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Ignite the Fire: The Secrets to Building a Successful Personal Training Career
"A look at personal training that goes beyond the textbooks." - Muscle & Fitness Now in a revised, expanded, and upgraded edition, Ignite the Fire is the highly practical approach to personal training already relied on by thousands of trainers Worldwide. Repeatedly called one of the "best books for personal trainers", it provides a clear road map teaching you how to become a personal trainer, to getting a personal trainer certification, to building your career from the bottom up so you can build a clientele, your reputation, and income. HAVE YOU EVER wanted to know the best, high-integrity techniques to get more clients, run a fitness business, or have a solid system for selling personal training? You're not alone. For years Jon's been asked these questions so he read, watched, researched and interviewed the best in the world to compile Ignite the Fire. This powerful book for certified personal trainers will show you how Find your dream job in the fitness industry (pg 26) Find, market to, and sell your ideal client while seamlessly dealing with objections (pg 64) Build amazing workouts for beginners (pg 124) Deal with difficult client types (pg 160) Develop multiple income streams while maintaining your reputation (pg 202) Ignite the Fire provides a clear road map to building your career from the bottom up so you can build a clientele, your reputation, and income.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2012
647 people are currently reading
997 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Goodman
14 books119 followersJonathan Goodman is the creator of the Personal Trainer Development Center and host of the popular Obvious Choice podcast, a top show for coaches, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. Jon’s been featured in most major business and fitness publications including Men's Health, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Robb Report, Inc., and many more. Over 200,000 coaches and small business owners in more than 120 countries have purchased business development materials from him. Originally from Toronto, Jon spends his winters exploring the World with his wife and two young sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 15, 2015
I must have dog eared about twenty pages of this book for future reference. I became a certified personal trainer last year, and since then I have taken that certification and became a group kickboxing instructor. I have been at a loss for where to start with my personal training though, and this book has really given me an endless amount of ideas - whether I choose to work at a gym, or run my own business. It's rather eye opening seeing it all laid out on paper, and there are a ton of chapters that talked about topics I didn't even think about like how clients have different personalities, obviously I knew that, but seeing them grouped into general categories made it that much more real. Each client a personal trainer has is different, unique, and each program the personal trainer writes needs to be individualized. Not only does a personal trainer have to think about programs for clients, they also have to think about sales and advertising, finding their niche, keeping the clients inspired and motivated, working as part of a team, and igniting their passion each and every day. I can't wait to read certain parts of this book over when I need to. It's such a great reference, and I think all personal trainers, whether they're just starting out, or in the business twenty years, should read this book.
"Look at successful people, not with jealousy, but with curiosity" (p. 189).
"Freedom is providing yourself the opportunity to fail" (p. 222).
"Look at successful people, not with jealousy, but with curiosity" (p. 189).
"Freedom is providing yourself the opportunity to fail" (p. 222).
January 13, 2015
Packed with useful information
I am doing a lot of reading about fitness business and marketing, and find most of what is out there to be redundant and not very useful. This book surprised me!
Goodman not only shares stories from his own path as a personal trainer, he pulls in many well known peers, such as Mike Mahler and Brett Contreras, to beef up the content.
This book covers nuts and bolts - how to find a job, pick a niche, communicate, and coach. He discusses getting along with others at work, the importance of personal down time and development, and how to know when you are pushing too hard.
I highly recommend this book to any personal trainers who are new or struggling. This will help you!
I am doing a lot of reading about fitness business and marketing, and find most of what is out there to be redundant and not very useful. This book surprised me!
Goodman not only shares stories from his own path as a personal trainer, he pulls in many well known peers, such as Mike Mahler and Brett Contreras, to beef up the content.
This book covers nuts and bolts - how to find a job, pick a niche, communicate, and coach. He discusses getting along with others at work, the importance of personal down time and development, and how to know when you are pushing too hard.
I highly recommend this book to any personal trainers who are new or struggling. This will help you!
November 10, 2020
First of all, I have to say that I did not read the book just for the sake of having it read, but with intention to implement at least some of it for my weight loss business. Sadly, while providing good trainer advice, it was advertised as a go-to guide for wannabe online trainers. This it is not.
