Online personal training vs in-person: which is right for you?

Choosing the best personal trainer format for your goals, lifestyle and motivation is vital. If you’re ready to work with a personal trainer but not sure whether to go online or in-person, you’re not alone. Both formats offer powerful benefits — and the right choice comes down to your lifestyle, personality, and how you prefer to train.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of online personal training vs in-person PT, and help you decide which one fits your goals best.

What is in-person personal training?

In-person training means you meet your trainer face-to-face at a gym, studio, outdoors, or even at home. These sessions are hands-on and guided in real time.

What it looks like:

• You and your trainer meet at a scheduled time

• Your trainer demonstrates exercises, corrects your form, and adjusts your session on the spot

• Ideal if you need accountability, motivation, or confidence with equipment

What is online personal training?

Online training is delivered digitally — either through pre-recorded programs, live video sessions (e.g. Zoom), or via a coaching app with regular check-ins. It’s highly flexible and often more affordable.

What it looks like:

• You follow a personalised program from anywhere

• Your trainer supports you remotely with messaging, video feedback, or live calls

• You train on your own time, at your own pace

Pros and cons: online vs in-person personal training

Let’s break it down:

In-person PT — Pros

• Real-time corrections to form and technique

• Greater accountability (your trainer’s physically there!)

• Hands-on motivation and support

• Great for beginners or anyone nervous in the gym

In-person PT — Cons

• Limited to your trainer’s location/schedule

• Higher cost per session

• Missed sessions = missed opportunities

Online PT — Pros

• Train anytime, anywhere — full flexibility

• Often more affordable than in-person

• Access to progress tracking, videos, and resources 24/7

• Great for self-motivated people or those with busy lives

Online PT — Cons

• Less hands-on technique correction

• Requires more self-discipline

• Internet or tech issues can sometimes interrupt live sessions

Which format is right for you?

Here’s how to decide:

Choose in-person if you:

• Are new to fitness or the gym environment

• Feel anxious training alone

• Want real-time support and feedback

• Need physical guidance for form, especially during rehab or recovery

Choose online if you:

• Have a busy schedule and want flexibility

• Are confident training solo but need structure

• Travel often or live far from your ideal trainer

• Want expert support without the in-person cost

Can you mix both?

Absolutely. Many trainers (myself included) offer hybrid coaching — a mix of in-person sessions for technique and form, with online support and programming between sessions.

This approach works especially well for:

• Clients recovering from injury

• Women balancing family, work, and fitness

• Athletes needing accountability but also independence

Final thoughts: the best trainer format is the one that fits your life

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and you don’t have to choose what’s trendy or popular. The best results come when you choose a training format that fits your goals, schedule, energy, and mindset.

With the right support — in-person or online — you’ll make real progress, feel stronger, and stay consistent.

Need help deciding?

I offer both in-person and online personal training, so you don’t have to compromise. Let’s chat about what works best for your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level.