What to expect from Virtual Training
So you got the training package and scheduled your consultation with the personal trainer for a virtual training session, congratulations! Now, how to get the most out of it.
Virtual training brings in the one-on-one experience of a personal trainer with the convenience of staying at home to work out. With the proper camera setup and space, getting an effective workout can be fun and easy.
What you need:
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Web Camera or Cellphone
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Laptop or Cellphone
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Microphone
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Workout Mat
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Weights and Resistance Bands
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A space with enough room to set up your workout area.
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Furniture can be a plus for some exercises
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Anything else that may benefit you and your training
Setting up the Space
It doesn’t have to be too much. If you are able to spread your hands and feet out, you’ll have enough space, usually a yoga mat is a good marker. The important thing is to keep it clean and clutter-free when equipment is not in use. Have a spot like a rack or a piece of furniture to store the equipment and keep it out of the way. This is highly suggested for individuals with a higher fall risk.
Quick note on lighting – Be sure to have a good amount of light in the room, so the webcam can capture a higher quality video. Avoid being back lit if possible. That can lead to you just being a black outline.
Webcam or Phone Setup:
If space allows, keeping the camera a good range away so that the personal trainer can see you from head to toe is ideal. Consider using furniture, or a tripod to place your phone, webcam, or laptop on a stable surface and prevent it from falling over during the training. Test out the video in an empty call to see what your trainer sees, or even join a call with a friend or during the trainer consultation to get feedback for your setup. The more prepared you are, the less time you have to fiddle with it before meeting your trainer. More time for training!
Microphone
Most phones and laptops are already equipped with a microphone, but be sure to play around with the settings to get the cleanest sound, so your trainer can hear you. Other options include headphones or earbuds to be able to hear and speak clearer. Standing microphones can be a good investment for better sound without having something in your ears if that is a problem. Just be sure to keep your microphone away from speakers, this can create an audio loop that creates feedback, and can be hard on the ears with a loud screech.
Equipment
At Steady Step Fitness, we recommend a set of dumbbells and resistance bands, but we can certainly make anything work. There are even Do-It-Yourself weights that you can make that will be just as effective in a workout routine. Try to keep a water bottle close at hand for hydration. The aforementioned yoga mat gives you a space marker, but also makes sweat clean up easier after the workout.
Will I get an effective workout virtually?
Yes, with the help of a personal trainer, you can be just as effective in your virtual training routine compared to the gym.
Types of Virtual Training Formats
Trainer Designed and Led
– Based on your fitness goals and needs, the personal trainer will lead you through the exercises and coach you though the movements. No planning involved, just go and do.
Trainer Designed, client led
- Based on your fitness goals and needs, the personal trainer will put the whole plan together for you. Then you have the time to go over any questions or exercises to make sure you are doing them correctly. This can be helpful if there are some newer exercises that you want extra time to learn about. Whatever exercises you want to go over, it is your choice.
Improving previous Training Plans
- Go over an old plan and have the trainer review and offer tips to improve and polish so that you continue to make progress.