I give 3* because the information is good, but I think it does nothing for people who are actually interested in the digital side of things. Note that I am not bashing the book for not being strictly weight loss training oriented. In fact, my business is mostly in nutrition anyway, so this wouldn't be the book for it, strictly speaking. That being said, I expected more focus on online training, while the book was primarily focused on how to build a business within a gym. Again, this is not an issue, per se, and provides good information for that. Too bad that it was somewhat misleading in its marketing, as I stumbled upon it when looking for how to build an online training business. If you don't believe me, do your research in that regard, and this book will pop up at least several times.
I give 3* because the information is good, but I think it does nothing for people who are actually interested in the digital side of things. Note that I am not bashing the book for not being strictly weight loss training oriented. In fact, my business is mostly in nutrition anyway, so this wouldn't be the book for it, strictly speaking. That being said, I expected more focus on online training, while the book was primarily focused on how to build a business within a gym. Again, this is not an issue, per se, and provides good information for that. Too bad that it was somewhat misleading in its marketing, as I stumbled upon it when looking for how to build an online training business. If you don't believe me, do your research in that regard, and this book will pop up at least several times.
February 7, 2022
This book really gives some great insight into what it takes to be a successful personal trainer. Whether you are looking to work for a gym or start your own business, Jonathan Goodman provides some great insight into what it takes to succeed at either.
I utilized this book in order to provide myself with a well-rounded view of the profession as I started my own business last year. For the most part I was on track with the ideas and practices that Jonathan shares. However, he provided some interesting "Aha!" moments where I was able learn some new concepts to incorporate.
I highly recommend this book for those looking to start (or even thinking about starting) their own personal training career/business.
I utilized this book in order to provide myself with a well-rounded view of the profession as I started my own business last year. For the most part I was on track with the ideas and practices that Jonathan shares. However, he provided some interesting "Aha!" moments where I was able learn some new concepts to incorporate.
I highly recommend this book for those looking to start (or even thinking about starting) their own personal training career/business.
May 17, 2015
Awesome book! It covers ALL essential topics for anyone transitioning into the fitness industry and who wants to be successful! Several free resources provided and practical case studies are included. This book is jam packed with all kinds of useful information that you can apply to your fitness career TODAY.
Note: I did not read this first version of the text. I read the more recent and expanded 2014 edition of Goodman's book.
Note: I did not read this first version of the text. I read the more recent and expanded 2014 edition of Goodman's book.
August 31, 2018
As someone that has worked in the industry for over 17 years, I wish that this book had been around back then. I have had to sometimes learn some of these lessons the hard way (opening my own studio, avoiding burnout, etc.). This book should be a “must read” for all new personal trainers and I plan to share it with the 3 trainers I have currently on my staff team. Now, off to read another one of Jon’s books! (I have all of them.) 😁
January 1, 2019
Great book packed full of practical information. I think this book would be especially useful for individuals just starting out with personal training, or those who have the training side down but have neglected the business side. A common trend in Personal Training is that trainers are passionate about the body, health nutrition etc. However, they've never taken the time to dive too deep into the business side. If that's you, this book is a great place to start getting answers.
February 20, 2019
Excellent guidance on being a thoughtful, intelligent, and professional personal trainer from Jonathan Goodman, with practical advice that you can take action on immediately - like everything else he writes. Strongly recommend for anyone in the profession, but not relevant at all for someone who isn't.
August 31, 2015
well written.
real information
You can "feel" experience that Jonathan has. And he share them! Yay! What a great book for every trainer.
Well done!!
real information
You can "feel" experience that Jonathan has. And he share them! Yay! What a great book for every trainer.
Well done!!
February 3, 2023
learned a lot about business
Jonathan’s social media is really effective – – as a content strategist it was cool to see someone in the fitness industry talk so much about community and relationship oriented social media rather than blasting out your message.
The stuff that Jonathan puts out is really smart — I’ve been thinking more and more about moving from a career in content to personal training I wanted to see what I could get out of this book.
I learned a ton about how to scale a business successfully— if you’re a personal trainer trying to figure out business, I think this book is invaluable.
Personally, one of the things I’ve struggled with a lot in my career is finding a niche and actually being able to evaluate the effectiveness of my niche a business owner – – i’ve switched from the types work that I offer quite a bit, and switched industries just as often.
I think secretly I was hoping this book would help me determine if I could build a fitness oriented niche, especially because I really enjoyed teaching, training, and coaching, and I’ve done a lot of work around using HVP for stress management.
