More people per hour – but at what price?
Personal training costs more, but in an hour you train one client. A group class is cheaper for the client, but in the same hour you can have six, ten or even fifteen people. Which option earns you more depends on the number of participants, the price per person and whether you pay for the studio.
Comparison: personal training vs group class
Enter prices and numbers – you'll see your income per hour and per month.
Before other costs and tax, monthly, based on 48 working weeks a year.
What the results tell you
Income per hour
The most important number. For a group, use the average number of people, not full capacity – in summer, before the holidays and during flu season, fewer clients turn up.
The break-even point for a group
The number of participants at which a group hour earns you at least as much as a personal training session. If it's close to your usual numbers, the group is riskier – a few no-shows and the hour earns less.
Studio rent
For groups, rent is usually higher than for personal training. Always deduct it, or the group result will look better than it really is.
A mix usually wins
Many trainers do both: personal training for clients who want one-on-one attention, and groups to fill the evening hours. A client can have a personal and a group package at the same time – for example, one personal session and two group classes a week.
Groups are also a good way in for new clients: they try you out at a lower price, and some of them later move on to personal training.
FAQ
How many people should a group have?
It depends on the type of training and the space. Strength training with weights usually means fewer people, so you can correct everyone; circuit training or yoga groups can be bigger.
How do I price a group class?
Check prices in your area and use the comparison above to see how many participants you need at different prices. A group class package with a small discount helps keep attendance regular.
What about attendance in groups?
Groups are the hardest to track – lots of people, different packages. One-tap attendance and packages that count down by themselves make it much easier.
