The Storm Fitness Academy Podcast
Welcome to The Storm Fitness Academy Podcast, the ultimate show for fitness enthusiasts, aspiring personal trainers, and coaches looking to build a thriving career in the industry. Hosted by Jon Bond—fitness educator, entrepreneur, and strength coach—this podcast dives deep into everything from training principles and business strategies to industry insights and real-world success stories. Each episode is packed with expert advice, no-nonsense discussions, and plenty of humour, making learning both engaging and actionable. Whether you're considering becoming a personal trainer, already qualified, or just passionate about fitness, this podcast will help you navigate the industry with confidence. Expect insp...
Why Your Body Changes After 40, Even When Your Habits Haven't, with Bria Gadd
Summary
In this episode, Bria Gadd, known as the Period Whisperer, shares her extensive experience in women's health, focusing on hormonal shifts, energy management, and how fitness professionals can better support women through midlife changes.
Key Topics
The £30 Personal Trainer Trap: Are You Charging Too Little?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond discusses the common pitfalls personal trainers face with pricing, undervaluing themselves, and how to build a sustainable, profitable business without compromising integrity.
Key topics
The £30 an hour trap and its implicationsHow personal trainers undervalue themselvesThe importance of understanding your true worthShifting from selling hours to solving client problemsBuilding a profitable and sustainable businessThe role of self-belief and societal perceptionsPricing strategies based on value and resultsThe importance of packages and client retentionAvoiding the race to the bottom in pricingThe significance of confidence and professionalismSprint Training Tips from Olympian Toby Harries: What Personal Trainers Can Learn
Summary
In this episode, Olympian Toby Harries shares insights from his sprinting career, training routines, injury prevention, and the benefits of sprinting for fitness enthusiasts and coaches alike.
Key topics
Genetics and early talent in sprintingImportance of proper warm-up and techniqueInjury risks and prevention in sprintingTraining routines for speed and strengthThe role of mindset and discipline in athletic successNutrition and recovery for sprintersSpeed drills to improve stride length and frequencyBenefits of sprinting for overall fitness and muscle growthFollow Toby on Instagram @toby_harries
What Makes a Good Coach? With Boxing Coach Harry Radenhurst
Summary
Harry Radenhurst shares his journey from boxing enthusiast to coach, emphasising the importance of philosophy, psychology, and cultural understanding in coaching. This episode explores the mental and physical aspects of boxing, coaching philosophy, and international boxing insights.
Key topics
Harry's origin story and how boxing impacted his confidenceThe importance of inclusivity and culture in sportsThe role of philosophy and history in coachingBalancing selflessness and ambition as a coachThe influence of genetics and nurture in athletic talentThe significance of mental toughness and discomfort enduranceInternational boxing experiences and cross-cultural learningThe future plans for global boxing...What Do Gym Owners Really Look for When Hiring a Personal Trainer? Chris Kraszewski Shares His View
Summary
In this episode, I sit down with gym owner Chris Kraszewski to talk about what he looks for when recruiting PTs, and why qualifications and technical knowledge are only part of the picture.
Chris shares why engagement, honesty, communication and authenticity matter so much, how he judges whether someone is likely to connect well with members, and why he would rather employ someone genuine and develop their weaknesses than hire someone who simply gives the “right” interview answers.
We also discuss the importance of understanding how intimidating gyms can feel for new membe...
How to Be a Successful Personal Trainer: 8 Lessons From Matt Lambert’s 25-Year Fitness Career
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond and Matt Lambert discuss the journey of becoming a personal trainer, the importance of personality and likability in the industry, and the growth of HYROX training. They share insights on building client relationships, managing gyms, and the value of passion and community in fitness.
Key topics
Journey from PT to gym ownerImportance of likability and personalityGrowth of HIROX training and communityBuilding client rapport and trustManaging and expanding a gym businessPassion for physical activity and helping othersStrategies for recruiting and training PTsLong-term career planning in fitnessFancy jumping...
