11 Weird But Highly Effective Personal Training Advertising Ideas You Haven’t Tried
Most of the personal trainers when think about advertising, they have a very clear mind about using the traditional marketing channels such as facebook, local seo, flyers at gym, instagram story or two. But the fitness space is more competitive than ever—and if you’re relying on the same strategies as everyone else, you won’t be able to compete.
It’s time to get a little odd.
Not gimmicky. Not desperate. Just creative, bold, and memorable.
Here are some weird but highly effective personal training advertising ideas that most trainers overlook—but can help you stand out and sign more gym clients.
1. Host a Challenge like "Train the Trainer"
Instead of always being the expert in the field, Invite your social media followers or community to “train you” for a day. Let them vote on your workout, film it, and post the results. Not only is this entertaining and engaging, but it also shows your personality, vulnerability, and commitment.
Why it works:
It builds connection and draws people in without pushing sales, plus it’s highly shareable.
2. Personalized Handwritten Notes on Windshields
This might sound crazy, but old-school guerrilla marketing still works very well. Target places where your ideal clients go: corporate office parks, yoga studios, healthy cafes. Write a short, friendly handwritten note (not a flyer!) like:
“Hey! Noticed your dedication to wellness (nice meal choice/gym visit!). If you’re ever looking to level up your training, I’d love to help. – [Your name]”
Include your name, contact info, and maybe a QR code.
Why it works:
It’s personal. It feels like a compliment, not a pitch.
3. Print Ads on Protein Containers or Supplement Bags
Partnering with a local supplement store or health food shop and ask if you can put small branded sticker ads or QR codes directly on popular items like protein containers, energy drinks, or bags of greens powder.
Why it works:
Your message is landing directly into the hands of someone health-conscious. No digital noise. No scroll fatigue.
4. Offer “Breakup Training” Packages
Find a niche based on strong emotions. For example, people who just went through a breakup often want to feel better, look better, and start fresh.
Your breakup fitness training package should be designed to help people cope with the emotional and physical challenges of a breakup by focusing on strength training, cardio, and potentially nutrition guidance. These packages aim to provide a sense of accomplishment, boost endorphins, and improve overall well-being during a difficult time
You can offer something like a “Breakup Bootcamp” or “Revenge Body” plan that helps them rebuild confidence. Just make sure your message is supportive, not harsh.
Why it works:
You're addressing a specific moment in someone’s life when they are highly motivated to change and open to new support.
5. Use Reverse Psychology in Your Ads
Try using curiosity-driven hooks in your message instead of “Get Fit Fast” or “Lose 10lbs in 30 Days,” messages like:
“Is this Workout Too Hard? Don’t Even Think About it.”
“Warning: Personal Training May Cause Confidence.”
These types of headlines stop the scroll and encourage people to read more out of curiosity.
Why it works:
It breaks expectations. People are used to seeing the same fitness messages. Zig when others zag.
6. Partner with a Tattoo Artist or Stylists
Team up with local tattoo artists, stylists or barbers who deals with many clients on daily basis. Offer them a free session in exchange for letting them casually mention your service to clients they think might be interested. Better yet—have your business cards or flyers placed in the client’s waiting area.
Why it works:
These professionals are trusted voices. A casual recommendation from them carries more weight than a cold ad.
7. Create a “Local Fitfluencer Wall” at Your Gym or Studio
Instead of highlighting your own achievements, create a small wall display featuring fit-minded people in your local community—clients, influencers, or other trainers. Post short stories or shoutouts with their photos.
Then feature these people on social media and tag them.
Why it works:
This makes people feel special, and boosts word-of-mouth. Plus, they’ll share your post with their own audience, giving you organic reach. It’s unexpected and it can be highly beneficial for your gym.
8. Host a “Workout in Costume” Day in Public
Pick a popular public park or beach. Dress in a ridiculous superhero or retro 80s outfit and run a free workout session. Make sure it’s fun, themed, and inviting. Film it, share it online, and invite passersby to join.
Why it works:
It’s visually memorable and encourages participation. Plus, you’re showing that working out can be fun—not intimidating.
9. Offer “Pet & Parent” Workout Sessions
Make your gym pet-friendly can help you attract new members. If your local area has lots of pet parents, cater to them with pet-friendly workout offer. Market it with fun slogans like:
“Bring your pup, get your reps!”
Why it works:
It solves a problem (can’t leave the dog/kids) and creates a unique social fitness community.
10. Use Humor in Unexpected Places
Create parody-style ads with mock testimonials like:
“I hired [Your Name] and now I can finally open pickle jars without help.”
– Definitely a Real Client
Or make a fake ad like it’s a dating profile for a workout:
“Tall, sweaty, and full of lunges. Swipe right on fitness.”
Why it works:
Humor humanizes you. People remember things that made them laugh more than stats and benefits.
11. Trash Talk with Trainers: A Funny Take on Fitness Myths
Start a YouTube or podcast series where you and other trainers “trash talk” common fitness myths, bad gym habits, and viral nonsense workouts. Keep it funny, lighthearted and educational. Think of it like a mix between a roast and a fitness fact-check. You can even react to viral TikToks or answer dumb gym questions with humor.
Example topics:
“Why 1,000 crunches won’t get you abs”
“Protein powder is not a personality”
“Stop doing bicep curls in the squat rack
Why it works:
People love humor—and they remember it. By making fitness fun and debunking myths in an entertaining way, you stand out, build authority, and keep people coming back for more. Plus, laughter builds connection, and connection builds clients.
Final Thoughts
Advertising your personal training business doesn’t have to be boring—or expensive. Think outside the box and you may find some of the most effective campaign ideas. These weird but effective personal training advertising ideas not only help you stand out but also show your personality, creativity, and passion for helping people.
Try one or two of these ideas, track the results, and tweak them to suit your brand. Who knows? That “weird” idea might just become your signature move.
