The Warm Up with Kyle Wood - Bootcamp Ideas

Circuits are a bootcamp staple, but let’s be honest, running the same 60-second station format week after week can get stale. For you and your clients.In this episode of The Warm-Up, I’m diving into five creative ways to breathe life back into your circuit sessions. These simple tweaks keep things fresh, help your clients stay engaged, and make you feel excited to coach again.We’ll cover:How to use in-between drills and finishers to add surprise and intensityThe underrated power of mini circuits and three-person formatsMaking workouts feel more purposeful with drill-based stationsHow to turn “I go, you go” into a client favouriteCreative ways to change your timing structure without losing the circuit vibeThis episode was inspired by Sarah and Ginger, two longtime readers of the Bootcamp Ideas newsletter, who shared that they were feeling stuck in a workout rut (thanks for sending in the questions!). If you’ve ever found yourself defaulting to the same old format, I think you’ll love this one.Helpful Links:My workout planning masterclass: How to Plan Bootcamp Workouts FastGet access to creative circuit ideas: Join BootCraftTake your workouts to the next level: Group Flow: Structure & Launch Cohort-Style Fitness ProgramsMini Circuit explainer (YouTube): Mini CircuitsRead Liz's original post on Circuit Breakdowns: Circuit Breakdown: How to Make Circuit Training More InterestingCheck out Liz's 5-10-15 workout: Indoor Bootcamp Workout: The 5-10-15Follow Kyle on Instagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Bootcamp Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Weekly WorkoutGet in touch: Contact Kyle

What if your business didn’t need to be huge to be successful? In this episode, I’m giving you permission to stay small.You’ll learn how to:Do simple napkin math to figure out what your version of “enough” looks likeCharge more without burning out (and why that’s good for everyone)Build a business that supports your life — not one that consumes itWe’ll also talk about second income streams, online options, and how to align your offers with what actually energizes you.This one’s for the coach who wants to work deeply with fewer clients and still get paid well.📣 Group Flow is opening soon — learn how to build small group programs people keep coming back to: Group Flow Live TrainingHelpful Links:📊 Napkin Math Spreadsheet + Guide to Sustainable Group Fitness Class Pricing📘 Profit First by Mike Michalowicz🧠 Ness Labs Article on PACTs🌀 Group Flow – Build Your Ideal Fitness Cohort

Have you ever prepped an amazing workout, checked your class list the night before, and felt pumped about a packed session—only to be greeted by crickets the next morning?You're not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing a real story from listener Moira, a dedicated trainer who built her 6AM class from scratch—only to be ghosted by half the room come sunrise.We'll dive into:The psychology behind no-shows (it’s not about you)How I shifted my own model to increase consistency and commitmentPractical follow-up strategies you can use—even if you work for a gymWhat it means to create emotional buy-in and community outside the workoutHow to make your classes feel like something people don’t want to missPlus, I share the exact reason I created Group Flow—a way to run your group sessions so people stay engaged long after the initial motivation fades.If you're tired of chasing consistency and ready to build a more reliable, resilient fitness community, this one's for you.Helpful Links:Group FlowLearn how to structure and run small group fitness offers that keep people engaged and coming back.Recommended Episode: The Secret to Structuring a 6-Week Bootcamp for Maximum Client RetentionUse themed workout cycles to boost consistency and client buy-in.Subscribe to The Weekly WorkoutGet fresh drills, tips, and podcast updates in your inbox every week.Follow Kyle on InstagramBehind-the-scenes thoughts, games, and creative workout ideas.

What if you could design your fitness business to actually fit your life—not the other way around? In this episode of The Warm-Up, I’m talking about how to reshape your week so you can work on your business, not just in it.Whether you’re feeling stuck, stretched too thin, or ready for a change, I’ll walk you through a simple but powerful exercise to rethink your schedule and create a business that feels right for you. This isn’t about grinding harder—it’s about working smarter and aligning your time with what actually lights you up.If you’ve ever thought, there has to be a better way to do this, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!---Mentorship: Get NotifiedOliver Burkeman: Oliver Burkeman's newsletter The ImperfectionistRelated episode: 07 | Pivoting Your Fitness CareerInstagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Bootcamp Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Weekly WorkoutGet in touch: Contact Kyle

