How Does Online Personal Training Work?

Ever noticed how online fitness is blowing up? From streaming workout classes to endless YouTube tutorials, it seems like everyone’s catching the virtual fitness wave. But beyond those generic programs, there’s a powerhouse approach to getting fit that’s taking center stage: online personal training! It’s not just a trend; it’s a game-changer.
So, what exactly is online personal training? Basically, it’s like having a personal trainer in your pocket, minus the awkward gym small talk. You get a customized workout plan, expert guidance, and consistent support, all delivered through digital platforms.

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Who Are Online Workouts For?

But who’s this online training gig actually for? Seriously, anyone can benefit from online training. Busy professionals who struggle to fit gym time into their hectic schedules? Check. Stay-at-home parents juggling kids and endless chores? Double-check. Travelers who want to stay on track while globetrotting? Triple-check! Even gym rats looking for a more personalized and cost-effective approach can level up their fitness game with an online coach. It’s a game changer, that’s for sure.
Are you curious about how to be an online personal trainer? It involves leveraging technology to connect with clients globally and deliver progressive fitness programs. This article will explore how you can provide customized fitness solutions using digital tools.
  • Busy Bees: If your schedule is jam-packed, online training lets you squeeze in workouts whenever, wherever.
  • Homebodies: Prefer the comfort of your living room over a crowded gym? Online training is your jam.
  • Budget-Conscious Fitness Fanatics: Often more affordable than in-person training, it gives you serious bang for your buck.
  • Those Seeking Personalized Attention: Don’t want to be just another face in a group class? Online training offers tailored guidance and support.

Online PT vs Traditional PT

In this article, we’re diving deep into the world of online personal training. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
  • How it works: From the initial consultation to tracking your progress, we’ll break down the entire process.
  • The tech you’ll need: We’ll explore the essential apps and tools that make online training a success.
  • What to expect from your workouts: We’ll discuss workout structure, form correction, and how your program will adapt as you get stronger.
  • How to stay motivated and accountable: We’ll share tips and tricks to keep you on track and crushing your goals.
  • The cost vs. the value: We’ll compare pricing models and help you decide if online personal training is the right investment for you.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how online personal training works and whether it’s the perfect way to achieve your fitness goals. If you’re thinking, “is online personal training worth it?” - we’ll help you decide. Let’s get to it!

How Online Personal Training Works

The first step is usually a virtual consultation. Think of it like a meet-and-greet, but online. You’ll chat with your trainer via video call or through a platform, to discuss your fitness goals, health history, and any limitations you might have. 
During the consultation, your trainer will ask about your past exercise experience, any injuries or medical conditions, and what you hope to achieve. Do you want to lose weight, build muscle, train for a marathon, or just feel better overall? Be honest and upfront about your goals and your current fitness level. The more information you provide, the better your trainer can tailor a program to your specific needs. Thinking about how to start personal training online? This initial consultation is a key first step!

Next up is setting some realistic goals. Your trainer will help you break down your big, audacious goals into smaller, more manageable steps. This is crucial for staying motivated and seeing progress along the way.
They’ll also review your health history to ensure that the training program is safe and appropriate for you. This is super important! Don’t skip this step or downplay any existing conditions. Your trainer needs to know if you have any limitations or concerns that might affect your training. If you’re considering how to become online personal trainer, remember this crucial safety aspect.

Finally, you’ll work together to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle. You get to pick the way you train – whatever works best for you, whether it’s Zoom or Skype private sessions like Mywowfit or the platform. How many days per week can you realistically commit to working out? What time of day works best for you? Do you prefer to workout at home or in a gym?

The Online Personal Training Journey

Initial Consultation: The first step in the journey is the consultation

Virtual Assessment Process: Get ready for a virtual meet-and-greet! Your trainer will likely use video conferencing to assess your current fitness level and movement patterns.

Goal Setting: What do you want to achieve? Weight loss? Strength gains? Improved endurance? Be clear, honest, and ambitious (but realistic!).

Health History Review: Your trainer needs to know about any past injuries, medical conditions, or limitations that might affect your training program. “The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends a thorough health history review as a crucial first step in any fitness program, especially when delivered remotely.” 1

  1. Initial consultation: It’s important to know you and find the best and most adapted routine for all those goals and needs
  2. Program Creation: You are the star here, so do not think that the workout routine is more important than you.
  3. Exercise Demonstration: See and discover where the moves that give you good things are.
  4. Progress Tracking: Let’s see what the real goals and how you are going to get there.
  5. Regular Check-ins: So you can get better everyday.

