trainer business, it’s crucial to set SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. SMART goals provide clarity and direction, allowing you to track your progress and make necessary adjustments.

For example, instead of setting a vague goal like “increase revenue,” a SMART goal would be “increase monthly revenue by 15% within six months through targeted marketing campaigns and client retention strategies.” SMART goals provide clear metrics and timelines, enabling you to stay focused and motivated.”

Developing a Strong Value Proposition for Your Services

Your value proposition is what differentiates you from other personal trainers in the market. It highlights the unique benefits and value that clients will receive by choosing your services. Develop a clear and compelling value proposition that resonates with your target market.

Consider factors such as your training philosophy, certifications, experience, and any specialized services or equipment you provide. Communicate your value proposition effectively through your marketing materials, website, and in-person consultations to attract and retain clients.

Creating a Pricing Structure that Reflects the Value You Provide

Determining your pricing structure is a critical aspect of your personal trainer business plan. It should strike a balance between your financial goals and the perceived value of your services. Research industry standards and competitors’ pricing while considering your unique value proposition.

Take into account factors such as your experience, certifications, location, overhead costs, and the target market’s willingness to pay. Consider offering tiered pricing options, package deals, or monthly memberships to cater to different client needs and budgets.

Mapping Out Your Marketing and Advertising Strategies

Marketing and advertising are crucial for attracting clients and growing your personal training business. Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that incorporates both online and offline strategies to reach your target audience effectively.

Consider leveraging digital marketing channels such as social media platforms, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and content creation. Offline tactics like networking events, local partnerships, and referrals can also play a significant role in generating leads.

Building an Effective Online Presence for Your Personal Training Business

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is paramount for any business, including personal trainers. Develop a professional website that showcases your services, testimonials, success stories, and contact information.

Optimize your website for search engines to increase its visibility in organic search results. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential clients, share valuable content, and promote your services. Consider creating a blog, producing educational videos, or starting a podcast to establish yourself as an industry expert.

Leveraging Social Media to Attract and Engage Clients

Social media platforms provide an excellent opportunity to connect with potential clients and nurture relationships. Identify the platforms most popular among your target market – whether it’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn – and develop a social media strategy accordingly.

Regularly post engaging and educational content, such as workout tips, motivational quotes, success stories, and client transformations. Encourage client testimonials and user-generated content to build trust and credibility. Interact with your audience by responding to comments, direct messages, and inquiries promptly.

Networking and Collaborating with Other Fitness Professionals

Networking and collaborating with other fitness professionals can open doors to new opportunities and expand your client base. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and workshops to meet like-minded individuals and potential referral partners.

Consider collaborations with other fitness trainers, nutritionists, physical therapists, or wellness centers. Cross-promote each other’s services, refer clients, or organize joint events or workshops. Collaborations not only widen your reach but also enhance your credibility and expertise through association with other professionals.

Establishing Partnerships with Complementary Businesses in the Health and Wellness Industry

Identify complementary businesses in the health and wellness industry that share a similar target market. Establish mutually beneficial partnerships to cross-promote each other’s services and expand your reach.

For example, partner with local gyms, yoga studios, or health food stores to offer exclusive discounts or joint promotions. Consider guest blogging or speaking engagements to share valuable content with their audience, generating both visibility and credibility for your personal training business.

Creating an Effective Sales Funnel to Convert Leads into Clients

An effective sales funnel helps guide potential clients from awareness to becoming paying clients. Implement a step-by-step process that nurtures leads and encourages them to take action.

Start by offering valuable content, such as free workout guides or educational webinars, to capture leads’ contact information. Nurture those leads through regular email communication, providing additional value and showcasing your expertise. Offer introductory sessions, consultations, or free trials to convert leads into paying clients.

Providing Exceptional Customer Service to Retain Clients and Generate Referrals

Providing exceptional customer service is key to retaining clients and generating referrals. Ensure your clients feel valued, supported, and motivated throughout their fitness journey.

