Build Your Business Podcast Episode #86: Transitioning Clients Online (Legacy Episode)
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Hosts: Chris Reynolds, Matt Reynolds
Guest: Matt Fever
Network: Barbell Logic, The Radcast Network
Introduction
In Episode #86 of the Build Your Business Podcast, hosts Chris Reynolds and Matt Reynolds welcome Matt Fever, a seasoned strength coach from Norwich, England, to discuss the pivotal shift from in-person to online coaching. This legacy episode delves deep into Matt Fever's journey, the challenges faced, strategies employed, and the profound impact of embracing online coaching models through platforms like Turnkey Coach.
Matt Fever’s Coaching Journey
Matt Fever began his coaching career in 2001 as a martial arts instructor, which naturally transitioned into group fitness and personal training within a commercial gym environment. His early years were marked by dedication and a relentless pursuit of helping clients achieve their fitness goals.
Notable Quote:
"I started coaching back in 2001, initially as a martial arts instructor. That led into some group fitness and personal training in a commercial gym."
— Matt Fever [03:19]
The Turning Point: Embracing Online Coaching
A significant turning point in Matt's career occurred during a lifting camp hosted by Matt Reynolds in Norwich. Faced with a fully booked schedule and the realization that limiting coaching hours was unsustainable, Matt recognized the need to explore online coaching as a viable alternative.
Notable Quote:
"The lifting camp was really a major turning point... the business model of just coaching more clients just wasn't simply going to work anymore."
— Matt Fever [03:55]
Matt's proactive approach led him to collaborate with the Reynolds brothers, starting with a personal coaching relationship that evolved into a broader partnership in online coaching.
The Value of the Academy and Turnkey Coach
Matt emphasizes the unparalleled value of the Academy, highlighting its comprehensive and practical approach to coach training compared to traditional certifications.
Notable Quote:
"The Academy course that you guys have put together was really comprehensive, as practical, and as useful as the Academy course..."
— Matt Fever [05:59]
He contrasts this with typical certifications, which often focus on high-level physiological concepts without offering the practical, in-the-trenches training necessary for effective coaching.
Matt also praises Turnkey Coach for its robust features that facilitate both in-person and online coaching, enabling flexibility and scalability.
Implementing the Online and Hybrid Coaching Model
Transitioning to online coaching allowed Matt to offer greater flexibility to both himself and his clients. By utilizing Turnkey Coach, he could manage programming, provide feedback, and maintain accountability without being confined to the physical gym space.
Notable Quote:
"The online coaching allows me to be more flexible, both for the flexibility for the client, also offers flexibility for me as a coach."
— Matt Fever [12:08]
He describes a hybrid model where clients check in once or twice a week in-person while completing the rest of their training independently, supported by online programming and feedback.
Benefits for Coaches and Clients
The shift to online coaching brought numerous benefits:
- Scalability: Coaches can manage more clients without the constraints of physical presence.
- Flexibility: Clients can train from anywhere, accommodating travel and varying schedules.
- Enhanced Accountability: Features like automated workout tracking and PR notifications keep clients engaged and motivated.
- Work-Life Balance: Coaches like Matt can reduce gym hours, freeing up time for family and personal pursuits.
Notable Quote:
"With online coaching, you don’t have to be here all the time. You can have flexibility to train whenever you want, wherever you want."
— Matt Reynolds [15:51]
Matt shares personal experiences of being able to coach clients even while traveling, highlighting the seamless integration of online platforms into his lifestyle.
Impact on Work-Life Balance
One of the most profound impacts of transitioning to online coaching is the improvement in work-life balance. Matt recounts reducing his gym hours from 40 to 25-30 hours a week, allowing him more time with his family and personal activities.
Notable Quote:
"I'm no longer working Saturday mornings. So I now get to go to my son's football matches, get more dates with my wife at the weekend."
— Matt Fever [26:09]
This shift not only enhances personal well-being but also ensures sustained energy and passion for coaching.
Future Vision and Growth
Looking ahead, Matt plans to further decrease his in-person coaching hours while expanding his online and hybrid client base. This strategy aims to maintain or even increase his income while dedicating more time to personal life and professional growth.
Notable Quote:
"I'm starting to really trim down the in person... I can coach way more people online than I can in an hour in the gym."
— Matt Fever [27:35]
He envisions a future where online coaching not only supplements but potentially surpasses in-person training in terms of reach and efficiency.
Conclusion
Episode #86 of the Build Your Business Podcast offers invaluable insights into the transformative power of online coaching. Matt Fever's journey exemplifies how embracing digital platforms like Turnkey Coach can revolutionize a coaching business, providing scalability, flexibility, and a better work-life balance. For coaches looking to transition or expand their services online, Matt's experiences serve as a testament to the possibilities and benefits that await.
Key Takeaways
- Adaptability is Crucial: Embracing online coaching can provide the necessary flexibility to manage a growing client base.
- Invest in Quality Training: Comprehensive and practical training programs, like the Academy, are essential for effective coaching.
- Leverage Technology: Platforms like Turnkey Coach enhance accountability, programming efficiency, and client engagement.
- Prioritize Work-Life Balance: Transitioning to online models can significantly improve personal time without compromising professional success.
If you're a coach seeking to transition to an online or hybrid model, Matt Fever's story offers a blueprint for success. Embrace the tools and strategies discussed in this episode to transform your coaching business from fear to freedom.