There's a saying among "seasoned" business professionals that goes:
"Old age and treachery will trump youth and enthusiasm every time."
New research as well as some of our own sales statistics indicate there's some truth in this adage.
When we started our company in 1989, the average age of our customer/fitness professional was 28. It seemed that fitness professionals in their 40's and 50's just didn't exist (unless they were club owners).
Today, we sell to numerous trainers in their 40's, 50's and, yes, 60's -- both male and female. And they are extremely successful. In fact, many of them made career changes from Corporate America to the Fitness Universe. And with them came their business skill sets which quite often explains their understanding of marketing, branding, operations and ultimate financial success.
Here's another reason: The aging baby-boomer population prefers to work with trainers and other fitness professionals who are their same age. Someone who "walks in their shoes" and understands them. Peers.
So, if you're a fitness professional in your late 30's or older... hang on to your hat. The future is bright! -- No need for treachery!
To your continued Success!
Art Rothafel
art@privatelabelfitness.com
800-340-7011
www.privatelabelfitness.com
Nice insight Art!
I couldn't agree with you more. As a Trainer in my early 40's I see the next twenty years as being in the right place at the right time. The right time and place to create a successful fitness company and become a mentor to those trainers just getting started that are in their twenties and early thirties.
Posted by: Mark Severn | April 09, 2008 at 05:41 PM