Whilst numbers are definitely back on the up, promoting community fitness classes locally still requires effective marketing strategies to attract and engage potential participants. Here are some marketing ideas for fitness instructors in their local area:
Create a compelling online presence: Build a professional website or create social media profiles dedicated to your fitness classes. Highlight the benefits of your classes, provide class schedules, and showcase testimonials or success stories from current participants. Keep your followers engaged and informed and show your face as much as possible - folk want to feel connected to you before they book.
Use social media platforms: Leverage the power of social media to reach a wider audience. Share regular updates about your classes, including class schedules, special events, and any promotions or discounts. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages & make sure you drop comments on their posts as well. It's all about building that community. Consider using paid advertising when you need to.
Collaborate with local businesses: Forge partnerships with local businesses that align with the fitness industry. Think nail salons, hairdressers, health food shops etc. Why not offer the staff some free classes so they talk about you to their clients. Offer to talk about them to yours.
Offer trial or introductory classes: Provide free or discounted trial classes to allow potential participants to experience the benefits of your fitness classes firsthand. This reduces a barrier... the only thing they are investing then is their time. Make sure you follow up straight away with an offer on a package for a larger bundle of classes afterward.
Host workshops or themed events: Organise workshops or special themed events related to fitness and wellness. For example, you could offer nutrition workshops, yoga or dance workshops, or outdoor fitness events. These events not only provide additional value to participants but also create buzz and generate interest in your regular classes. If you're not ready to do your own, how about heading to local events and school fayres.
Leverage local media outlets: Contact local newspapers, radio stations, or community magazines to feature your fitness classes. Offer to write articles or provide expert tips on fitness and health-related topics or offer them free sessions with you at your classes. This exposure can help raise awareness and attract potential participants in your local area.
Get yourself on Canva for flyers & posters: Design eye-catching flyers or posters with your face or class on and ask if you can leave them locally in high-traffic areas like coffee shops or supermarkets. Include essential information such as class schedules, location, contact details, and any promotional offers.
Engage with local community organisations: Connect with community organisations, schools, or workplaces to offer your fitness classes to look after their staff. This could involve providing lunchtime or after-work fitness sessions at local businesses or giving them a discount on the classes that you do.
Encourage word-of-mouth marketing: Giving an incredible experience to those that come to your class already will mean they can't stop talking about you. Ask them to share your stuff on social media. Consider implementing a referral program where participants receive incentives for referring new attendees.
Attend local events or health fairs: Set up a booth or demonstration at local health fayres & community events. This allows you to get face-to-face time with potential participants, answer their questions, and provide information about your classes.
Finally, make sure you know who it is you are talking to. Trying to talk to everyone means you aren't talking to anyone. If it's women you are after, think about what they would need to hear from you in order to trust you and want to come to your sessions. Building a strong local presence takes time, so stay committed and keep your ears open for new ways to reach people where you are teaching. Community fitness is ace, but it does take a lot of work so be prepared so get grafting!
Anna Martin
Owner of AMF World®
Community Fitness Instructor
Personal Trainer