Starting out as a personal trainer in a gym can feel like you’ve been dropped into the deep end. You’re excited, but also overwhelmed. Where do you start? How do you get clients? What should you even do?

We’ve helped hundreds of trainers overcome this exact moment—and here’s the truth: once you land your first 10 clients, everything gets easier.

You’ve got cash flow, social proof, and confidence.

Here are the 3 most effective strategies to land your first 10 clients—fast.

🎁 1. Run Strategic Trial Sessions

Trial sessions work. Always have. Always will. Why? Because they give people a chance to experience how much better training is with a coach.

Here’s how to do them well:

🔹 Split the trial into two sessions.
Session 1 = consult, goal setting, movement assessment.
Session 2 = tailored workout based on those insights.

🔹 Personalize everything.
For example: “Remember how you said you wanted stronger glutes and to improve your running? These walking lunges will do exactly that.”

Pro Tip: The more a client feels that you’ve listened and customized the session to them, the more likely they are to convert.

🏋️ 2. Master Gym Floor Networking

Most trainers dread "walking the gym floor" because they think it’s about pitching. It’s not.

It’s about being seen and building relationships—slowly and organically.

Here’s your approach:

✅ Say hi to everyone. Be normal. Smile. Train during peak hours.
✅ Make small talk—“What are you training today?”
✅ Observe their training, then gently offer a tip (only when appropriate).

Example:

“Hey [Name], noticed your squats—I've got a quick tip that might help. Want to try it?”

Then, don’t sell.
Just give them a helpful tweak. Follow up later in person, via Instagram, or text.
Ask how they felt after. THEN offer a trial session.

Build trust first. Sell later. You’ll get way more conversions this way.

💬 3. Use the ABCs of Sales

When it’s time to sell, remember the ABCs:

🔸 Attunement:
Connect to their emotions. Understand their goals and frustrations deeply.

🔸 Buoyancy:
Be uplifting. Match their energy—and then raise it by 1-2 points. Positivity sells.

🔸 Clarity:
Explain how your service solves their specific problems.

Example:

“You mentioned you’re exhausted after work and have no energy for family time. This meal plan will stabilize your blood sugar, boost your energy, and help you get through the day without crashing. Does that sound like a win?”

Always link your solution back to their pain points.

🚀 Final Thoughts

Getting your first 10 clients isn’t about magic—it’s about consistent execution:

• Offer trial sessions that show you care.

• Walk the gym floor with confidence and patience.

• Sell in a way that actually serves the person in front of you.

Want help mastering this process?
👇 Drop your details below and we’ll send you our free course on how to land your first 10 clients.