Gym and Personal Trainer Pressure!

dreamjo · January 2012

Hello!

I just recently joined a new gym and am super excited to get back on track and lose even more weight in the new year. I love the gym so far, but I feel like I am being pushed and bullied sorta by the trainers there. I had one training session free with my membership, but they are pressuring into me signing a year contract since they say it is a process rather than a one time deal.

I would LOVE to have a personal training session every week but right now, I just cannot afford it. I already signed up for the gym for a year. I know I would really need it since I am not used to the weights, but I feel like I can learn most of everything on my own. Im motivated enough to.

My question is, how do I say no without ruining my relationship with the employees of the gym? I feel kind of bullied because they keep saying "you can pay that much to be healthier.." but the truth is, I really can't spend that kind of money right now.

Thanks! Looking forward to your answers. I don't want to let this ruin my motivation to go to the gym on my own.

trigrrl · January 2012

just so no, and if the come back with some quip just smile and say no
if they are really interested in your health it will not affect your relationship with them

mea9 · January 2012

I would be really honest and say no thank you but it's just not in your budget right now. That leaves the door open for future individual sessions with the trainer which, I think, is better anyway. Then they can tweek your program every few months.

addisondisease · January 2012

this is why i hate other trainers, half of them don't know what they are talking about, and are more of a salesman than anything else.

Gshields42 · January 2012

Personal training is the way a lot of gyms increase revenue. They will push for it, because of the money involved, regardless you need or want.

In the best scenario personal training can be good because it gives you feedback as to what you are doing, how you are doing it, and motivation to continue through the ups and downs. Also, to be honest, the investment of money can help drive you since you don't want to 'waste' that money you have spent.

In the worst case, the personal trainers aren't particularly knowledgeable, may or may not provide you with quality feedback (and in some case may encourage things that can injure or harm you), and don't really build any sort of relationship with you. I think a lot of gyms that bully you over the personal training fall into this category, because they see it as a revenue stream and they try to maximize income and minimize costs (leading to untrained trainers, if you want to even acknowledge them the title).

At the end of the day, it all comes down to you. If you are uncomfortable with it, just say no. Threaten to take your business elsewhere if necessary. In almost every area gyms are becoming pretty ubiquitous, and they have to compete with each other.

peacek · January 2012

Similar thing happened to me. Thre was no bullism but I was offended when the trainer said something like I cannot afford it.
I respectfully agreed and said all that I can afford now is the gym membership.

Like evrybody else said, just say 'No, Thankyou' and don't stop there.
Show them you can work hard and get results without them.:happy:

JStarnes · January 2012

They were like that at my gym, in the beginning, too. I set up the appointment to talk about the training and then didn't show up - twice. They stopped bugging me after that lol they're just as pleasant to me now as before, they just don't bug me to use their trainers. And, honestly, I've seen them "train" other members...I'm not at all impressed, 95% of the things they showed them I already know/knew. They tell them to do something, then go sit at their desks...if I'm going to pay someone to show me...they need to "show" me what to do.

dreamjo · January 2012

Thanks everyone for the replies! I've told them 3 times I can't afford it but I still feel guilty and have a meeting again later this week to "discuss" options. I told him I could afford one or two sessions but thats all but he keeps saying that I need at least a few a month. I don't even want to do the one or two now bc they act like nothing's going to help unless I do it regularly.

Is one or two sessions a waste or should I not even do that since I can't commit to more?

rjmwx81 · January 2012

You've told him you can maybe afford one or two, so they smell "blood in the water" if you will. It's like telling a used car salesman that you think you might, maybe, perhaps want to buy a car next year...they want to get you in that car *TODAY*. lol. Personally, I would tell them that you've already heard the sales pitch and you're just not interested. No "maybe later" or "just one or two sessions."

blondishandbookish · January 2012

Don't feel guilty about saying no especially as you can't afford it. Personally if you can afford the occassional one, I would just book it for 6/8 weeks with the aim of setting a new programme/objectives as you get fitter.

On the other hand, if they reduce their prices to a third of the cost, then reconsider. (Might be worth stating that very clearly - the only way you can afford more session is at XX cost)

mea9 · January 2012

Thanks everyone for the replies! I've told them 3 times I can't afford it but I still feel guilty and have a meeting again later this week to "discuss" options. I told him I could afford one or two sessions but thats all but he keeps saying that I need at least a few a month. I don't even want to do the one or two now bc they act like nothing's going to help unless I do it regularly.

Is one or two sessions a waste or should I not even do that since I can't commit to more?

It would probably be good to get them to look at your program every 3 months. That's about how long it takes for your body to really adjust to your workout and for it to become less effective. My $.02:)

Livingdeadgirl44 · January 2012

It's nice to have a personal trainer and I've had really good results from them before. But now I don't have the well paying city job I too can't afford it. I've used a popular chain of gyms for about 4 years now and never felt pressured, it seems a bit unprofessional to keep harassing you about it! I would say that if you are going to get training, go to a trainer who hasn't been bugging you

cramernh · January 2012

Thanks everyone for the replies! I've told them 3 times I can't afford it but I still feel guilty and have a meeting again later this week to "discuss" options. I told him I could afford one or two sessions but thats all but he keeps saying that I need at least a few a month. I don't even want to do the one or two now bc they act like nothing's going to help unless I do it regularly.

