Strength Matters

Tune in to today's discussion between James, Josh, and Andrew as they dive into the uncomfortable realm of client discounts. You'll discover the tightrope that fitness professionals often walk when juggling business value and client expectations. Press play to uncover insights from real-world experiences.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:37] Clients Pushing for Discounts.
• [00:03:50] The Repercussions of Giving Discounts.
• [00:05:50] Upholding Professionalism in the Fitness Industry.
• [00:07:50] Never Discount; Offer Options.

Key Takeaways:

• Clients Asking for Discounts: James and Josh discuss the recurring issue of clients requesting custom packages, often undermining the holistic approach of their training.
• Professionalism in the Fitness Industry: The group emphasizes the importance of holding oneself to high standards, especially in an industry where professionalism is often undermined.
• The Downside of Discounting: Andrew recounts a personal experience where discounting led to a slippery slope of decreased value and loss of clients.
• Offering Options, Not Discounts: James suggests having different packages available. This provides flexibility for clients without compromising the value of the service.
• The Importance of Sticking to Your Guns: The team agrees on the importance of valuing services and not falling into the trap of continuous discounting.

Websites and Links Mentioned:

• Strength Matters

Quotes:

"You would never go into a dentist and halfway through say, I think what you're doing is wrong." - James Breese

"You wouldn't ever question the professionalism of a doctor or a dentist... why is it different for PTs?" - Josh Kennedy

"Never discount, just have those options, those different pricing options available." - Andrew Wallis

"If you discount, you become a commodity, and it's a race to the bottom." - James Breese

"Value your services, value your expertise in the niche that you're working in, and make sure you stick to your guns." - James Breese

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To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

In this episode, we dive deep into the number one mistake fitness professionals make with their marketing strategy: neglecting email marketing. Josh Kennedy, Andrew Wallis, and James Breese share insights on the importance of building an email list, the evolution of marketing strategies over the years, and how to leverage the power of email marketing effectively without being 'spammy'.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:45] The Shift from Offline to Digital Marketing.
• [00:02:00] Analogy: Email Marketing like Dating.
• [00:03:00] The Pitfalls of Relying Solely on Social Media Followers.
• [00:05:00] Nurturing your Email List for Continued Engagement.
• [00:07:00] The Balance of Valuable Content and Sales Emails.

 Key Takeaways:

1. The Evolution of Marketing: Andrew Wallis explains how marketing transitioned from offline methods like flyers to a focus on building email lists in the digital realm.
2. The Power of Email Marketing: James Breese highlights the importance of capturing email addresses to build relationships, likening it to the progression of dating.
3. The Misconception: Some fitness professionals feel that email marketing might come across as 'spammy'. However, the approach matters. Delivering consistent value is the key.
4. Balanced Approach: For every seven value-laden emails, maybe send an eighth with a sales pitch. This ensures you remain a welcomed guest in your subscribers' inboxes.
5. Leverage the P.S. Section: A subtle way to pitch your services, workshops, or programs without being too aggressive.

Websites and Links Mentioned:

• Strength Matters
• Strength Matters Quiz

Quotes:

"If you grow that email list of hungry, interested prospects... it becomes your number one source of not only traffic but also sales." - Andrew Wallis

"Email marketing is like dating. It's about capturing someone's number to schedule a second date and build the relationship further." - James Breese

"Social media followers mean nothing. It's about engaged leads and building a relationship offline." - James Breese

"You want to be a wanted guest in their inbox, not an unwanted pest." - James Breese

"Your marketing strategies should be to get hold of contact details to nurture the relationship long-term." - Andrew Wallis

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

Should personal trainers blog in today's digital age? Discover the answer as James Breese and Josh Kennedy delve into the significance, history, and practicality of blogging for those in the fitness world.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:00] Introduction to blogging's relevance.
• [00:01:00] History of blogging's popularity.
• [00:02:00] Blogging for personal trainers.
• [00:03:00] Understanding SEO and authentic content.
• [00:09:00] The importance of SEO and organic traffic.

Detailed Breakdown:

1. The Genesis of Blogging: Blogging has morphed significantly since its initiation in 2003. The era between 2005 and 2010 stands as a golden period for bloggers, greatly facilitated by platforms like WordPress.
2. Social Media: A Game-Changer for Bloggers: Social platforms like Facebook introduced new dynamics to content consumption and sharing.
3. To Blog or Not: Personal Trainers’ Dilemma: Successful blogging extends beyond just writing; it’s about establishing genuine connections and providing consistent value.
4. The Backbone of Blogging - SEO: Effective SEO practices can make or break a blog’s visibility and reach. Being indexed by search engines, especially Google, is paramount for a blog’s success.
5. Tapping into Organic Traffic: Well-strategized blogs can generate consistent and valuable traffic, standing out against sporadic ad-driven visitors.

