Loading...

Please wait ...

Find an online personal trainer

bark profile image

Alex, Staff Writer

Friday, 5 February 2021

Last updated: 15 September 2025

Need help finding an online personal trainer?

First time looking for an online PT and not sure where to start? Tell us about your fitness goals and we’ll send you a list of virtual personal trainers to review. There’s no pressure to hire, so you can compare profiles, read previous reviews and ask for more information before you make your decision. 

Best of all - it’s completely free!

How to find an online personal trainer

What is online personal training? 

Let’s face it - we live in an online world. Whether it’s working, socialising or studying, we’ve proven that it can all be done from the comfort of our own homes. Why can’t we do it with personal training too? 

Online personal trainers deliver workouts on a phone, laptop, or tablet. Like face-to-face personal training, workouts are tailored to help you achieve your goals, the only difference being you can exercise from wherever you want - and usually at a lower price than gym membership fees. All you need is a webcam and a stable internet connection, and you’re good to go! 

How does online personal training work?

Online Personal Training

Getting started with an online personal trainer is a straightforward and flexible process designed to fit your preferences. Once you have reviewed profiles and selected a trainer, you can connect directly via email or phone to discuss your goals and decide on the best format for your classes.

There are a variety online platforms tools available to facilitate online training sessions. Some of the most popular include:

  • Skype

  • Google Hangout

  • Zoom

  • Microsoft Teams

  • Whatsapp Video Call

How much does an online PT cost?

Online personal trainers are often cheaper that face-to-face coaches. The cost per session varies widely, starting from approximately £15 and potentially exceeding £70 per hour. The price is largely determined by how often you want to train, your personal trainer's qualifications and experience, the volume of communication or "check-ins," and the inclusion of any additional services like nutrition coaching.

Is online personal training the right option for you?

Online personal training

Online personal training is perfect fit for anyone who needs flexibility. This includes busy parents, frequent travellers, and professionals working long hours. It's also a fantastic alternative for those who dislike the gym atmosphere or live in remote areas where fitness options are limited.

What are the main advantages on virtual coaching?

  1. Convenience: Work out from home and eliminate travel time. Your sessions are scheduled around your life, giving you the freedom to train when it truly works for you.

  2. Affordability: Online training is typically more cost-effective than face-to-face sessions. You avoid paying for the trainer's travel and can say goodbye to gym membership fees, making expert guidance more accessible.

  3. Choice of Trainers: Break down geographical barriers and find the ideal coach for your unique goals. You can connect with specialists in nutrition, specific sports, or other wellness areas, ensuring you get a truly holistic and personalised plan.

What to expect in your first online session with a personal trainer

Your initial online session will likely be a consultation focused on understanding you, your schedule and most importantly - your goals. You should expect more conversation than exercise in your first session. A typical structure might look like:

  1. Initial Assessment: You'll go over essential details, including your contact information, medical history, and current lifestyle choices, to give your trainer a overview of your health.

  2. Baseline Measurements: To track your progress accurately, your trainer may ask you to take measurements such as your weight, body fat percentage, and dimensions of your hips, waist and chest. They may also guide you through some basic flexibility and fitness tests.

  3. Goal Setting: This is a collaborative process. You'll discuss your aspirations and what motivated you to seek a trainer. If you're unsure of your goals, your coach will help you define clear, achievable targets.

  4. Program Design: Based on your goals and assessment, your trainer will begin designing your personalised program. Many will also discuss nutrition, offering guidance on how to fuel your body for workouts and improve your diet for better energy and health.

What qualifications should you look for in an online personal trainer?

Online personal training

1. Check their credentials

Even if you think you’ve found the perfect personal trainer for you, don’t be fooled if they can’t provide certification. All professional trainers should have recognised qualifications, and be able to prove them. The most common qualifications in the UK are a Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing or Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training. When reviewing your trainers' credentials, it is highly recommended that you check their qualifications are accredited by a recognised professional body, such as the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

2. Ask for an initial consultation

An initial consultation is a discussion between you and the personal trainer so that they can get a better understanding of your fitness goals.

It will help give you a feel for whether the personal trainer is the right fit for you. This doesn’t have to be in person - it can take place online too. Most professional trainers will offer this for free. 

3. You may need your own equipment

One downside of having an online personal trainer is that you can’t take advantage of their shiny new equipment. Based on the type of workout you decide with your trainer, it might be worth investing in some basic equipment.

If you’re on a budget, you could get creative with home alternatives. Why not try swapping kettlebells for filled water bottles?

Find your online personal trainer today

If you’re looking to kickstart your fitness journey, you can find further tips on how to hire the perfect online personal trainer to match your fitness goals, right here on Bark!

Find a Personal Trainer near you

The average rating for Bark Personal Trainers is 4.93, based on 493,055 reviews

5/5

based on 493,055 reviews

Get quotes from Personal Trainers near you