Program Delivery

Let’s talk about program delivery. Once the consultation is complete, your trainer will create a personalized training program just for you. This program will outline your workouts, exercises, sets, reps, and rest periods. The program is typically delivered through a training app or platform, making it easy to access your workouts anytime, anywhere. Think of it as your fitness bible, guiding you every step of the way. This demonstrates how to do online personal training.
These apps often include video demonstrations of each exercise, so you can see exactly how to perform them correctly. This is super helpful for preventing injuries and ensuring that you’re getting the most out of your workouts. You can review the videos as many times as you need to perfect your form.

Many platforms, including Mywowfit, also offer exercise tracking features. You can log your workouts, track your progress, and see how far you’ve come.
Training App Features: To find out the benefits of your choice! Let’s show a few points:
  • Video Demonstrations: Let your mind decide with a routine
  • Exercise Tracking: It’s all on the numbers, and the more you do, the more you get! 
  • Progress Monitoring: So you can see everything and make it worth it! It will give you the energy and focus you need for the rest of the journey.
Beyond standard training app features like video demonstrations and exercise tracking, Mywowfit offers the flexibility to connect with your trainer through private Zoom/Skype sessions. This personalized, real-time interaction allows for in-depth form correction and tailored guidance, complementing the convenience of the trainer-led workout plans and support provided via our app. Our app is a good fit for independent and flexible workouts. Video and tracking help with Interactive experience. And it is a great way on how to start online personal training. With Mywowfit, you get a truly comprehensive and supportive online fitness experience that empowers you to reach your goals.

Real accountability. Real consistency.

1-on-1 zoom session with online personal trainer

Technology and Tools

Online personal training relies heavily on technology, and there are a ton of great tools out there to make the process smooth and effective. Let’s break down the essentials:
  • Training Apps: These are the central hub for your online training experience. They’re usually packed with features like:
  • Workout Delivery: Access your personalized training plan, complete with exercises, sets, reps, and rest periods.
  • Exercise Library: Browse a library of exercise videos and descriptions to learn proper form.
  • Progress Tracking: Log your workouts, track your weight, measurements, and other metrics, and see your progress over time.
  • Communication: Communicate with your trainer via messaging, video chat, or email.
  • Video Platforms: Video calls are essential for form checks, real-time feedback, and building a strong relationship with your trainer. Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet are all popular options. This interactive element is key.
  • Progress Tracking Software: While many training apps have built-in progress tracking features, you can also use separate apps or spreadsheets to track your weight, measurements, and other metrics. This can be helpful for visualizing your progress and identifying areas where you might need to adjust your training.
  • Communication Tools: Staying in touch with your trainer is key to staying motivated and on track. Messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or even just good old-fashioned email can be used to ask questions, provide updates, and get support. If you’re wondering how to start online personal training, selecting the right tech stack is crucial.
A study in the Journal of Medical Internet Research indicated that fitness apps significantly improved physical activity levels compared to traditional methods. This makes your journey easier. 2
Here are those Essential Online Training Tools:

The Training Process

maximize effectiveness
  • Workout Structure: Your workouts will be structured based on your goals, fitness level, and available equipment. They might include a warm-up, strength training exercises, cardio, and a cool-down. The best of it, you can do it at your own pace. This offers a customized experience. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) emphasizes the importance of proper form and technique to prevent injuries and maximize effectiveness. 3
  • Exercise Demonstration: As mentioned earlier, video demonstrations are crucial for learning proper form. Your trainer may also provide written instructions or even create personalized videos just for you.
  • Form Correction: This is where the real magic happens! Your trainer will analyze your form during video calls and provide real-time feedback. They might use screen sharing to annotate your form or send you detailed written instructions. Good form is essential for preventing injuries and maximizing results. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and request clarification if you’re unsure about something. A good trainer will be patient and supportive, helping you perfect your technique.
  • Progress Tracking: As you work through your plan, logging your results and using the tracking features in your app will be super important.
  • Program Adjustments: Your training program is not set in stone. As you get stronger and more fit, your trainer will adjust the program to continue challenging you and helping you progress. This might involve increasing the weight you lift, adding reps or sets, or introducing new exercises. They’ll tweak it according to your progress. Is online personal training worth it? The ability to have a constantly adjusted program is a huge benefit. How to be an online fitness trainer involves constant monitoring and adapting.
Now that you have the routine created, that all requires you to continue to the journey! A study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that personalized training programs resulted in greater strength gains compared to generic programs. 4

Mywowfit takes it a step further, integrating both app-based workouts and live 1-on-1 Zoom or Skype sessions with certified trainers. The app allows you to follow your daily support progressive program, track your results, live online sessions provide personalized feedback and motivation from your trainer. This synergistic approach combines the convenience of remote training with the customized support you need to succeed.