Offer personalized training programs, regular progress tracking, and frequent communication to demonstrate your commitment to their success. Encourage client feedback and testimonials to showcase the results and satisfaction of your clients. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients are one of your most powerful marketing tools.

Implementing Systems and Processes to Streamline Operations and Improve Efficiency

Efficient operations are essential for running a successful personal training business. Implement systems and processes that streamline administrative tasks, client management, and scheduling.

Utilize client management software to track client progress, schedule appointments, and send reminders. Automate email marketing campaigns to nurture leads and engage with clients. Consider outsourcing tasks like accounting or social media management to free up your time for client-focused activities.

Managing Finances and Tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Effective financial management is crucial for the long-term success of your personal training business. Track key financial metrics such as revenue, expenses, profitability, and cash flow to identify areas for improvement.

Consider hiring a professional accountant or utilizing accounting software to ensure accurate bookkeeping and compliance. Regularly review your financial performance against your goals and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

Developing a Growth Strategy for Scaling Your Personal Training Business

Once your personal training business is thriving, it’s essential to develop a growth strategy to maximize its potential. Assess opportunities for expansion, such as adding additional trainers, offering specialized programs, or opening new locations.

Set new goals, revise marketing strategies, and invest in continuous professional development to stay ahead of industry trends. Explore the potential of online training, group classes, corporate wellness programs, or partnerships with corporate gyms to expand your reach and client base.

Staying Up-to-Date with Industry Trends and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, techniques, and research emerging regularly. Stay updated with the latest industry developments and continuously invest in your own professional development.

Attend industry conferences, seminars, and webinars. Read industry publications, books, and research papers. Pursue additional certifications or specialized training programs to enhance your expertise and stay competitive in the market.

Assessing the Success of Your Personal Trainer Business Plan and Making Adjustments as Needed

Regularly assess the success of your personal trainer business plan and make necessary adjustments to align with changing market dynamics and business goals.

Review your financial performance, client feedback, and marketing efforts to identify areas of improvement. Stay open to feedback and adapt your strategies accordingly. Regularly revisit and update your business plan to reflect your growth and new opportunities.

Congratulations! You’ve completed our comprehensive guide on creating a successful personal trainer business plan. By following these steps and implementing the strategies discussed, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving and profitable personal training business. Remember to stay focused, persevere through challenges, and always prioritize the needs and goals of your clients.

How do I write a business plan for a personal trainer?

To write a business plan for a personal trainer:

• Executive Summary: Outline your business concept, fitness philosophy, and goals.
• Market Analysis: Research your target market, competition, and fitness trends.
• Services and Pricing: Detail the training services you offer and pricing structure.
• Marketing Strategy: Describe how you plan to attract and retain clients.
• Operational Plan: Include how you will operate your business, equipment needs, and any staff requirements.
• Financial Plan: Provide projected income, expenses, and profitability.

How do I make a personal trainer plan?

To make a personal trainer plan:

• Identify Client Goals: Understand what each client aims to achieve.
• Assess Fitness Levels: Conduct initial assessments to tailor the plan.
• Create Custom Workouts: Design workouts that are effective and engaging.
• Nutrition Advice: Offer nutritional guidance if qualified.
• Progress Tracking: Include methods for monitoring client progress.
• How to Design Workout Plans for Clients
• Fitness and Diet Plan Templates to Use with Clients
• Best Personal Trainer Client Tracking Apps

How do you structure a PT business?

Structure a PT business by:

• Business Model: Decide if you’ll work independently, with a gym, or online.
• Services Offered: Determine what types of training and additional services you will provide.
• Pricing Structure: Establish your rates for different services.
• Marketing: Develop a strategy to attract clients.
• Operations: Plan your daily business operations, including scheduling and client management.

Should personal trainers have an LLC?

Personal trainers should consider forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) for personal asset protection, potential tax benefits, and increased professionalism. It separates personal and business liabilities.

How to make 6 figures as a personal trainer?

