It wasn’t all that long ago, that most of us wouldn’t have even considered the possibility of online personal training.
But then along came this pesky little pandemic which has totally changed the way our world works, forever.
One of those changes has been how quickly we have adapted to the online world, for example:
- using QR codes to check in to venues;
- online shopping;
- Zoom meetings and Facebook lives.
While I had tentatively moved into the online personal training space with the launch of the Fit With Sally app, it really wasn’t the core of my business.
However I’m now finding my online personal training services are very much in demand!
The Pros of Online Personal Training
Work with the Best Personal Trainer for Your Needs: What if you’ve found the perfect personal trainer – one whose philosophies and values really resonate with you – but they live in another city or state? Online personal training means that it doesn’t matter where you live in Australia, you can work with the best body positive fitness coach (that’d be me!) in the nation!
Keep on Going even in Tough Times: The biggest benefit of online personal training is that even in the midst of lockdown, you can continue your regular workouts and benefit from the guidance and support of your PT virtually. Given that many of us are struggling with anxiety, isolation, loneliness and other side-effects of the pandemic, it’s never been more important to have a positive support person in your life to help you keep working towards your health and fitness goals!
It’s Personal: Unlike a Youtube video, it’s personalised! Your online PT can provide you with much needed motivation and accountability, as well as supervise and correct your form to ensure you are getting the most out of your exercises and reducing the risk of injury.
In the Comfort of your own Home: Does going to the gym make you feel anxious? You don’t like the idea of sweating it out in front of others? With an online PT, you don’t have to leave your own home. Work out in your backyard, your bedroom or the family room, no need for snazzy gym gear or even having a shower beforehand … I mean be real, why bother when you’re going to need one afterwards anyway?!
On a more serious note, online personal training is a great way to keep active and ensure this part of your own self-care, even if you are limited by a busy schedule, in a caring role, geographically isolated, or similar.
No Expensive Equipment Required: You can join a session with your smart phone, tablet or other device. Your online personal trainer can help you move and build your strength and fitness using the everyday items around you.
The Cons of Online Personal Training
While there are many advantages to online personal training, there are some limitations.
Rapport is Harder to Build: In counselling, it’s been proven that the relationship between therapist and client are crucial to achieving good outcomes.
I like to think that the rapport between personal trainer and client is similar, and it may be more of a challenge to develop that in the online space.
This is why it’s key to work with an online PT who has plenty of experience, and is someone you personally connect with. Someone you can share a laugh with!
Having worked with women like you for 15 years, I understand the importance of building positive relationships – something that is incredibly rewarding for both client and trainer.
Troubles with Technology: Tech doesn’t always play nice!
For example – how good is your internet? By its very nature, online personal training depends on having a good internet connection – if it’s not up to scratch, your workout may end up as an exercise in frustration.
Overall I think the pros far outweigh the cons. While online personal training may not have been our first option until recent world events, that doesn’t mean that it’s second best!
Sally McWilliam
Body Positive Fitness Professional and Self-Care coach!
Your local Personal Trainer if you live in Brisbane bayside or Redlands
