Are you a personal trainer who is looking to start your own business? If so, there are a few things you need to do in order to get started. It’s important to have a business plan, find the right location, promote your business, and more. Here are 12 easy steps to help you start your personal training business.

1. Make a resume

This will be your first step in getting hired by a gym or health club. Your resume should include your experience as a personal trainer, your education and certifications, and any special skills or training you have. You have to get your resume right in order to even be considered for a job. It’s also good to have a resume when you start your own business so that people can see what experience and qualifications you have. Additionally, having a resume will make it easier to apply for loans or other forms of financing for your business. If you don’t have a resume, you can create one using a template or by hiring a professional resume writer. This is an important step in starting your personal training business. It’s best to be prepared when applying for jobs or seeking financing.

2. Get certified 

There are many different personal trainer certification programs available. You can choose one that is specific to the type of training you want to do, such as aerobics or yoga. There are also general personal trainer certification programs that will give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to be a successful personal trainer. It’s important to get certified because it will show potential employers that you are serious about your career and that you have the necessary skills to do the job. It’s also helpful to get certified if you plan on starting your own business. Many gyms and health clubs require their personal trainers to be certified. Additionally, some insurance companies will give you a discount on your liability insurance if you are certified.

3. Get liability insurance 

Liability insurance is important for any business, but it’s especially important for personal trainers. This type of insurance will protect you financially if a client is injured while working with you. It’s important to have this coverage because accidents can happen and you don’t want to be held responsible for any medical bills or other costs associated with an injury. You can get liability insurance through a variety of sources, such as your gym, an insurance company, or an online provider. Additionally, some professional organizations, such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), offer liability insurance to their members. If you plan on starting your own personal training business, you should get liability insurance to protect yourself and your business. It’s best to be prepared for anything that could happen.

4. Find a location 

If you’re going to start your own personal training business, you’ll need to find a location for your business. This can be a challenge if you don’t have a lot of money to invest in your business. One option is to rent space in a gym or health club. This can be a great way to get started because you’ll have access to all the equipment and facilities you need. Plus, you’ll be able to build relationships with the other trainers and staff members. Another option is to rent space in an office building or retail space. This can be less expensive than renting space in a gym, but you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies. You’ll also want to choose a location that is convenient for your clients.

5. Promote your business

You’ll need to find a location. This can be a small space in your home, a rented office or studio, or even a shared space in a gym or health club. It’s important to find a location that is convenient for your clients and that has the necessary equipment for your type of training. You’ll also need to make sure that your chosen location is zoned for business use. Once you’ve found a location, you’ll need to set up your space with the necessary furniture, equipment, and supplies. Additionally, you’ll need to promote your business. This can be done through online directories, social media, word-of-mouth, and other marketing techniques. It’s best to have a variety of marketing materials, such as business cards, flyers, and brochures, to give to potential clients.

6. Create a schedule 

Personal trainers typically work with their clients on a one-on-one basis. However, you may also offer group training sessions. You’ll need to create a schedule that works for you and your clients. When creating your schedule, you’ll need to consider the days and times that you’re available, as well as the locations where you’re willing to train your clients. You should also consider the type of training that you offer, such as aerobics, yoga, or strength training. Once you’ve created a schedule, you should post it online or give it to potential clients so they can book appointments. Additionally, you should be flexible with your schedule in case a client needs to reschedule an appointment.

7. Train your first client 

After you’ve found a location and created a schedule, you’re ready to start training your first client. This is an exciting time, but it’s also important to remember that you’re starting a business and you need to treat your clients professionally. When meeting with a potential client, you should dress professionally and be prepared to answer any questions they have about your business. You should also be prepared to give them a tour of your facility and explain the services you offer. Once you’ve signed a contract with a client, you should create a personalized training program for them. This program should be based on their goals, fitness level, and any health concerns they may have. You’ll also need to keep track of their progress so you can make changes to their program as needed.