To make six figures as a personal trainer:

• Specialize: Offer specialized training or services that can command higher rates.
• Build a Client Base: Focus on client retention and referrals.
• Expand Offerings: Consider online training, group classes, or creating digital products.
• Market Effectively: Utilize digital marketing and networking to attract high-paying clients.
• Continual Education: Keep upskilling to offer the latest and most effective training methods.

Read More: How can I make 6 figures as a personal trainer?

How do I sell myself as a personal trainer?

Sell yourself as a personal trainer by:

• Showcasing Your Expertise: Share your knowledge and successes on social media and in client interactions.
• Personal Branding: Develop a strong personal brand that reflects your training style and philosophy.
• Networking: Build relationships within the fitness community and with potential clients.
• Client Testimonials: Use testimonials and success stories to demonstrate your impact.
• Professional Presence: Maintain a professional online presence and high-quality promotional materials.

How much do personal trainers charge for a workout plan?

Personal trainers typically charge between $50 to $150 or more for a workout plan, depending on the plan’s complexity, customization, and their expertise. Online or template plans may be priced lower.

Read More: How Much to Charge for a Workout Plan

Should I use my name for my personal training business?

Using your name for your personal training business can be effective for personal branding, especially if you aim to build a reputation based on your personal expertise and training style. It can also add a personal touch to your business.

How do you write a business plan for a gym?

Writing a business plan for a gym involves outlining your business concept, conducting market research, detailing the gym’s services and pricing, creating a marketing and operational plan, and providing a financial projection including startup costs and revenue forecasts.

Read More: How to Write a Business Plan for a Gym

What is the purpose of a business plan for a personal trainer?

The purpose of a business plan for a personal trainer is to outline clear business objectives, strategies for achieving them, understand the market and competition, and provide a roadmap for business growth and financial stability.

What is a good mission statement for a personal trainer?

A good mission statement for a personal trainer might be: “To empower clients to achieve their fitness goals through personalized, effective, and sustainable training programs, while fostering a supportive and motivating environment.”

Read More: Best Personal Trainer Mission Statements

How can Exercise.com help me run a personal training business?

Exercise.com can help run a personal training business by providing comprehensive software solutions for client management, workout programming, scheduling, progress tracking, and billing. Its platform streamlines administrative tasks, enhances client engagement, and provides tools for managing and growing your personal training business effectively.

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Personal Training Business Plan With Examples & Templates

Published by caroline @ wellness creative co on 14 june 2023 14 june 2023.

Writing a personal training business plan can seem a bit daunting. Most PTs love fitness and programming but aren’t so keen on the admin side. The good news is it doesn’t have to be difficult – with the right guidance and some practical examples to follow, it’s actually pretty easy.

In this article – learn how to write a personal training business plan in 7 simple steps (with samples, templates, and a downloadable checklist).

• Why write a business plan?
• 7 key elements
• Templates & examples
• Downloadable PDF checklist

We’re a team of qualified personal trainers and fitness coaches with 15+ years of industry experience , so we know first-hand what works (and what doesn’t!). We’ve trained other fitness professionals in sales, marketing, and business growth, so our strategies are tried and tested.

Why Write a Business Plan?

If you want your personal training business to be successful, then it’s vital to have a plan. It’ll help you secure investor funding or a business loan , which many PTs require in order to get off the ground.

But even if you don’t need the start-up finances, writing a plan makes you more likely to succeed. In fact, research shows that business plans double your chance of success . So, it’s really a no-brainer if you’re serious about being successful.

Here are a few of the reasons why creating a business plan is important…

• It crystallizes abstract thoughts and ideas into something tangible
• Helps you communicate your business concept in a way others will understand easily
• Required to secure funding from investors and banks
• Provides a structured plan to work through
• Helps you decide which areas to spend money on and where not to invest
• Ensures you understand what you’re letting yourself in for in terms of money, time, and effort

Whether you want to go freelance, become a mobile PT, start a personal training studio, or your own gym , you’ll definitely need a plan.

