Working out is not a hobby so much as it is a lifestyle. Over the years, personal trainers have been one of the most important resources for those just starting out in the exercise world or those that need a partner to hold them accountable as they learn to do it of their own accord. Nowadays, a new type of personal trainer is taking center stage – the virtual trainer. Saving you both time and money, these virtual trainers take what you have access to and transform it into a way to reach all of your personal health goals.
The Virtual Trainer
Through the aid of webcams, microphones and other virtual devices, computers are now gateways for personal trainers to assist you in your workout routine without ever requiring you to leave home. They are certified and agile enough to build a routine based not only on your preferences but also your goals. This technological adaptation also gives you the power to seek out renowned trainers from any part of the world that would otherwise have been inaccessible to you. As with all trainers, however, be sure to do some research. Along with such ease of access comes those that are not qualified and reputable could cause you serious injury. Protect yourself through knowledge.
The Inner Workings
At the heart, many gyms generally offer standard workout options for both individuals and groups. Virtual training has taken this aspect and adapted it to best be used by those at home, making the process familiar and therefore a lot less intimidating. For personal sessions, it is completely up to you as to what you want the sessions to be focused around. Know what types of exercise you like, how long you have to dedicate to it as well as addressing any of your physical limitations. The trainer you work with will take everything you tell them into consideration and build you a routine based around your ultimate fitness goals.
Group classes are a bit different and appeal more to the socially-friendly exerciser. For many, there is one instructor leading the group with an already decided routine of yoga, aerobics or anything else. Simply sign up for a spot. During the class, everyone who has a video camera they leave on will be visible to each other and the instructor, building a sense of community as well as allowing the instructor to aid individuals in their form. Normally, you are not forced to leave the camera on, giving you the option of privacy.
The Purpose
Ahead of everything else is the money it saves you. By not using the gym’s building and equipment, the personal trainers can charge less. By not having to drive to a gym, you are saving gas money. By not having to use a gym, you get to avoid all gym memberships and only pay for what you need. The technology is also very inexpensive. Most video conference programs, and especially the more popular ones like Skype, are absolutely free and come with apps for the phone or tablet, often negating the need to purchase a webcam. However, if it turns out you do need one, most rarely go above $15 with some of the low end cams costing less than $10.
Secondly, time. We talked with WellFit You Personal Training, who explained that stay at home moms are some of the most avid users. They said, “Stay at home moms rarely have time to head out for over an hour to work out. It gives them access to a means of staying healthy without having to waste time travelling to and from a gym.” Along with this comes the ability to stay indoors when the weather is at its worse. Many do not live in tropical climates and facing the bitter cold is not appealing, especially after the sun has set. This makes it one of the most convenient methods of getting to exercise, negating everyone’s excuses as to why they couldn’t go to the gym.
Resources
- Reuters. (2014, August 5). Fitness Websites Aim To Provide Social Support As Well As Workouts. Retrieved from Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/24/fitness-websites-social-support-workouts_n_4846559.html
- Tao, D. (2014, August 5). Four Digital Trends Redefining Fitness in 2014. Retrieved from Forbes: http://www.forbes.com/sites/davidtao/2014/02/06/four-digital-trends-redefining-fitness-in-2014/