Starting a bootcamp but don’t have a big following? You don’t need one. In this episode, I’ll walk you through exactly how to get your first 10 clients—without relying on ads or spending hours making social media content.This is the approach I’ve used, the approach I’ve seen work time and time again, and the best part? It’s simple, free, and actually helps you build a business that lasts.Let’s dive in!Helpful links:Related Episode: 14 Free Ways To Build Your Following (for after you've got your first 10 clients)Masterclass: How to Plan Workouts Fast—Without Sacrificing QualityInstagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Bootcamp Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Weekly WorkoutGet in touch: Contact Kyle

Thinking about changing direction in your fitness business? You’re not alone.Many trainers reach a point where they start wondering, What’s next? Maybe you’re feeling burned out, considering online training, or looking to shift to a new model that better fits your lifestyle. In this episode, I dive into how to navigate career pivots in the fitness industry, sharing my own experience of shifting from running a bootcamp to coaching trainers and why I’m now feeling the urge to train again.If you’ve ever felt unsure about your next step, this episode will help you reflect, strategize, and take action—so you can build a business that truly excites you.Upcoming Masterclass: How to Plan Workouts Fast—Without Sacrificing QualityRecommended next episode: The 3 B’s of Avoiding PT Burnout: What’s Actually Worked for MeLinks:Related Episode: The 3 B’s of Avoiding PT Burnout: What’s Actually Worked for MeBook: What To Do When It's Your Turn by Seth GodinMasterclass: How to Plan Workouts Fast—Without Sacrificing QualityInstagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Bootcamp Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Weekly WorkoutGet in touch: Contact Kyle

Ever feel like you’re scrambling to plan workouts at the last minute? Or worse—running the same formula over and over, hoping your clients don’t notice? If so, this episode is exactly what you need.Today, I’m breaking down how to structure a 6-week bootcamp that maximizes client engagement, retention, and results. You’ll learn how to avoid the common pitfalls of random programming and instead create a bootcamp experience that keeps clients coming back session after session.I’ll share my step-by-step framework for planning ahead, keeping workouts fresh, and making sure your sessions deliver real progress. If you want to stop winging it and start coaching with confidence, hit play now! 🎧Masterclass: How to Plan Workouts Fast—Without Sacrificing QualityLinks:Masterclass: How to Plan Workouts Fast—Without Sacrificing QualityInstagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Bootcamp Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Friday FinisherArticle: The Ultimate Guide to Planning A Great Bootcamp RoutineArticle: 3 Steps To Planning A Fitness Class: Threading A Theme

Burnout is one of the biggest reasons personal trainers and group fitness coaches leave the industry. Long hours, inconsistent income, and the pressure to always be “on” can wear you down fast. But it doesn’t have to be that way.In this episode, I share the 3 B’s of Avoiding Burnout—simple but powerful strategies that have helped me stay in the fitness industry for over a decade. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or on the verge of quitting, this episode is for you. Tune in and take the first step toward a more sustainable and fulfilling fitness career.Sponsor: BootCraftThis episode is sponsored by… me!If you love the workout ideas and strategies I share here on The Warm Up, you’re going to love BootCraft! It’s an ever-growing library of creative, done-for-you workout ideas designed to save you time and keep your sessions fresh. No more scrambling for new drills—just log in, pick a workout, and go!Check it out at BootCraft.co and take your sessions to the next level! 🚀Helpful Links:Instagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Friday Finisher

Ever had a client whose negativity sucked the energy out of your entire class? In this episode, I share a personal story of how one difficult client killed an entire time slot in my bootcamp—and what I wish I had done differently.Learn how to handle disruptive bootcampers, navigate tough conversations, and protect the culture of your group while keeping your business thriving.Don't let one bad attitude ruin the experience for everyone—tune in to find out how to manage these tricky situations with confidence!Sponsor - BootCraftThis episode is sponsored by... me! If you love the workout ideas and strategies I share here on The Warm Up, you’re going to love BootCraft! It’s an ever-growing library of creative, done-for-you workout ideas designed to save you time and keep your sessions fresh. No more scrambling for new drills—just log in, pick a workout, and go!Check it out at BootCraft.co and take your sessions to the next level! 🚀Helpful Links:Instagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Friday Finisher

