EVERYTHING IS THE SAME
I started my career as a personal trainer at a big-box gym, hired even though I’d never trained anyone before. I loved working out and passed a test, but I was in way over my head.
My manager, Chris, showed me around and explained the job: talk to people, help them with the weights, spot them, start conversations, and then offer personal training if they seemed interested. He told me straight: it’s a numbers game—the more people you talk to, the better your chances.
In the beginning, it was slow. It takes time to build experience and a client base; it might take a few months. It isn’t as glamorous as it looks—it’s hard work, and it can be draining. If you’re new, you’ve got to push through.
I asked questions, and Chris answered. I worried I’d be found out as a fake. He reassured me: no one knows everything at first; you learn by doing. You’ll study, but real education starts now. Don’t stress—you gain clarity with time and practice.
A week later I had my first orientation—a free training session for new members that ends with a sales pitch. I led the workout, but when it came to selling, I froze. The client declined, and I felt awkward.
Chris watched and asked how it went. Not great, I admitted. He said that no one nails it on their first try. It’s like exercising—the more reps you get, the smoother it becomes. You’ll work out the kinks.
I vented that I’d done everything right—burpees, battle ropes—and I thought the client would be impressed. Chris asked if I’d wanted to crush him. Probably not. He reminded me that I’d assumed the client wanted the same brutal workout I did. Next time, ask questions instead of jumping in with assumptions. Less can be more. People are out of shape, stressed, and overwhelmed. They need guidance, not the world’s hardest workout. Any fool can do that; it takes tact to give people what they actually need.
And, generally, start slow and build. You can add more over time if they stick around. You can only do that if they keep coming back; overwhelm them and you’ll do less good.
I put Chris’s advice into practice and gradually found my groove. I sold a few packages, trained clients, and realized I could help people with the knowledge I had. I overcame imposter syndrome and rose to become the top trainer (and salesperson) in my gym, and eventually in the company.
I still remember those early lessons, not because I need them to be a better trainer now, but because I’m always trying to improve. I believe the goal is simple: to keep getting better, because I’m always trying to improve.
The core idea is this: everything is the same.
The lessons my manager taught me aren’t limited to fitness. They apply to life, whether you’re in a Fortune 500 company, starting a business, or navigating relationships. They’re universal:
– It’s a numbers game. You get better with practice.
– Things aren’t always glamorous. Hard work yields results.
– Give it time. It’s hard at first, but if you persist, you’ll see success.
– You still have more to learn, but you should act now.
– Ask for help when you need it.
– Don’t assume everyone is like you. People are unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
– It’s better to start small and build than to try to do everything at once.
Name a situation where these aren’t true. There isn’t one. Everything is the same. Success comes from the same basics, wherever you apply them.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Paul Levitin spent a decade as a personal trainer and strength coach, becoming the top trainer in his company and earning over 30 certificates (CES, CSCS, PRI, PN1, FRC, and more). He studied behavior change and became a Board Licensed Health & Wellness Coach (NBHWC). He founded The Healthy Happy Human Academy to help clients tackle self-sabotage and perfectionism, so they can build a healthier, happier life. He aims to bridge fitness and nutrition for people who want to move more, feel better, and live a longer life.
