Jan 3, 2024
Introduction
As an online fitness coach or personal trainer, providing clear and accessible workout programs to your clients is crucial for their success. With technology advancing, there are numerous ways to share these programs, each with its unique benefits and limitations. Here's a detailed look at five popular methods:
5 Ways to Share Workout Programs
1. PDF Documents
2. Excel Spreadsheets
3. Google Docs or Similar Online Service
4. Video Tutorials
5. Online Fitness Platforms
1. PDF Documents
Begin by creating your workout program using a word processor or specialized fitness software. Once complete, convert it to a PDF file. You can then easily distribute this file to your clients via email, cloud storage services like Dropbox, or through direct file transfer methods.
Pros:
- Universality: PDFs are widely used and can be opened on almost any device.
- Fixed Format: Your formatting and design stay intact, ensuring clients see the document as intended.
- Print-Friendly: Clients can easily print the document for offline use.
Cons:
- Lack of Interactivity: PDFs are static and don't allow clients to interact with the content (like entering data).
- Edit Restrictions: To make changes, you will have to send over another PDF.
2. Excel Spreadsheets
Leverage the power of Microsoft Excel or similar software to create a detailed, data-driven workout plan. This method is excellent for including specific exercises, reps, sets, and even progress tracking features. Share the spreadsheet via email or cloud platforms like Google Drive or OneDrive.
Pros:
- Customization and Tracking: Offers extensive options for customization and tracking progress.
- Interactive Features: Clients can input their data directly into the spreadsheet.
Cons:
- User-Friendly: Some clients may find Excel intimidating or complex.
- Inconsistent Formatting: Appears differently on various devices, especially mobile phones.
3. Google Docs or Similar Online Service
Process: Create the workout plan in a Google Doc, which is accessible and editable in real-time by both you and your client. Share a link to the document, allowing for easy access and collaboration.
Pros:
- Real-Time Updates: Both parties can make changes or notes as needed.
- Accessibility: Easy to access from any device with internet connectivity.
Cons:
- Formatting Limitations: Less robust in terms of design compared to specialized software.
- Internet Dependence: Requires a stable internet connection for access and editing.
4. Video Tutorials
Process: Create video tutorials demonstrating the exercises in your workout program. Share these videos via cloud storage, a private YouTube link, or other video platforms.
Pros:
- Clarity and Engagement: Videos provide a clear, visual guide, which can be more engaging and easier to follow than written instructions.
- Personalized Experience: Adds a personal touch, almost like a virtual personal training session.
Cons:
- Cannot make change: You will have to record a new video for changes
- Production Effort: Requires time and effort to create quality videos.
- File Size and Access: Large video files can be challenging to share and require good internet for streaming.
5. Online Fitness Platforms
Use a specialized fitness app / platforms. These tools allow you to create, manage, and assign personalized workout plans to clients. Your clients can access their plans via the app or website, often accompanied by supplementary features. HubFit for example allows you to have an exercise library and template of your programmes making it easy to create plans. Clients can also track their workout through the app which makes measuring progress much more easier.
Pros:
- Engagement: Highly interactive and engaging with progress tracking, reminders, and sometimes even gamification.
- Comprehensive Features: Many platforms offer instructional videos, diet tracking, and community support.
Cons:
- Accessibility: Both trainer and client must have the app or subscription.
- Technology: Some people don't like technology and prefer old school way.
Conclusion
Choosing the best method to share workout programs depends on factors like technology comfort level and the need for interactivity. HubFit stands out as an optimal choice, offering an easy-to-use interface and modern features for assembling programs. Its blend of user-friendliness and advanced capabilities like workout tracker and integrated video tutorials makes it ideal for all clients, ensuring effective support on their fitness journey.