Fitness Business Startup Kit

Everything you need to turn your fitness business idea into a reality!

What To Include In a Personal Training Business Plan

Writing a personal training business proposal might sound daunting but this 7-step guide makes it easy . It’ll walk you through the exact process to follow so you’ll have your plan completed in no time. Here’s an overview of what you need to include…

• Executive summary
• Industry and market analysis
• Business overview
• Services offered
• Sales and marketing strategy
• Financial details
• Implementation plan

Now let’s look at each of these sections in more detail…

1. Executive Summary

Get straight to the point – why should the bank or investors lend your business money? Include your mission, key financial info, and unique selling points. Although it goes at the beginning of your plan, you should prepare this section last.

2. Industry & Local Market Analysis

Demonstrate potential – show that the fitness market and personal training industry are growing and there’ll be a strong demand for your services. Include research statistics, competitor info, and relevant government initiatives.

3. Business Overview

Summarise the business – objectives, location, ownership, legal status, personnel structure, and operations.

4. Services

The fun part – describe the different services you plan to sell including the packages and pricing structure . This could be in-person PT sessions, online programs , specialist workshops, fitness products, etc.

5. Sales & Marketing Strategy

How you’ll attract clients – explain your brand positioning and outline your personal training marketing plan by listing the activities you’ll do to generate revenue , attract clients , and promote your PT business .

Fitness Marketing & Lead Generation Roadmap

Your All-in-One Toolkit to Attract, Engage & Convert More Clients

6. Financial Information

Time to open a spreadsheet – potential investors and banks aren’t just interested in your figures. They’ll want to know how you arrived at those figures so show your calculations. Include breakdowns of profit and loss, cash-flow, breakeven figures, and the capital expenditure needed for start-up. Project 12, 36, and 60 months ahead.

7. Implementation Plan

How you’ll make it happen – provide a step-by-step list of actions you’ll take, including milestone dates.

You might also like… 50 Catchy Personal Training Business Name Ideas or How To Promote a Fitness Business .

Free Fitness Marketing Guide

Learn which fitness marketing strategies produce the best results (so you can focus on what actually works).

Personal Trainer Business Plan Examples & Templates

Looking at a personal training business plan sample can be really helpful as it puts these sections into context. Reviewing examples will give you ideas for how to create and present your own plan.

You obviously don’t want to copy another plan since the details will be unique to your business. But the following example plans can be a useful reference for personal trainers…

• Dragon Fitness Training  produced this interesting personal trainer business plan as an academic exercise.
• Catalyst Fitness  created this CrossFit business plan with a detailed risk assessment.
• Launceston City Council created this aquatic center and health club business plan.
• The Yoga Lunch Box  offers a comprehensive yet easy-to-read fitness business template.

Creating a business plan is 100% worth the time and effort . It helps you validate demand, maximise profitability, and identify any potential pitfalls early.

This plan will be your playbook for the next 3-5 years so don’t rush the process. It’ll help you secure investor funding or a bank loan if you want to go down this route. Considering how you’ll acquire paying clients and manage cash flow now will ensure you’re well-prepared for life as a fitness business owner.

You might also like… How To Grow a Personal Training Business or The Ultimate Yoga Business Planning Guide & Template .

Downloadable Checklist & More Templates

The best way to write a business plan is to work on it in bite-size chunks . Trying to get the whole thing done in one go is the quickest route to overwhelm.

So, we recommend working on one section each day. This will enable you to complete the whole thing within a week, with zero stress or hassle . To make things easy, we created a handy PDF checklist that walks you through the 7 sections.

You can download it as part of our Fitness Business Start-Up Kit . It includes marketing plan templates, business name ideas, sales scripts, and loads more resources.

Caroline @ Wellness Creative Co

Qualified personal trainer (BSc Sports Science) & nutritionist (MSc Human Nutrition) with 15+ years of fitness & wellness marketing experience working with global brands.

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