Your clients adore you.It's why they want to come and train with you every week. Which is great... except when you want to go away or you're too busy and you want to offload one of your sessions to a new trainer. Talk about clearing the room (or fitness class).Today's episode is all about how to find great trainers. A trainer you can mentor, who you can trust and who your clients love. Someone who can help give you some more freedom and flexibility in your business.I cover:What skills and attributes to look for in a trainerMy best tip for conducting a successful interviewThe 3 phases of mentoring/shadowing a new coachWhat to pay someone who works for youHow to retain a great coach long-termHelpful links:Instagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Friday FinisherRelated content: 4 More Lessons Learned To Help Save Your Bootcamp Business - the part on having an assistant trainer 

Last episode on The Warm Up I shared some proven methods for retaining group fitness and PT clients, but what if no one even knows your classes exist? It's easy to feel like just another fitness business in a giant sea of fitness trainers in today's world of marketing online, so I want to share some low- and no-cost marketing methods for generating some interest in your bootcamp and group fitness classes.(00:00) - Welcome to The Warm Up Episode 2 (00:11) - Introduction to Low-Cost Marketing Strategies (01:39) - Finding Ease in Marketing (04:02) - The Three-Month Experiment (05:27) - 1. Community Notice Boards (06:51) - 2. Leveraging Beauty and Health Connections (08:22) - 3. The Power of Ugly Flyers (09:46) - 4. Online Community Notice Boards (eg. Facebook groups) (11:35) - 5. Rewarding Referrals (13:09) - 6. How To Use Social Media (16:33) - 7. Turning Negative Reviews into Sales (17:53) - 8. Reconnecting with Old Clients (18:44) - 9. Cross-Promoting with Local Businesses (19:54) - 10. Utilizing Facebook Events (or Meetup, Eventbrite, etc.) (20:54) - 11. Sponsoring Local Teams and Organizations (23:01) - 12. Choosing Yourself: Organize Your Own Events (24:45) - 13. Launching New Offerings (25:50) - 14. The Importance of Consistency (26:53) - Wrapping Up Links:Instagram: @kylewood_bciFree Toolkit: Bootcamp Trainers ToolkitFree Workouts: My 5 Favourite Bootcamp WorkoutsNewsletter: The Friday Finisher

A great workout plan is key to a creating a popular fitness class, but it's not all you need. Here are some simple things I started doing in my clients that added up to big results in terms of class attendance and client retention.Get my free Bootcamp Trainer Toolkit: https://www.bootcampideas.com/Links:Article mentioned: The Ultimate Guide to Planning A Great Bootcamp RoutineInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylewood_bci/Free Toolkit: https://www.bootcampideas.com/toolkit-sign-up/Free Workouts: https://www.bootcampideas.com/5workouts/Newsletter: https://www.bootcampideas.com/newsletter/

Did you have that moment when you made the switch from doing personal training as a hobby to ‘this is what I want to do full-time’ when you realised… ‘Wow, now I’m running a business.’?I remember that moment and I it occurred to me around then that there are probably some business “things” I should be doing.Over the years running bootcamps and training PT clients I learned a lot of those things and today I want to share with you one really simple business thing that will help you stay organised, keep your fitness business growing and help you continue to evolve as a trainer and self-employed person.It’s the simple process of coming up with a super simple, yet actionable Quarterly Plan.---Create your own plan for next quarter in one of my free upcoming workshops: Book Here--- (00:00) - Introduction (01:01) - Quarterly Planning for Fitness Professionals (01:55) - Warmup Challenge Announcement (04:25) - Benefits of Quarterly Planning (07:44) - Five-Step Framework for Quarterly Planning (15:30) - Invitation to Quarterly Planning Workshop

