Are Online Personal Trainers Worth It?

In recent years, the fitness world has experienced a significant shift. As technology advances, more people are turning to online personal trainers to help them achieve their fitness goals. This trend has only accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many gyms to close and led people to seek alternatives for maintaining their health and fitness. But are online personal trainers really worth it? 

Online personal training is becoming increasingly popular, offering a way to work out anywhere and everywhere, whether in your living room, backyard, or a hotel room while traveling! With a quick click of a button, you can have a tailored workout plan, nutritional guidance, and regular check-ins with a certified professional. This can be a huge advantage for those with busy schedules or those who prefer the privacy of their own homes over a crowded gym. 

One of the biggest perks of online personal training is that you can work out on your own schedule. There’s no need to race to the gym after work or fit your life around a set class time. This makes it easier to fit exercise into your busy life, especially if you have a crazy work schedule or you’re a parent juggling a million things at once. 

 

Online personal training is often more affordable than in-person sessions, making it a great option if you're on a budget but still want expert guidance. Many online trainers offer various packages to fit different budgets, so you can find something that works for you without breaking the bank. 

 

When you train online, you can tap into a wealth of expertise from professionals all over the world. Want to try something niche, like a special yoga style or a specific kind of strength training? You’re likely to find an online trainer who specialises in exactly that. 

 

Many online personal trainers offer regular check-ins and support through messaging or video calls. This can help keep you accountable and motivated, even on days when you’d rather skip your workout. Knowing that someone is tracking your progress can be a powerful motivator. 

One of the downsides of online training is that there’s no one right there to correct your form. Proper form is important to prevent injuries and ensure you’re getting the most out of your workout. A real-life personal trainer can observe you in real-time, making instant corrections to your posture and technique. 

 

Poor form is a common issue, especially for beginners. For example, if you’re doing a deadlift and your back is rounded, a physical trainer would be able to correct your stance on the spot, potentially saving you from significant back pain or injury down the line. 

 

Communicating online can be tricky. Describing or demonstrating an exercise via text or video may not be as clear as in person. You might miss subtle cues that a trainer would notice instantly if they were physically present. Following a video might not pick up all the small differences, leading to misunderstandings about how an exercise should be performed. Plus, some people just may find it hard to learn from videos and would benefit more from in-person corrections. 

 

Tech issues can also be a problem. Imagine trying to follow a workout video only for your internet to lag at a key moment. A bad connection might result in choppy video feeds, making it difficult to follow along with your trainer's instructions. 

Finding the right online personal trainer is so important. Not all trainers are created equal, and it’s essential to do your research. Look for trainers with credible certifications and positive reviews from clients. It can also be beneficial to find a trainer who specialises in your particular fitness goals, whether that's weight loss, muscle gain, or improving flexibility. 

 

For some, a mix of online and in-person training is the best option. This could involve meeting with a local trainer occasionally to ensure your form is correct while using online sessions to maintain consistency and motivation. This balance allows you to benefit from both the expertise and the personalised attention of in-person sessions. 

 

If you choose to work with an online trainer, prioritise learning and maintaining proper form. Take advantage of video calls to show your form to your trainer and ask for feedback. Many online platforms offer features that allow you to upload videos of your workouts for review, so make use of these tools. 

 

Communication is key in an online training relationship. Be honest about your capabilities, limitations, and any discomfort you experience. The more information you provide your trainer, the better they can tailor your program to suit your needs. 

One of the biggest advantages of any training program, whether online or in-person, is the transition from doing nothing to doing something. Regular physical activity is crucial for overall health, and having a structured program can help you stay on track. 

 

Online personal trainers can be a valuable resource in achieving this consistency. With their guidance and support, you can progress at your own pace while still being held accountable for your actions. This accountability can be the difference between giving up and pushing through challenging times.