Some days the gym is just not where you want to be. Some days you simply can’t get to the gym. And some gyms don’t even offer the classes you want. These don’t have to be roadblocks on your path to fitness, though. With the rise of virtual training classes, you can take almost any class at any time from any place. Sounds amazing, right?
There are several websites out there that offer pre-filmed fitness classes for you to do in the comfort of your own home, but there are others that offer live classes from vetted trainers. You simply join the website, sign up for the classes you want, and tune in. Of course, with all technology, there’s always the chance of a glitch. It’s best to make sure you use the recommended browser and an up-to-date system when attending a virtual fitness class.
If you’re interested in trying out a virtual trainer, below are three of the best and most reliable to try.
2018 Update: Wello is no longer available.
Wello
For: A Wide Variety of Exercise Classes
When you sign up for Wello, you get access to a full catalog of workouts of all types. You select the kind of workout you want, including Pilates, yoga, strength training, martial arts, Zumba, and personal training, as well as the trainer and the day/time. As long as you have an internet connection and a webcam, then you’re all set to join your trainer and any other class participants. You all can see and hear each other as you go through the routine together, and your trainer can help you correct your form.
The best part is you don’t even have to have equipment. If you have some equipment, then great, but it’s not necessary. Your trainer will let you know how you can incorporate it ahead of time if you want to. If large group workouts with strangers isn’t your workout jam, then you’ll love the fact that Wello only allows a maximum of five participants, and you can get your friends to sign up with you so you’ll know everyone involved.
There are several different plans available for purchase in a range of price points, but there’s also a pay-as-you-go option if you’re a commitment-phobe.
Live Streaming Fitness
For: Families, Comprehensive Health Help
Live Streaming Fitness offers more than just live, virtual fitness classes. It also provides healthy recipes, healthy tips and tricks, and cooking shows for an incredibly affordable monthly price of $9.90. The membership is for the whole family, so it’s a really great option for couples and families who want to be healthy as a unit.
You can choose from several classes on the schedule. They offer just about every class you could want: Strength training, several types of yoga, tabata, multiple boot camp levels, family classes and even cycling. Live classes are offered Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In addition to live classes, there are also on-demand videos for you to choose from if you’re unable to tune in for a live class. These include kickboxing, Pilates, strength training, bootcamp, and even a kid’s class. It can also be accessed from your computer, tablet, and TV (if it has internet access), which makes it even more convenient to use when traveling or if your kids have taken over the computer.
Powhow
For: Dance, Yoga, and Other Artistic Hobbies
Through Powhow, you can take the typical fitness classes, plus yoga and dance classes, with celebrated trainers from around the world. However, it’s not only for fitness class. There are also music, makeup, meditation, and other types of classes available. You’ll have access to pre-recorded classes and live classes, some of which are live from actual studios, from anywhere with a strong internet connection. Powhow is particularly great if you enjoy dance fitness classes like belly dancing.
Dance and yoga classes make up the majority of what you can choose from, but there’s a wide range of classes available. I’ve found everything from beginner ballet to singing lessons, and there are also private lessons available for purchase. Keep in mind that it can be really expensive to just pay for classes as you go. It’s more affordable to find a trainer you like and do a monthly subscription to their classes.
When you join a live class through Powhow, you’ll be able to watch the instructor as well as the other class participants, which helps to create the sense of community and solidarity as you sweat it out.
If you find yourself traveling a lot, dissatisfied with your gym membership, or looking to add some variety to your workouts, try these virtual training platforms. Test each one out so you can determine which one best fits your needs.
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