In the world of fitness, everyone’s looking for the secret to faster results. Whether you’re trying to build muscle, lose fat, or just stay consistent with your workouts, the question remains: what’s the best way to get there?
With the rise of technology, we now have more options than ever to help us reach our goals, including online personal training. But how does it stack up against the classic in-person workout at the gym?
I've helped people with both methods for years now. In this post, we’re going to break down the differences between online and in-person training and dive into which one can actually help you achieve faster results.
What to expect from in person training
When you think of personal training, the first image that probably pops into your head is a trainer standing next to you at the gym, guiding you through your workout. That’s the classic in-person experience, and it has a lot going for it, especially if you enjoy being around people.
With in-person training, you get real-time feedback from a pro who’s watching every move you make. They can correct your form instantly, adjust your workout on the fly if you need it and answer any questions you may have in real time. This hands-on approach is great for people who like the accountability that comes from physically showing up at the gym and having someone there to push them when things get tough.
But there are some downsides to consider.
First off, in-person training can be pricey. You’re paying for one-on-one time, and that can add up quickly, especially if you workout a lot. You’re also tied to their schedule—if your trainer is booked solid or your work hours are all over the place, it might be tricky to find a time that works. Plus, if you travel a lot or just have a busy life in general, sticking to a consistent routine might be harder with in-person sessions.
So, while in-person training offers that personal connection and immediate feedback, it may not always be the most convenient or cost-effective option for everyone. Still, if you need that extra push or prefer having someone guide you step-by-step in the gym, this could be a great fit for you!
The rise of online personal training
I remember when I first saw other trainers doing online training around 2013. It's only gotten more popular ever since.
With the convenience of working out anywhere, anytime, it’s easy to see why. Instead of being tied to a gym or a set schedule, online training lets you work with a professional trainer through apps, like Trainerize and video calls from the comfort of your home (or wherever you are).
Whether you’re travelling, working late, or just prefer exercising in your living room, online personal training gives you the freedom to train on your terms.
One of the biggest perks? Flexibility. You’re no longer limited by your trainer’s schedule or location.
Want to squeeze in a workout at 6 a.m. before work? No problem. Prefer to hit the gym late at night after the kids are asleep? Online training makes that possible. This flexibility often leads to better consistency because you fit workouts into your life without needing to rearrange your day.
Plus, online personal training opens the door to more options. Instead of being limited to local trainers, you can connect with fitness coaches from around the world who specialize in exactly what you need—whether it’s strength training, fat loss, or injury rehab.
You also get access to digital tools like workout tracking apps, progress monitoring, and video demonstrations to guide you through exercises, which can be a game-changer for staying on top of your goals.
Of course, there are some trade-offs. The biggest downside is the lack of real-time feedback. If your form is off, you may not get those instant corrections that an in-person trainer can provide. And while some online trainers offer live virtual sessions, it’s not quite the same as having someone there in the room with you.
There’s also a higher level of self-motivation needed with online training. No one is standing over your shoulder, you need to stay disciplined to follow the plan and push yourself through the tough workouts.
That said, if you value flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and access to a wider range of expertise, online personal training can be an excellent option for getting results—especially for people who are already comfortable in the gym or those who prefer a more independent approach.
Which Method Delivers Faster Results?
So, which one actually helps you achieve faster results—online or in-person personal training? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think. It really depends on a few key factors that can make or break your progress.
1. Personalization and Program Adherence
In-person training offers the advantage of immediate customization. Trainers can adjust your program on the spot based on your daily performance, energy levels, or progress.
This level of responsiveness can be a game-changer if you need close guidance.
Even though a good online fitness coach will make you a terrific personalized training plan, it will take a little longer for them to adjust it as needed.
A good program should not vary too much, but tweaking it here and there can be the difference between adhering to it in the long term and wanting to program hop.
2. Accountability
Accountability is where in-person trainers often shine. Having someone physically there—watching, encouraging, and pushing you—can give you that extra boost, especially on days when motivation is low.