Is one or two sessions a waste or should I not even do that since I can't commit to more?

Well.. you could always consider this:

There are business ethics in place for a reason. I would suggest grabbing the facility's corporate phone number, or perhaps the contact information of the Gym Owner... and explain the dynamics that the staff and personal trainer are imposing.

There is absolutely NO reason for anyone to be pushing anything.... they are definitely winning over you because you are admitting to feeling guilty here. Stop and think about this: how many people have they bullied into their personal trainer packages? They obviously 'know' what and how they are doing it.. because they are successful....

No is no is no is no.....

Loudmom01 · January 2012

I was a personal trainer at 24 hour fitness (wouldnt know it to look at me now but I was in good shape back then). It is unacceptable to be bullied or pushed around by the trainers. Especially now when times are tough they should be understanding. If it gets worse I would complain to management because they may not be aware of what their trainers are doing. Make them aware of it. Going to the gym should be a fun experience but it may keep you from going if they continue to push you. Plus, if they are pushy trying to get you as a client they would not make the best trainer. Good trainers are compassionate and caring, not bullies. Good luck.

wbgolden · January 2012

Don't say "I can't afford it" or any other off-putting excuse. Say no.

boomboom011 · January 2012

Hello!

I just recently joined a new gym and am super excited to get back on track and lose even more weight in the new year. I love the gym so far, but I feel like I am being pushed and bullied sorta by the trainers there. I had one training session free with my membership, but they are pressuring into me signing a year contract since they say it is a process rather than a one time deal.

I would LOVE to have a personal training session every week but right now, I just cannot afford it. I already signed up for the gym for a year. I know I would really need it since I am not used to the weights, but I feel like I can learn most of everything on my own. Im motivated enough to.

My question is, how do I say no without ruining my relationship with the employees of the gym? I feel kind of bullied because they keep saying "you can pay that much to be healthier.." but the truth is, I really can't spend that kind of money right now.

Thanks! Looking forward to your answers. I don't want to let this ruin my motivation to go to the gym on my own.

I called my gym after getting a call from a PT when i was pulling in my driveway after a long day at work, he got an attitude with me cause i couldnt talk right then. I called the gym and told them I dont care what note that they have to put on my account but that i dont want to hear from their trainers again. I will call them when I want their services. i wasnt rude just very blunt and to the point. The gym obliged me.

runnerchick69 · January 2012

No one should ever pressure you to sign on with a trainer! That is just really bad customer service!

PetitePerfection · January 2012

Tell them you really truly cannot afford it and barely are able to afford the gym membership itself. Then go home and watch a bunch of youtube videos on proper workouts so you can come next time and show em who's boss!!!!

j4nash · January 2012

I never do the free personal training sessions.. did it once and felt bad cause I knew I wasn't going to sign up. Best way to find a good trainer is through word of mouth.. or look at their clientele. If you want a version of a personal trainer do the group classes since they're free or try out crossfit.

sailorsiren13 · January 2012

Thanks everyone for the replies! I've told them 3 times I can't afford it but I still feel guilty and have a meeting again later this week to "discuss" options. I told him I could afford one or two sessions but thats all but he keeps saying that I need at least a few a month. I don't even want to do the one or two now bc they act like nothing's going to help unless I do it regularly.

Is one or two sessions a waste or should I not even do that since I can't commit to more?

Well.. you could always consider this:

There are business ethics in place for a reason. I would suggest grabbing the facility's corporate phone number, or perhaps the contact information of the Gym Owner... and explain the dynamics that the staff and personal trainer are imposing.

There is absolutely NO reason for anyone to be pushing anything.... they are definitely winning over you because you are admitting to feeling guilty here. Stop and think about this: how many people have they bullied into their personal trainer packages? They obviously 'know' what and how they are doing it.. because they are successful....

No is no is no is no.....

I agree with this with times being what they are no one should ever feel like this. I would definitely call corporate or something. I was bullied at a gym by another patron and a trainer years ago and had to stand up for myself. Thankfully i was with a friend and i had many witnesses i also knew the director personally. Sorry rambling again they tried to get me in trouble but it didn't work take a stand or they win!

ravenone777 · January 2012

I got pressured in my first session. It was supposed ot be to teach me to use the machines etc. I complained to someone in charge and said it was a waste of my time, I had told them when I signed up for the gym I wasn't interested in personal training and I don't come to the gym to get a sales pitch. They apologised and left me alone after that. I also told the trainer at the end of that one hour session that I had no intention of signing up for PT and had said so from the start and that he wasted his time and mine trying to sell it to me. He was dodgy and made it sound like he was going to give me a free routine after he made me outline my goals on paper etc and then he would only put it all together if I signed up there and then with him.

astrosnider · January 2012

Be strong and practice saying no. You know the state of your finances much better than the people at the gym do. Let's face it, financial fitness is just as important as physical fitness.