8. Set your prices 

You’ll need to set your prices for personal training services. When setting your prices, you’ll need to consider the type of training you offer, the length of time you train each client, and the number of sessions you offer. You should also consider any specialties you have, such as nutrition counseling or sports-specific training. Additionally, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to charge by the session or by the month. Once you’ve decided on your pricing, you should create a price list that you can give to potential clients. You should also be prepared to negotiate with clients who want to purchase a package of sessions. It’s important to remember that your prices should be based on the value you provide and not on what you think the market will bear.

9. Hire employees 

As your business grows, you may need to hire employees. This can include personal trainers, office staff, and janitorial staff. When hiring employees, you’ll need to consider the type of training they’re certified to provide, their availability, and their pay rate. You should also check references and conduct background checks. Additionally, you should have a written job description for each position you’re hiring for. This job description should include the duties and responsibilities of the position, as well as the qualifications and experience required. Once you’ve hired employees, you’ll need to train them on your policies and procedures. You should also create an employee handbook that outlines your business’s policies and procedures.

10. Market your business 

There are many ways to market your personal training business. One way is to create a website and post information about your business on it. You should also create social media accounts and post regular updates about your business. Additionally, you can distribute flyers and brochures in your local community. You can also offer free consultations or discounted rates to potential clients. Another way to market your business is to hold events, such as fitness classes or open houses. You can also participate in trade shows or fairs. Additionally, you can offer referral discounts to clients who refer new customers to your business.

11. Build relationships with other businesses 

It’s important to build relationships with other businesses in the fitness industry. This can include gyms, health clubs, and sporting goods stores. These relationships can help you promote your business and generate new leads. Additionally, you can offer discounts to customers of these businesses. You can also collaborate with these businesses on marketing campaigns and events. If you have a good relationship with other businesses in the fitness industry, they may be willing to refer their customers to you. It’s also important to build relationships with health care providers, such as physicians and nutritionists. These relationships can help you get referrals from these professionals.

12. Evaluate your business 

You should regularly evaluate your personal training business to ensure it’s running smoothly. This can include assessing your financial situation, reviewing your marketing strategy, and evaluating your customer satisfaction levels. Additionally, you should constantly be looking for ways to improve your business. This can include adding new services, expanding your facility, or hiring new employees. By regularly evaluating your business, you can make sure that it’s always moving forward and growing. Additionally, you should always be on the lookout for new opportunities to expand your business.

By following these 12 easy steps, you can start your own personal training business. However, it’s important to remember that starting a business requires hard work and dedication. Additionally, you should always be on the lookout for new opportunities to grow your business. By regularly evaluating your business and constantly seeking ways to improve it, you can ensure that your business is always moving forward. 

Hernaldo Turrillo

Hernaldo Turrillo is a writer and author specialised in innovation, AI, DLT, SMEs, trading, investing and new trends in technology and business. He has been working for ztudium group since 2017. He is the editor of openbusinesscouncil.org, tradersdna.com, hedgethink.com, and writes regularly for intelligenthq.com, socialmediacouncil.eu. Hernaldo was born in Spain and finally settled in London, United Kingdom, after a few years of personal growth. Hernaldo finished his Journalism bachelor degree in the University of Seville, Spain, and began working as reporter in the newspaper, Europa Sur, writing about Politics and Society. He also worked as community manager and marketing advisor in Los Barrios, Spain. Innovation, technology, politics and economy are his main interests, with special focus on new trends and ethical projects. He enjoys finding himself getting lost in words, explaining what he understands from the world and helping others. Besides a journalist, he is also a thinker and proactive in digital transformation strategies. Knowledge and ideas have no limits.

The post Start Your Personal Training Business in 12 Easy Steps appeared first on OpenBusinessCouncil Directory.

Operating as a sole proprietorship is simple, but that simplicity comes with a price. Since your business isn’t a separate entity, your personal assets and credit are always at risk. As soon as you start acquiring employees and property, forming an LLC is necessary to protect yourself.

What you Need to Start a Limited Liability Company

Unlike a sole proprietorship, an LLC can keep business assets separate from its owners. But to receive that protection, you need to gather and sign the following documents for most states.