You will work out harder when a trainer is watching you, guaranteed.
For some people, knowing that their trainer is waiting for them at the gym can be the key to showing up consistently.
On the other hand, online training isn’t totally lacking in accountability. Many online trainers use regular check-ins, progress tracking, and messaging apps to stay connected with clients.
If you’re disciplined and motivated, the constant access to your online coach can keep you on track just as effectively.
3. Feedback and Technique
One of the biggest advantages of in-person training is the instant feedback on your form and technique.
If you’re lifting weights or trying to perfect a new exercise, having someone there to correct your form in real time can prevent injury and will help you improve faster.
Online trainers may use video analysis or live sessions to give feedback, but it’s not as immediate or hands-on.
However, if you’re already experienced and confident in your technique, this may not be a deal-breaker, and online training could still deliver results just as quickly.
4. Convenience and Consistency
Consistency is the secret to seeing results, and this is where online training often has the upper hand.
Since you can work out wherever and whenever there are fewer barriers to sticking with your routine.
With in-person training, you’re tied to your trainer’s schedule and the gym’s location, which can sometimes make it harder to stay consistent. For people with unpredictable schedules or frequent travel, online training might help you stay on track more reliably, leading to faster progress over time.
So, What’s the Verdict?
Both online and in-person training can deliver fast results, but it depends on your personality and lifestyle.
If you thrive on structure, need real-time guidance, and benefit from face-to-face motivation, in-person training might help you progress faster.
On the flip side, if you value flexibility, are comfortable working independently, and need a plan that fits your life, online training can be just as effective—if not more so—at keeping you consistent and moving toward your goals.
I've worked with both beginners and advanced trainees online. They both found value in it. The advanced clients enjoyed the freedom it gave them, and the beginners enjoyed the lower price point.
Comparing pricing
A huge difference between in person and online training is their cost.
On average, one session with a personal trainer in a gym can range from 60$ - 120$. The trainer's experience and availability will often dictate those prices.
Let's assume you go see your trainer twice a week, which is the minimum I recommend to see results. This is a monthly bill ranging from 480$ - 960$
Compare this with online training where a whole month can range from 100$ - 600$.
You can even find cheaper than that, but from what I've seen you won't be getting a whole of personalization.
Trainers can offer a multitude of options with online training so that's why you'll see prices vary a lot.
For example, I offer (shameless plug incoming) two online options:
A 200$ one in which you get a personalized training plan with video demo, form feedback and unlimited text communication
A 600$ one which also includes habit and nutrition guidance, recipe ideas, grocery shopping list making, a weekly video check in, and a one hour virtual workout on Zoom each month
Online training has the advantage of being much more affordable than seeing a regular personal trainer.
Hybrid training
Hybrid training is a mix of online and in person training. It offers all of the advantages of both methods of training.
With hybrid training, you see your trainer however many times you want, and he also creates an online training plan for you.
When I used to work out of a physical gym I had a few clients like this. They would come see me once or twice a month in person. We would focus on technique, and do all the heavy lifting stuff together.
They would also have access to the Trainerize app all month where they could follow the rest of their training plan.
Conclusion
When it comes to achieving faster results, both online and in-person personal training have their own set of advantages.
If you thrive on structure, real-time feedback, and face-to-face accountability, in-person training might be the way to go. On the other hand, if flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness are more important to you, online coaching can deliver results just as effectively—especially if you’re self-motivated and comfortable following a program on your own.
You can also choose hybrid training as long as you can go see your trainer once or twice a month. This style of training combines the advantages of both online and in person.
At the end of the day, the “faster” method is the one that fits best with your lifestyle and keeps you consistent. Whether you’re working out in the gym with a trainer or crushing your goals with a virtual coach, the key is finding a routine you can stick to in the long run.
Both options have the potential to help you hit your goals—it’s just a matter of choosing what works for you.
So, which will you choose? The power to shape your fitness journey is in your hands!
Clem
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