Last Updated on October 9, 2024 by Cristian Fry
You know how it goes—a client asks if you could give a bit of extra help after class or wants you to answer a “quick” text about their fitness routine.
Soon, you’re spending your evenings glued to your phone or showing up early to handle everyone’s requests. It’s tiring!
Setting boundaries is important to keep a healthy balance between helping your clients and caring for yourself.
Continue reading to learn how to set these boundaries without losing your clients’ respect—or your sanity.
Need more help prioritising your self-care? Grab our free mental health guide for instructors for additional support.
Key Takeaways
- Boundaries benefit both you and your clients: They help keep your energy focused where it matters most.
- Define your boundaries early: Clear expectations reduce the need for awkward corrections later.
- Learn to say “no” with empathy: It’s about respecting yourself and your clients.
- Consistency is key: If your boundaries change daily, they won’t be effective.
- Communicate effectively: Make sure your clients understand what you are and aren’t available for.
Why Boundaries Matter: It’s About You, Too
Imagine you’re a car. If you keep driving without stopping for fuel, you’ll end up stranded on the side of the road—probably in the rain.
The same concept applies to teaching. You love your job, but if you keep saying yes to everyone’s extra requests, you’ll soon find yourself depleted.
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for refuelling so you can continue doing what you love and be at your best.
Boundaries help you create a clear line between your personal time and your professional responsibilities.
It’s what keeps you from burnout and ensures that the energy you bring to your classes is the best it can be. Plus, clients respect an instructor who knows their worth and respects their own time.
Practical Tips On Setting Boundaries as a Group Exercise Instructor
Group exercise instructors, fitness instructors, gym instructors, and personal trainers often face challenges when setting boundaries with clients.
Here’s some practical strategies to help you maintain a professional practice while fostering great trainer-client relationships.
1. Define Your Boundaries Upfront
The best time to set boundaries? Right from the start. It’s like starting a class with a warm-up: if you skip it, you’re setting yourself up for trouble later.
Consider putting policies in place for when someone joins your class or signs up for a session. Explain clearly when and how you can be contacted.
For example, let clients know your preferred communication channels. Maybe you’re okay with a quick message through a booking app but not a call on a Saturday evening.
Setting expectations early reduces confusion, and your clients will be more likely to respect the boundaries you’ve established if they know about them from day one.
Tip: Draft a simple “Welcome to My Class” email that outlines your rules. Include class etiquette, communication guidelines, and anything else that helps create mutual understanding.
2. Communicate Boundaries Without Apology
Ever catch yourself saying, “I’m really sorry, but…” when trying to say no? You’re not alone.
But here’s the truth—you shouldn’t feel guilty for having boundaries. You’re a professional, and your time matters.
Instead of over-explaining or apologising, be straightforward and kind. Something like, “I don’t offer private coaching outside of my group sessions, but I’d be happy to recommend some great resources for you” gets the point across with clarity and warmth. You’re still offering value but within limits that work for you.
And remember, saying “no” doesn’t have to mean rejection; it can simply mean redirecting. Guide them to where they can find help without compromising your personal time.
Many trainers find that offering exercise-specific resources or pointing towards exercise videos helps maintain a healthy trainer-client relationship.
3. Don’t Let the Few Affect the Many
One major pitfall is letting the demands of a few individuals affect the quality of service you provide to the rest.
You might feel pressured to please one particularly demanding client, but when you do, you often sacrifice the experience of your entire group.
Think of your group classes as your priority. If a client’s individual request disrupts your ability to serve the group effectively, it’s time to hold the line.
Your clients came to you for structured, focused, and professional group fitness, and they deserve that version of you.
Tip: When approached with excessive individual requests, you can respond by emphasising the collective experience: “I need to focus on planning the best class for everyone, but I can address general questions after the session.” This way, you’re framing your response around providing value to the entire group.
4. Build Boundaries into Your Schedule
A schedule isn’t just about time management—it’s a shield. Carve out time slots that are non-negotiable for yourself. If Tuesdays are your “recharge days,” make it known that you’re unavailable for anything work-related then.
Clients don’t need to know the specifics of your personal schedule, but they need to know your availability.
Use tools like auto-replies to let clients know when you’ll get back to them, or keep an updated calendar that shows your open slots for communication or questions. This shows that you are both responsive and in control of your time.
5. Stick to Your Guns: Consistency Matters
The worst thing you can do for your boundaries? Make them flexible. Imagine setting a rule, then changing it every other week. It’s confusing for everyone involved and ultimately damages your credibility.
If you say you’re not available after 7 PM but then respond to a client’s message at 9 PM, you’re essentially telling them your boundaries aren’t real.
Instead, respect your own rules. By being consistent, you’re teaching your clients how to treat you—and they’ll learn to honour your time just as much as you do.
For fitness professionals, this consistency is crucial in building trust and maintaining a professional boundary that benefits both the instructor and the client.
Final Thoughts: Boundaries Lead to Better Coaching
At the end of the day, setting boundaries is about creating a better experience for everyone involved.
You get to stay energised and passionate about your work, and your clients benefit from having an instructor who’s focused, prepared, and not burned out. It’s a win-win.
So, what boundaries do you need to set to keep your sanity intact and continue loving your job? Don’t be afraid to establish them. It’s one of the best ways to show your clients that you’re serious about your work and that your well-being matters too.
Have you had challenges setting boundaries in the past? Don’t forget to download our free mental health guide for instructors to support your journey towards healthier boundaries.
