As digital platforms continue to evolve, online fitness follows. New technological advancements in the fitness industry are altering people’s workout preferences and health and fitness goals. Accessing workouts online became popular during the pandemic as many were restricted to working out from the comfort of their home due to closed public gyms. While at-home workouts served their purpose, many still preferred working out in person with a gym community or a personal trainer. Both in-person and online workouts have advantages and disadvantages, while the decision often comes down to personal preference, goals, and circumstances. Integrating in-person and virtual workouts can be a perfect blend for someone who wants the social aspect of a gym community but also enjoys the flexibility of getting their workout in from home.
The Rise of Online Fitness Training
Online fitness—workout videos, fitness apps, live-streamed workout classes, and virtual fitness training programs, have significantly evolved in the last decade. Accessing fitness online was initially limited to forums, blogs, and static web pages offering essential workout advice and videos on Youtube. Since the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, at-home workouts have become many people’s preferred way of working out. Working out from home, whether through an online training program or TikTok tutorials from fitness influencers, has many benefits, especially for those who struggle with social anxiety or feel self-conscious in a public gym. Virtual fitness training can encourage someone to achieve the body and health they seek without the fees or stress of in-person training and gym memberships.
While virtual training can be beneficial, it can be difficult not having a professional to correct your form and hold you accountable while working out. Working out with a personal trainer in person offers social connections, motivational feedback, and support. Blending in-person and online workouts can be the perfect exercise regimen for those looking for the flexibility of virtual fitness and the personalization of in-person training.
The Benefits of a Blended Workout Plan: In-Person and Online Training
Blending in-person and online workouts offers a multifaceted approach to health and wellness, taking advantage of the strengths of both formats. Integrating face-to-face sessions with virtual workouts offers incomparable flexibility on your fitness journey. This hybrid model allows for a personalized fitness experience, with real-time feedback during in-person sessions, ensuring correct form and technique. Simultaneously, the convenience of online workouts facilitates consistency, allowing individuals to fit workouts into busy schedules or even when traveling. Working with a personal trainer, in-person and online, introduces clients to broader fitness trends and unique workout styles.
This combination is also a cost-effective way to be enrolled in a training program and receive expert advice and guidance from a fitness professional. While benefiting from hands-on guidance occasionally, clients can supplement their fitness routines with online resources for a fraction of the cost. For the social aspect, this combination fosters community engagement through group classes at the gym while catering to the days you don’t feel like leaving the house. A blended fitness training approach offers holistic benefits with an adaptable experience, ensuring individuals remain motivated and informed on their wellness journey.
Flexibility & Convenience
A blended workout program allows flexibility without tying you down to gym timings or locations. On days when you can’t make it to the gym or your preferred workout spot, an online workout is there to make sure you still get your training in. Working out from home allows for a more adaptable schedule, accommodating work commitments, long days, and unexpected life events.
Comprehensive Fitness Plan
Combining both fitness modes can provide a balanced routine while reaping daily exercise’s health benefits. For example, you might save weight training for days in the gym and follow an online yoga or pilates class at home. Working out from home or in person allows you to create your fitness routine according to your specific schedule. Online fitness trainers also enable access to a broader range of workout plans and styles. Many often feel self-conscious about trying new workouts in front of others for fear of doing it wrong or looking out of place, making at-home sessions the perfect opportunity to try any workout style you want.
Cost-Effective Fitness and Training
While gym memberships or personal training can be pricey, mixing in online workouts can provide cost savings. Fitness trainers that offer online training programs or a combination can be more cost-effective than a full-time gym membership with a personal trainer. Online fitness training provides the option for those seeking fitness advice and guidance from a professional but still wanting to save money.
Personalized Fitness Plan and Experience
In-person workout sessions with a personal trainer provide clients a personalized, one-on-one experience. Fitness trainers can give immediate feedback and guidance while working out, along with form correction and spotting when needed. Finding your workouts online allow for a broader range of fitness styles tailored to your mood, energy levels, or specific fitness goals for the day.
Consistency & Accountability
Working with a personal trainer, in-person or virtually, helps you stay consistent and accountable on your fitness journey. Scheduling in-person training sessions can be a commitment anchor as it ensures regularity and becomes a part of your daily routine. On the other hand, online workouts allow you to maintain your fitness routine even when you’re traveling, are short of time, or can’t access your regular facilities.
Social Interaction & Privacy Balance
In-person workouts offer social connections, which can be motivating and provide a sense of community. The social benefits of working out with a personal trainer or having a gym community include increased accountability, improved discipline, and interpersonal communication skills. Virtual workouts are the perfect option for those who prioritize their privacy and alone time for days when you’d prefer solitude or feel self-conscious. If your schedule gets too busy or you’re out of town, attending group fitness classes online can benefit those who enjoy social support when working out.
Access to Fitness Expertise
While local gyms might have expert trainers, online platforms provide access to professional fitness trainers with expert fitness advice and workout styles that might not be available at your local gym. Reaching your fitness goals without expert advice and guidance is possible but much more difficult. Fitness experts, such as personal trainers, provide tailored guidance and knowledge to help you achieve your health and fitness goals efficiently and safely. The ultimate goal of working out is to acquire holistic health—improving your mental, emotional, and physical well-being through regular exercise. Working with a personal trainer helps you discover and reach your health and fitness goals.
Adaptability to External Circumstances
Especially evident during unexpected events like the COVID-19 pandemic, having a blended workout routine means you can resort to the other when one option becomes inaccessible. Combining in-person and online workouts ensures you’re up to speed with new workout techniques and routines, encouraging continuous learning and growth on your fitness journey. Creating a blended workout plan offers the perfect balance of both in-person and online fitness. Whether you’re looking for structure or spontaneity, this adaptable approach to health and wellness caters to individual fitness needs and preferences.
AP Transform Fitness offers in-person and online fitness training sessions in New York City, NY. Contact us today if you’re ready to start your health and fitness journey!
References:
Mirror.co. 10 Social Benefits Of Exercising.
National Library of Medicine, 2021. Social reward and support effects on exercise experiences and performance: Evidence from parkrun.