It often seems as if getting “certified” has become an accessory perfect for the person who “loves to work out.” To be completely transparent (and blunt), I cringe every time someone,... View More
If you're eager to start your own fitness business, it's important that you not get hung-up on many of the details that may keep you from simply taking action. Too many aspiring fitness entrepreneurs focus... View More
I meet several newly certified trainers who find it difficult to get their first "chance" at training clients. Whether as an independent trainer starting a business or getting hired at a facility, many... View More
If there is one industry that changes what is "in style" more often than fashion -- it's fitness. We use fashion and style as a way to express ourselves and even to make a statement. Fitness really... View More
I was listening to a New York City-area morning talk radio show last week and one of the featured segments was about the fastest growing professions in New York City. Fitness training was ranked the fourth... View More
When it comes to scope of practice in our industry, there is a line that in theory is clear and defined, but in everyday practice often becomes blurred. For those of us who have certifications from accredited... View More
In my last column, I shared with you an exercise reminiscent of a Mad Lib with five quick fill-in-the-blank statements. The objective is to keep you from over-thinking and over-strategizing what niche... View More
Many fitness professionals start their career with the noble goal of "helping everyone who wants to live a healthy life." But the truth is, as the saying goes, "You can't be all things to all people."... View More
In my September 2011 column, I shared seven ways to motivate your clients beyond just physical results. I wanted to revisit the topic because at some point, being the motivator that our clients depend... View More
Whether you are in a formal business partnership or joint venture with another professional on a service or product you offer, you must be vigilant about laying a strong foundation of the partnership.... View More
The most challenging task with launching a new business, program or service often times is generating enough buzz to get your clients, potential or current, so excited about what you have to offer that... View More
When I first started my fitness business, I pretty much would train anyone who would pay me for my services and spent a lot of time networking with other local businesses because I was anxious to find... View More
Most of us pursued a profession in fitness because we want to help people. I often hear fitness professionals, especially when they enter the industry, say they would "give away their services for free... View More
Fitness training without goal-setting is like peanut butter without the jelly. Where most people stumble, whether we're talking about fitness, personal or professional goals, is that they set themselves... View More
It's that time of year again -- tax day is right up on us. As I'm sure many of you can probably understand, tax and accounting concerns can be a serious pain-point. It can be difficult to find a professional... View More
Whether you own your own business or work for a gym, networking can be an effective way to building new business and staying front of mind in the community. Unfortunately, most people go about networking... View More
A few weeks ago, I needed to get my carpets cleaned ... it was long overdue. Family was coming into town for the holidays and my house was officially being converted to Hotel Vastola. I realized that I... View More
As a business owner or as an independent trainer, it's critical to evaluate every aspect of your business to highlight points of weakness, inefficiency or where greater opportunity lies. In my last column,... View More
Whether you are a solo fitness professional training clients at a gym or an entrepreneur managing a large staff; systems are the cornerstone of a successful business. Having solid systems in your business... View More
Just like our bodies accumulate a lot of junk over the course of a year, so do our businesses; it's a perfect time to go through a "business detox." Here is a quick detox "recipe" that will hopefully be... View More