As fitness trainers we all want to help others while also feeling emotionally and financially supported. But, going by recent emails you’ve sent me, that’s a bit of a struggle right now.In this episode I share some of my own experiences, recent and in the past, where I didn’t feel financially or emotionally supported in my fitness career. And then, because I’m not an a-hole, I also share some ways that I worked through those moments.I also dive into how this month’s theme on the podcast and in our community will help you if you feel like you or your classes are in a bit of a slump right now. It’s the perfect way to find your zest again!(00:00) - Introduction and Welcome (00:33) - Recent Challenges and Personal Updates (02:31) - Current Struggles in the Fitness Industry (06:49) - Empowering Clients and Business Philosophy (10:49) - My First Bootcamp Experience (18:44) - Warmup Focus and Upcoming Challenge Non-SponsorI don’t run ads on my podcasts, websites and newsletters. Instead I focus on creating helpful products and services to help you on your journey as a fitness trainer. If you love the podcast, you can support it by buying something from Bootcamp Ideas.This week I’m recommending the brand-new BCI All-Access Pass which gives you access to all of my courses and tools (including BootCraft) for one low price. Check it out.LinksIf you’re looking for the Bootcamp Ideas newsletter, then head to my 21 Days of Bootcamp Ideas series and sign up to get free access.Also, our free Facebook group, BCI: Ask, is back. Feel free to join us if you’re not already a member.If you’re enjoying the podcast, please leave a review so others can find it.If you’re not familiar with my website, it’s called Bootcamp Ideas. You can find more ideas for your business and group fitness classes there.

Here's how to be an influencer in your community without being an 'influencer'.In today's episode I've brought back one of the most popular episodes from the Dale & Kyle Show where we break down the difference between a following, an audience and a community. We share why you need to know the difference and how you can serve all 3 to help you grow your business.We also talk about some social media best practices to help you stay sane when it comes to creating content.Enjoy!---(00:00) - Introduction to the Group Fitness Experience (00:57) - The Concept of a Light Work Week (01:44) - Podcast Episode Introduction: Building Your Following (02:53) - The Importance of Setting Boundaries (06:00) - Building a Following vs. Building a Community (15:31) - Consistency is Key (17:42) - Finding Your Medium and Authenticity (21:35) - Building a Community vs. Gaining Followers (22:51) - The Importance of Community Engagement (25:01) - Leveraging Social Media Platforms (26:53) - Diversifying Your Online Presence (30:19) - Consistency and Planning in Social Media (33:47) - Creating Effective Social Media Posts with Canva (36:56) - Automating Social Media with Social Bee (38:50) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts ---Non-SponsorI don't run ads on my podcasts, websites and newsletters. Instead I focus on creating helpful products and services to help you on your journey as a fitness trainer. If you love the podcast, you can support it by buying something from Bootcamp Ideas.This week I'm recommending the brand-new BCI All-Access Pass which gives you access to all of my courses and tools (including BootCraft) for one low price. Check it out.Links to things mentioned:If you're enjoying the podcast, please leave a review so others can find it.If you’re not familiar with my website, it’s called Bootcamp Ideas. You can find more ideas for your business and group fitness classes there.This May I’m running a free challenge to help you find clients called The 5×5 Challenge. Join in anytime.Dale and I mention a few resources like Canva and Social Bee.

Today I'm reading from one of my articles a story about one of my early - dreadful - attempts to sign up a new PT client. You'll want to listen in just for the cringe factor (I'm sure you'll be able to relate). I also cover:How to become more confident in your skillsWhat got me through my early days as a trainerWhat part of my body gets really sweaty when nervous---(00:00) - Introduction to the episode (00:34) - Finding the Podcast Rhythm: Writing and Recording (02:37) - Sharing Timeless Writing: Confidence Takes Time (02:55) - The Journey of Gaining Confidence as a Trainer (10:55) - Offering Support Through BCI All Access Pass ---LinksI'm very excited to announce that the BCI All-Access Pass is here! If you liked this episode you'll likely enjoy my workshop 'Raving Fans' which is all about getting more referrals which is just one part of the All-Access Pass. Sign up for the price of a cup of coffee a week.Also, here is a great video from Humans of New York (HONY) creator, Brandon Stanton, on how he found confidence was the thing that helped him most when approaching strangers on the street and asking to take their photograph.You can read the original version of this article here: No One Tells You This: Confidence Takes Time

