How to Earn Money as a Gym Influencer and Fitness Trainer

4. Become a Fitness Influencer (and Monetize It)

If you’ve Googled:

• How to become a fitness influencer
• How much do fitness influencers make?
• Fitness influencer clothing brands

You’re not alone. Social media opens the door to big visibility and income potential.

Top fitness influencers like Jani Dittman or Ben Corliss have built full-fledged brands through their custom fitness app (built with FitBudd) and by staying consistent with content, workouts, tips, stories, and community challenges.

Many individuals have struggled with personal challenges and setbacks in their fitness journeys, making the role of a fitness influencer even more impactful.

You can do the same. And once you’ve got an audience, use FitBudd to convert them into paying clients.

5. Tap Into Fitness Modeling

Yes, it’s still a thing. Wondering:

• How can I become a fitness model? Read more here.
• How much do fitness models earn?
• Fitness model pays per shoot?

Here’s the scoop:

• New models earn $200–$500/shoot
• Top models with brand deals: $5K–$15K/month
• Big names? Easily six figures/year

Fitness entrepreneurs can leverage technology and online tools to save time and streamline their business operations, allowing them to focus more on their clients.

Utilize FitBudd’s custom branding tools, including logo, app name, colors, and even AI-generated welcome screens, to create a professional look — essential for attracting the attention of modeling agencies or fitness brands.

6. Collaborate with Brands (Clothing, Nutrition, Tech)

This is where influencer status meets income. Partner with:

• Fitness influencer clothing brands
• Nutrition supplement companies
• Tech gadgets and wellness platforms

Don't worry if you feel overwhelmed by fitness and nutrition programs; our collaborations are designed with understanding and empathy for your unique circumstances and challenges.

7. Create a Paid Newsletter or Community

Your audience wants more than just a swipe workout. A key strategy for success in fitness and habit formation is to create exclusive content through a paid Substack, Discord group, or app community where members pay for deeper insights, accountability, or coaching.

8. Offer Nutrition & Wellness Add-ons

Bundle your fitness coaching with meal plans, grocery checklists, or supplement guidance. You don’t have to be a registered dietitian — just focus on general health habits and disclaimers. Tools like FitBudd can help you create custom nutrition plans easily.

9. Teach Classes or Host Retreats

Teach fitness classes at gyms, community centers, or online platforms. Or go big — host fitness retreats or weekend bootcamps. These experiences help you bond with clients and add serious revenue.

Encourage individuals to push themselves to surpass their limits and achieve their goals, with the support of coaches and a motivating community.

10. Explore Affiliate Marketing

Recommend gear, supplements, or apps you use. Share affiliate links in your content, and earn commissions every time someone buys through you. No extra effort, just additional income.

When recommending products, consider how they can help your audience achieve their specific goals. Emphasize the importance of personalized training and nutrition plans that cater to individual aspirations and circumstances.

12. Creating a Fitness Plan

Creating a fitness plan is a crucial step in achieving your fitness goals. A good fitness plan should be tailored to your specific needs and goals, taking into account your current fitness level, health status, and any physical limitations you may have. A personal trainer can help you develop a comprehensive fitness plan that includes a combination of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. The plan should also include guidance on nutrition, hydration, and recovery to ensure that you’re fueling your body for optimal performance. By having a clear plan in place, you can stay focused and motivated, and make steady progress towards your fitness goals.

13. Working with Clients on their Fitness Journey

As a personal trainer, working with clients on their fitness journey requires a high level of expertise, knowledge, and empathy. It’s essential to understand each client’s unique needs, goals, and motivations, and to develop a personalized approach that meets their individual requirements. This may involve creating a customized workout plan, providing guidance on nutrition and lifestyle habits, and offering ongoing support and accountability. By building a strong relationship with your clients and providing them with the tools and guidance they need, you can help them achieve their fitness goals and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

14. Time Management for Fitness Trainers

As a fitness trainer, effective time management is crucial to delivering high-quality training sessions and achieving your business goals. This involves prioritizing your tasks, managing your schedule, and minimizing distractions to ensure that you’re making the most of your time. By using technology, such as online scheduling tools and mobile apps, you can streamline your workflow, reduce administrative tasks, and focus on what matters most - helping your clients achieve their fitness goals. Additionally, by setting clear boundaries and learning to say no to non-essential tasks, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid burnout, ensuring that you’re always performing at your best.