Want a Thriving Business? Start with These 6 Pillars
If you want a thriving business as a personal trainer, there’s more to it than working hard and hoping clients stick around. The truth? Most business advice skips the actual foundations you need to stay in the game long-term. That’s why I created this guide—to walk you through the 6 foundational pillars your business can’t afford to miss.
These aren’t just generic tips. Each pillar mirrors a component of a well-rounded fitness program. Why? Because you already know how to build strength, power, and endurance in the gym. Now it’s time to apply those same principles to your business.
1. Own & Thrive — Your Business Mindset (Mobility)
This first pillar is about stepping fully into your role as a business owner. Not just a trainer who "went solo" but someone who leads with intention, clarity, and confidence. Most trainers overlook this internal shift, but it’s the groundwork for everything else.
Much like mobility work in fitness—often skipped but essential—this mindset shift can prevent so many common problems later on.
Key Actions:
- Shift from employee to business owner mindset
- Identify your "why"
- Set short and long-term goals
- Adopt the identity of a premium service provider
2. Establish & Protect — Legal and Structural Foundations (Stability)
Before you go full speed ahead, make sure your business is protected. Legal structure, tax ID, insurance—this isn’t exciting stuff, but it's critical.
This is your business stability work. Think of it like training your deep core: it’s not flashy, but it keeps you safe and functional.
Key Actions:
- Choose your business structure (LLC, sole prop, etc.)
- Get a tax ID and open a business bank account
- Secure licenses, permits, insurance, and legal documents
3. Price & Earn — Your Financial Engine (Power)
If you want a thriving business, you need to get real about pricing, cash flow, and how money moves in and out. This pillar fuels your business engine—and determines whether it sputters or soars.
Like power training, it’s intense but short-duration focus work: mastering these money moves gives you resilience when the unexpected hits.
Key Actions:
- Understand your numbers
- Price for sustainability (not just affordability)
- Set up payment systems and income tracking
- Choose a pay-yourself strategy that works
4. Attract & Convert — Marketing & Messaging (Strength)
You don’t need every client. You need the right ones—and a system to connect with them consistently. This pillar is your strength program: building visibility and reputation with intention.
If you've ever lifted to sculpt, define, and build lasting change—you already get this.
Key Actions:
- Define your target audience
- Offer a compelling free resource
- Build a website that communicates value
- Stay active on social platforms
- Create a simple conversion funnel
5. Build & Grow — Visibility and Reputation (Cardio)
This one’s all about endurance. Your business needs oxygen—aka visibility, relationships, and word-of-mouth referrals. This pillar is less about quick wins and more about staying power.
It’s your business cardio. Not always loved, but definitely needed.
Key Actions:
- Collect testimonials
- Ask for referrals regularly
- Build partnerships and referral networks
- Find ways to be seen (events, workshops, donations)
6. Systemize & Sustain — Your Workflow & Lifestyle (Rest)
Without systems, everything depends on your energy. And that leads to burnout, not impact.
Think of this like recovery in fitness: boundaries, automation, and smart planning protect your longevity as a business owner.
Key Actions:
- Set your hours (and stick to them)
- Choose your training location(s) and boundaries
- Use a programming system
- Streamline your tools and tech
- Keep learning and leveling up
Want a Thriving Business? Start With the Action Plan
Each of these 6 pillars helps you create a business that’s strong, focused, and built to last. Miss one, and you’ll feel it—just like skipping key components in a training program.
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
Download the Free Solo Trainer Action Plan to take the next step. Inside, you’ll get step-by-step guidance for building your independent personal training business from the ground up—the smart way.
