Getting started in personal training

Steps to go from certified to your first paying independent client.

1. 1

   Get certified through an accredited program

   Earn a nationally recognized certification (NASM, ACE, NSCA-CPT, or ACSM) and current CPR/AED certification — most gyms and insurers require both before you can train anyone.

2. 2

   Get general and professional liability insurance

   A business owner's policy (general + professional liability) typically runs a few hundred to ~$700/year and is required by most gyms before they'll grant floor access; carry it even if you train exclusively in clients' homes.

3. 3

   Decide where you'll train

   Choose between renting floor space or paying a per-session cut at a commercial gym, training clients in their homes, or training outdoors — each has different overhead, insurance, and liability implications.

4. 4

   Set your session and package pricing

   Price a single drop-in session higher than package sessions to reward commitment, and decide your cancellation and no-show policy up front.

5. 5

   Build an intake process

   Create a PAR-Q health history form and liability waiver for every new client before their first session.

6. 6

   Get your first clients and ask for referrals

   Start with friends, family, and a home gym's bulletin board or social media, offer a discounted first session or small starter package, and ask satisfied clients for referrals and Google reviews.