Clint Rahe has been involved in the fitness industry for 15 years, with 12 of those served in the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force as a physical training instructor (PTI), where he worked with some of the fittest people in the world. Clint later worked with a number of professional sports teams, from rugby league to premier league teams, running pre-season fitness camps for players. He has also worked alongside some of the top fitness professionals in Europe as an international fitness presenter.

We asked Clint for his thoughts on how to build a successful fitness business.

What’s the most important thing to consider when growing a fitness business?

The first thing I would say is that you need to be organised. With any business, there are a lot of administration procedures to manage, as well as staff. You have to have excellent time management skills as you will be expected to manage the studio, whilst working with your current clients. This could involve long hours of work, so you will need to be prepared to put in the effort.

What has been the most inspiring moment in your fitness career?

The most inspiring moments in my fitness career are when my clients reach their goals. There is nothing more satisfying than working with people and seeing the transformations that have occurred along the journey.

How has your fitness career evolved?

I have been fortunate enough to have had a great grounding within the military as a physical training instructor. I have worked with and been mentored by the top fitness professionals in the United Kingdom, gaining valuable experience, particularly in relation to group and individual training in the gym. I have also been able to hone my people skills and test myself on a regular basis. Now I enjoy mentoring other trainers, imparting my knowledge and skills to develop their own toolbox.

What would you say is the secret to getting employment in the fitness industry?

The best advice I can give is to enter the industry with a “can do” attitude and a flexible approach. Being a fitness professional requires working all sorts of hours with your clients to get the best results.

What is the most interesting thing you have learnt through mentoring fitness professionals?

I’m always inspired with each new fitness professional that joins our industry; they have so much passion, drive and determination when they start. I always try and bring them back to what their initial motivation was to become a fitness professional.

Any tips for trainers out there?

The fitness industry is not about you, it’s about your clients and the people you coach, and making sure they are reaching their goals for a healthy lifestyle. As fitness professionals, we are in a very privileged position to have a positive impact on people lives.

This article was edited for OneFitStop audiences and has been shared with the written permission of Open Colleges.