Have you ever thought about hiring a coach to help on your fitness journey? If so, you’ve probably noticed something:
It can cost you a pretty penny.
But why is that? What makes coaching services so expensive? More importantly, should you consider it for yourself?
Let’s discuss.
Why Does Coaching Cost So Much?
A simple way to understand why coaching costs so much is by comparing trainers to mechanics. Everyone can proclaim themselves an ‘expert’ and offer a service, first starting small to gain some traction, then expanding their practice. For example, John, the self-proclaimed mechanic, can start by swapping some brake pads, while the trainer, Dave, could begin by instructing people how to use a simple gym machine. As time passes, John can start swapping spark plugs and thermostats, while Dave might start writing weekly programs and teaching people how to deadlift.
Now, let’s look at two other people who work in the same fields: Jack and Oliver. Jack has spent time getting his Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology and has had three years of apprenticeship in a good car auto shop, learning from people with decades of combined experience.
Similarly, Oliver has gone down the learning path, getting his certification in strength and conditioning. He has also spent time working under a coach and soaking up all the knowledge he could before signing his own clients.
At first glance, Jack and Oliver might seem similar to John and Dave because all of them are respectable professionals in their fields. But, as you can see, this isn’t necessarily true, and there is quite a difference between the two pairs.
Jack and Oliver have a solid foundation and have much more knowledge in their respective fields. As such, they can demand higher prices for their services. The higher price isn’t justified to some people, especially when they can get the same thing for half or a third of the cost. But, as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.”
What You Get When You Hire a Coach
Think back to when you decided to get something cheaper, hoping it would turn out well. Maybe it was a new TV, a supplement, or car repair services. How did it turn out for you? In most cases, the answer would be, “Not great.” The cheap TV lasts to cover the warranty and dies, the supplement turns out to be bland and unmixable, and those car repair services? Let’s just say that high school kids with minimal training could have done a better job.
The same rules apply when hiring a coach. More often than not, spending more will give you access to:
- Greater insight
- More experience
- Expertise
Sure, a cheap coach can teach you how to do bicep curls and bench presses. They might even put together a half-decent training plan for you. But, spending more money to hire a true expert can yield much better results. You can learn what works, master proper form, and work to become an independent athlete.
Coaching is similar to many other services out there. Almost everyone can accumulate enough knowledge to appear like an expert and provide some basic guidance. But, true expertise takes time to develop and therefore commands a higher price.
Good coaching isn’t just about knowing a few exercises and teaching them to others. It’s a nuanced process that involves understanding the client and putting together the best possible plan based on their goals, schedule, lifestyle, and more.
Do you need extra help with achieving your fitness goals? Our trainers are here to give you any advice you may need. Book a complimentary consultation with one of our trainers to run through a game plan by visiting our ‘Enquire Now’ page.
