The road to success isn’t easy, but one thing is certain, as personal trainers, we have more options than ever before. The days of feeling trapped in big commercial gyms, chasing impossible targets for just a few extra pounds, are over. The industry is evolving, and if you’re still clinging to the idea that these gyms provide “stability” or “guaranteed clients,” it’s time to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

Think about it, if a gym requires you to complete 100+ sessions a month at £30 – £40 per hour, that might sound like a steady income. But factor in taxes, long hours, and burnout, and you quickly realise that the security you think you have is actually a limitation. Sure, they might offer holiday pay, and yes, the gym might look fancy, but at what cost? How long can you sustain that pace before you hit a wall?

Now, imagine this: instead of being tied to that £30 per hour rate, you start building your own brand, choosing your own clients, and charging £100 plus per session. These days, you can rent private PT spaces for as little as £20 per session, meaning that after covering costs, you’re still earning significantly more than you would in a corporate gym. The opportunity is there, but the real question is, are you willing to get uncomfortable and take that leap? Because comfort, as they say, is the killer of dreams.

How I Made the Jump

At 46, I made a big move, I set up my own PT studio in the heart of London. Before that, I spent over seven years at Third Space, consistently ranking among the top three PTs, averaging 160 sessions per month. I had a mortgage, a family, and every reason to play it safe. But I knew that if I didn’t take the leap, I’d always wonder “what if?”.

It wasn’t easy, and there were moments of doubt, but looking back, it was the best decision I ever made. Now, I have full control over my business, my clients, and my income. And the truth is, if I can do it, so can you.

So, if you’re feeling stuck, take the first step. Explore your options, start planning, and believe in your ability to build something better. And if it doesn’t work out? That’s okay, because you’ll have learned, grown, and put yourself in a position to find the next opportunity.

I encourage you to try. Because I genuinely want to see you succeed and in case you are wondering my studio is based in the Soho area so come and say hello.