You're about to learn how to build real software — tools that save you hours every week, impress your clients, and open doors to an entirely new career path. No coding experience required.
Running your own fitness business? Managing client programs? Building workout plans from scratch? Those are real skills — project management, client communication, creative problem-solving. You're more ready for tech than you think.
Get StartedEverything you need to start building. Takes about 10 minutes. This looks intimidating, but you only do it once — after this, you just type claude and start building.
Use this referral link to sign up and get a free trial of Claude Pro. Pro includes Claude Code and gives you access to Opus, the most capable model. This is all you need to pay for — no separate API keys or billing.
Download the LTS version (the big green button) from nodejs.org. Run the installer and accept all defaults. This gives you the tools needed to install Claude Code.
Git is a tool that lets you download code and track changes. Claude Code needs it to work properly.
Open Terminal (search for it in Spotlight, or find it in Applications > Utilities) and type:
xcode-select --installClick "Install" when prompted. This installs Git along with other tools Claude Code needs.
Download from git-scm.com and run the installer with all defaults. Git also includes Git Bash, which gives you a proper terminal.
uv is a fast Python package manager you'll need for Level 2+ projects. It replaces pip and conda — it's faster and simpler.
curl -LsSf https://astral.sh/uv/install.sh | shpowershell -ExecutionPolicy ByPass -c "irm https://astral.sh/uv/install.ps1 | iex"Open your terminal and run:
npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-codeIf you get a permission error, try: sudo npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code and enter your Mac password.
npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-codeIf you get a permission error, right-click PowerShell and choose "Run as administrator," then try again.
Run claude in your terminal. It will open your browser to log in with your Claude Pro account. Once logged in, you're good to go.
claudeAlways use Opus. It's the most capable model and gets things right the first time. Sonnet is cheaper but tends to go in circles on anything complex. Set Opus as your default:
claude config set model claude-opus-4-6Or type /model inside Claude Code and select Opus.
Full documentation: Claude Code Docs
This usually means Node.js didn't get added to your PATH. Close your terminal completely, reopen it, and try again. If it still doesn't work, uninstall Node.js, restart your computer, then reinstall it.
Mac: Try adding sudo before the command: sudo npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code and enter your password.
PC: Right-click PowerShell in the Start menu and choose "Run as administrator." Then run the install command again.
Make sure you signed up for Claude Pro at claude.ai (not just a free account). If the browser doesn't open automatically, copy the URL from the terminal and paste it into your browser. If you're still stuck, try running claude logout then claude again to restart the login flow.
This is normal. Claude Code thinks carefully about your request, reads files, writes code, and tests it — all before responding. Complex tasks can take a few minutes. Be patient and let it work. If it seems truly stuck (5+ minutes with no progress), you can press Ctrl+C to cancel and try rephrasing your request.
Close your terminal and reopen it after installing uv. If it still doesn't work, try the manual install from docs.astral.sh/uv.
Press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight, type "Terminal", and hit Enter. Or go to Applications > Utilities > Terminal. It's a text-based window where you type commands — think of it like texting your computer.
Text or call: (775) 393-9865
Or check the Claude Code docs and Anthropic Discord community.
Learn to work with Claude Code using your actual workout spreadsheets. No coding — just conversation.
You may have used AI chatbots like Gemini or ChatGPT before. Claude Code is different — here's why:
Think of it this way: Gemini is like texting a smart friend for advice. Claude Code is like having that smart friend sitting next to you at your computer, doing the work with you.
The terminal is like texting your computer. You type a command, press Enter, and it does something. That's it. Here's what you need to know:
How to open the terminal:
Three commands you'll use constantly:
cd — Go to a folder. "cd" means "change directory." Think of it like walking into a room.
Mac: cd ~/Desktop/my-project • PC: cd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\my-project
Mac: ls • PC: dir — See what's in the folder. Like opening a gym bag and looking inside.
claude — Start Claude Code. This is the only "app" you need to run. Same on Mac and PC.
If you see something confusing in the terminal, don't worry — just type your next command. Nothing you type here can break your computer.
