Virtual Fitness Classes: Are They Worth It?

After the pandemic, there has been a notable rise in virtual classes of all kinds. They are popular and convenient options for learning and engaging in different activities from the comfort of your home.

However, virtual fitness classes feel different—are they just as effective without the in-person guidance of an instructor? Read ahead for a look at this new fitness trend, its benefits and downsides, and the secret to making them work for you.

 

How Do Virtual Fitness Classes Work?

 

The concept is exactly what you’d assume by the name: fitness instructors use video technology to dictate routines and programs to students from a distance and directly to their screens.

The exact technicalities depend on each class. For example, they could be live streams or pre-recorded sessions. Likewise, they can be directed to a general audience, interactive with a small class, or even personalised in 1-on-1 sessions. It will all depend on the options available, the instructor’s willingness, and whatever is most convenient to you.

The bottom line is that they are remote classes that allow you to receive instructions from fitness experts in the comfort of your home.

 

The Benefits of Virtual Fitness Classes

 

The rise in popularity of virtual fitness classes answers to their multiple benefits for those eager to improve their exercise routines. Naturally, most of them boil down to convenience.

 

1. It’s customisable

With virtual fitness classes, you can design your routines and style from zero and shape them any way you consider convenient.

In regular gyms, you’d be limited by the availability of machines and the expertise of the available instructors. With virtual classes, you can access a vast range of options and disciplines in multiple intensities. Your sessions can be as long or short as you’d like and can take place at any day or hour.

 

2. It’s flexible

If you have a busy schedule or an erratic day, virtual fitness classes give you the flexibility you need to commit to exercise without disregarding your other responsibilities.

Select the most convenient schedule for you and the length you desire. Sudden emergencies or plan changes are no issue since you can take your fitness lesson whenever and wherever possible.

 

3. It’s affordable

Subscriptions to virtual classes vary in price from very cheap to very expensive. However, the average virtual fitness class subscription is much more affordable than an average gym membership. Likewise, you can see a cost reduction in adjacent expenses such as gas or public transportation, babysitting, and more.

 

4. It’s time-efficient

Working out in the comfort of your own home reduces the time you spend on exercise.

For example, you no longer have to spend time driving back and forth, waiting for someone to free the equipment you need, or waking up at extremely early hours to get some work out before your job or school.

 

The Downsides of Virtual Fitness Classes

 

Although the benefits are plenty, there are always downsides worth considering if you aim to start virtual fitness classes.

 

1. Customised Attention May Be Hard

If your virtual fitness classes are pre-recorded, then your instructor won’t be able to give you direct feedback regarding your performance or form. If the classes are live, the instructor may still struggle to observe your form perfectly and help you correct mistakes.

 

2. Motivation Issues

Some people may struggle to remain focused and consistent with their virtual fitness classes without the commitment to an established schedule, the pressure of a community, or a lack of in-person instruction.

 

3. Equipment Shortage

Unlike a gym, the tools and equipment you have at your disposal depend entirely on what you own, rent, or purchase. Virtual fitness classes of disciplines such as yoga or HIIT may not need equipment, but many others you might be interested in doing need specialised settings.

 

Are Virtual Fitness Classes Effective?

 

Virtual fitness classes are not more or less effective than in-person options. Instead, you should see them as an alternative that suits the needs and style of certain people.

If you do not have a gym nearby, cannot afford the membership, or find making time for exercise outside your home complicated, virtual fitness classes are the most effective way to fulfil your exercise goals.

All you need to do is remain consistent and motivate yourself with rigorous dedication: create an appropriate workout space, commit to a certain number of hours per week, and push yourself to fulfil your goals. The result may be exactly what you hoped for—all without leaving your home.