Fitness training delivers results, but you must be ready to commit

Would you pay from €248 to lose a clothes size in a month? That’s the cost and potential benefits of hiring a personal trainer – they are not just for the likes of Madonna, says Damian Hall. For over 20 years, he has been helping athletes, celebrities and busy professionals reach their fat loss and fitness goals at his personal training studio in Dublin as well as running seminars and boot camps in nice holiday destinations like Lanzarote.

How does one become a certified fitness trainer?

Unfortunately it’s a very unregulated industry now. You can qualify in a week or two without leaving your couch! You should be very cautious when employing a trainer and handing over your hard-earned cash.

Isn’t it just for the likes of Madonna? How much does it cost to hire one?

It certainly was viewed that way a few years back but is probably more affordable than you think, especially in our small group personal training format classes.

How much does it cost?

Our memberships run from €247 to €997 per month, depending on how much personal attention you need.

How do results compare compared to not having one?

It all depends on your attitude, your capability and motivation. I for one am not motivated to train 3-4 times a week – just like most people. Having a trainer will give you that accountability, clear direction, focus and motivation you require.

Top fitness tip for middle-aged lazy people like myself?

Find a community of like-minded people you can relate to and do something you enjoy. Then commit.

What’s a realistic goal for the above?

We can guarantee our clients they will lose a clothes size in 28 days provided they commit to the program.

Can’t we just get tips for free online – like everything else?

People who consume my free content are far less likely to get results as people don’t value ‘free’.

Were you always entrepreneurial?

I have always been in the fitness business, I haven’t really deviated from it… until now, watch this space.

How did you build your business? Biggest obstacles?

It’s a roller coaster to be honest, ups, downs, and lots of them. Obstacles? Staffing, financials and the sales and the marketing side – it was all new to me and self-taught.

Three tips for wannabe entrepreneurs?

• Hire a mentor to fast-track you to where you need to get to.

• Manage your mental health.

• Structure your day/book time off.

What was the first paid work you ever did?

Teaching kids how to sail.

Have you ever struggled to make ends meet?

Yes, money is always a worry for the self-employed. You’ve got to have some nerve and trust yourself.

What is the most expensive thing you bought for fun?

A Jaguar F-Pace SUV.

What was your biggest money mistake?

Paying staff too much with no incentives.

The best money decision you have made?

Buying my first house.

Do you save into a pension?

Yes, every month, for tax reasons more than anything. Pensions are a bit of a lottery.

Invest in the stock market?

It’s essentially a lottery, OK to dabble in my opinion, but with money you can afford to lose!

Do you/did you own any property? How did it do?

Yes, I do, good and bad, more good than bad.

Any advice for someone who wants to give up the day job to do something they really like?

Follow your dream, you can always start your passion part time. If it works and is viable, go for it. Always have a plan and do your homework.

What is the one little luxury you treat yourself to?

I love online shopping.

If you were finance minister what is the first thing you would do?

• I’d limit job seekers and social welfare payments to people who are actively looking for a job.

• I’d also look after small business owners and self-employed better.

See www.completepersonaltraining.ie for more information on Damian.