In this episode of the Optimal Aging Podcast, host Jay Croft sits down with online coaching expert Chris Liddle to explore how fitness professionals can launch and grow an online business, particularly focused on serving adults over 50. Chris offers practical advice on getting started, choosing the right tools, and creating meaningful client relationships in a virtual environment.

Chris shares how he transitioned from in-person training to a thriving online coaching model, including how his own parents in their 70s inspired him to refine his tech onboarding and communication style. The conversation covers why the older demographic is not only viable but ideal for online training—offering reliability, consistency, and a genuine desire to improve.

This episode is packed with insights for any coach looking to grow sustainably and meaningfully. Jay and Chris dive into topics like using WhatsApp and YouTube for low-cost delivery, building trust with tech-hesitant clients, and using thoughtful onboarding to reduce friction. Chris also breaks down scalable coaching models, shares tips for pricing and retention, and discusses the mindset needed to succeed in today’s remote fitness landscape.

If you’re a trainer who’s been curious about online coaching, or if you’ve struggled with finding the right market to serve, this conversation will shift your perspective and equip you with strategies to take action immediately.

💼 Guest: Chris Liddle

Bio:
Chris Liddle is a Canada-based online coach and educator who coaches the general population but also helps other trainers launch and grow their online coaching businesses through some of the work he does with BSimpson Fitness. He’s passionate about serving the older adult population and is known for simplifying tech, delivering customized programming, and building deep, supportive client relationships.

Links:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/christianliddle 
• Podcast: https://podcast.invigoratetraining.com

📌 Episode Highlights

Why Online Coaching Still Matters Post-Pandemic

• Demand for virtual fitness hasn’t faded. Chris explains how coaches can meet this need effectively, especially with older clients.

Simplified Tech for Seniors

• Tools like WhatsApp, spreadsheets, and YouTube can go a long way. Chris explains how to keep your systems low-cost and accessible.

Identifying the Right Niche

• Why elite athletes aren’t the best target market—and why older adults are often your best long-term clients.

Getting Started with No Budget

• You don’t need fancy apps. Chris shares how to begin with free tools and build a profitable model step by step.

Should You Become an Online Trainer?

• Chris breaks down the traits of successful online coaches and how to know if this career path is right for you.

📅 Timestamps

00:00 Why online fitness is still growing
01:15 Meet Chris Liddle
04:00 How Chris got started in online training
06:00 Coaching clients over 50 online
08:00 Tech onboarding tips for older adults
12:00 Helping trainers identify their ideal niche
16:00 Simple tools to start coaching online
20:00 WhatsApp, YouTube & spreadsheets: low-cost tools
24:00 Group coaching and scalability
26:00 Is online training right for you?
30:00 Final thoughts & connect with Chris

🎤 Host: Jay Croft
Jay helps fitness professionals grow their businesses by engaging clients over 50 with expert marketing strategies and storytelling.

🌐 Podcast Website: https://primefitcontent.com

✨ Calls to Action

📥 Download our free guide for fit pros – https://primefitcontent.com
📱 Follow on Instagram – https://instagram.com/primefitcontent

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