The coming weeks are pretty significant for me. Not only am I preparing for a very new and exciting role in my life, I’m also taking my first real hiatus from work and my business after nearly 10 years in the industry. So today I look back and say “Hey, I created this from scratch and not only managed to keep it going for 10 years but also manage to enjoy it and all its challenges as much now as I did then.” As well as giving myself a pat on the back, it’s also a good time to reflect on a few of the things I’ve learned along the way about business and training. In no particular order…..

• Never promote yourself by putting down or bad mouthing other operators in your industry. It’s insecure and immature. By all means brag about your style of training and even if you know it’s superior to others styles, don’t put them down. I know what works for me and my clients but that doesn’t mean it’s everyone’s cup of tea. What works and what people want to do are two very different things. Heck, if others enjoy running on a treadmill in front of the telly, good for them. If bootcamps with start/end dates get you going, go for it. If you like a good in-gym bro sesh using machines and mirrors, go your hardest.

• Achieving your health and fitness goals does not result from two PT sessions a week. It’s a combination of many things performed day-in and day-out and can take years.

• You can’t be too selfie shy and still have a high profile on social media. Embrace it but don’t overdo it. (apologies for my pregnancy spam!)

• You don’t need an elaborate fitness facility or loads of fancy equipment to achieve results or an awesome workout. Although these things can be nice and provide good variety, some of the hardest workouts I’ve done have featured very little equipment. You just have to know how to use your body and how to get the most out of your environment or the few bits and pieces of equipment you may have.

• You can’t please everyone. Some people are impossible to please. Others just seem to favour change and shop around for new trainers, gyms or classes in order to maintain motivation. That’s okay. Not everyone will click with me or my brand of training. I just try to do my best and that’s all I can do.

• In business you’re going to make mistakes. And even if you don’t, it doesn’t mean you can’t learn, grow and be better than you were before. My training sessions these days look quite different than they did 10 years ago. Strive to constantly learn, adapt and pass on experiences via your work.

• If you can’t afford it, perhaps personal training isn’t for you. This is something I found frustrating as more and more PTs enter the market. In order to compete, they are offering their services far too cheaply and in turn, devaluing the role of all PTs.

• It does seem like everyone is a PT these days. I don’t have a problem with competition. I just hate to see our role and skills devalued due to an over-supply of trainers.

• Experience is worth paying for. Admittedly, personal training is pricey but it’s always been a specialised service and is well worthwhile if you have specialist training needs or goals and are committed to working with someone to help you achieve them. If it’s just a workout and some motivation you are looking for, there are various group training options out there that are far more affordable.

• If you don’t stop, at some point your body will. Provided it doesn’t put an end to your career (PT burn-out rates are high and well known), it’s a great lesson to learn.

• It is far cheaper to retain clients than constantly advertise for new ones. Develop relationships, friendships and treat people well enough so that they don’t need to look anywhere else.

• Owning your own business is stressful, challenging and tiring but it also brings with it an immense sense of pride and enjoyment. And, the flexibility can be a blessing. I’m not sure how I’d go at a 9-5 gig anymore. What would they think of me having a midday nap?