I was shocked to find that trainers in Asheville were doing this!

Bad trainerHaving been in the fitness industry for over 16 years, I’ve seen a lot of things. I’ve seen trainers make their clients do crazy (and dangerous) exercises just for the sake of variety. I’ve seen shady sales tactics. I’ve even seen trainers take clients’ money and skip town!

But I have to admit that something I heard recently takes the cake.

For the last few years, small group personal training has grown in popularity. Gyms and trainers alike are jumping on board this new trend. Now, there are different schools of thoughts on “small group” training. Some trainers will call a group of 6 to 8 people a small group. I personally feel that anything over 4 people is a “class” (or what we call “Team Training”). That’s why we limit our small groups to 4 at Inspire Personal Fitness. I’m not saying my way is the only right way; based on my personal experience with clients, this is what makes sense to me, as both a trainer and a business owner.

The fact that other trainers will work with up to 8 people and call it a “small group” isn’t what shocks me. I’ve recently heard about trainers who sell a client one on one personal training to the tune of $45 to $55 a session. Then, the client arrives for their so-called “one on one” appointment, only to find 2 or 3 other people who will be working out with them! I’ve even heard that in some cases, the trainer tells the group what to do… and then leaves!

Folks, this is NOT ok, and I feel the need to call these trainers out.

If you’re a trainer who is doing this, wow… SHAME ON YOU! Not only is it unethical, it is borderline criminal. You are not giving your clients the service you advertised, the one they paid for, so they’re not getting their money’s worth. Is your clients’ money more important to you than their health? Either give them what they paid for, or offer them a lower-priced solution. It’s honest, and it’s good business.

As a client, if you are willing to “share” your training time with others, the price you pay should reflect that. Our small group training is a fun, supportive and affordable way for people in Asheville to experience the difference a trainer can make. And if you want one on one training? We’ve got that, too.

Okay. Climbing down from my soapbox now. Thanks for listening!