Large "chain" gyms drive sales to survive by employing people with PT certifications. These corporate giants must prioritize sales rather than trainers, and pay you 40% or less per session for personal training. Careful thought and consideration regarding where you should work to maximize your income and professional future is critical. Most gyms incorporate a standardized training program and will require you to follow their guidelines within their designated system.

As a facility's source of income, you are expected to bring in sales or you will not be retained. If you are not able to continue generating income you will either search for another job or decide to create your own business, which we at the NAFC are in the business of promoting. The NAFC believes in the ability of each of our students as professionals to become successful in our industry "in their own right."

As previously stated most gyms will want you to train within their system, and typically the one that is easiest for them to sell. Becoming an independent trainer will allow you greater flexibility in the techniques you choose and use to train your clients.

Many trainers find this as a way around working at a gym. You keep all of what you earn and set your own schedule. However you must consider:

• How will you generate new clients when they are not coming to you through the gym setting?
• Travel time between clients, fuel, and wear and tear on your vehicle brings you back to earning 40% of your training revenue.