Most gym owners think personal training is just a side hustle or an optional service. In this episode of Top Rated Gym Podcast, Cory Maxwell, VP of Fitness at O2 Fitness Clubs, breaks down exactly why that mindset is holding you back and what to do instead. From increasing revenue without more overhead to creating a sticky, high-retention gym culture, this episode is packed with practical strategies. If you’ve ever struggled to integrate personal training or wondered how to scale it across locations, this one’s for you.
Stop Leaving Money on the Floor: Why Personal Training Should Be Your #1 Revenue Stream
Personal training isn’t just another service. It’s a powerful, high-margin revenue stream that doesn’t require more square footage or staff. When done right, it increases profitability and member retention without ballooning overhead.
The Hidden Power of Accountability: Why Group Classes Can’t Compete
Group classes are fun, but personal training drives real results. Accountability from one-on-one coaching is the difference between members showing up, or slowly fading out. It’s a game-changer for retention.
The Tech Advantage: How to Keep Clients Training Even When They Travel
Clients miss workouts when they travel unless you give them a solution. O2 Fitness uses a custom-branded app to deliver virtual training, recovery plans, and mobility sessions, all tailored to their personal goals.
Build a Scalable Team: The Commission Model That Actually Works
Most gyms get trainer pay wrong. O2 uses a tiered commission model that grows as trainers grow. Add in performance bonuses, new hire kickstarters, and coaching on sales, and you’ve got a system built for scale.
Wellness is the New Fitness: How Adding Nutrition and PT Skyrockets Retention and Revenue
O2 Fitness didn’t stop at personal training. They layered in registered dietitians and in-house physical therapy. The result? A full-service wellness ecosystem that keeps members longer, solves more problems and adds new revenue lines without needing new buildings.
Listen Now
If you seriously want to integrate personal training as a pillar of your gym, this episode has the blueprint. Cory doesn’t just talk theory; he lays out what works, what doesn’t, and how to build a model that wins for you, your staff, and your clients. Hit play and listen to the full episode now.
And with this expansion blueprint in the pocket, it’s time to learn about gym retention strategies.
