2023 marks my 24th year in the fitness industry. My career has stood the test of time and evolved. But it's not because I'm smarter or better than anyone; it comes down to these 7 practices.

1. Work with as many bodies as possible before you niche

At the beginning of your career, working with as many different people as possible is the only thing to focus on. Preferably in person. There is much to gain from being with clients of different personalities, experience levels, goals, beliefs and movement capabilities.

2. Invest in developing business skills 2 x more than technical skills

Every new trainer falls into the trap of feeling like they don't 'know enough'. So they spend time and money on technical courses such as Kettlebells, Boxing or TRX. In reality, most trainers go out of business in the first two years because of a lack of business skills. It's essential to upskill, but I recommend a 2:1 ratio of business courses to technical courses.

3. Ask for specific feedback

From day one, get into the habit of asking for feedback. Ask current clients and past clients. Ask them questions such as 'what do I do well?', "what do you like?', 'what can I improve on?'. Also, ask mentors or colleagues to answer these questions too.

4. Communicate exceptionally well

The difference between a good trainer and an exceptional coach is effective communication. The job of a Fit Pro is to guide someone to change, which means using various tools and approaches to help facilitate this. If communication is closed, non-existent or dysfunctional, don't expect change.

5. Work on your business as much as you do your business

This needs to be compulsory. Every day/week schedule in specific business admin and growth time. To be profitable, successful and impactful, you must have time to work on your business. Don't get bogged down working in it at the expensive of working on it.

6. Be a programming gun

As mentioned in point 4, Fit Pros are change agents who facilitate change in others. To create transformation, a trainer must know how to do so confidently. This is where a deep understanding of program design comes in. Know the principles of programming inside out and stick to it. Once you've decided to niche down, then invest time and money into learning more about that niche (but stick to the 2:1 ratio of business to technical skills courses)

7. Stay in your lane

It's no surprise that many dodgy Fit Pros and misinformed trainers are saying and doing questionable things. The industry is full of Insta-trainers, fitspo's and overinflated egos. Don't be one of them. Stay in your lane of experience and expertise. By all means, if you're qualified in different fields, bring that knowledge and experience into your business, but if you're not, don't speak or act on things you don't know. Build a team of allied health professionals and experts around you that you can use (this is a win-win situation for everyone).

Finally, rinse and repeat.