Unpopular Opinion: Personal Trainers Need To Be Under 20% Body Fat

Controversial. But True.

I know this will upset some people. But I genuinely believe that if you're coaching people on how to get in shape, you should look like you're in shape.

Not shredded. Not competition ready. But you should visibly practice what you preach.

Why It Matters

Trust is built through proof. When a client sees their coach and that coach clearly takes care of their own body, it builds instant credibility. You don't need to explain your system. They can see it works.

When a coach is visibly out of shape, the client is always going to have a voice in the back of their head asking: "If this person knows so much, why don't they apply it?"

The Counterargument

"You don't need to be a pilot to teach someone to fly." I've heard this one a hundred times. And in some fields, it's valid. But fitness is different. Fitness is deeply personal and visual.

Your clients are going to compare themselves to you whether you like it or not. Being in decent shape isn't about ego. It's about leading by example.

Where I Draw the Line

I'm not saying every trainer needs to be 10% body fat with abs year-round. That's unrealistic and unnecessary. But under 20%? Visibly active? Yes. I think that's a reasonable standard for someone whose job is to help others transform their bodies.

The Bigger Point

Hold yourself to the standards you set for others. In fitness. In business. In life. If you're going to charge people to change their bodies, show them that you value your own.