When it comes to building a sports-specific physical training program for your clients, the profit can often come in the details. Avid golfer and long-time personal trainer Andrew Fodge of Arizona knew he was on to something the very first time he developed a workout program for a golfing client. Since then his care for details has spread to more clients and created a highly profitable personal training business that is focused on getting his clients to grop weight and strokes.

Can you tell me a little about yourself:
I have lived in the Scottsdale area for about 7 years and love it here. Golf is everywhere and I love to play as much as I can whenever I can. Prior to living here, I lived in Bellevue, WA. I miss the kayaking, the Seahawks, and the rain (sometimes). As I keep evolving as a trainer, a business owner, aspiring golfer, and a new dad (daughter is 9 months old), I have learned to strive to consistently give my best, encourage others, stay true to my best intentions, and to laugh as much as possible.

How did you get your start in the business of personal training? What is your goal?
I have been a personal trainer for over 15 years and launched my business over 5 years ago. I have a passion to “teach” my clients how to truly impact their own lives with proper fitness techniques and accurate fitness principles. My business goal in the next 3 years is to expand my current number of studios from 2 to 5 in the Scottsdale/Phoenix area.

I noticed you created a golf-specific workout program for your clients. Tell me what spawned the idea and how you’ve generated interest?

The relationship between fitness and golf is becoming increasingly obvious more and more. You are seeing the difference being established when Great Golfers are taking on a Fitness program that is turning them in to dominant professional golfers winning tournaments and/or staying near the top of leader boards. Personally, as a golfer with high aspirations with my own golf game, I wanted to offer a program that would enhance the ability of my golfers without detracting from their enjoyment of the game.

Do you plan on creating more sport specific workouts?
I am one of those fitness professionals that believes in focusing on one or two specialties and become “THE EXPERT” at those. I feel like my knowledge, experience, and ability is exploding with my golf fitness and extreme weight loss clients. I know that I can truly impact other athletes and I collaborate with other Strength Coaches and Fitness Trainers that may specialize in other areas.

How much of a market have you seen?
Golf is HUGE in Arizona, as I continue to promote myself and establish referrals. I have seen my Golf Fitness double in the last year alone.

Which certifications do you have and how have they opened doors?
I have a Masters of Science Degree in Physical Education and Bachelors of Science Degree in Athletic Training, which I feel like I have brought about more opportunities my way. By being certified as a Golf Fitness Instructor by the Titlelist Performance Institute it has truly expanded those opportunities in to a consistently growing clientele.

Do you have any recommendations for trainers just breaking into the business? How they could market? Which directions is the best right now?
My recommendations in breaking in to any sport-specific business is to get involved with coaches and/or teaching professionals of that sport. If you can learn to collaborate with them you will find not only a great referral pipeline, but you will also learn how you can be a better trainer. Also, always be a student of our industry, never assume that the way you are doing something is the only way or the best way. Become an expert and be open to other ideas, you need to know what other experts and professionals like you are doing — it will only make you better.

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