With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the many technology and app-based fitness options available, getting started can be overwhelming.

In today’s world of instant gratification, those who want to get fit using professional expertise have two main options; either hire a Personal Trainer or Coach, or look for an online trainer or program.

Unlike the ‘good old days’ where you had to physically go to a gym, and get weighed and measured, today you can get your personalised workout and nutrition plan online without leaving the comfort of your home.

Both options have benefits and drawbacks; in this two-part series, we will start by exploring tech options, before looking at live and online personal training, so you can find the best solution for your needs.

Instead of going into a sometimes-intimidating gym environment, and having a well-meaning stranger taking intrusive measurements and noting down your stats, you enter your details into an app, take your own measurements (as accurately and honestly as you can) and communicate virtually.

While this option may work well for some, based on lifestyle and personal requirements, you still get the same service – personalised workouts, nutrition programs, progress tracking, motivational prompts, a huge library of workouts and other online support – albeit ‘virtually’.
Having offered ‘live’ training previously, I’ve found online coaching to be a good fit for me and many of my clients, but I appreciate it isn’t the best solution for everyone. Sometimes, a PT or gym with PT support is the better choice.

Online programs can lack the human touch

Increasingly popular workout apps, on-demand classes, custom-written programs and self-guided online programs that grew out of the pandemic, while affordable and convenient, often lack the human touch which can be the difference maker in an individual’s fitness journey and progress.

While these can be followed successfully, you need a lot of self-discipline to commit to following an app or online program, or to find the time for on-demand classes now that most people are ‘back to work’.

As with any fast-growing industry where revenue potential is high, big players such as Apple and Samsung, as well as new entrants to the Fitness and Wellbeing market, began investing heavily in apps and other wellness technology.

With tech-based training continuing to grow, we also see an increase in competition, causing some companies to behave in their own interests and not the paying public. Some of these companies make ridiculous claims, preying on the insecurities of trainers and potential clients alike, causing harm within the industry.

Without accountability to a coach, beginners who buy these types of programs rarely stick to them and often get injured, frustrated or disheartened when they don’t see results. They might jump from one program to another which, over time, can increase the cost significantly.
As a general rule, I’d only recommend tech-based fitness methods for intermediate to advanced people or those on a budget.