Real accountability. Real consistency.

1-on-1 zoom session with online personal trainer

Results and Accountability

Let’s talk results! How do you know if your online training is actually working?
Progress Tracking Methods: Beyond weight and measurements, there are other ways to track your progress. You might take progress photos, track your strength gains (how much weight you can lift), or monitor your endurance (how long you can run or cycle). You can also track non-scale victories, such as feeling more energetic, sleeping better, or being able to fit into your favorite jeans.
Motivation Techniques: Staying motivated can be tough, especially when you’re working out at home. Here are a few tips to stay on track:
  • Set realistic goals: As mentioned earlier, breaking down your big goals into smaller, more manageable steps is key.
  • Find a workout buddy: Even if you’re training online, you can still connect with other people who are on a similar journey. Share your progress, offer encouragement, and hold each other accountable.
  • Reward yourself: Set small rewards for reaching milestones. This could be anything from a new workout outfit to a healthy meal at your favorite restaurant.
  • Mix it up: Don’t get stuck in a rut! Try new exercises, workout locations, or training styles to keep things interesting.
  • Remember your “why”: When you’re feeling unmotivated, take a moment to reflect on why you started training in the first place. What are your goals? What do you hope to achieve?
  • Support Systems: Your trainer is your primary source of support, but you can also build a support system outside of your training sessions. Talk to your friends and family about your goals and ask for their support. Join online fitness communities or forums to connect with other people who are on a similar journey. Remember, you’re not alone!
Leidon, Functional Training, Mywowfit
Finding someone who understands the long game is vital. If you’re looking for a trainer who can help you build sustainable habits and achieve lasting results, consider Leidon on Mywowfit. He gets that it’s not just about the workouts; it’s about understanding your “why,” setting realistic goals, and keeping things fresh. Leidon doesn’t just hand you a workout plan; he helps you build a progressive lifestyle. His approach combines customized training with genuine support, making him a fantastic choice for anyone ready to level up their fitness game.

Cost and Value

One of the biggest advantages of online personal training is its affordability. It’s typically much cheaper than in-person training because you’re not paying for gym space or the trainer’s travel time. Let’s break down some common pricing models.

Pricing Models

  • Basic: This usually includes a monthly training program with minimal support. You might get a new workout plan each month, but you won’t have regular check-ins or personalized feedback.
  • Standard: This includes a weekly check-in with your trainer, where you can ask questions, get feedback, and make adjustments to your program.
  • Premium: This includes daily support from your trainer, access to a private messaging group, and personalized video demonstrations.
This routine all helps you find the right way to achieve what you have always been longing.
Remember, this is all about building a healthier, happier you. And sometimes, the best investment you can make is in your own well-being.

Package Options

Many online trainers offer different package options to suit different budgets and needs. You might be able to choose from a monthly subscription, a 3-month package, or a 6-month package. The longer the commitment, the lower the monthly cost is likely to be.

Value Comparison

When comparing the cost of online personal training to in-person training, consider the following factors:
  • Gym membership fees: With online training, you don’t need to pay for a gym membership.
  • Travel time and costs: You can save time and money on commuting to and from the gym.
  • Trainer’s time: In-person trainers typically charge a higher hourly rate than online trainers.

ROI Discussion

Ultimately, the value of online personal training depends on your individual goals and needs. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, convenient, and personalized way to achieve your fitness goals, then online training can be a great investment. Is online personal training worth it? The answer is often yes, especially considering the flexibility and customized support. Just be sure to do your research and choose a qualified and experienced trainer. How does online coaching work effectively to provide this value?

