Tax Return for Personal Trainers
Complete your Self Assessment in 8 minutes. Claim all your allowable expenses and submit directly to HMRC.
- Track session income
- Equipment and training expenses
- Mileage and travel support
- MTD-ready for 2026
Example Tax Calculation
Based on typical personal trainers earnings £30,000/year
*Illustrative example based on 2024/25 tax rates. Your actual tax depends on your specific circumstances.
Allowable Expenses for Personal Trainers
Claim these tax-deductible expenses to reduce your tax bill
Gym or Studio Rental
Fees paid to gyms or studios to train clients.
Tip: Keep rental invoices or fee statements.
Training Equipment
Weights, mats, bands, and other equipment used for sessions.
Tip: Claim business-use items only.
Professional Insurance
Public liability or professional indemnity insurance for coaching.
Tip: Insurance is fully deductible.
Marketing and Ads
Website, ads, and promotional materials to win clients.
Tip: Keep receipts for campaigns and design work.
More expenses you can claim
Personal Trainers Industry Insights
Essential information about working as a personal trainers in the UK
Average Hourly Rate
£25 – £70
Specialist trainers (post-natal, rehabilitation) can charge more
Common Structure
sole trader
Sole trader is standard; consider incorporating only if operating a gym facility
Required Certifications & Qualifications
When Do Personal Trainers Earn Most?
Understanding seasonal demand helps you plan your income and expenses throughout the tax year.
Peak Demand Periods
Quieter Periods
Industry Insight
January can see 3x normal new client enquiries
Tax tip: During quieter periods, use the time to organise receipts, update your records, and plan for upcoming tax deadlines.
Tax Tips for Personal Trainers
Specific tax considerations to maximise your deductions and stay compliant
Gym rent/membership is deductible if needed for client sessions
CPD courses are deductible
Equipment purchases via capital allowances
Nutrition/supplement samples for clients: careful record-keeping needed
These tips are based on UK tax rules for the 2024/25 tax year. For personalised advice, consult a qualified accountant.
How to File Your Tax Return
Follow these simple steps to complete your Self Assessment
Gather Your Documents
Collect income records, receipts, and expense statements
Enter Income & Expenses
Add your earnings and claim allowable expenses with our guided flow
Review Your Calculation
See exactly how much tax you owe with real-time calculations
Submit to HMRC
File your tax return directly to HMRC in minutes
Key Deadlines for 2024/25 Tax Year
Don't miss these important dates
5 April 2025
Tax Year Ends
Calculate your final income and expenses
5 October 2025
Register for Self Assessment
If this is your first year self-employed
31 January 2026
Online Filing Deadline
Submit your tax return and pay any tax owed
6 April 2026
MTD Starts (£50k+)
If your income exceeds £50,000, you must use MTD software
Late Filing Penalties
1 day late: £100 fixed penalty
3 months late: £10/day up to £900
6 months late: 5% of tax owed or £300 (whichever is higher)
12 months late: Additional 5% or £300
Plus interest on any tax paid late. Avoid these costs by filing early with QTax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about tax returns for personal trainers
Do personal trainers need to register as self-employed?
If you invoice clients or work independently, you must register for Self Assessment.
Can I claim gym fees and equipment?
Yes. Gym rental fees and training equipment used for business are allowable expenses.
What records should I keep?
Keep a record of sessions, invoices, expenses, and bank statements.
Ready to File Your Tax Return?
Join thousands of UK personal trainers who trust QTax for their Self Assessment