Originally published on techbullion.com
Technology continues to move at a breakneck pace, prompting advancements in every industry as it barrels into the future. Fitness is also undergoing massive changes thanks to new technology like streaming and virtual reality. But how beneficial are these for the future of the fitness industry and the world’s health as a whole?
In this article, fitness industry expert Eugenio Pallisco details the problems tech-based workouts solve — and the ones they create.
The Good
The most obvious benefit of remote workouts is flexibility.
Many adults say they don’t exercise because they can’t find the time. Streaming your workout
whenever it’s convenient for you can negate this problem. It also means you can work out without setting foot in a gym, which may appeal to those who are self-conscious or want to take things at their own pace.
Virtual fitness also gives the client a lot more variety. Many streaming services offer a broad scope of exercises that can cater to your individual goals or mood. The same app might provide an intense HIIT workout and a meditative yoga routine — you could pick either or both depending on how you’re feeling that day.
The Bad
Pallisco says it isn’t all positive, however. One major problem with remote workouts is there’s no one there to correct your form. Bad form doesn’t just reduce the effectiveness of the exercise; it can also cause you to injure yourself inadvertently.
While you can make up for this by focusing intently on the video or double-checking your form in a mirror, it’s different from having a professional adjust you consistently to ensure that you’re doing it safely.
The lack of personal interaction could be a turn-off for some as well. The enormous catalog of choices can help you create more personalized goals, but it doesn’t hold a candle to starting a fitness journey one-on-one with a flesh-and-blood trainer.
Distractions are also challenging for people working out from home with streaming apps.
Most of those apps are accessed through TVs or phones that are teeming with other apps competing for your attention. That means you could get ready for a sweat session only to find yourself sitting on the couch scrolling through cat videos an hour later.
The Verdict
While there are some clear benefits to working out virtually, there’s no perfect substitute for in-person training. Virtual training may not be the best option depending on your fitness goals, especially if you’re trying to make drastic changes or need someone to help you stay safe and motivated.
Either way, moving your body is a positive thing, so making exercise more accessible for all is always a wise decision.
About Eugenio Pallisco
Eugenio Pallisco‘s passion for fitness has brought him to Dallas, Texas, where he dedicates his time to helping his clients find joy and freedom through exercise and movement.
His mentors have influenced him since high school and have spent years carefully molding his approach to fitness. He believes that regardless of which exercise plan works best for you, everyone deserves a chance to become the happiest, healthiest version of themselves, and he intends to help as many people as possible get there.