The Truth About Online Coaching

When I first started coaching online, even I wondered: can it really work?

The answer became clear when I saw clients thriving from home—busy parents, shift workers, and anyone needing flexibility.

Online coaching isn’t just a trend; it’s a powerful, adaptable approach to fitness.

Why Online Coaching Works- Personalized Programs:

Your workouts are tailored to your goals, schedule, and equipment—no cookie-cutter plans here.

Real Accountability: You get regular check-ins, video feedback on your form, and ongoing support. You send me your workout videos, and I provide detailed feedback—just like in-person, but from anywhere.

Fits Real Life: No commute, no rigid schedule. Online coaching adapts to you, not the other way around.

The Research Studies show that online and remote coaching can be just as effective as in-person training for improving fitness, motivation, and adherence—especially when programs are personalized and communication is ongoing (Bennell et al., 2019; Hwang et al., 2017)[1][2].

When Is It Time to Switch from In-Person to Online Coaching?

Many of my clients start with in-person training and eventually transition to online coaching as their lives evolve. Here's how to know if it's time to make the switch:

✅ The Switch-to-Online Checklist

Consider online coaching if you:

☐ Have mastered basic movement patterns and feel confident with proper form

☐ Need more scheduling flexibility due to work, family, or travel

☐ Want to train more frequently than your in-person sessions allow

☐ Have reliable internet and a smartphone/computer for video calls

☐ Prefer training in your own space without commute time

☐ Are comfortable recording yourself for form feedback

☐ Have basic equipment at home or access to a gym

☐ Are self-motivated and can stick to a program independently

☐ Want to continue with your current coach but need more flexibility

When Is Online Coaching the Right Choice for You?

Online coaching isn't just for people switching from in-person—it might be perfect from the start if you:

✅ You're a busy parent or professional who struggles to find consistent gym time

✅ You travel frequently for work or have an unpredictable schedule

✅ You're a shift worker with non-traditional hours

✅ You want expert guidance but prefer training at home

✅ You're comfortable with technology and video communication

✅ You value flexibility over face-to-face interaction

✅ You're self-disciplined and can follow a program independently

✅ You want ongoing support without the constraints of scheduled appointments

Red Flags: When Online Coaching Might Not Be Right

• You're completely new to exercise and need hands-on guidance
• You have complex injuries or movement limitations requiring physical assessment
• You struggle with motivation and need in-person accountability
• You don't have reliable internet or are uncomfortable with technology
• You prefer immediate, real-time form corrections

The Bottom Line

The best coaching method is the one you'll actually stick with. Whether you start online, switch from in-person, or combine both approaches, consistency trumps perfection every time.

References: 1. Bennell, K.L., et al. (2019). Effectiveness of telehealth-delivered exercise programs. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 53(10), 656–664. 2. Hwang, R., et al. (2017). Home-based telerehabilitation is not inferior to a center-based program in patients with chronic heart failure: a randomized trial. Journal of Physiotherapy, 63(2), 101–107.