3 Books Every New Gym Owner Should Read

Published: Mon, 04/01/19

Last Wednesday I sat down to draft a blog post discussing lessons learned during my MBA program that can now be covered for free with an internet connection. Despite my best efforts to follow an outline, I quickly found myself wandering off-script and mentioning three books that I wish I'd been able to read during the month leading up to opening our gym back in 2007.

Instead of allowing the entire concept of the blog post to veer away from my initial plan, I thought I'd bundle this short list up and share it with you, my valued newsletter reader.

Forgive me for filling up your inbox with (gasp) two messages this week, but I truly believe your business will be improved if you pick up these three texts today and begin chipping away. I'm not trying to make a buck here, as you'll see when you realize I haven't taken the time to figure out how to sync up an Amazon affiliate link and get you to buy each of these books. I just want to spread the word about stuff I like.

If I could go back to day one...

If I were starting a gym from scratch today, and doing so without a business degree, the first thing I would do would be to pick up these books, read them cover to cover, and commit to applying the concepts from the moment my first customer walked through the door:

Zero-to-One (Peter Thiel) - This book is definitely not a how-to guide for launching a business. Instead, it is a text that will challenge you to think creatively about developing a niche, and, as the author puts it, “creating a market of one.” I don’t care how big your smile is, or the fancy equipment you’ve packed into your space...you’re not going to thrive by competing on price and offering the same services as everyone else.

Traction (Gino Wickman) - This right here is your bible on short and long-term strategic planning. Treat it as a mandatory checklist to follow from the moment you start, and you’ll always find yourself working toward defined strategic objectives.

Never Lose a Customer Again (Joey Coleman) - A time will come when you realize that the most profitable habit you can develop as a business owner is retaining existing business. This book can ensure that you come to this conclusion before any of your original clients begin walking out the door. Client retention strategies should be implemented beginning as early as day number one, and Mr. Coleman has published your playbook for doing so.

I'm always looking for the next great book recommendation, so be sure to shoot me an email if you've got any on your must-read list to share.

Have a great week!

Pete