When the topic of onboarding new members comes up among gym owners, discussions can get heated. The debate often centers around PT-first advocates (personal training first) and those who prefer their gym’s members go through group onramps or direct-to-class methods. Everyone has their perspective, and many claim to have data to back it up. But, depending on who you talk to, the data and experiences vary. So, what’s going on?
Welcome to our Onboarding Series! Today, we’re diving into the PT-first model—what it is, why gyms choose it as their onboarding approach, and the potential limitations or drawbacks it can present.
What is PT-first Gym Onboarding?
PT-first is a gym member onboarding method that emphasizes personal training sessions as the initial experience for new members. Rather than starting in group classes or using the gym independently, new members work with a personal trainer for a series of introductory sessions. While some gyms require just three one-on-one sessions, others opt for eight, 10, or even 20 sessions before transitioning members to group classes.
This model is designed to educate, motivate, and seamlessly integrate new members into your gym’s culture before they progress to the next steps.
Pro tip: Want to learn more about how PushPress Grow can automate your gym onboarding experience and save you time with powerful automations? Book a demo with our team today!
Five Reasons Gyms Choose a PT-first Model
1. Effective Preparation
Gyms that adopt a PT-first model believe it provides new members with the personalized attention they need to succeed. For individuals with limited gym experience, one-on-one coaching can be invaluable as they learn foundational movements like squats or hinges—and later, more complex exercises like cleans and snatches. PT-first also helps build confidence in those intimidated by the gym environment, easing them into group classes when they’re ready.
For more experienced members, PT-first allows coaches to focus on individual strengths, movement limitations, nutrition, lifestyle habits, and personal goals. This tailored approach often leads to quicker, more effective results, boosting member satisfaction.
2. Fostering Stronger Relationships
Developing relationships is often easier in a one-on-one setting than in a group. PT-first allows coaches to connect with members on a personal level, helping them feel comfortable enough to share their true pain points. This level of trust and vulnerability can set the stage for meaningful transformations and deeper connections while building a strong gym community.
3. Increased Accountability
One-on-one coaching inherently fosters accountability. New members are more likely to show up for scheduled sessions—especially when they’re paying $100 or more per session—than for a drop-in group class. This setup also helps coaches set realistic goals, track progress, and provide the encouragement members need to stay committed, especially within the first 90 days. And if you have PushPress Grow, you can even automate your new member’s first 90-days!
4. Increased Client Value
Personal training sessions allow gyms to charge higher rates than standard group classes, which helps increase the average client value and contributes to overall gym revenue growth. PT-first can be a valuable strategy for gym owners looking to improve their bottom line.
5. Improved Member Retention Rates
Gym member retention is a critical factor for establishing a thriving fitness business, and data suggests that members who start with personal training are more likely to stay engaged long-term. PT-first sets the foundation for a strong client-coach relationship and fosters a deeper commitment to fitness.
Potential Limitations and Drawbacks
While the PT-first gym onboarding model has clear advantages, there are some possible downsides for both clients and gyms.
1. Expense
Personal training can cost between $75 and $120 per hour, which is out of reach for some prospective members. Even if clients can afford it, some may be hesitant to pay this much for a coach, no matter the value presented. As a result, requiring PT-first for onboarding may lead to potential clients choosing other gyms.
2. Bandwidth
For gyms with limited staff, PT-first can be challenging to implement consistently. If you’re a one-person gym owner or have a small team, managing multiple one-on-one sessions may not be feasible, especially during peak periods. Scheduling can also become a headache, as finding mutually convenient times for coaches and clients can affect session consistency and overall member experience.
3. Client Dependence on the Coach
A potential downside of personal training is that some clients may become overly reliant on their coach. This dependence can make it difficult for them to transition to group classes or work out independently. In cases where clients do make the switch to group classes, they may struggle without the one-on-one support they’re used to.
4. The Risk of Burnout
For gym owners and coaches, PT-first can be physically and mentally demanding, especially if it requires extensive on-floor hours. If a gym has a surge of new clients, and doesn’t have amazing systems in place to manage that, this model could lead to a higher risk of burnout, limiting time and energy that could be spent on other essential business tasks.
Are you feeling burnt out? Check out our blog on how gyms owners and coaches can prevent burnout, which was one of a multi-part series on mental health.
Final Thoughts: PT-first for Gym Onboarding
The PT-first model for gym onboarding is popular among gym owners and members alike for a reason. It’s seen as one of the most effective ways to prepare clients both physically and mentally for group classes. It strengthens relationships, builds accountability, boosts average client value, and improves retention.
That said, PT-first may not be suitable for every gym. It can be costly for clients, time-consuming for coaches, and may create dependent clients who are hesitant to transition to group settings. However, for gyms that choose this model, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, making PT-first a highly effective onboarding method for long-term success.
