This podcast explores the challenges of being a professional fitness coach and the limitations of coaching group classes. It discusses the financial realities of coaching group classes and the need for professionalization in the industry. The importance of being a professional coach and the benefits of transitioning from group classes to individual program design are also discussed. The podcast explores the hidden motivations behind joining a gym and emphasizes the significance of education and mentorship in achieving fitness goals.
World-class fitness professionals do not coach group classes as it is not a sustainable or reliable path to building a meaningful career in the fitness industry.
Transitioning from coaching group classes to providing personalized one-on-one training allows fitness professionals to increase earning potential, reduce coaching hours, and develop long-term client relationships.
Deep dives
World Class Professionals Do Not Coach Group Class
In this podcast episode, Dr. Sean Pestucci emphasizes that world-class fitness professionals do not coach group classes. Although group classes may yield some positive results for certain individuals, they are not a sustainable or reliable path to building a meaningful career in the fitness industry. Exceptions to this rule, such as popular instructors at SoulCycle or Peloton, are rare and often short-lived. True professionals in the industry focus on delivering promised results to their clients consistently, making enough money to support themselves without supplemental income, and exceeding client expectations in enjoyable and frictionless ways.
The Limitations of Coaching Group Class
Dr. Pestucci highlights the limitations of coaching group classes, particularly in terms of income potential. Many group fitness instructors earn an average of $15 to $25 per class, which, given the time and effort required, translates to an hourly wage that can fall below industry standards. Attempting to maximize earnings by coaching an excessive number of classes can lead to burnout and compromise the quality of instruction. The often low pay and limited growth opportunities associated with coaching group classes demonstrate that it is not a viable long-term career option for aspiring fitness professionals.
The Path to Professionalization in Fitness Coaching
Dr. Pestucci suggests a shift in mindset and approach for fitness professionals aspiring to build a sustainable and fulfilling career. He proposes a transition from coaching group classes to providing personalized one-on-one training, focusing on understanding clients' specific goals and delivering exceptional results. This individualized approach allows for increased earning potential, reduced dependence on excessive coaching hours, and the ability to develop long-term client relationships. By emphasizing education, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of clients' needs, fitness professionals can elevate their status and expertise, ultimately bridging the gap between fitness and healthcare.
Have you ever met a person who has been a professional group fitness coach for long enough to call it a career, without needing a side hustle, or a significant other to support them financially, who doesn’t live at home with their parents?
Me neither.
We need to level with ourselves if we are going to solve our industry’s biggest problem, the lack of professional standards for coaches.
In this episode I break down what is required of a coach if to become not only professional, for a career, but to do it in a world class way.
Enjoy.
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