Websites & Links Mentioned:

• Strength Matters

Quotes:

"Blogging wasn't even really around in 2003. How mental is that?" - James Breese

"Most trainers think you can just build a website and away it goes." - James Breese

"We get most of our traffic organically to Strength Matters." - James Breese

"It takes a lot of time and effort and technical capabilities to get your blogs found." - James Breese

"Good content is important, but it's the technical side of things that matters more." - James Breese

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

Ever wondered why some personal trainer websites thrive while others barely survive? Tune in to today's episode where James Breese and Josh Kennedy unveil the secrets behind the most successful personal trainer websites. From the importance of Google rankings to the art of capturing attention in mere seconds, this episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to elevate their online presence.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:01:00] The Importance of Website Conversion.
• [00:03:00] The "Google Factor" in Website Success.
• [00:05:00] Key Elements of a Successful Landing Page.
• [00:10:00] The importance of controlling the narrative.
• [00:12:00] Making the content about the client.

Detailed Breakdown:

1. Google Ranking is Essential: No matter how visually appealing your website is, if it's not discoverable on Google, it's practically invisible.
2. Speed Matters: A fast-loading website keeps potential clients engaged.
3. Clear Messaging: Your website should clearly convey who you are, what you offer, and who your services are for.
4. Compelling Call to Action: Direct your visitors towards a specific action, like booking a strategy call.
5. Client-Centric Content: Your website should focus on solving the client's problems, not showcasing your achievements.
6. Testimonials Over Qualifications: Real-life success stories resonate more than a list of certifications.
7. Keep It Simple: A clutter-free, easy-to-navigate website is more likely to retain visitors.

Websites & Links Mentioned:

• Strength Matters

Remarkakble Quotes:

"If you can't get found on Google, no matter how good your website is, it's a waste of time and money." - James Breese

"You have three seconds to capture their attention to tell them what it is that you do." - James Breese

"Your potential clients don't want to know all about every qualification you've attained. They want to know if you're the right solution for their problem." - Andrew Wallis

"Simple works best. Keep it simple, stupid is the mantra." - James Breese

"The number of times I'm seeing websites now, literally post a picture of their naked torso on the front... It's not what people want to see." - James Breese


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Show Your Support: Rate and Review Us!

If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider giving us a 5-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps us reach more people and bring you even more quality content. Click the link below to rate and review us now!

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

Dive into the intricate dynamics of personal training pricing with industry experts Josh Kennedy, James Breese, and Andrew Wallis. Have you ever pondered the rationale behind the pricing structures of PT sessions? This episode provides an in-depth analysis of the pricing methodologies employed by Strength Matters and Cricket Matters.

Uncover the strategic reasoning, the comprehensive packages, and the inherent value  within each price tier. For those serious about understanding the business intricacies of personal training, this episode is an imperative listen.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:00] Introduction to the Topic of Personal Training Pricing.
• [00:00:22] James Discusses the History of Strength Matters' Pricing.
• [00:01:02] Strength Matters' Online Pricing Model Revealed.
• [00:02:05] Three-Tiered Pricing Packages Explained.
• [00:04:04] Andrew Emphasizes the Importance of Package-Based Pricing.
• [00:06:18] James Breaks Down the Pricing for Cricket Matters.

Detailed Breakdown:

1. Strength Matters' Pricing Evolution: From $79 to $997/month, the team has experimented to find the sweet spot.
2. Online Coaching Pricing: $299/month emerges as the optimal price point for client retention and value.
3. Three-tiered Pricing Packages: Kickstarter ($297/12 weeks), Pro ($797/12 weeks), and Pro Plus ($997/12 weeks) cater to different client needs.
4. The Importance of Packages: Andrew stresses the need to focus on client goals rather than selling session packs.
5. Cricket Matters' Hybrid Approach: Combining in-person and online coaching, the pricing remains consistent with Strength Matters but offers more flexibility.
6. Determining Hourly Rates: James emphasizes the importance of location and perceived value in setting hourly rates.

