While more and more people are embracing online fitness training or coaching, others are still a little unsure about what it entails. But that’s where we come in! Here’s the 411 on online fitness training to help you decide whether it’s right for you.
What Is Online Fitness Training?
Online fitness training or coaching is a flexible way to reach your fitness goals on your watch. Instead of relying on someone else’s location and availability, you work out where and when it’s convenient for you. Every coach runs their program differently and utilizes different media tools, but most trainers offer fitness and nutrition guidance, detailed workout plans, and support via email, video sessions, and apps to track progress.
Who Benefits From Online Training?
You may particularly benefit from online training if:
- You’re looking for a coach with specific expertise.
- You live in a remote location with limited fitness resources.
- You are super busy.
- You travel a lot.
- You prefer to work out at home.
- You don’t want to spend traditional personal training money.
Who Should Opt Out of Online Training?
While online fitness training may be the answer for many people, it’s not for everybody. If you need an in-person appointment to stay accountable and motivated, an online coach may not be the answer for you.
Pros and Cons of an Online Fitness Trainer
If you’re still on the fence about online training, here is our list of pros and cons.
Pros:
Easily Accessible
The beauty of an online trainer is that you can choose anyone you want, no matter where they are. If you live in Maine, your trainer can live in California, no problem.
More Convenient
Finding time to work out can feel impossible, but with an online trainer, you have all the necessary information to exercise when you have the time. This is also convenient for trainers because they don’t have to be tied to a gym.
Privacy, Please
Online training is great for people who don’t want to work out in front of others and prefer the comfort of their own homes.
Services Provided
Online trainers offer a number of added services, such as nutrition plans, frequent check-ins, virtual fitness groups, pre-recorded workouts, and more.
Cons:
Are You New Here?
If you’re new to working out, online training may not be the best way to start. In-person trainers can better see your form and correct any errors, improving overall safety, and reducing the risk of injury.
ABC: Always Be Consistent
If someone is waiting for you at the gym, you’re less likely to cancel, but if your session is just a recorded video you’ll be watching, it’s a little easier to bail – which is why we recommend a live online trainer who will show up to your appointment the same time as you.
Unavailable Equipment
It’s possible to get in a good workout with little to no equipment, but there is a chance you won’t have the proper tools at home (like a spinning bike or treadmill) for the workout you want.
Much Ado
Unfortunately, working out at home can mean distractions! Before we know it, we’ve washed dishes, folded laundry, baked cookies, meal-prepped, or maybe napped when we could have been working out. But, this goes for heading out to the actual gym, too!
It’s up to you to stay motivated to see your fitness goals achieved.
Have you tried online fitness training? Share your experience with us in the comments below!