Is Online Training Right for You?

In the middle of a pandemic, it may be better for your familial circumstance and your comfort level with doing things like going to the gym, even if it is a small and controlled environment. Beyond that, there are plenty more reasons that this might be the best option for you:It’s more affordable than in-person private trainingWhile having a personal trainer sounds nice, it can be shocking to see the price tag of meeting in person one on one as often as 2-3 times per week. Online training gives you the ability to have that one on one interaction (albeit not in person) and tailored programming without the hefty cost.You need significant flexibilityFor those of us who have very hectic schedules, it can be difficult to find a consistent time to get out to meet with a trainer. With online training, you have the ability to do the workout whenever you have the time. If you need five, 30 minute workouts a week - no problem. If you need three, 60 minute, fine. A good online trainer will make this fit within your lifestyle. You can do them from anywhere If you’re a travel buff in general or are always on business travel, this style of training makes it so that you can do your workout wherever you have a few feet of empty space. Whether it be in your hotel room, the hotel gym, or even outdoors, there’s no excuse not to get it done. CommunicationA good online personal trainer will be there every step of the way. If you are very new to training or exercise, having a guide that you can text or video chat whenever you need is a helpful resource to have Motivation and accountabilityWe all have those days where we really don’t want to workout at all and no one is motivated 100% of the time. A good online coach will be monitoring your activity, diet, etc., and will follow up if tasks aren’t completed. In addition, online trainers can bring that energy or words of encouragement that you might need to hear on an off day. ALL OF THAT SAID, there are certainly a few drawbacks to online training, so I don’t want to leave you without all the information you need in order to make the right decision for you. Here are the few I can think of:You don’t like to work out from homeIf you really can’t get in the mindset to workout from your own home, then perhaps you need an external location to travel to in order for you to see success.You struggle with self motivationWhile a personal trainer can follow up until their face turns blue, they can’t force you to workout - you have to make the decision to get started and to follow through. At the end of the day, you can just ignore them when they’re not right in front of you. Bottom line - know yourself! In order to be successful in achieving your goals, you need to set yourself up for success. While any good trainer will discuss with you how to put you in the right position to see progress, there are some out there that are just looking for a quick buck. If you’re the type of person that just needs to know what to do and you’ll get it done, this will be great. If you’re the type of person that has never really enjoyed exercise and need that face to face motivation, set schedules, and accountability, perhaps you need to make the investment in a personal trainer (and into yourself, really) so that you can see the results you want. I can help you with both and am happy to advise you on which route you should follow-- Whatever you do, I just want you to do it well.