Create a new folder on your Desktop called workout-data. You can do this the normal way (right-click → New Folder) or in the terminal:
mkdir ~/Desktop/workout-datamkdir %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\workout-dataExport a workout spreadsheet from Google Sheets:
workout-data folderUse .xlsx, not .csv — .xlsx keeps your column headings and formatting intact.
Don't have a spreadsheet handy? No problem — you can skip this step and Claude Code will help you create a sample one.
cd ~/Desktop/workout-datacd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\workout-dataclaudeThat's it. You're in. Now just start talking to it.
Claude Code defaults to a fast model, but the best results come from Opus — the smartest version of Claude. Type this inside Claude Code:
/model opusYou only need to do this once. Claude Code will remember your choice for future sessions. Opus is slower but gives much better answers — like choosing between a quick summary and a thorough analysis.
Claude Code is like a really smart assistant that can read and edit your files. Here are things to try — just type them in and press Enter:
Start simple. See what it says.
It'll describe your data — columns, rows, client names, exercises.
Now you're making changes. It'll save the updated file for you.
Each request builds on the last. You're having a conversation, not writing code.
The real skill is the back-and-forth. When Claude Code does something, you can always:
You don't need to get it right on the first try. Tell Claude Code what you want, see what it does, then adjust. That's exactly how professionals use AI tools.
Want Claude Code to remember your preferences? Create a file called CONTEXT.md in your project folder. Claude Code reads it automatically every time you start a session.
You can ask Claude Code to create it for you:
Next time you run claude in that folder, it'll already know your setup. Update the file anytime your preferences change.
/help inside Claude Code to see available commands/exit or press Ctrl+CText or call Jason: (775) 393-9865
Be patient. Claude Code reads your files, thinks about the problem, and sometimes runs commands — all before responding. A complex request can take a minute or two. Let it cook.
Be specific. Instead of "clean up my spreadsheet," try "sort the exercises alphabetically, add a Muscle Group column, and save it as a new file called workout-organized.xlsx." The more detail you give, the better the result.
Iterate in small steps. Ask for one thing at a time. Review it. Then ask for the next thing. This gives you better results and lets you catch issues early.
Use the best model. If you haven't already, type /model opus inside Claude Code. Opus is the smartest version of Claude — slower but much better at understanding what you need and getting it right the first time.
Once you're comfortable with Claude Code, try these next:
Track client progress with visual charts and graphs — strength gains, body comp, consistency.
A tool that generates personalized workout plans for your clients using AI.
Generate personalized check-in messages for all your clients at once.
If you're comfortable with git, you can clone the full starter project repo. It includes pre-written instructions that guide Claude Code through each project:
git clone https://github.com/jabelk/ai-career-launchpad.gitcd ai-career-launchpad/starter-projects/client-workout-adapterclaudeClaude Code reads the project's CLAUDE.md file automatically and walks you through everything step by step.
Learn more:
Every new project gets its own folder. Here's the pattern.
Every time you want to build something new, follow these steps:
mkdir my-new-projectcd my-new-projectclaudeThat's it. Describe what you want, and Claude Code builds it in that folder.
Before you build, write down what you want. This one habit will make you 10x more effective.
People who build great things don't just start — they write a plan first. It's called a "spec" (short for specification). Think of it like writing a workout program before a training session. You wouldn't just wing it with a client — same idea here.
Here's a simple template you can copy and paste into any project:
Example for a warm-up routine generator:
Save this as a file called spec.md in your project folder. When you start Claude Code, it will read the spec and know exactly what to build.
Want even more structure? Install GitHub Spec Kit — it adds slash commands to Claude Code for creating specs, plans, and tasks automatically. Run this in your project folder:
Say yes to the prompts and it will set everything up. Important: If you run this from inside Claude Code, you need to exit Claude Code (/exit) and reopen it for the new slash commands to load. Then you can use /speckit.specify, /speckit.plan, and more to structure your projects like a pro.
SDD Practical Guide — The full guide to spec-driven development.
GitHub Spec Kit — GitHub's official SDD toolkit.
Practical skills for working with Claude Code, plus courses and certifications when you're ready to go deeper.