Anyway, that’s all definitely more about my work than this book. A lot of the emphasis here is on getting a job at a gym and building credibility and relationships there. In some ways, this answered my question (how do you find leads and build your niche? By training!) even though I’m not sure what to do next. I’ll keep using these tools and resources!
Jonathan’s social media is really effective – – as a content strategist it was cool to see someone in the fitness industry talk so much about community and relationship oriented social media rather than blasting out your message.
The stuff that Jonathan puts out is really smart — I’ve been thinking more and more about moving from a career in content to personal training I wanted to see what I could get out of this book.
I learned a ton about how to scale a business successfully— if you’re a personal trainer trying to figure out business, I think this book is invaluable.
Personally, one of the things I’ve struggled with a lot in my career is finding a niche and actually being able to evaluate the effectiveness of my niche a business owner – – i’ve switched from the types work that I offer quite a bit, and switched industries just as often.
I think secretly I was hoping this book would help me determine if I could build a fitness oriented niche, especially because I really enjoyed teaching, training, and coaching, and I’ve done a lot of work around using HVP for stress management.
Anyway, that’s all definitely more about my work than this book. A lot of the emphasis here is on getting a job at a gym and building credibility and relationships there. In some ways, this answered my question (how do you find leads and build your niche? By training!) even though I’m not sure what to do next. I’ll keep using these tools and resources!
January 25, 2023
While I'm not a personal trainer, I've worked in a similar field (corrective exercise) for 5 years and work with clients 1-on-1 daily. I picked up this book because I'm potentially looking to take my services online and also wanted some ideas to start performing my job better. While he doesn't talk about online training very much (you have to pay 1k+ for his course online in order to get that info), I still found a lot of the content applicable, helpful, and relatable. I highlighted the shit out of it and plan on going back at some point and rereading it.
The one big action step/take away for me is reading for an hour a day Monday through Friday. He said he did this in his career and it has made a huge difference in his ability to grow his business exponentially. I plan on doing this myself.
The one big action step/take away for me is reading for an hour a day Monday through Friday. He said he did this in his career and it has made a huge difference in his ability to grow his business exponentially. I plan on doing this myself.
March 1, 2018
First off, I am not a personal trainer or even close to being one. However, over the past year I’ve developed a passion for fitness and have been trying to figure out if it could be a successful career path for me in the future. Ignite The Fire was well laid out and covered everything possible for somebody who is looking to build a career as a personal trainer. It covered all possible pros and cons, different career paths you can take, types of clients to expect and how to meet their expectations, personal development, and much more. It’s a great book to keep around for future reference with plenty of sound advice from the author and other fitness professionals he references throughout.
December 19, 2023
This book was really helpful,
I have been a personal trainer for about a year and a half and the growth has been great.
I'm a firm believer in a never ending study. The same way i love to teach people what i know, i love learning what people have to offer.
If you are a beginning personal trainer this book is one of the must reads if you want to get into the personal training business, it will give you a great head start and a good understanding on what is important.
But i do have to recommend to keep on studying other material aswel.
As personal trainer, we are not just personal trainers, we are marketers, we are salesmen, we are therapists, etc.
Remember: "People buy a trainer, not training."
I have been a personal trainer for about a year and a half and the growth has been great.
I'm a firm believer in a never ending study. The same way i love to teach people what i know, i love learning what people have to offer.
If you are a beginning personal trainer this book is one of the must reads if you want to get into the personal training business, it will give you a great head start and a good understanding on what is important.
But i do have to recommend to keep on studying other material aswel.
As personal trainer, we are not just personal trainers, we are marketers, we are salesmen, we are therapists, etc.
Remember: "People buy a trainer, not training."
August 11, 2023
A book i'v saw on the google top 15 Personal trainer books, since it was #1 i'v chosen to give it a try, so on without any regrets.
The book gives you tips of marketing, handling with people the importancy of communicating, educating you're clients.
The marketing will help me a lot and also staying in touch with you're clients aswell as approaching and getting new ones. The principles of assesment is described but ofcourse not how to do it, wich wasn't a problem for me but for new upcoming personal trainers it is. But here for they need to certify ofcourse.
The book gives you tips of marketing, handling with people the importancy of communicating, educating you're clients.