1. IRS SS-4 and Name Reservation Forms

A sole-proprietorship doesn’t need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), but business owners must get one to start an LLC. American citizens can apply for an EIN online to receive one immediately. You’ll need your EIN for tax forms and other business documents.

Along with an EIN, you’ll also need to submit a name reservation application before writing your operating agreement and articles of organization. To search for name availability, go to the secretary of state or corporation bureaus’ websites, then file a name reservation form.

2. An Official Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is an important document used by LLCs. But, what is an operating agreement? These agreements outline a business’ financial and functional decisions, like regulations, provisions, and rules, for the purpose of governing internal company operations.

Your operating agreement should include:

• Business name and address
• Registered agent name and address
• Member names, roles, and contact information
• Member ownership percentage
• Manager names, addresses, and contact information
• Formation date and planned duration
• Compensation plans and profit and loss statement
• Policies and processes for adding or removing members 
• Voting rights and meeting schedules

An operating agreement is mandatory in New York, Missouri, Maine, Delaware, and California. LLC owners that don’t draft this document elsewhere must govern by the state’s default rules. Either way, an operating agreement declares the LLC structure as a separate business entity.

3. An Articles of Organization

An article of organization is similar to an operating agreement, except it’s a mandatory document filed with a state government. This document ensures that your LLC meets the specific requirements in your state to operate. An articles of organization will include:

• Business Name: Write it as it appears on your name reservation form.
• Business Purpose: Outline what services your business will engage in.
• Duration: If your business has a dissolution date, state it here.
• Business Address: State the primary headquarters of your operations.
• Ownership: List every member and their contact information in your business.
• Registered Agent: Declare the person/business who will manage your legal duties.
• Management: Note who will manage the members of your LLC.

All states have a fill-in articles of organization template you can use. Simply follow the instructions and submit your document before registering with the Department of Revenue.

4. Register Your Business

Most states require LLCs to register with the Department of Revenue under at least one tax type. Your tax status depends on your business, but employer taxes, sales and use taxes, and business entity taxes are commonly used. You can register using the form on your state’s site.

5. Get your Business Licenses

Some states or business types require one or more business licenses. Specific industries are more regulated than others. For example, the foodservice and healthcare industries have strict regulatory requirements that you need to update yearly, or you risk losing your business.

For instance, if you are starting an LLC in Florida, the most common type of business license is a business operating license, often called a “business tax receipt”. These licenses can help you to operate all types of businesses and will be nearly identical in all cities and counties across Florida. You can even conduct additional research by checking DBPR, DACS, or FDOH for licensing requirements, to understand the kind of licenses your business will need.

If you fall into one or more of the following criteria, you’ll definitely need a license or insurance:

• Professionals who run a business out of their home
• Business owners who own a building
• Industries that require higher regulatory measures
• Job titles that require licensing (i.e., engineering)

You can apply for the majority of your business licenses online via your state’s website.

Hernaldo Turrillo

Hernaldo Turrillo is a writer and author specialised in innovation, AI, DLT, SMEs, trading, investing and new trends in technology and business. He has been working for ztudium group since 2017. He is the editor of openbusinesscouncil.org, tradersdna.com, hedgethink.com, and writes regularly for intelligenthq.com, socialmediacouncil.eu. Hernaldo was born in Spain and finally settled in London, United Kingdom, after a few years of personal growth. Hernaldo finished his Journalism bachelor degree in the University of Seville, Spain, and began working as reporter in the newspaper, Europa Sur, writing about Politics and Society. He also worked as community manager and marketing advisor in Los Barrios, Spain. Innovation, technology, politics and economy are his main interests, with special focus on new trends and ethical projects. He enjoys finding himself getting lost in words, explaining what he understands from the world and helping others. Besides a journalist, he is also a thinker and proactive in digital transformation strategies. Knowledge and ideas have no limits.

The post 5 Things You’ll Need in Place to Start an LLC appeared first on OpenBusinessCouncil Directory.

A corporation has many benefits too, but it’s more complex to set up and will likely be more costly when all is said and done. You’ll also need an attorney or accountant who specializes in corporate law because it requires a different type of formal legal structure from what a sole proprietor needs. On top of these complications, corporations also face higher taxes than do sole proprietorships. If you’re thinking about incorporating your business at some point in the future, there are several things you need to know about starting a corporation.

1. One Form of Structure You Can Use for Your Corporation

While most corporations begin with an attorney, this isn’t required by law. Many new businesses opt to use a form of a business structure called a limited liability company (LLC). An LLC is a type of organization that combines the pass-through taxation of a sole proprietorship or partnership with the limited liability protection of a corporation, you can read more here. This sounds complicated, but it’s what makes an LLC so attractive to budding entrepreneurs. An LLC allows you to take advantage of some of the benefits and drawbacks (discussed below) associated with both structures without having to hire an attorney or file complex paperwork.

2. A Sole Proprietorship Can Be Easier than an LLC for Some Businesses

Most businesses that will operate as a sole proprietorship don’t need to meet the requirements necessary to create an LLC. This includes having multiple members, which is one of the benefits of an LLC versus a sole proprietorship. It’s possible for a business to qualify as an LLC without having more than one member, but it’s more complex and will cost more in legal fees. This is why many new entrepreneurs are better off starting a sole proprietorship for their businesses.

3. An LLC Offers Liability Protection Like a Corporation

That said, most business owners turn to an LLC because of the liability protection that it offers and the pass-through taxation. As the name implies, an LLC limits the liability of its owners. This means that, unlike a sole proprietorship or partnership, you aren’t personally liable if someone gets hurt because of something your business did. With this in mind, you need to know that there are two types of limited liability companies:

A single-member LLC provides this protection to just one owner. This is the most common type of LLC in the United States, which means many businesses are actually limited liability companies, even if they don’t realize it.

A multi-member LLC typically has at least two members (this can be other people or corporations). Each member shares responsibility for the company’s debts and legal obligations, just as they would in a partnership.

4. The LLC Pass-Through Taxation Advantage

The final reason why so many businesses choose an LLC is because of pass-through taxation. When you have an LLC, the company’s profits are passed through to the members and taxed on their personal tax returns. This means that unlike with a corporation, all profits will be taxed at your individual income rate. The best part is that you can often use losses (if there are any) to reduce the impact on your business’s profits. This is very different from what happens with an S corporation or C corporation because it means that LLC members avoid double taxation.

If you’re in the market for a business structure that combines liability protection and pass-through taxation, an LLC may be your best option. There are some drawbacks to consider when choosing this type of company, though. For example, if there is more than one owner involved with the company (even if they aren’t people), it becomes much more complex to file taxes according to what’s called “pass-through taxation.” You’ll also need an attorney or accountant who specializes in corporate law because it requires a different type of formal legal structure from what a sole proprietor needs. On top of these complications, corporations also face higher taxes than do sole proprietorships. If you’re thinking about incorporating your business at some point in the future, there are several things to consider as well. For example, your company can’t be an LLC and a corporation at the same time. The best way to find out what the best option is for your business (and your taxes), consult an attorney or accountant.

Hernaldo Turrillo

Hernaldo Turrillo is a writer and author specialised in innovation, AI, DLT, SMEs, trading, investing and new trends in technology and business. He has been working for ztudium group since 2017. He is the editor of openbusinesscouncil.org, tradersdna.com, hedgethink.com, and writes regularly for intelligenthq.com, socialmediacouncil.eu. Hernaldo was born in Spain and finally settled in London, United Kingdom, after a few years of personal growth. Hernaldo finished his Journalism bachelor degree in the University of Seville, Spain, and began working as reporter in the newspaper, Europa Sur, writing about Politics and Society. He also worked as community manager and marketing advisor in Los Barrios, Spain. Innovation, technology, politics and economy are his main interests, with special focus on new trends and ethical projects. He enjoys finding himself getting lost in words, explaining what he understands from the world and helping others. Besides a journalist, he is also a thinker and proactive in digital transformation strategies. Knowledge and ideas have no limits.

The post 4 Things You Should Know About Starting an LLC appeared first on OpenBusinessCouncil Directory.