Very short version: Choose in-person training if you're a beginner or need hands-on motivation. Go for online coaching if you have an unpredictable schedule or are self-motivated.
If you've been curious about personal training but not sure whether to try the online route or meet someone in person, this guide should help.
Let's start with the quick breakdown based on how I work with my own clients:
Best for: Beginners, those with particular injuries, and people who struggle with self-motivation.
The Advantage: Immediate tactile feedback. I'm right there to let you know if something is off with your stance or posture, encourage you with my infamous "two more" when I know you have a couple more reps in the tank, and answer any questions you have on the spot. Also, lots of people have an easier time actually doing exercise when they have an appointment to keep, which is totally valid!
Best for: People with irregular schedules, lifters who are comfortable being a bit more autonomous with practicing form, and those who need more mental coaching than hands-on instruction.
The Advantage: Flexibility to hit the gym when it suits you (as opposed to fitting into my schedule), and cost-effectiveness. If you need some tweaks with your existing plan or if you're having a hard time with motivation, you'll get everything you need through online coaching.
Follow these steps to determine which model fits your current lifestyle and budget.
Ask yourself: Do I know how to perform the basic movements (squat, hinge, push, pull) safely without supervision?
If No: Start with 4-8 weeks of In-Person Training.
If Yes: You are a prime candidate for Online Coaching.
This doesn't mean if you're a total beginner you wouldn't be successful with online coaching alone. You just need to be comfortable trying things out on your own and know when to ask for help when you need it.
Do you have a predictable daily routine, or is your life a series of last-minute meetings and travel?
Predictable: You'll be less stressed out making and keeping appointments with your trainer -although I'm rather relaxed about this, I understand life happens suddenly sometimes ;)
Unpredictable: Online coaching allows you to train at 5:00 AM in a hotel gym or 9:00 PM at home without missing a session.
In-person training typically costs more because you are paying for dedicated time and attention from a professional. Online coaching is often a flat monthly fee that provides more total "access" to the trainer for a lower price per session. I try to make it easy for clients by listing my rates on my website, so it's easy to plan your training budget.
Do you need someone staring at you to make you work hard? Or do you just need a clear plan so you don't wander aimlessly around the gym?
Need a Push: Go In-Person.
Need a Plan: Go Online.
With either option, I'm here to talk you through not only matters of exercise, but the mental and emotional factors that can affect your training and diet.
Whatever style works for you, I'm here to support you however I can. For residents in the Santa Barbara area, come say hi, you know where to find me!
This article is general fitness information from its author, not medical advice. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise or nutrition program.