Conclusion

Hopefully, now you’re feeling like a total pro, armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision about whether this fitness revolution is right for you. Look, the bottom line is this: life is hectic. Combining work, family, social life, and trying to find some “me time” can feel like a Herculean task. But your health and fitness shouldn’t be a casualty of your busy schedule. That’s where online personal training comes in clutch.
It’s not just about convenience; it’s about customization. It’s about having a dedicated expert in your corner, crafting a plan that’s tailor-made for your body, your goals, and your lifestyle. Forget those cookie-cutter gym programs that leave you feeling lost and uninspired. With online training, you’re getting a bespoke fitness experience that adapts and evolves as you do.
And let’s be real, the accountability factor is huge. Knowing that you have a check-in with your trainer, that someone is tracking your progress and cheering you on, can be the difference between crushing your goals and falling off the wagon. Plus, with the advancements in technology and platforms like Mywowfit, the interactive experience has never been better. You can get real-time feedback on your form, connect with other fitness enthusiasts, and access a wealth of resources right at your fingertips.
So, is online personal training worth it? We think so. It’s an investment in your health, your well-being, and your future. It’s about taking control of your fitness journey and making it work for you, not the other way around. Ditch the excuses, embrace the digital age, and get ready to unleash your inner beast!

Key Takeaways

Online Personal Training

Let’s break down the essential nuggets of wisdom we’ve gleaned from this epic journey:

  • Online Personal Training: Your Pocket-Sized Fitness Guru: It’s all about getting personalized fitness guidance from a certified trainer virtually, so you can ditch the gym and get fit from anywhere. How to be an online personal trainer involves making this remote connection effective.
  • Customization is Key: Say goodbye to generic workout plans. Online trainers create customized programs based on your goals, health history, and lifestyle.
  • Tech is Your Bestie: From training apps with video demos to progress trackers and communication tools, technology is your secret weapon for success. Platforms like Mywowfit bring it all together in one convenient place.
  • Form Matters: Don’t be a hero and risk injury! Online trainers provide real-time feedback on your form through video calls, ensuring you’re doing the exercises correctly.
  • Accountability is a Game Changer: Having a trainer to check in with, track your progress, and offer motivation can be the difference between success and failure.
  • It’s Affordable AF: Online personal training is generally much cheaper than in-person training, making it accessible to more people.
  • Results Speak Volumes: Track your progress using various methods (weight, measurements, photos, strength gains) to see how far you’ve come. Does personal training work? Track your results to find out!
  • Stay Motivated, Stay Consistent: Set realistic goals, find a workout buddy, reward yourself, mix things up, and remember your “why.”
  • The Choice is Yours: How to start personal training online begins with choosing the right training method for you through a systematic approach.

FAQ Section 

How effective is online personal training?
Online personal training can be incredibly effective, provided you find a qualified trainer and commit to the program. The key is consistency, open communication with your trainer, and a willingness to adapt as you progress. Also, a huge part of it is using a good tracking system like the one Mywowfit employs!

How does online PT coaching work?
It all starts with an initial consultation, where you discuss your goals, health history, and lifestyle with your trainer. Based on this, they create a personalized training program that is delivered through an app or platform. You’ll receive exercise instructions, video demonstrations, and regular feedback from your trainer.

What do you do as an online personal trainer?
An online personal trainer designs personalized workout programs, provides guidance on nutrition, offers motivation and support, and tracks your progress. They use technology to communicate with you, monitor your form, and adjust your program as needed.

What’s included in online personal training?
This varies depending on the package you choose, but it typically includes a personalized training program, access to an exercise library, regular check-ins with your trainer, progress tracking, and ongoing support. What is online coaching without personalized support? It’s like having a fitness BFF in your pocket!

  • Author:
    Lily Astretsova
    Medically reviewed by Maria Vasquez, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Coach with expertise in Functional Training and Running Coaching. CPR/AED certified for safe, effective workouts. Dedicated to helping you achieve strength, endurance, and optimal health.

References / Sources
  1. What are the Important ACSM Guidelines for Exercise? - certifystrong.com
  2. Determinants of Fitness App Usage and Moderating Impacts of Education-, Motivation-, and Gamification-Related App Features on Physical Activity Intentions: Cross-sectional Survey Study - jmir.org
  3. GUIDING PRINCPILES FOR BEST PRACTICES IN GERIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPY - aptageriatrics.org
  4. The Interference Effects of Training for Strength and Endurance Simultaneously - journals.lww.com
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Real accountability. Real consistency.

1-on-1 zoom session with online personal trainer

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