When gyms and fitness studios shut down across the nation and many were stuck at home in 2020, the internet was overflowing with free workouts streaming live throughout the day. With a smartphone and a wifi signal, you could workout with the pros in your living room for free! The convenience of at-home fitness had never been more accessible.
Traditional gym exercises don't work for everybody, and that's when online fitness programs can be the perfect bridge between staying at home and joining a class. Virtual fitness programs offer classes from top-rated professional trainers from the comfort of your living room and provide the chance to sample classes. You can try HIIT (high-intensity interval training), Zumba, and other fun workouts that your gym or studio might not offer, or maintain a connection to a program you already love but don’t have access to anymore.
And, in days of distancing, having a workout buddy, even just on your computer screen or TV, can go a long way. Great workouts can still be found for free on YouTube, but if you’re thinking about spending money on a membership to an online fitness subscription, here’s how to know you are choosing the right one for you.
Step 1: Know Your Goal and Preferences
What kind of exercises do you want to do, and what is the outcome you want to achieve? Your Wellview Health Advisor can help you identify the goals for your exercise program, whether you are focused on weight loss, strength training, more energy, or general health.
Consider which workouts you have most enjoyed in the past. Fitness subscriptions will make a lot of promises about the results you may get from completing the workouts, but if you don’t enjoy the activities, logging in will feel like more of a chore. Go to where you have fun!
Step 2: Look for a Free Trial and Avoid Hidden Costs
Some subscription programs offer a low membership fee, but then require special equipment or only offer a selection of classes and require an additional payment for more. A free trial will let you try the workouts, explore what is offered, and discover whether you have everything you need to take full advantage of the program you pay for.
Step 3: Connect with Community
When you are exercising at home, having connection to others who are also using the same program can build camaraderie, connection, and inspire you to achieve greater levels of fitness. Many subscription programs include user groups on social media where you can be part of a community of like-minded people. Get the full experience!
Step 4: Consider Your Environment
A solid exercise program is portable, versatile, and easily modified for your fitness level, limitations, and needs. Does your chosen program require a wifi signal or can you download workouts to view later? Do you need a dedicated space for exercise, or can you do the workouts when traveling for work? Consider when and where you will be when it is time for your workout, and if the program you are choosing meets those needs.
Exercise does more than burn calories. It strengthens bones and muscles, builds confidence, increases happiness and decreases stress, and provides an outlet for creativity. Thankfully, it’s now more accessible and easier than ever to incorporate exercise and movement into your day, wherever you are. Ask your Wellview Health Advisor for guidance in finding the just-right program for you.
Click HERE to learn more about the Wellview services available to you. We can’t wait to work with you!
Heather Fuselier, CHWC, CFP, TTS
Health Advisor | Email Heather