The most important skill in AI isn't coding — it's communicating clearly. Here's how to talk to Claude Code effectively:
A quick cheat sheet for navigating your computer in the terminal:
| Command | What It Does | Mac Example | PC Example |
|---|---|---|---|
cd [folder] | Go to a folder | cd ~/Desktop/workout-data | cd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop\workout-data |
cd .. | Go up one folder | cd .. (same on both) | |
| List files | See what's in a folder | ls | dir |
mkdir [name] | Create a new folder | mkdir my-project (same on both) | |
| Show where you are | Print current folder | pwd | cd (with no folder name) |
Pro tip: If you ever get lost, type pwd (Mac) or cd by itself (PC) to see where you are, then cd ~/Desktop (Mac) or cd %USERPROFILE%\Desktop (PC) to get back to familiar ground.
When Claude Code creates or edits files, they're saved in whatever folder you're working in. Here's what to know:
workout-data folder on the Desktop, new files show up there. Open that folder in Finder (Mac) or File Explorer (PC) to see them.Context files are notes you leave for Claude Code so it remembers things about you and your work. Two types:
You can ask Claude Code to create either one: "Can you create a CONTEXT.md with my client info and preferences?"
Cole Medin — A quick overview of where AI is headed and why now is the time to start.
American Council on Exercise — AI training specifically for fitness professionals. Counts toward CECs.
Structured, self-paced courses you can do on your own schedule. All free (some require a short financial aid application).
UMD AI & Career Empowerment — Free, 10 modules, from the University of Maryland Smith School of Business. Over 37K enrolled. Great starting point for anyone new to AI concepts.
Google AI Essentials — The most popular Coursera course ever. Free with financial aid (150-word application).
Google AI Professional Certificate — 7 courses + capstone, hands-on with Gemini. Free with financial aid or .edu email.
Google Career Certificates — IT Support, Data Analytics, UX Design — all no-experience, free with financial aid.
9 projects organized by difficulty. Start with Level 1 and work your way up. Every project connects to your fitness business.
Practice working with Claude Code using your real workout spreadsheets. Read, edit, reorganize, and analyze .xlsx files through conversation.
Your first project — learn to use Claude Code with data you already understand.
Visual charts showing client progress over time — strength gains, body comp, workout consistency. Powered by Chart.js.
Nothing motivates a client like seeing their squat numbers going up on a chart.
A full-screen workout timer with exercise names, work/rest intervals, and round tracking. Perfect for group classes or personal sessions.
Replace the phone timer with a pro-looking workout display.
Describe a client's goals, experience, and equipment — get a complete, personalized workout program generated by AI.
Like having a junior trainer draft programs for you to review.
Enter a few bullet points about a client's week, get a warm, personalized check-in message ready to text or email.
Saves hours on weekly client communication.
Generate basic nutrition guidelines tailored to a client's goals, preferences, and dietary restrictions. Not a meal plan — a guide.
Clients always ask about nutrition. Give them a solid starting point.
An AI-powered flow that collects new client info (goals, history, availability, injuries), generates an initial assessment, and drafts their first program.
Automate the most time-consuming part of getting a new client started.
Automated workflows that send workout reminders, check-in messages, and progress summaries on a schedule. No manual messaging.
Automate your entire client communication workflow.
A dashboard combining client data, progress charts, AI-generated insights, and communication tools in one place. Claude Code builds it; you design it.
Your all-in-one command center for managing your fitness business.
Real roles, real pay, real links. No degree required for any of these. Your edge: sales experience + fitness domain knowledge + AI skills. LA-focused because that's where you're headed.
These companies hire AI trainers and evaluators. Your fitness domain expertise commands premium rates — they specifically need people who know health and wellness.
| Opportunity | Pay | Why You | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| DataAnnotation.tech | $20-40/hr | Fitness domain expertise = premium rates | Apply |
| Outlier AI | $15-50/hr | Health/wellness knowledge valued | Apply |
| Scale AI | ~$30/hr | Remote AI training, flexible hours | Apply |
| Digital Products (Canva + AI) | $500-5K/mo | Sell workout templates, meal guides on Etsy/Gumroad | — |
| AI-Enhanced Coaching | Premium rates | Use AI tools to offer personalized programming at scale | — |
Sell workout templates, meal guides on Etsy/Gumroad using Canva + AI
Use AI tools to offer personalized programming at scale
These roles lean on what you already have — sales experience, client relationships, fitness domain knowledge — and get a boost from AI skills. You're not competing with engineers. You're the person who understands the customer AND the technology.
| Role | Salary Range | Job Links |
|---|---|---|
| Health/Wellness Tech Sales (BDR/SDR) | $50K-$80K + commission | Indeed (LA) · LinkedIn |
| Customer Success Manager (Health Tech) | $64K-$107K | Indeed · LinkedIn (LA) |
| Corporate Wellness Program Manager | $67K-$118K | Indeed (LA) · ZipRecruiter · LinkedIn |
| AI-Augmented Online Coaching (Your Business) | $80K-$150K+ | Salary Data · Guide |
Your sales experience + fitness domain = you speak the buyer's language. AI skills help you prospect and personalize outreach at scale.
Client relationship management IS this role. You've been doing it with training clients for years — same skill, bigger stage.
Design fitness programs, motivate people, track outcomes — but inside a company. Your most natural lateral move.
Scale Kinesio Fitness with AI — auto-generate programs, client check-ins, and content. Go from trading hours for dollars to building a real business.
These roles pay more because they need someone who understands both the fitness industry AND technology. Most tech people don't know fitness. Most fitness people don't know tech. You'll know both.
| Role | Salary Range | Job Links |
|---|---|---|
| Account Executive (Wellness/Fitness Tech) | $80K-$140K OTE | Indeed (CA) · LinkedIn |
| Solutions Consultant (Wellness SaaS) | $90K-$150K | Indeed · LinkedIn |
| Wellness Tech Partnership Manager | $85K-$130K | Indeed · LinkedIn |
| Wellness Technology Product Manager | $100K-$170K | Indeed · LinkedIn |
Full sales cycle at a health tech company. You understand the buyer (gyms, studios, trainers) because you ARE one. AI skills help you demo products and personalize proposals.
Bridge between the sales team and the product. You demo the software, understand client needs, and translate fitness workflows into tech solutions.
Build relationships between fitness brands and tech platforms. Your industry network + AI skills = you can speak both languages.
LA is the wellness tech capital. These companies are building the future of fitness — and they need people who understand both the industry and AI.
| Company | What They Do | Why You Fit | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headspace | Meditation & mindfulness app | Wellness coaching background | Careers |
| Hyperice | Recovery tech & connected devices | Recovery is part of your training toolkit | Careers |
| EGYM / Fred Fitness | Smart fitness equipment | You use gym equipment every day | Careers |
| Xponential Fitness | Franchise fitness brands (Club Pilates, CycleBar) | Fitness industry insider knowledge | Careers |
| Tonal | AI-powered strength training | Strength training is your expertise | Careers |
| Therabody | Recovery & wellness devices (Theragun) | You use these products with clients | Careers |
Franchise fitness brands (Club Pilates, CycleBar) — Fitness industry insider
Google, Apple, IBM, Tesla, Amazon, Microsoft, Bank of America — all have officially dropped 4-year degree requirements for certain roles.
Skills-based hires are 30% more productive in their first six months. — McKinsey
Your LinkedIn is your storefront. Here's how to position yourself as someone who bridges fitness expertise and AI technology.
These prove you can bridge the gap between wellness expertise and technology.
Document how you used AI tools to improve your training business — faster program design, personalized check-ins at scale, data-driven progress tracking.
Show that you've automated repetitive tasks: client scheduling, check-in messages, data cleanup. Hiring managers love people who find efficiencies.
Stack fitness certs (ACE, NASM) with AI/tech certs (Google AI Essentials, HubSpot). The combo is rare and valuable.
Real results speak louder than resumes. Retention rates, client count, revenue — these prove you can manage relationships and deliver outcomes.
LinkedIn posts or short videos about AI in fitness. "How I use AI to write personalized check-ins for 20 clients in 10 minutes" — that kind of content gets noticed by recruiters.
Structured programs that get you hired. Most are free or paid to attend.