Websites and Resources Mentioned: 

• Strength Matters Quiz

Remarkable Quotes:

"Money is a dirty word, but I think it is something you need to get comfortable with." - Josh Kennedy

"We're looking for more long-term value... it becomes easier over time." - James Breese

"Clients like session packs, but it's not good. We're not addressing their ultimate goals." - Andrew Wallis

"There's no money at the bottom. Straight away on value, I am distinguishing myself and my authority as a trainer." - James Breese

"Just be thoughtful in your pricing." - Andrew Wallis

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

In today's episode, we dive deep into the challenging world of fitness businesses. With the average lifespan of a personal trainer being a mere 18 months, we explore the pitfalls that lead to this startling statistic. Join Josh Kennedy, James Breese, and Andrew Wallis as they share their insights, experiences, and strategies to help you navigate the fitness industry and ensure your business thrives.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:06] The Startling Lifespan of a Personal Trainer
• [00:00:36] Common Pitfalls Trainers Face
• [00:01:09] The Basics Many Trainers Overlook
• [00:02:03] Introducing "Cricket Matters"
• [00:03:15] The Importance of Testing Concepts
• [00:04:17] The Power of TikTok for Engagement
• [00:05:12] Building a Website and Connecting with Google
• [00:06:55] The Transition to Blogging and Podcasting

Key Takeaways:

1. The Pitfalls: Many trainers, even if they survive the initial phase, struggle with client acquisition and retention. The root cause? Not having the basics in place.
2. Cricket Matters: A fitness company aimed at cricketers. It identified a gap in the market and aimed to fill it.
3. Proof of Concept: Before diving in, it's essential to test your concept. For Cricket Matters, this involved creating over 200 videos and gauging reactions.
4. Online Presence: Building a simple website and optimizing it for local searches can be a game-changer.
5. Engagement: Using platforms like TikTok can help in reaching a wider audience and validating your concept.
6. Blogging and Podcasting: Repurposing content and targeting it to your niche audience can drive engagement and establish authority.

Websites and Links Mentioned:

• CricketMatters.com
• StrengthMatters.com

Remarkable Quotes:

"The lifespan of the average personal trainer is around 18 months." - Josh Kennedy

"Most cricketers don't know what to do with their training." - James Breese

"People will only do business with those they know, like, and trust." - Andrew Wallis

"Embed yourself in a community you're passionate about." - James Breese

"Find your niche; it's even more important in this day and age." - Josh Kennedy

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

Dive into the world of heart rate variability (HRV) and resting heart rate with James Breese and Josh Kennedy. In this episode, we go into the science behind HRV, its significance in determining physical fitness, and how it can guide your training priorities. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or someone just starting your journey, this episode highlights the importance of HRV and how it can impact your overall health and training regimen.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:22] Introduction to Heart Rate Variability (HRV)
• [00:01:14] The relationship between HRV and resting heart rate
• [00:02:15] Impact of low HRV on training decisions
• [00:02:55] Importance of health in the Strength Matters system
• [00:06:34] Addressing the fear of cardio in training

Key-takeaways:

1. Heart Rate Variability (HRV): James defines HRV as a measure of the autonomic nervous system and its significance in determining physical fitness.
2. Difference between HRV and Resting Heart Rate: HRV is about the variance in time between heartbeats, and a greater variability indicates better readiness for physical exertion.
3. Aerobic Deficiency Syndrome: James discusses the importance of building cardiovascular capacity slowly, especially for those with low HRV scores.
4. Strength Matters System: Josh emphasizes that health comes first in their training system. They assess clients' health data and prioritize cardiovascular development if needed.
5. Approach to Cardio: James and Josh discuss the common fear of cardio and how it can be made enjoyable with the right intensities. They also touch upon the cultural differences in the perception of cardio between Europeans and Americans.

Websites and Links Mentioned:

• Strength Matters

Remarkable Quotes

"Heart rate variability is a measure of your autonomic nervous system that's widely considered one of the best objective metrics for physical fitness." - James Breese

"The greater the variability, the more ready your body is for physical exertion." - Josh Kennedy

"Without your health, you've got nothing." - Josh Kennedy

"Cardio doesn't have to be pain and suffering. It could be enjoyable if you get it right at the right intensities." - James Breese

"Start walking more at lower intensities to begin with and build it for volume." - James Breese

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

In this episode, the Strength Matters team dive deep into the world of fitness assessments, discussing the importance of turning raw data into actionable and understandable scores. If you've ever wondered how to make sense of all those numbers and percentages from your fitness assessments or how to motivate clients to care about their progress, this episode is a must-listen. Dive in as we explore the art of gamification in fitness and the power of visualization in tracking progress.

