How to Get More Clients as a PT: The Complete Guide to Starting From Zero
So you’ve just passed your final PT exam.
You’ve got the certificate in your hand, the excitement is real… but then it hits you:
“How am I actually going to get clients?”
Don’t worry — every great PT has stood exactly where you are right now.
Over the last few years, I’ve helped multiple personal trainers grow from 0 clients to fully booked using simple, affordable (and often completely free) digital strategies. You are not alone wondering how to get more clients as a PT; most PTs don’t lack skill — they lack visibility. They know how to train clients, but not how to get clients.
Today, I’m going to walk you through the exact steps I recommend for any new personal trainer who wants to build a stable, predictable client base.
This guide is simple, actionable, and based on real results — and the best part?
Most of these methods cost nothing.
1. Build Your Online Presence
Before you even step on the gym floor, you need to be findable online.
Create a professional email address (no callofdutymaster1997@… 😂)
Set up social media accounts and post consistently
Create a simple website or a Gym Guide profile for free
Claim your Google Business profile so you show up on Google Maps
These steps build trust with potential clients and make it easy for them to reach you.
2. Choose the Right Gym or Environment
Your gym choice is one of the biggest decisions for a new PT:
Chain Gyms
Pros: High footfall, lots of beginners
Cons: High PT competition, rent/commission, harder to differentiate
Independent Gyms
Pros: Community vibe, high member loyalty
Cons: Fewer potential clients, harder to secure a spot, may require convincing the owner
Tip: If you’re new, prioritize volume and visibility — chain gyms can be faster for initial client growth. Later, you can specialise or move to an environment that suits your style.
3. Be Present & Build Trust on the Gym Floor
Your first clients are already walking past you every day. The goal: be helpful, not pushy.
Smile, make eye contact, and be approachable
Engage with members without selling — offer value first
Offer 15-minute coaching sessions with no obligations
Support new members who may be nervous — make them feel comfortable
4. Master Shop Floor Psychology
Going beyond presence: become the face of the gym.
Learn members’ names quickly — everyone likes to feel valued instantly
Lead inductions or offer guidance to new members
Wear subtle branding: “Ask me about a free PT session”
Be the motivator members need; help them feel confident
5. Use Social Media to Build Credibility
Consistency > followers. Don’t aim for viral posts — aim for regular engagement.
2–3 posts per week is enough
Share tips, workouts, nutrition, behind-the-scenes content
Let people see your personality and professionalism
Consistent posts reassure potential clients that you’re active and reliable
6. Offer Free or Taster Sessions
The easiest way to convert new members into paying clients: let them experience your value.
Free 15-minute technique sessions
Intro trial PT sessions
Low-risk, no-pressure interactions
Builds trust before discussing packages
A Foolproof Step-By-Step Guide On How To Get More Clients As A PT
Here’s the roadmap that summarises everything above in actionable steps:
STEP 1 — Set Up Your Online Foundations
Professional email
Social media accounts
Simple website or Gym Guide profile
💡 Need help? DM us — we guide PTs for free.
STEP 2 — Claim Google Business Profile
Appear in Google Maps searches
Add photos, niche, and contact info
STEP 3 — Choose Your Approach
Decide: chain gym, independent gym, niche, mobile PT, outdoors, etc.
STEP 4 — Be Present & Build Relationships on the Gym Floor
Smile, engage, offer value
Lead inductions if possible
Wear subtle branding to show you accept new clients
STEP 5 — Post Consistently on Social Media
Share tips, workouts, and client wins
Keep content authentic and consistent
STEP 6 — Offer Free or Taster Sessions
Let members experience your value firsthand
Build trust before selling packages
STEP 7 — Track, Optimise, Repeat
See which strategies bring in clients
Adjust your approach based on results
How Gym Guide Can Help You Get Clients — Completely Free
If you’re a personal trainer just starting out, Gym Guide is the fastest way to get exposure to your target audience in the UK.
Create a free professional profile
Show up in searches based on location and specialty
Connect with thousands of people actively looking for personal trainers
No hidden fees or subscriptions — completely free
Think of it as your digital business card that actually gets results. Combine Gym Guide with your social media, Google Business profile, and gym floor presence, and you’ll have all the tools to grow from 0 clients to a full schedule.
💡 Tip: If you need guidance setting up your profile or making it stand out, send us a DM or email. We’ve helped many PTs get clients quickly — and we do it for free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how to get more clients as a PT, remember:
Be visible online and offline
Offer value before selling
Build trust and relationships
Stay consistent
Track results and optimise
Getting clients takes time — it’s a snowball effect. Small improvements early on may feel slow, but they compound over weeks and months. Trust the process. Every interaction, every post, every small act of visibility adds up.
The moment you start switching off, your momentum slows — and so will your clients. Consistency is the key. Show up, provide value, and the results will follow.
By combining the Gym Guide platform, social media, Google Business, and shop floor engagement, you’ll create a complete system for attracting new clients — without spending a fortune.