Career Change to Personal Training: Hugo’s Journey from Pharma to Fitness
Summary
Hugo Hunt shares his journey from working in the pharmaceutical industry to becoming a personal trainer, emphasising the importance of preventative health, mobility, and lifestyle habits for longevity and quality of life.
Key topics
10 Jobs in the Fitness Industry: Which Fitness Career Is Right for You?
Summary
Explore the diverse career paths in the fitness industry, from gym instructing to self-employment, and learn how to start and progress in this dynamic field.
Key Topics
Fitness Career OpportunitiesBecoming a Personal TrainerStrength and Conditioning CoachingSports Coaching and SpecialisationsFitness Management and LeadershipHow to Find Fitness JobsBuilding Your Fitness Career PathChoosing the Right Fitness Career for YouThe Rewards of a Fitness CareerGetting Started and Next StepsHow Do You Get Clients When Nobody Knows Who You Are?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond shares practical strategies for new trainers to attract clients, build reputation, and grow their fitness business from scratch. Learn how to leverage conversations, social media, and personal stories to stand out and succeed.
Key topics
Starting with zero clients and building trustUsing conversations and networking as marketing toolsTargeting specific client niches for better resultsLeveraging social proof and testimonialsFollowing up without being pushySharing your personal story to connect with clientsCreating free workshops and tasters to attract clientsBuilding reputation one person at a timeWhy Sleep Might Be More Important Than Your Training Programme
Summary
Discover why sleep is a crucial component of fitness and recovery, often overlooked in training routines. Learn practical tips to improve sleep quality and how it impacts muscle growth, hormone regulation, and overall performance.
Key Topics
The importance of sleep in recovery and muscle growthHow sleep affects hormones like cortisol and testosteronePractical tips for improving sleep hygieneThe impact of sleep deprivation on training performanceThe relationship between sleep and appetite regulationSleep strategies for athletes and fitness enthusiastsWhy Walking Might Be the Most Underrated Exercise
Summary
Jon explores the underrated benefits of walking as a simple, accessible, and effective form of exercise that can significantly improve health and well-being. He discusses guidelines, misconceptions, and practical tips to incorporate walking into daily routines.
Key topics
The health benefits of walking and physical activity guidelinesWalking as a sustainable and accessible exerciseThe misconception that exercise must be intense to be effectivePractical tips for incorporating walking into daily routinesThe role of walking in weight management and mental healthWhat’s the Minimum Effective Dose of Exercise?
Summary
This episode explores the concept of the minimum effective dose of exercise, emphasising that even small amounts of activity can significantly improve health. It discusses UK guidelines, resistance training, activity timing, and practical strategies for beginners and busy individuals.
Key topics
Minimum effective dose of exerciseUK physical activity guidelinesResistance training for strength and hypertrophyImpact of activity timing and frequencyBehavioural strategies for beginners and busy adultsSedentary behavior and health risksExercise for weight management vs health benefitsThinking About Becoming a Personal Trainer? Your Questions Answered Before You Enrol
Summary
In this episode, Jon from Storm Fitness Academy shares comprehensive insights into becoming a personal trainer, addressing common questions about fitness, qualifications, and career pathways. Perfect for anyone considering a career shift into fitness, this episode offers practical advice and encouragement.
Key Topics
Qualifications and certifications for personal trainersBalancing study with work and family commitmentsPractical assessments and workshops explainedBuilding confidence and coaching skillsCareer pathways and specialisations in fitnessSupport and community at Storm Fitness AcademyThe importance of experience and continuous learningHow to Build a Personal Training Business That Fits Your Life: Esther’s Story
Summary
In this episode, Esther shares her journey from leisure centre trainer to successful entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of saying yes, managing imposter syndrome, and focusing on client-centred training. Discover practical insights on building confidence, handling challenging clients, and expanding your expertise in health and fitness.
Key topics
Guest links
https://www.eternal-fitness.co.uk/
https://www.facebook...
What Should a Newly Qualified Personal Trainer Do in Their First 90 Days?
Summary
This episode guides newly qualified personal trainers through their first 90 days, emphasising action, confidence-building, and strategic positioning to kickstart their careers effectively.
