Online PT is a great option for people who can’t commit to in-person sessions due to work, family or travel. However, not all online trainers are created equal.
Most online PTs will ask clients to complete PAR-Q forms or have an onboarding consultation before creating a bespoke programme. They will also offer a number of options for keeping their client accountable, including questionnaires or regular video check-ins.
Bespoke workouts
While some online personal trainers will recycle a template workout, Rachel goes the extra mile to create entirely new, bespoke plans that are tailored to each client. She takes into account everything from their current dietary habits to their long term goals and budget to produce a completely unique programme.
This approach is a good fit for PTs who want to deliver a high-quality virtual training experience. It also allows them to deliver longer classes or sessions in advance of a group PT session. This can be done either live, or by recording a workout and adding it to a Master Program (all clients subscribed to the Master will receive that workout).
To hold their clients accountable without regular face-to-face meetings, online PTs will often encourage clients to use specialist fitness tracking apps or nutritional software to monitor calorie intake, exercise sessions and other metrics. They will also offer regular, video check-ins with their clients to provide a sense of accountability and support.
Flexibility
If you’re looking to train clients from home, or if your client’s life commitments prevent them from travelling, online personal training offers you much more flexibility. In fact, provided you are offering a comprehensive online programme with regular check in sessions (via a PT app or Zoom), it’s possible to train clients anywhere in the world – as long as there is an internet connection!
Of course, different online PT services differ in terms of what they offer – and how they deliver it. But if you’re considering working online, or if you’re an experienced PT interested in online coaching, then make sure that whatever type of service you provide that you are providing your clients with all the information and guidance they need to carry out their workouts properly. This includes making sure that they understand the importance of the correct technique when performing certain exercises – and how this can impact their overall health.
Accountability
Online PTs will vary in how they offer accountability to their clients. Some may have a PAR-Q questionnaire or simply ask for a client to email their goals to them whilst others will get their clients to film their workouts, check in via video and give feedback. This will vary but as a trainer it is important to offer some form of accountability to help keep PT clients motivated and on track to reach their goals.
Value for money
The software is well-designed and offers a number of useful tools. It allows PTs to automate client management tasks and streamline communications with clients. It also offers an adherence chart and nutrition tracking features to increase accountability.
Moreover, PT Distinction provides an in-app chat function to nurture client relationships. This feature is a must-have for any PT who wants to manage one-on-one or group training sessions. It also includes a comprehensive library of coaching resources, including templates and exercises.
However, it may take some time to learn how to use all of the features of PT Distinction. For example, the results tracking template doesn’t come with presets, which can be frustrating for some PTs. Fortunately, this can be remedied by creating custom templates. PT Distinction can also be integrated into a website to provide a seamless client experience. This helps to maintain a level of privacy for clients. It also increases PT Distinction’s value for money by increasing client retention and loyalty.Pt Online