Do Online Fitness Programs Really Work?

You may have noticed the sudden surge of Online Personal Training – think Kayla Itsines, Joe Wicks and hundreds of others popping up around the globe. This form of training can differ depending on the provider, but usually online training offers a program over a period of 4-12 weeks, some of which are personalised, others it may be generic.

There are both pros and cons with the use of Online PT, and depending your personal preferences, it may work.

Why Online PT May Work for You:

Train on your time

it is not always easy trying to match your diary up with you trainers, but with Online PT, you can train when you want.

Accountability

Although not quite as accountable as seeing a personal trainer, Online PT can allow you to log workouts, message and potential video call your trainer.

Cost effective

As you would see your trainer less when using Online PT, the price is typically lower.

Train wherever you want

Online PT’s can develop a program based on the equipment you have at your disposal, meaning you can train wherever you feel the most comfortable.

Lowers the barriers of starting

Gyms can sometimes be an intimidating place to go to, therefore using an Online PT can often allow you to speak to someone without entering this environment.

Why Online PT May Not Work for You:

Exercises tend to be less accurate for you

Trainers often build exercises based on your biomechanics, skills and goals. However, due to the complexity in exercise choice and description, it is often easier when writing an online program to put a simpler, less specific exercise into the program.

Online PT’s can’t help change behaviours

The major benefit to having a personal trainer is that trainers can help you talk through barriers, and give strategies to help achieve your goals. As you may only speak to an Online Trainer monthly (or often not at all), it is difficult to learn behaviour change strategies.

Disconnected from your trainer

The rapport with your trainer is key to building a sustainable exercise regime. Online training does not allow for a relationship to be built between you and your trainer.

What to Look for in an Online PT

Online PT can certainly work for many individuals, particularly if you are self-motivated and need both support and direction. If you are looking to achieve your goals through using an Online PT, be sure to look out for these attributes:

1. Qualifications – the Fitness Industry is a fairly unregulated industry, with many companies and trainers handing out programs, with very little qualifications. Look out for trainers with tertiary qualifications in health and exercise science to help you get the best results safely and effectively.
2. Specific Programs – ensure you get a program that is specific to you and your goals. Generic programs may work, but they do not take into account a number of things that are specific to you, e.g. your sleep patterns, stress levels, nutrition, energy levels and preferences.
3. Support – Look for a trainer that offers more than just a program. It may cost a bit more to talk to a trainer periodically, but that information that you pass across is incredibly vital to not only your program, but strategies to reach your goal.

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