The transgender community has long faced economic hardships, with studies showing that trans individuals are more likely to experience financial instability than their cisgender counterparts. So why are some FTM fitness influencers charging exorbitant prices for online personal training when cisgender personal trainers at local gyms charge a fraction of the cost?
A recent Reddit thread sparked a passionate debate about the ethics of FTM fitness influencers charging hundreds, even thousands, of dollars for remote coaching. One user pointed out a particular trainer asking for $650 for virtual sessions, while another noted that local in-person trainers often charge as little as $100 a month. The issue has led many trans individuals to question whether these trainers are providing a valuable, specialized service—or simply capitalizing on the fears and insecurities of their community.
The Business of Being Trans: Ethical Entrepreneurship or Exploitation?
Transgender-specific businesses and services have always been a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they provide a safe and affirming space for trans individuals who may experience discomfort or outright discrimination in mainstream environments. On the other hand, the pricing of these services often raises eyebrows.
Many argue that trans-owned businesses should be mindful of the economic realities their community faces. One commenter in the discussion explained that they operate a business catering to trans and queer people but offer sliding-scale pricing because they understand that marginalized groups often struggle financially. Meanwhile, others see these high prices as outright exploitation, coining terms like “the trans tax” or “the rainbow tax” to describe the inflated costs that trans individuals sometimes face.
Are These Prices Justifiable?
Some argue that online personal training, regardless of whether it is trans-specific, is often overpriced. While a highly skilled trainer can help refine technique, create personalized programs, and provide motivation, the reality is that much of the knowledge they offer is available online for free. The fitness industry as a whole has been flooded with social media influencers marketing expensive services that, at times, provide little value beyond generic workout plans and diet templates.
For a transgender man looking to build muscle or achieve a more masculine physique, there is no “specialized” training required beyond a standard hypertrophy or strength-based program. A qualified cisgender personal trainer with experience in muscle building can provide the same effective guidance. Yet, some FTM influencers market their services as uniquely necessary for transmasculine individuals, often without any formal qualifications beyond their own fitness journeys.
One Reddit user put it bluntly: “Not all trans men have the same goals. It should always be based on the individual, not some one-size-fits-all ‘FTM program.’” Another commenter highlighted that many of these trainers rely on fear-based marketing, emphasizing that trans people won’t be safe in traditional gym settings and must rely on their “specialized” coaching instead.
The Fine Line Between Community Support and Predatory Business Practices
It is important to acknowledge that not all trans trainers engage in these exploitative practices. Some offer well-structured, valuable coaching and operate with integrity. There are trainers who work within the community and actively try to keep services affordable, offering sliding scales, financial assistance programs, and even free resources.
However, the issue arises when influencers charge premium rates while failing to deliver quality service. Reports of FTM trainers sending out cookie-cutter programs, ghosting clients, and refusing refunds have circulated within online fitness circles. One person recounted an experience where they paid for a “customized” plan, only to receive a generic PDF of the trainer’s own workout routine. Another noted that their chosen trainer ignored their specific fitness goals and instead pushed them into an expensive package that didn’t fit their needs.
How to Identify a Legitimate Trainer
Not all online fitness coaching is a scam, but it’s crucial to differentiate between legitimate trainers and those looking to make a quick buck. Here are some key things to look for when choosing an online fitness coach:
- Credentials Matter: Look for trainers with accredited certifications (NASM, ACE, ISSA, or similar). A muscular physique doesn’t automatically mean someone knows how to train others.
- Transparency in Pricing and Services: If a coach refuses to list prices upfront or dodges questions about what their program includes, that’s a red flag.
- Client Testimonials and Reviews: A trustworthy trainer should have real testimonials and results from past clients.
- Personalization: A good trainer will ask about your specific goals, experience level, and any medical or mobility concerns before creating a plan.
- Avoid Fear-Based Marketing: If a trainer’s primary sales pitch revolves around the idea that you’ll be unsafe or unwelcome in traditional gym spaces, they might be preying on your fears rather than providing real value.
The Bigger Picture: Building Community vs. Building Personal Brands
Beyond pricing, the discussion also touches on a deeper issue—how social media influencers position themselves within the trans community. Many influencers market themselves as community leaders or role models, but as one commenter pointed out, “Influencers cosplay as community builders when in reality they’re just there for themselves.”
Idolizing fitness influencers simply because they are trans can create a harmful dynamic where people are more willing to overlook exploitative business practices. As trans individuals, we should support one another—but that support should be rooted in mutual respect and accountability. Paying premium prices for the privilege of working with a trans trainer should not be an expectation, nor should trans trainers feel entitled to exploit their community for financial gain.
The Bottom Line
If you’re an FTM individual looking for fitness coaching, remember that you have options. Local gyms, standard personal trainers, free online resources, and even peer mentorship programs can provide effective guidance without breaking the bank. If you do choose an online trainer, do your due diligence and ensure that they are truly providing a service worth their price.
Likewise, if you’re a trans trainer, consider your role in the community. It is possible to make a living while still being ethical and accessible. Pricing services fairly, offering scalable options, and being transparent with clients can go a long way in fostering trust and ensuring that fitness remains an empowering and inclusive space for all.
At the end of the day, the goal should be to uplift the community—not to see it as an easy target for financial gain. As one Redditor perfectly summarized: “It’s okay if you need to charge a premium for your services, but you can’t claim to be serving the community while doing it.”
