With so many free resources at your fingertips, starting your own business is easier now than it has ever been before. If you are a veteran transitioning into civilian life and you want to start your own fitness business, listen up! First off, what a great idea! Becoming a fitness business owner is easier than you would think. With the right amount of hustle, motivation, and networking, you could have a successful business in no time!
Servicemembers are widely known for being well-disciplined and in shape. If you want to continue your active lifestyle post-service, this article is for you. There are a lot of options when it comes to starting your own wellness or fitness brand, and we are going to walk you through all of them!
Become a private trainer
After receiving your certification as a private trainer, you can start marketing yourself as such. To start, you can host donation-based classes in a park or at the beach. Social media will be a great way to influence those in your area to join these sessions. Encourage your friends to come and bring a +1 to help build up the hype around your classes. Post-class, be sure to hand out business cards for private training sessions!
Another option is to build your client base at a gym and then go solo when you feel comfortable enough to do so. Many gyms offer new members a free personal training session after signing up. Starting at a gym is a great way to start networking with potential clients and other fitness coaches.
Get a small business loan to open your own gym or studio
Of course, a lot goes into getting approved for a loan. You’ll want to have a business plan in place to present to lenders. The good news? There are a lot of veteran-specific business funding options. Moreover, these loans are often backed by the government like specific loans from SBA. However, it’d be a smart move to consult a business consultant as you being the process so they can guide you through your launch.
Get niche with your client base
People love being part of a group with other like-minded people. Why not help other veterans stay in or get back into shape? Chances are, other veterans are going to want to train with another veteran over someone who has never served before. Once they start seeing their own progress, they’re likely to rave about you to their buddies. Next thing you know, you have a full veteran-owned and veteran-centric gym!
Research your local fitness market
Aside from being veteran-owned and operated, ask yourself, what makes you or your business unique from other trainers or fitness centers? What can you offer that they aren’t already? Offer classes, equipment, or coaching that your competitors don’t already have.
Check out more helpful resources for veterans.