Key topics
First 90 days focus on confidence, visibility, and client acquisitionImportance of taking action over waiting to feel readyNiche positioning and simple offers for clarity and marketingPractising consultations and building coaching skillsCreating content and leveraging social media for visibilityThe value of real-world coaching experienceHandling pricing and sales confidentlyRefining services based on client feedback and dataContinuing education and professional growthYou Can’t Out-Exercise a Bad Diet: How PTs Can Explain It Kindly
Summary
In this episode, Jon explores the nuanced relationship between exercise, diet, and effective coaching. He emphasises the importance of language, understanding client psychology, and realistic habit changes for successful fat loss and health improvement.
Key topics
The importance of language and tone in coachingEnergy balance and calorie consumptionThe role of nutrition in fat lossClient psychology and emotional eatingHabits and behaviour change strategiesThe impact of supportive environments on successBalancing exercise and diet for health goalsThe importance of realistic and gradual changesHow Positive Coaching Creates Better Results
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond chats with George Horlock about the power of positivity, self-love, and how these principles can transform personal training and life. They explore how mindset influences results, the importance of internal peace, and practical ways to incorporate positivity into coaching.
Key topics
Follow George Horlock
If you enjoyed George's perspective on positivity, gratitude, and living with greater...
How to Stay Motivated as a Coach When Your Client Isn't
Summary
In this episode, Jon explores the challenges of maintaining motivation as a coach, the importance of setting boundaries, and how to support clients without taking responsibility for their actions. He shares practical insights on managing expectations, measuring progress, and staying resilient in the coaching profession.
Key topics
The nature of motivation and its fluctuationsThe coach's role versus client responsibilityManaging client expectations and progressSelf-care and maintaining work-life balance for coachesBehaviour change psychology and dopamine's roleThe importance of consistency over motivationSetting boundaries to prevent burnoutMeasuring progress beyond scales and metricsCan You Build Muscle and Lose Fat at the Same Time?
Summary
This episode explores the possibility of building muscle and losing fat simultaneously, debunking myths and sharing practical strategies for effective body recomposition.
Key topics
How Do Personal Trainers Get Their First Clients WITHOUT Social Media?
Summary
This episode dispels myths about social media marketing for personal trainers and offers practical offline and online strategies to attract your first clients. Learn how to leverage your network, community, and reputation to build a thriving fitness business without relying solely on social media.
Key topics
Myth-busting social media marketing for trainersLeveraging personal networks and communityEffective offline marketing strategiesThe importance of referrals and testimonialsWhy is Progressive Overload Important?
Summary
This episode explores the fundamental principle of progressive overload in fitness training, emphasising its importance for continuous progress and effective program design. Host Jon Bond simplifies complex concepts and offers practical tips for trainers and enthusiasts alike.
Key topics
Takeaways
Progressive overload is the key mechanism driving adaptation in training.There are multiple ways to apply overload: increasing weight, reps, sets, or exercise density.Consistency and measurement are crucial for long-term progress.Without overload, progress plateaus an...When Does Personal Training Stop Feeling Like a Side Hustle?
Summary
Jon Bond discusses the journey of becoming a personal trainer, emphasising the identity shift, confidence building, and sustainable growth in the industry. He shares insights on overcoming uncertainty, the importance of human connection, and practical steps for success.
Key topics
Identity shift in becoming a personal trainerBuilding confidence through experienceSustainable career growth in fitnessThe role of human connection and trustPractical steps for transitioning to full-timeHow Fitness Changed My Life, From ADHD to MSc
Summary
This episode dives into my personal journey of overcoming fears and self-doubt to build a fulfilling career in fitness. If you're considering becoming a personal trainer or exploring a career shift in health and fitness, this story offers motivation and practical advice to get started.
Key Topics:
The common fears and doubts aspiring trainers face, especially imposter syndrome and self-judgmentHow fitness became a transformative catalyst in my life, mental health, and careerThe importance of finding meaning and purpose in your fitness journeyOvercoming childhood challenges and labelsPractical next steps for starting a career in...Do Personal Trainers Need Counselling Skills? What Qualifications Actually Help?
