Rant: My training error ruined a client's progress and I might quit

I worked with a guy for six months to build strength after surgery. I got cocky and added too much weight too fast, which led to a strain. He stopped seeing me and posted a bad review online. Now I'm stuck deciding if I should close my solo practice or push through the backlash. Closing means no more stress but I lose my income. Pushing through means facing criticism daily while trying to rebuild. Honestly, which option sucks less here?

3 comments

3 Comments

campbell.nina1mo ago

Heard a story about a trainer who screwed up but owned it and got clients back... was rough but they stuck with it. Might be worth trying to make things right before you decide to shut down.

bethwhite12d ago

That reminds me of a guy who ran a small engine repair shop... he forgot to order parts for a big job and had to tell the customer it would take weeks. He gave them a loaner mower for free and knocked half off the bill. They were mad but came back later because he was straight with them. Sometimes just being honest about the mess up is all you can do.

drew_stone461mo ago

Tbh, that idea of making things right before shutting down isn't a sure fix. Honestly, if the trainer's screw-up was major, like missing payments or lying, just owning it can make clients leave faster. I saw a similar thing where someone apologized but the trust was already broken. It really depends on how deep the mistake goes.