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:05] Gamification in Fitness
• [00:00:23] Translating Assessments
• [00:01:05] Making Assessments Appealing
• [00:02:05] Four Quadrants of Assessment
• [00:06:08] Continuous Improvement
• [00:06:32] The Value of Assessments
• [00:08:45] Program Design Priorities
• [00:09:32] Closing Thoughts

Key-takeaways: 

• Gamification in Fitness: The modern trend leans towards turning everything into a game, from closing Apple fitness rings to CrossFit leaderboards. The idea is to make assessments more engaging and understandable for clients.
• The Four Quadrants: Strength Matters breaks down assessments into four main areas: health, movement, strength, and cardio. Each quadrant gets a score, providing a comprehensive overview of a person's fitness level.
• Visualization: Raw data can be overwhelming. By visualizing data, clients can better understand their strengths and areas of improvement.
• Traffic Light System: Beyond the scoring system, there's a traffic light system (red, amber, green) that helps trainers prioritize areas of focus for their clients.
• The Importance of Feedback: Continuous feedback and showing progress through numbers can motivate clients, especially when physical changes aren't immediately visible.

Websites & Resources Mentioned:

• Strength Matters

Quotes:

"Everyone loves closing their Apple fitness rings." - Josh Kennedy

"If you can't visualize data, you don't understand it." - James Breese

"Everyone wants to try and close their rings or get to 100 percent as best they possibly can." - James Breese

"Create some kind of scoring system. Gamify it a little bit, give the meaning behind it." - James Breese

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

In this episode of the Strength Matters podcast, James Breese and Josh Kennedy dive deep into the essential tools that power their personal training business. Whether you're a seasoned personal trainer or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights and recommendations that can transform the way you operate. Discover the tools that have been game-changers for Strength Matters!

Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:05] Introduction to the 7 essential tools.
• [00:00:17] The importance of True Coach in their business.
• [00:01:45] The role of Zoom and Loom in client communication.
• [00:06:24] The significance of integrated calendar systems.
• [00:08:07] Utilizing Typeform for client data collection.
• [00:09:05] The convenience of YouTube for content sharing.

Key-Takeaways:

1. True Coach: The primary software behind Strength Matters, chosen for its efficiency and familiarity. However, they are open to exploring other options like EverFit in the future.
2. Zoom & Loom: Essential for client catch-ups, consultations, and video messages. They emphasize the importance of face-to-face communication in the online training world.
3. Excel: Used for data extraction from TrueCoach, especially for nutrition calculators and other assessments.
4. Integrated Calendar Systems: A time-saving tool for booking consultations and strategy calls. It's about efficiency and reducing back-and-forth communication.
5. Typeform: Preferred over Google Forms for its professionalism. Used for initial consultation calls and in-depth client questionnaires.
6. YouTube: A quick solution for exercise demonstrations and content sharing.
7. Slack: Vital for team communication, especially when multiple coaches work with the same client.

Websites & Resources Mentioned:

• Strength Matters
• True Coach
• EverFit
• Zoom
• Loom
• Calendly
• Typeform
• YouTube
• Slack

Remarkable Quotes:

"Zoom is the default online video conferencing system in the world and everyone has it." - James Breese

"Communication is key in any team, but communication with clients is absolutely vital." - James Breese

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system

Dive deep into the world of hybrid personal training with Strength Matters and their revolutionary approach. If you've ever been curious about how online and in-person training can seamlessly merge to create a world class training experience, this episode is your golden ticket. Discover how Strength Matters and Cricket Matters are changing the game, one client at a time.


Timeline Summary:

• [00:00:05] Introduction to the hybrid personal training model.
• [00:00:23] The inception of sister company, Cricket Matters.
• [00:01:15] Case study: Training a promising fast bowler.
• [00:02:42] The importance of assessments and client feedback.
• [00:04:07] Step-by-step breakdown of the hybrid model in action.
• [00:08:15] The performance pyramid and its significance.

Key Takeaways: 

1. Hybrid Training Model: A blend of online and in-person training to provide a comprehensive training experience.
2. Assessment Importance: Using tools like TrueCoach and video analysis to pinpoint strengths and weaknesses.
3. Performance Pyramid: A structured approach to training, ensuring holistic development.
4. Future of Hybrid Training: Encouraging self-reliance in clients while providing the necessary tools and guidance.

Websites and Resources Mentioned:

• TrueCoach
• Strength Matters

Remarkable Quotes:

"If you've ever wondered how a hybrid approach may potentially revolutionize your training sessions, that's what we're diving into." - Josh Kennedy

"When you have a team of coaches working together all in the same system, it creates an exceptional experience for your clients." - James Breese

"It only works because we're both speaking the same language because we know the assessments and the system we have in place." - Josh Kennedy

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If you enjoyed today's episode, please consider giving us a 5-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps us reach more people and bring you even more quality content. Click the link below to rate and review us now!

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FREE Downloads
To learn more about Strength Matters and our high-performance training system, download your FREE copy of The Strength Matters System of Athletic Development. Get it at - www.strengthmatters.com/system