Summary
This episode explores the importance of counselling skills for personal trainers, emphasising communication, empathy, and behaviour change techniques to enhance client success and retention.
Key topics
Counselling skills for personal trainersBehaviour change and client adherenceCommunication and empathy in coachingTakeaways
Developing communication skills such as empathy and active listening can significantly improve coaching effectiveness.Good trainers become excellent people skills professionals who use exercise as a tool.Most clients already know the basics; the real challenge is behaviour change.Counselling skills such as active listening and rapport building are crucial for cli...What If I Try to Be a Personal Trainer and Fail?
Summary
This episode tackles common fears and self-doubt faced by aspiring and new personal trainers, emphasising that confidence is built through action and persistence. It offers practical advice on overcoming mental barriers, understanding that failure is part of growth, and highlights the importance of authenticity and continuous learning in the fitness industry.
Key topics
Self-doubt and limiting beliefs in personal trainingThe role of failure and learning in successBuilding confidence through action and experienceThe impact of social media on perceptions of successAuthenticity and relatability in coachingTakeaways
Most...Is It Ever OK to Refer a Personal Training Client to Another Coach?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond explores the importance of ethical client referrals, when to refer clients to other professionals, and how doing so can enhance your reputation as a personal trainer. Learn how to handle client relationships professionally and build a trusted network.
Key topics
Takeaways
Referring clients to specialists demonstrates confidence and ethics.Knowing your scope of practice is crucial for client safety.Building a referral network enhances your reputation.N...Weight-Loss Injections, Magic Solution or Dangerous Shortcut?
Summary
This episode explores the truth about weight loss injections like Ozempic and Mounjaro, their benefits, risks, and the importance of behaviour change for sustainable health. Host Jon Bond discusses medical insights, ethical considerations, and practical advice for fitness professionals and individuals considering these treatments.
Key topics
GLP-1 receptor agonists and their role in appetite controlThe difference between fat burners and appetite suppressantsLong-term effects and weight regain after stopping injectionsThe importance of lifestyle habits and behaviour changeRisks of black market weight loss drugs and side effects
Takeaways
What Most New Personal Trainers Overthink (And What Actually Matters)
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond shares practical insights for personal trainers on simplifying their approach, focusing on fundamentals, and building a successful coaching career without unnecessary complexity.
Takeaways
Next steps
If you’ve been thinking about becoming a personal trainer but keep second-guessing yourself, this is your sign to stop ov...
The Questions Every New Personal Trainer Gets Asked, And How to Answer Them With Confidence
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond shares expert advice on how personal trainers can confidently answer common client questions, build trust, and enhance their coaching skills. Discover practical tips on handling questions about exercise, fat loss, alcohol, and more, to elevate your fitness career.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Common Questions for Personal Trainers
01:04 Understanding Client Goals and Preferences
02:31 Nutrition's Role in Fat Loss
03:43 Educating Clients on Fat Loss Myths
04:43 Navigating Alcohol Consumption with Clients
07:36 Addressing Weight Loss Concerns
10:40 The Importance of Nutrition Over Exercise
11:29 Building Confidence as...
Why You’re Overthinking Becoming a Personal Trainer
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond shares practical insights on overcoming overthinking when starting a career as a personal trainer. He emphasises the importance of action, prioritisation, and learning through doing to build a successful and sustainable fitness career.
Takeaways
How to Know Whether Personal Training Is the Right Career for You
Summary
Considering a career in personal training? This episode offers a comprehensive overview of what it takes to succeed, the qualities needed, and how to get started on your journey. Whether you're just curious or ready to dive in, these insights will help you determine if this rewarding career aligns with your passions and strengths.
Takeaways
Why Does Social Media Make New Personal Trainers Feel Behind?
Summary
This episode tackles the common confidence traps faced by new personal trainers on social media, emphasising the importance of real-world coaching and relationships over online popularity.
