If you’re a solo personal trainer or small business owner, you’re probably no stranger to inconsistent income, financial stress, and the never-ending question: “Can I afford to pay myself right now?”
And if you’ve ever skimmed the top of your bank account to grab $200 for groceries, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth that changes everything:
Revenue is not the same thing as your paycheck.
So What Is Revenue?
Revenue is the total amount of money you earn before any expenses, taxes, or business costs are taken out. It’s the number that hits your Stripe or bank account and makes you feel rich—for about five seconds.
But here’s what that $5,000 month doesn’t account for:
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Rent for the gym or studio
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Software subscriptions and equipment
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Business coaching or continued education
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Taxes (yes, you still have to pay them)
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Your actual take-home pay
Here’s the Common Mistake:
Too many trainers look at their bank balance and think:
“Sweet, I made $5K! I’ll take home $2K and use the rest for stuff as it comes up.”
This method—affectionately called “skimming off the top”—is what keeps you stuck in feast-or-famine mode.
Because when expenses hit hard (hello, quarterly taxes or new client management software), you’re caught off guard and scrambling.
A Better Way to Think About It
Let’s walk through a quick example.
Imagine you make $5,000 in revenue this month.
Here’s a simple breakdown of where that might actually go:
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30% to taxes → $1,500
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20% to business expenses → $1,000
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10% to savings or buffer fund → $500
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40% to your paycheck → $2,000
So no, you don’t get to take home all $5,000.
But what you do get is clarity, control, and consistency.
You know your business is healthy. You know you’re setting money aside for future you. And you’re paying yourself in a way that actually works long-term.
Imagine Feeling Financially Steady
You know what’s more powerful than a big income?
A system that helps you use what you make wisely.
That’s exactly why I created Financially Fit—a course that teaches trainers how to stop winging it with their money and start running their business like a boss.
It includes a plug-and-play spreadsheet, a workshop, and video walkthroughs that show you exactly how to figure out what you can afford to pay yourself—no more guessing or money panic.
Ready to feel financially clear and confident?
Click here to get Financially Fit now.