The global wellness industry is worth over three trillion dollars. One thing that has powered this industry through the Covid-19 pandemic is the increased use of virtual training software.
There are many benefits of virtual training. It allows clients the flexibility and convenience to work out whenever and wherever they want. If you're looking to increase your client retention and interaction, investing in a virtual training platform is a great way to do so.
But with so many options, how do you choose the virtual training software that's right for you and your clients? In this guide, we'll go over the features of the top ten gym software options available right now. At the end of this article, you'll be able to choose the best program for your fitness center.
What Makes Virtual Training Software Right for You?
There are a few key points you need to think about when choosing software for fitness centers. Consider what you want to use the software to accomplish, what exercise templates it includes, and what your budget is.
What Do You Want to Use the Virtual Training Software For?
The first thing to consider is what you want to use the software for. If you are looking exclusively for a virtual training platform, select a program that specializes in that.
Some software will also include fitness center management services so that you can keep all of your gym's operation on one platform. If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, look for software that offers a full spectrum of business services and integrations.
What Exercise Templates Does the Virtual Training Software Include?
Look into what exercises and training programs the software offers. Many will come with templates that you can use to program your own workouts.
Are you looking to specialize in strength training or sport-specific training? Find a platform that comes pre-loaded with templates for those kinds of workouts.
Planing with these templates allows you to better integrate your training regimes with the software. Pick an application that works with and not against your training style.
What Is Your Budget for Virtual Training Software?
It's also important to consider your budget when picking out software. Most virtual training solutions will offer 30 to 60 day free trials. Take advantage of these trials to test out the software and see if it works for you.
Some also offer money-back guarantees if you're unsatisfied with the product. Don't be afraid to take advantage of these and test out a few solutions until you find the right fit.
Top Ten Virtual Training Software
Now that you have an idea of what to look for, let's go over our picks for the top ten virtual training platforms in 2021.
1. Trainerize
Trainerize is a great choice for gyms that want to keep everything in one place. The software is clean, user-friendly, and has a wide array of integrations to keep all of your fitness center's services on one platform.
Trainerize works well for coaches who want to train clients both online and in person. It's also proven to help gym owners engage with and retain their members.
Some of their workout templates include traditional cardio or intervals, supersets, progressions, group training, and sport-specific conditioning. The app can also be integrated with Fitbit, YouTube, Skype, MyFitnessPal, PayPal, Stripe, and Shopify.
2. FlexIt
FlexIt brings something unique to the virtual training software scene. Customers can pay by the minute for workout sessions so they have control over exactly how much they spend on fitness.
FlexIt offers 30-minute, 45-minute, and 60-minute sessions. The more you buy at once, the more you save.
The app has a wide range of training programs that include high-intensity interval training (HIIT), strength, boxing, pilates, yoga, dance, barre, and athletic performance. What's more, none of their sessions require any equipment, so customers can get started right away
3. Virtuagym
Virtuagym is a platform that seamlessly blends both virtual training and fitness studio management software. The software comes with multiple dedicated apps for coaching, fitness, and nutrition.
You can use Virtuagym can automate your signup, memberships, scheduling, invoicing, and more. You can also use it to create workout plans for customers, share plans with them on their preferred devices, set fitness goals, and track their progress on the results achieved.
Virtuagym has an impressive range of exercises and activities in its virtual library. The community feature lets you share information, updates, and makes it easy to increase client engagement.
4. PT Distinction
PT Distinction is another great choice for coaches who focus on lifestyle and habit change. The software lets you incorporate nutrition coaching and create custom assessments for each client. If you want maximum control over the training process, this is a great option.
PT Distinction has novice, pro, and master plans so you can scale to suit your fitness center's needs. They also offer a full money-back guarantee if you don't make at least ten times the cost of your monthly subscription within six months. When it comes to comparing software costs, this company's money-back promise makes it one of the easier options to invest in.
Trainers that have less experience and tech skill might find the features and overall functionality overwhelming. But for seasoned trainers who want more control over the entire process, PTD could be a great fit.
5. My PT Hub
My PT Hub is another great platform for facility owners and coaches who want to combine online and in-person training. The software comes with a free 30-day trial and two plans that include custom branding of the app.
My PT Hub's database includes over 350 workout templates and more than 7,500 exercise videos. The program allows fitness center owners to add custom exercises and conduct group training sessions.
This software is a great choice for coaches who want to focus also on nutrition. Their database has more than 600 thousand food items that you can put into meal plans. It can also automatically create your client's shopping list.
6. TrueCoach
Previously known as FitBot, TrueCoach is a versatile platform that works great for online trainers with diverse clients. The exercise programs include scaling options so you can customize workouts for clients of different skill levels.
TrueCoach's database includes 900 exercise videos and has the option to add custom ones with YouTube or Vimeo links. You can also program workouts in advance and hide them from clients until they're ready for them.
7. TrainHeroic
One unique option for strength and conditioning coaches is TrainHeroic. The latest software features on this platform allow trainers who work with athletes to create a supportive and competitive environment.
The Big Screen Whiteboard is included with Pro and Elite plans and displays daily workouts for the team. The Big Screen Leaderboard lets everyone on the team view each athlete's results. These features are great for fostering a competitive yet supportive environment.
8. Exercise.com
Exercise.com is one of the older virtual training software. Its personal training programs have evolved over the years based on consumer feedback. Their current product works well for fitness center owners who offer in-person, online, and group training.
This platform gives you the gym software options to offer free workouts and group training. You can also create a WOD leaderboard if you offer daily workouts.
However, they don't make their pricing public, so comparing software costs between this platform and others isn't possible unless you book a demo.
9. TotalCoaching
TotalCoaching is ideal for trainers who offer meal plans and habit-based programs. The UI is incredibly user-friendly and is a great software for fitness centers new to virtual training.
The platform's library includes over a thousand 3D animated exercise videos. It also allows clients to record the exercise and physical activity they do outside your program.
TotalCoaching is also great for creating meal plans. The nutrition logging function includes more than 20 thousand food items with the option to add your own recipes.
10. Peloton Digital
Peloton is a big name in commercial gym equipment. Their new digital training platform allows customers to sprint, spin, or strength train under the guidance of Peloton's instructors.
This software is a great option for gyms looking to capitalize on partnering with a well-known brand. It's also perfect for fitness center owners who want to leave the actual training up to other professionals.
Clients don't need to invest in their own bike or treadmill because Peloton Digital's latest software features prioritize no-equipment-required workouts. You can browse through pre-recorded classes or join remotely to one of Peloton's live studio classes.
Chose the Best Virtual Training Software for Your Gym
When it comes to selecting the software for fitness centers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Fitness center owners have to consider the needs of their clients, their budget, and whether they want a platform exclusively for training or one that they can use to manage all of their gym's operations.
Covid-19 has made the benefits of virtual training clear. Virtual training software allows for unprecedented flexibility that lets clients work out whenever and wherever they want.
Now that you know the top ten virtual training platforms, you can make a smart choice about which one is right for your fitness center.