Azdak · January 2012

You need to blow the whistle on these folks. If you want to be anonymous, then use Yelp or some other customer review sites in your area and let them have it public. Or even post the name here and some of us will do it for you.

You spent your money. You know what you want to do--you can still be polite, but be firm. Cancel your scheduled meeting TOMOROW and tell them once and for all you are not interested at this time. Don't rationalize, don't plead poverty, don't negotiate--you do not owe them any explanation of any sort. Just say no.

Better yet, go directly to the manager. I am sure management is encouraging these guys to be aggressive, but they might not be aware that you find it so uncomfortable.

As others have said, there is no excuse, NOT ONE, for you to feel bullied or uncomfortable by a bunch of dip**** trainers.

cloud2011 · January 2012

I can't tell you not to feel guilty, but don't feel guilty! It's your money, and sales people know that most people will say no a certain number of times and then cave in. But if someone is selling something you don't want for ANY reason, you've said no and they persist, basically, they are trying to control you. It's no different from someone who might try to sabotage your eating plan, even after you've said no to dessert.

The sales people are not respecting you. You do not owe them anything, even an explanation. One thing I've said which works, and is honest, is "That just won't work for me, thank you anyway." Feel free to delete the "thank you anyway." If they ask why, or keep on you, then just say, "That's all I'm going to say about it."

In any case, there's an old saying, "Don't complain, don't explain." Basically, you owe them nothing, and the guilt thing, if I could convince you to let it go, I would!

Azdak · January 2012

Trust me, anyone who would use these tactics is a crappy trainer, and not worth a penny. If they knew anything or were competent, they would not have to resort to such tactics.

Anyone who tried that at our club would be fired on the spot. And I guarantee that any one of our trainers is 10 times more qualified than any of these guys. They don't hard-sell anyone-they demonstrate their knowledge and skill and outline a solution for the client. That's all it takes. Sometimes they work with folks like yourself who just don't have the money at this time. No big deal. What happens is they remember how they were treated so that if and when they ever DO get some money, they seek the trainers out themselves. That's how real professionals do business.

DenverKos · January 2012

Thanks everyone for the replies! I've told them 3 times I can't afford it but I still feel guilty and have a meeting again later this week to "discuss" options. I told him I could afford one or two sessions but thats all but he keeps saying that I need at least a few a month. I don't even want to do the one or two now bc they act like nothing's going to help unless I do it regularly.

Is one or two sessions a waste or should I not even do that since I can't commit to more?

Personally, I'd call and cancel the appointment. Tell them you can't afford it, and since he said it will take more than the one or two you thought you could afford, that you don't want to waste his time so he can meet with other clients who are interested in his services. Thank him, and say you'll reach out when the time is right, but for now you're not interested. Then if he still pushes "no, I said no, I told you no..." And kindly excuse yourself.

laschndr · January 2012

You might want to skip that 'sit-down' session - they're going to bring a HARD sale and probably get you to sign up for a payment plan or something. It will likely be uncomfortable and a waste of your time if you don't intend to buy. And it will probably leave an even worse taste in your mouth about the place and the people who work there. You are perfectly capable of working out on your own! There are plenty of good resources out there to build your own routines and get the info you need.

Rachiepie6 · January 2012

If you can't afford it, you can't afford it. You're right, you don't need it, you can do it on your own if you are motivated and dedicated to it.

They should respect that, tell them you are very disappointed in their behaviour and unless they want to give you free PT sessions, they should quit hassling you about it.

dad106 · January 2012

Don't do it.. I got bullied into buying PT sessions and what happened? I got injured(my trainer threw out my back three times!) and treated me like **** because I, like you, could only afford(barely!) two sessions a month. I wasn't paying him enough to actually treat me like he cared.. and now that trainer is fired from the gym and I got left with 4 or so sessions.

The PT I have now though is so much better... and actually does his job. So there are good ones out there... but there are also a lot of sleazy ones!

dreamjo · January 2012

Thank you guys so much for your advice! It makes me feel better to know that I'm not the only one that feels this way.

I will be saying no when I see them again. Everyone else seems so friendly there, I just have to make them respect my wishes and learn to just say no. We will see what happens once I say a firm No. Hopefully that will be the end of it.

Even though I am a beginner at weights, I will take advice and research the machines and routines online. I think it would make me feel accomplished in doing this myself.

Thanks!! I feel better now and am more confident in my decision of no.

hampstenj · October 2014

Thank goodness I saw this when I did this morning.. I started with a trainer at 24 last night as an intro deal and not more than 5 minutes after nearly passing out because his workout was that intense and pushed me to my limit (a good workout yes, just intense) he goes and shows me the other options.. I was like Look I've been to the gym before, I KNOW I have a lot to lose (and I do mean a LOT) but I can't afford their astromatic rates for PT... I'll gladly do classes, and am dedicated to a plan of going to the gym 5-6 times a week but I will NOT be pressured into paying the rates for PT

Gym and Personal Trainer Pressure!

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