The marketing will help me a lot and also staying in touch with you're clients aswell as approaching and getting new ones. The principles of assesment is described but ofcourse not how to do it, wich wasn't a problem for me but for new upcoming personal trainers it is. But here for they need to certify ofcourse.
October 4, 2022
As a personal trainer with two years' experience that wants to make a career out of the field - a field that regularly burns people out in a few years - this book has provided invaluable insight into how to achieve that goal. From talking to prospects, to gaining your boss' respect and asking for a promotion or raise, to starting a blog or social media page, this book has you covered. Will definitely be referring back to this book as I progress in my career.
February 19, 2023
This book contains a ton of great advice and concepts to as a trainer and/or aspiring trainer. Starting with what to consider if you are just starting the process of becoming and trainer and how to progress through your career. There are also lots of great ideas for how to inspire and create great results for your clients. I really enjoyed this book and think that it will make a great difference in my personal training career.
November 27, 2019
Has everything you need
This book is gold. Being new to the industry, Jonathan's words give me confidence that I can succeed.
Easy to understand and has a lot of great points for beginners and experts. I particularly liked the mini interviews he had with fitness professionals.
5 stars!!
This book is gold. Being new to the industry, Jonathan's words give me confidence that I can succeed.
Easy to understand and has a lot of great points for beginners and experts. I particularly liked the mini interviews he had with fitness professionals.
5 stars!!
May 13, 2020
Every trainer/coach needs to read!
I've been in fitness industry for 6 years and my biggest career regret is not reading this book sooner. This answers so many questions and ones I didn't even know I should ask. Whether you're just starting out or been in this for a while this book is a must read.
I've been in fitness industry for 6 years and my biggest career regret is not reading this book sooner. This answers so many questions and ones I didn't even know I should ask. Whether you're just starting out or been in this for a while this book is a must read.
December 8, 2021
Three stars may have been harsh as there’s plenty of great information in this book and I would say it’s worth a read for anyone in the field. I have plenty of great takeaways from it but at the same time it’s quite repetitive, also filled with a lot of obvious and basic information and unfortunately lacks proper editing throughout.
January 27, 2018
Truly enjoyed reading this book!
I resonate a lot with most of the content of this book. I can only recommend it to any personal trainer starting or even wanting to improve his or her career
I resonate a lot with most of the content of this book. I can only recommend it to any personal trainer starting or even wanting to improve his or her career
June 4, 2019
Helpful advice for new personal trainers, or experienced ones looking to expand their business. Some of the ideas and concepts I was already familiar with, but I also found a few gems and some new ways to approach my business.
March 2, 2020
Great book!
Informative, lighthearted and exceptionally motivating for a new trainer!
I am studying for my COT certification test and this material helped me feel much more confident in my future endeavors!
Informative, lighthearted and exceptionally motivating for a new trainer!
I am studying for my COT certification test and this material helped me feel much more confident in my future endeavors!
January 4, 2022
If you are new and want to understand more about what it means and takes to be a personal trainer. It's the best book out there.
Has lots of valuable nuggets in this book that can be adapted into your life.
Has lots of valuable nuggets in this book that can be adapted into your life.
March 16, 2022
If you’re into personal training or you want to become a PT, you should definitely read this book!
It tells you everything you could think of about being a PT: how to approach clients, different types of clients, payments, sales and etc.
Really valuable piece of content!
It tells you everything you could think of about being a PT: how to approach clients, different types of clients, payments, sales and etc.
Really valuable piece of content!
April 6, 2022
This should be the bible for any new personal trainer that's just entering the fitness industry. The lessons in here are foundational but perishable skills needed to succeed in an ever evolving practice.
October 23, 2017
Fantastic book 💪💪💪🏃
Just finished reading for the first time and I would definitely recommend to any trainer new or seasoned to get a different perspective 🙆
Just finished reading for the first time and I would definitely recommend to any trainer new or seasoned to get a different perspective 🙆
June 27, 2018
What a wonderful resource for personal trainers. Well done, Jon Goodman!
August 11, 2018
For any trainer, either established or just starting out, you'll get some nuggets from this little read.
September 10, 2018
Good advice for anyone thinking about getting involved with Personal Training.
July 22, 2019
This was a really good read with lots of insightful information on building a career as a personal trainer. As a teacher, I found it humorously intriguing how similar the profession is to my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews