Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it by the sign-in sheet at donation-based or outdoor classes. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
Tips are not really part of your trade, but clients do ask how to thank you, and free or donation-based classes need a way to take contributions from people who came out in gym kit with only a phone.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where personal trainers and fitness instructors put the code
- By the sign-in sheet at donation-based or outdoor classes.
- On a small stand in your studio space.
- In your end-of-year message to clients.
- In your social bio, for people who follow your free workouts.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Class is free. If it helped, you can chip in here. Scan to tip.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
At the end of a free class: "That is us. The class runs on contributions. The code is by the door if you would like to."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code. If you work at a gym, check its policy on gratuities first.
What customers usually tip a personal trainer
Personal trainers are not tipped per session. A holiday tip or gift worth about one session is the custom for a regular trainer.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Regular trainer, at the holidays | About the cost of one session |
| One-off session or class | Nothing expected |
| Trainer who got you through a big goal | $50 to $100, or a gift |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a personal trainer without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a personal trainer put a tip QR code?
By the sign-in sheet at donation-based or outdoor classes. On a small stand in your studio space.
What should a personal trainer's tip sign say?
Try: "Class is free. If it helped, you can chip in here. Scan to tip." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code. If you work at a gym, check its policy on gratuities first.