Why 80% of Coaches Quit Within the First 2 Years
(and How to Avoid It)

Every year, hundreds of passionate individuals dive into fitness coaching with the same ambition: to make a living from their passion. But the reality is tough. According to several industry estimates, about 80% of coaches quit within the first two years. Why? And more importantly, how can you avoid becoming part of that statistic? Here are the 5 most common mistakes and concrete solutions to overcome them.

1. They Think Passion Is Enough

   Loving sports doesn’t make you a good coach. Many believe that being fit and highly motivated will be enough to build a career. But coaching is also about listening, communicating, analyzing, adapting, selling…

   How to avoid it?

   Invest in serious training. A good program doesn’t just teach anatomy, it gives you the tools to understand a client, guide them with clarity and structure, and handle real-world challenges.

2. They Have No Strategy to Find Clients

   You can be the best technician in the world… but if nobody knows you, you’ll have nobody to coach. Waiting for clients to come to you is a strategy doomed to fail.

   How to avoid it?

   Learn how to be visible. Create a professional profile on social media, develop a local network, offer a clear service, and master the basics of communication. A good training program should also help you build your positioning.

3. They Choose Training That Is Too Quick or Too Theoretical

   The market is flooded with fast-track certifications, often 100% online, not selective, and sometimes without support. The result? Graduates who don’t feel ready, lack real-world experience, and quickly lose confidence.

   How to avoid it?

   Invest in demanding training, guided by experienced professionals, that combines practice, feedback, and personalized support. At PCA, we don’t just train theorists we train real coaches.

4. They Are Alone and Poorly Supported

   The feeling of isolation is one of the most underestimated reasons for quitting. When doubts creep in, without support to help you overcome them, you’re at high risk of giving up.

   How to avoid it?

   Join a community. Seek mentorship. Surround yourself with more experienced coaches. At PCA, our coaches benefit from a network, events, and ongoing support. You’re never left alone.

5. They Never Question Themselves

   Some believe that earning their certification is enough. But the coaching world evolves and so do clients’ expectations. Those who stagnate, who don’t strive to progress, end up being left behind.

   How to avoid it?

   Adopt a lifelong learning mindset. Challenge yourself. Ask for feedback. Keep learning regularly. Hold yourself to high standards and stay curious.

Conclusion: What Successful Coaches Do Differently

They invest in serious training, build a clear strategy, surround themselves with the right people, and never stop learning. The good news? You can do it too.

At PCA, we don’t just hand out certifications. We train coaches who can build a sustainable career.

📅 Want to start your coaching journey?
Discover our certified fitness coaching program (EREPS & NASM) -> https://www.physicalcoachingacademy.com/fr/packs/certified-pt

Want to go further? Our PCA Pro Coach pack brings together all the training you need to stand out from the competition and reach the next level: https://www.physicalcoachingacademy.com/fr/packs/pca-pro-coach-new

🎁 Special Offer

Right now, we have a special offer: get one specialization for free when you purchase a NASM Personal Trainer course, also valid on the Certified PT Pack.

Offer valid until 15/09/2025.

Specializations available:

• Women’s Fitness Specialist
• Senior Specialist
• Weight Loss Specialist