What’s the best thing about being a PT?
It’s a privilege to see any person at their most vulnerable or most
celebrated. During my career I have worked with clients that have
cancer, strokes, spouse deaths, troubled teens, relationship
breakdowns, life altering weight loss, new business ventures, career
changes, pregnancies, births, marriages and even instigated an
engagement. Getting personal with my clients is my number one
commitment and reward.
And the hardest?
See above!
What’s the biggest misconception about working in
fitness?
What do you do in terms of your ongoing education?
I have attended FILEX every year since becoming a PT, as well as
fitness workshops for areas I am interested in and programs I believe
are going to reshape our industry. Online courses don’t work for me
as I love being around other exercise professionals and sharing our
experiences, expertise and skills.
How long do your clients stay with you?
60 per cent of my clients have been with me for longer than 5 years,
20 per cent longer than 3 years, 20 per cent longer than 1 year and
10 per cent recent (I have these stats as I conduct an annual client
survey).
How do you get new clients?
Being located in a rural area (Phillip Island, Victoria) word of mouth,
referrals and social media are my three main sources of generating
new clients. I have a wonderful network of allied health professionals
who are clients and/or close friends, which is also a great source for
networking and education.
Do you vet clients before you agree to train them?
Always, I provide a complimentary consultation prior to any client
commencing with me.
You’ll earn $100+ per hour and become a superstar... If you’re in it for
the money and fame, you should rethink your choice.
Where would you like your career to take you?
My career has already taken me to some wonderful heights within my
own PT studio and client base. I have proudly mentored numerous
exercise professionals in their own careers. Next I would like to try
my hand at presenting and consulting within our industry.
What is your fitness philosophy?
My commitment to my clients has always been unrelenting: I give 100
per cent and ask for the same in return. I am a pioneer of change and
growth – when I know my clients will benefit and enjoy their regular
training sessions through the work and passion I provide, and are
proud of me as their PT, I am fulfilled.
What advice would you give to someone starting out as
a PT?
Don’t take your job lightly, implement an administration system, find
yourself a mentor (my door is always open), be happy and humble,
but most of all ensure your clients are getting hot and healthy!
Follow Karleeanne on Instagram @hotandhealthypt
Do you ever turn clients away or refer them to other PTs?
Three weeks ago I had a rather fierce looking dude come into the
studio asking about my boxing classes. My THUMP Boxing classes
are 90 per cent female and based on fitness and fun, and this guy
looked like he wanted to unleash, so I gave him the details of our local
MMA instructor and sent him on his way! It’s important to know your
client base, your limitations and what other exercise professionals
offer in your area to refer on. Both parties can then feel better
knowing they’re getting exactly what they want.
What makes you different to other trainers?
I have an undercut and lots of tattoos?! When you have that sparkle
in your eyes whenever you talk, write, move and breathe about
something you are passionate about, you know you have got what it
takes and, after 10 years, it’s still there… even at 6:30am!
NETWORK SPRING 2016 | 21