Gabriel Patterson of Winnipeg, Canada is a certified personal trainer and advocate for a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Gabriel supports his clients as they revamp their health and fitness routines.
Residing in Toronto, Mr. Patterson focuses his efforts on helping his clients rebound from sports-related injuries, build a solid foundation in fitness, and reach new heights.
His passion for living a productive and active lifestyle has led Mr. Patterson to educate his clients about the importance of regular exercise and incorporating a nutrient-dense diet. When he is not supporting his clients to become their best selves, Gabriel Patterson can be found enjoying the culture that Toronto has to offer.
How did you get started in this business? What inspired you to start this business?
I have been a competitive athlete since I was a kid. I was a swimmer in high school, and I even received a scholarship to swim on my university’s team. Over the years I studied exercise physiology, and I experimented with different training methods and diets to optimize my performance, and now it is my passion to share that knowledge with others.
How do you make money?
I work with clients one-on-one and organize group fitness classes. I am also launching a new meal planner & nutrition coaching. More news on that to come!
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
I was working as a trainer at a gym and was building a client base through that, and I realized I could train clients on my own. I started a side business, and when I had enough clients and confidence, I launched my business. It took me about a year to gain enough momentum.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time that you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle it?
I never had any doubts that I would succeed. I build great relationships with my clients, and I work with them for a long time because they trust me, and because I get to know what works for them and what doesn’t.
How did you get your first customer?
I got my first client through the gym I used to work at. One of my clients just had a baby, and I started to meet her at her home with some basic equipment like medicine balls, resistance bands, etc., and that’s how it all started.
What is one marketing strategy that you’re using that works well to generate new business?
I organize group fitness classes on the weekends. We move through different circuits, and I think the attendees get a lot of satisfaction from participating in rigorous exercise in a group setting, and they get to know me and my training style. Many of them will approach me for private training sessions.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
Hard work and determination! I am very self-disciplined, and when I set my mind on something, I make it happen, no matter how many times I have to pivot.
What does the future hold for your business? What are you most excited about?
I am launching a meal planner and nutrition coaching that will provide personalized recipes daily, menus and grocery lists, and will personalize all recommendations for their goals – such as athletic performance, weight loss, cleansing, etc. My goal is to train and hire other nutrition coaches to assist me in supporting my clients through their diet transformations.
What business books have inspired you?
Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds, by David Goggins. It is incredibly inspirational for anyone trying to push themselves and achieve their goals.
What is a recent purchase that you have made that’s helped with your business?
I purchased a subscription to a marketing automation platform and an email marketing service. It has simplified my life and was completely worth it.