Takeaways
Social media's impact on new trainers' confidenceThe highlight reel versus reality in fitness careersThe importance of client relationships over online fameDeveloping confidence through real-world experienceAvoiding comparison and imposter syndromeHow do you motivate a client who clearly doesn’t want to be there
Summary
This episode explores how personal trainers can motivate disengaged clients by understanding human behaviour, adjusting coaching strategies, and fostering discipline. Learn practical techniques for creating achievable sessions, asking better questions, and reconnecting clients with their goals.
Takeaways
Why Charging for Personal Training Feels So Awkward (And How to Reframe It)
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Bond explores the common discomfort personal trainers feel when it comes to charging for their services. He delves into the reasons behind this awkwardness, emphasising the importance of separating guilt from value and understanding the true nature of what clients are paying for. Bond encourages trainers to reframe their mindset around pricing, highlighting that confidence in charging comes from experience and repetition. He stresses the need for a sustainable business model in the fitness industry and the significance of professional identity in overcoming pricing challenges.
Takeaways
Charging for...
What Do You Do After Qualifying as a Personal Trainer?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond discusses the journey of newly qualified personal trainers and the challenges they face after obtaining their certification. He emphasises the importance of building confidence through action, establishing a professional identity, and focusing on helping clients rather than selling. Jon shares practical steps for overcoming self-doubt, embracing imperfection, and continuously learning in the fitness industry. He encourages trainers to seek support, measure progress differently, and remain authentic in their coaching approach.
Takeaways
Qualifying as a personal trainer is a significant achievement.Many newly qualified PTs feel uncertain about their...How Do Personal Trainers Get Their First Clients Without Feeling Salesy?
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Bond discusses the challenges personal trainers face when trying to acquire their first clients without feeling salesy. He emphasises the importance of building trust, being authentic, and focusing on the client's needs rather than traditional sales tactics. The discussion covers various aspects of personal training, including consultations, listening skills, marketing oneself, and overcoming self-doubt regarding pricing and value. Jon encourages trainers to be themselves, build relationships, and seek community support as they navigate their careers.
Takeaways
Getting your first client doesn't require slick tactics or uncomfortable selling.Building trust...When Do You Start Acting Like a Professional Personal Trainer?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond explores the common mental barriers faced by new and aspiring personal trainers. He emphasizes that professionalism is about action, not just qualifications, and offers practical advice on building confidence, making progress, and supporting your growth in the fitness industry.
Key Topics:
The gap between feeling capable and acting like a professionalWhy waiting for confidence delays your progressThe importance of acting before feeling readyHow to build confidence through consistent actionThe role of doubt and comparison in professional growthPractical steps to help clients within your scopeThe significance of seeking support...Am I Just Moving the Goalposts in My Fitness Career?
Summary
In this episode, we explore the internal dialogue that holds many back from taking action, especially in their fitness journeys. Jon Bond shares insights on how fear, perfectionism, and social media distortions contribute to delaying progress and how to overcome them.
Key Topics:
The common internal voice that sabotages progress in fitness and lifeWhy people say "not yet" instead of fear, and how this becomes procrastinationThe myth that confidence must come before actionHow social media creates unrealistic expectations and distorted standardsPractical ways to build confidence through action and supportWhy chasing perfection is futile...Do I Need to Be Fit Before Starting a Personal Training Course?
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond addresses the common question: "Do I need to be fit before starting a personal training course?" He emphasises that fitness is not a prerequisite for becoming a personal trainer and debunks myths about the industry. Jon shares insights on the importance of passion, education, and a supportive network in personal training, highlighting that confidence and competence grow through action and learning, not pre-existing fitness levels.
Takeaways
Fitness is not a prerequisite for personal training courses.Passion and willingness to learn are more important than...How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a Personal Trainer
Summary
In this episode, Jon Bond discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence as a coach. He shares insights on managing expectations, the importance of action over waiting for confidence, and practical tools like graded exposure and positive data logging. Jon emphasises the value of self-reflection, understanding biases, and focusing on personal growth rather than comparison.
Takeaways
Overcome imposter syndrome by recognising it and applying simple tools.Confidence is built through action, not waiting.Reflect on past successes to boost confidence.Avoid comparison culture; focus on personal growth.Graded exposure helps in taking...