Start a Personal Training Boot Camp

While one-on-one personal training is still a popular and growing option for many people, the interest in boot camp styles classes has risen steadily over the last few years. It seems as though every where you turn there’s a new boot camp class popping up. If you want to jump on the personal training boot camp bandwagon then here’s what you need to do to get yourself started.

1. Decide what type of boot camp class you wish to offer. Will you cater to beginners, intermediate or advanced exercisers? I’ve seen mom and baby boot camps, baby-boomer boot camps and cardio-junkie boot camps just to name a few. With all these choices, you need to decide which market you are going to target. Do some research in the area you intend to offer the classes and see which market niche is not currently being serviced or which market still has room for growth. Then consider which user group you would be most passionate about training.
2. Find a location. Most boot camp classes are offered outside. However, I’ve seen some classes done indoors or a combination of indoors and outdoors. Keep in mind that if your boot camp class is strictly outside you will have the weather to contend with. It’s wise to have an indoor back-up just in case the weather causes any safety concerns. If you decide to take your group to the park, ensure that you have the necessary permits. Call your local City Hall to find out what type of permits you need before you take your group on public property. Otherwise you run the risk of a by-laws officer kicking you out of the park or issuing you a fine.
3. Check your insurance policy. Contact your insurance provider and ensure that you are covered for outdoor fitness classes. It’s better to be safe then sorry so don’t skip this step or skimp on your insurance.
4. Prepare for emergencies. This includes carrying a first aid kit, collecting emergency contact information for every participant in your group and developing a contingency plan should someone get injured.
5. Set the fee. Do your homework and research other boot camp classes in your area before setting your fees. You will probably find that the range for boot camp classes is anywhere from $8.00-$12.00 a class and is dependent on the size of the group size, number of weeks the sessions are being offered and the frequency of sessions per week.  People typically register anywhere from 6-12 weeks and attend 1-3x a week.
6. Design the class format. Design the format of the class based on the location you intend to offer the sessions, the equipment you want to bring and the fitness level of the group. If you have a fixed location such as in a park then it’s easier to bring equipment with you. You could bring bands, mats, medicine balls, BOSU’s and fitness balls. Setting up a circuit style class is probably the easiest format to teach in a group setting. It also lends itself well to varying fitness levels because you can simply progress or regress an exercise based on experience level. As an instructor a circuit class is the easiest format to monitor everyone for safety and technique. Consider a ratio of one instructor per every 10 participants.
7. Market the class. Once you decide on your target market and prepared the format, you are ready to begin marketing the program. Place an ad in your local newspaper. Put up flyers around the neighborhood or in coffee shops. Network with fitness related businesses such as running rooms, clothing and shoes stores to get the word out about your class.
8. Create the experience. Think about the different ways you can create a positive experience for people attending the program. On the first day consider bringing a water bottle, energy bar and a towel for everyone in the group. Make the workouts fun by incorporating partner activities. Encourage social time during the stretch so participants can get to know each other forming a bond. Keep the session highly interactive so that people will look forward to coming back for more.
9. Evaluate the class. After about the third class distribute evaluation forms. You want to make sure that you are providing the service participants expected and signed up for. If there are any shortfalls in the program, take swift action to correct them. If you receive positive feedback use the information for testimonials in your blog on your website and in any future marketing material.

Creating a boot camp class is a great way to get more people involved in fitness. Plus it nets you more revenue per hour then one-on-one training. It’s also fun to work with a group of people and create a community. Follow these nine steps to starting a boot camp class and you will be well on your way to increased profits.