Training Gone Virtual

Should you go virtual? Here’s what to expect from a virtual session with your personal trainer.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all areas of life, including the world of fitness. Gyms shut down, and while many have reopened, there are all kinds of changes to protect people from the virus. Personal trainers were forced to rethink the way they work with clients, and many have developed ways of doing training online. Instead of being face to face or side by side, trainers are now meeting with their clients via a screen. While it may not be ideal, it’s better than nothing. Especially if it keeps you moving toward your goals.

If you’re unsure whether virtual training is something you’d benefit from, keep reading. It’s understandable if you’re hesitant to meet with your trainer online. But before you write it off and let your fitness goals go down the tubes, here are a few reasons why you may want to give virtual training a try.

Real-Life Goals

Even though you aren’t physically together, you and your trainer still have the same goal: your success. You may not have fancy gym equipment in your living room, but 2020 is about adapting to new norms, right? Let your trainer teach you new exercises tailored to your fitness abilities, walk you through proper form, and be there to cheer you on, all in the comfort of your own home.

Computerized Costs

Expect to pay about the same for a virtual session as in-person sessions. In most cases, sessions last between 30 minutes to an hour. Remember, you’re not paying your trainer for a location to work out. You pay for your trainer’s expertise, advice, and coaching abilities. As you know, you can’t put a price tag on one-on-one attention, accountability, and help reaching your fitness goals while reducing your risk of injury.

Virtually Adaptable

Virtual training sessions can be adapted to your fitness level, experience, goals, and available equipment. So don’t expect your workouts to get any easier. Your trainer knows you still want your workouts to be challenging and effective. So your trainer will do everything possible to meet your expectations. In the end, you may even find you prefer virtual training. No commute equals less time out of your busy schedule and more time to get fit!

Online Concerns

No equipment? A small space? Family at home? Don’t worry, your trainer has thought through potential hurdles and distractions and knows how to work around them. There are plenty of effective bodyweight exercises that don’t require special equipment. But if you’ve got a set of free weights, an exercise ball, or elastic bands, your trainer may choose to incorporate them into your workout.

As long as your space fits the length of your body, you should have enough room to exercise. You may need to move the coffee table out of the middle of the room, but once you do that, you’ll be good to go.

When other family members are home during your session, don’t freak out. Have a designated room in the home for exercise. If possible, have others stay out of the room during your training sessions so you can focus. Wireless headphones can further reduce distractions and tune out background noise.

Digital Downsides

Many people find their virtual training sessions take a little time getting used to, but they adapt just fine. Like anything done online, there’s always the risk of technical difficulties. A frozen screen or lost connection can make things awkward. Fight through these problems and keep moving. And be patient. With virtual sessions, your trainer loses the ability to offer hands-on corrections to form or technique. A little extra explaining may be needed, and don’t shy away from questions.