If you are feeling like you need some inspiration for growing the size of your bootcamp and group fitness classes, then you will love today’s episode.It’s natural in a fitness business to go through periods where you have lots of new people coming in and periods where you just have a few new faces appearing at your classes. What’s most important though is that you’re always experimenting with new ways to find new clients and that there is at least some new people starting with you to balance out the natural attrition.In today’s episode of The Group Fitness Experience, I’m going to share with you 24 (actually, there is 27 but 24 for 2024 has a nicer ring to it) different ideas for finding and attracting new clients. Enjoy!---Would you like a handful of new clients? This May I’m running a free challenge called The 5x5 Challenge where I’ll show you a simple method to get 5 new clients and we’re going to do this like a HIIT workout where we get in, do the work and get out. You can start as soon as you join, so join us for The 5x5 Challenge today.---(00:00) - Introduction to the Episode (00:31) - Today's Inspiration: 24 Ways to Find More Clients (01:00) - The Importance of Consistently Adding New Clients (02:03) - Introducing the 5x5 Challenge on Bootcamp Ideas (03:57) - Announcing the All-Access Pass for Bootcamp Ideas (07:16) - Branding: The Foundation of Client Acquisition (1-4) (11:37) - Leveraging the Online World for Growth (5-10) (16:54) - Offline Strategies for Expanding Your Client Base (11-15) (22:24) - Community Engagement and Client Retention (16-21) (30:41) - Attract New Clients By Doing Something New (22-27) (34:54) - Conclusion and Defining Your Own Success ---LinksIf you’re not familiar with my website, it’s called Bootcamp Ideas. You can find more ideas for your business and group fitness classes there.This May I’m running a free challenge to help you find clients called The 5x5 Challenge. Join in anytime.When I talked about newsletters I mentioned a helpful newsletter that gives you prompts for your newsletter (very meta, I know). You can find it on Nicole Cloutier’s website.Towards the end I mentioned the roller coaster of business, this graphic sums it up so well.

Welcome (back) to The Group Fitness Experience!In this episode I share what motivated me to restart the podcast, some insights on creating a transformative experience and chat about some upcoming challenges for readers and listeners.I also dig up and read out our Manifesto to set the tone for what’s to come.--- Would you like a handful of new clients? This May I’m running a free challenge called The 5x5 Challenge where I’ll show you a simple method to get 5 new clients and we’re going to do this like a HIIT workout where we get in, do the work and get out.  You can start as soon as you join, so join us for The 5x5 Challenge today. ---(00:00) - Welcome to the Group Fitness Experience Podcast (00:48) - The Journey from Procrastination to Podcasting (01:48) - Reflecting on Past Collaborations and Embracing Vulnerability (03:56) - Why the Podcast is Making a Comeback (08:44) - Setting the Tone with the Bootcamp Ideas Manifesto (17:41) - Launching New Challenges and What's Next Links:If you’re not familiar with my website, it’s called Bootcamp Ideas. Here are the links on there to the Bootcamp Ideas Community Manifesto and my recent course, the Fitness Branding Bootcamp.I also mention 2 challenges: Our challenge for May is to get 5 new awesome clients and our challenge for June will be shared later in the month (I’ll update this space closer to the time).

Sometimes when life throws a curve ball it can be a good thing.Despite the pain and heartache, it can be the catalyst to doing something you’ve always wanted to do.For my guest today, that was taking her personal training and bootcamp business from a part-time to a full-time income. All while a pandemic was closing up everything around us.She showed courage and fortitude though as she tried new things and collaborated with other to make it work. I’m really excited to share her story with you today.Show NotesWhy Deb will never run a bootcamp in the sand (1:23)Why you should encourage your clients to train more than once a week (2:39)Why being pushy can be a bad sales method (3:13)How Deb doubled her income during the pandemic (5:23)Saying ‘Yes’ to every new client won’t always work (9:47)Get your clients outdoors! (12:37)How Deb runs successful challenges (16:47)Where to cap your challenges to ensure their success (22:59)Landing corporate challenge gigs (24:09)Rapid Fire Questions (29:11)

In today's episode of Everything Bootcamp, my guest is Jessi Schlegal, from (for not much longer) Vancouver, Canada. Jessi will soon be moving - moving her home and her business - and that is what we chat about in this episode. Just how do you go about moving your fitness business from one community to another? How do you build up that community from scratch?The importance of regular exercise for quality of life (3:13)The effects of the pandemic on a business with employees (4:27)Elevating client's morale during the pandemic (10:16)Moving house and business in one hit (18:30)Rapid Fire Questions (25:28)