Improve Personal Trainer Searchability [Setup Yelp & Google Reviews]

By Tyler Valencia, PhD(c)​, Special FBA Contributor

If you’re a personal trainer in a gym or an independent professional expanding your fitness brand, gathering reviews can significantly enhance your online visibility within your market. Over the last two decades, the landscape for marketing personal training services has transitioned from mailers to Facebook ads, and is now pivoting towards improved searchability across different platforms. To thrive in the next five to ten years, personal trainers need to strengthen their digital footprint, making it easier for potential clients to find them when searching for a new trainer.

This blog examines the advantages of utilizing review platforms, emphasizing that even trainers employed at gyms can reap the rewards. Use the step-by-step guide on how to set up a review page on Google for Business and Yelp to help increase your quality monthly leads.

Advantages of Review Platforms

Review platforms provide significant advantages for personal trainer wanting to increase the quality of their leads, playing a vital role in enhancing visibility and credibility. A primary benefit is increased trust; many potential clients depend on others' experiences when selecting a trainer. Positive reviews can significantly impact decision-making, underscoring the importance of a strong online presence.

Additionally, a solid footing on review platforms can boost search engine rankings, facilitating easier access for potential clients searching for trainers. A quick and effective solution to get started is to engage with current clients and request that they provide a review on the platform you’re focusing on. Developing a review system through email drip systems or reminders can help you stay on top of gathering reviews and ensure you keep these platforms in your favor.

What if I work as a trainer in a gym?

Personal trainers working in a gym that handles the overall marketing of the facility might not see the value in improving their online presence, but in today’s competitive training market, having a website, providing a range of services, and collecting reviews can enhance their career longevity in the fitness field. As a personal trainer who is successfully attracting new clients to the gym, you will become an indispensable asset to the gym. This will make your case stronger when you request a raise or monthly bonuses.

A gyms' main objective is to increase their membership base to ensure steady monthly revenue. If you’re a personal trainer who is actively supporting other departments, managers will recognize your diverse strengths and value your contributions. A trainer who is a team player can thrive in the gym setting and find themselves with growing opportunities inside the facility.

Setting Up Your Google Review Page

Setting Up Your Yelp Review Page

Building a collection of positive reviews fosters social proof, instilling confidence in potential clients regarding a personal trainer’s expertise and dependability. As more clients share their success stories, it cultivates a community and inspires both current and prospective clients. Review platforms can greatly improve a personal trainer's reputation and potential for growth in the fitness industry.

Tyler Valencia, PhD(c), is the President of KIPS. While working for the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA), an online fitness education company, he started his first business, Time 2 Train Fitness, which specialized in boot camp and personal training.

Time 2 Train Fitness received the distinction of 3X Best Bootcamp and 2X Best Personal Trainer with the Long Beach Press-Telegram. Before founding KIPS, Tyler was the Vice President of the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT) and Smart Fitness.