Online workout programs provide one of the most helpful outlets for getting and staying in shape. Not everyone has time to join a gym – much less pay for one. Online workout programs allow for someone to receive professional guidance on their exercise path. So, what are some of the best online workout programs?
Great workout programs offer a range of exercises to get you in shape. Characteristics of the best workout programs include:
- Step-by-step exercise guides
- Information on diet and lifestyle
- A wide range of exercise types
- Repeated customer satisfaction
Continue reading to learn about the five best online workout programs. You must know exactly what to look for when choosing an online workout program for yourself. These programs are great for continued support on your path to getting into shape.
Article Contents
What Is The Best Online Workout Program?
The thing with naming the overall best online workout program is that there are so many great online programs out there that cater to different exercise styles. In truth, there may not be one overall best, but you will see five of the best online workout programs shortly. For now, read on to find out what aspects of a workout program make it top-tier.
Free Trial Period
Most reliable workout programs offer a free trial before you have to actually purchase a subscription. This is a huge advantage because, even if an online program knows that it is highly successful, it understands that not everyone sees it as the most helpful program out there.
Online workout programs that offer free trials allow you to dip your toes in the water and see if the program would work well with your goals and lifestyle. Typically, an online workout program’s free trial will grant you between two and four weeks of access.
(If you are looking for an completely free online workout program, check out that article!)
Subscription Price
It is also worth noting the subscription price of an online workout program. Many of the programs that have proven successful have done so because they offer affordable prices. As a rule of thumb, it is probably not a good idea to pay $40 or more for an online program. There are plenty of online subscriptions between $15 and $30 that are at the top of the online program list.
If you are paying more than the above prices for your online workout program, it is not much different from paying for even the most basic in-person gym. Do not fool yourself into thinking that a higher price equals a higher-quality workout program.
Specialty
Several reliable online workout programs cater to a certain exercise style. Whether it be:
- Weight training
- Yoga
- Boxing
- Or anything else
There are some top-tier programs available that are made specifically for certain exercises.
However, just because an online workout program offers more than one type of exercise style does not mean it is not high-quality. As you will see below, there are still top-tier online fitness programs available that offer several different exercise styles.
Featured Exercises
As stated above, numerous online workout programs offer different types of exercises. Suppose you have heard of a great online program, but its focus is not necessarily centered on your exercise style of preference. It’s worth digging a little deeper; maybe it does offer what you are looking for.
If this program does as good of a job with its less-popular featured courses as it does with its main offerings, you should consider trying it out. Again, this is why those free trials are beneficial; if you do not like what you get, you do not have to invest in it.
Program Reputation
With online workout programs, customer reviews can be extremely helpful in deciding the quality of the program. If there is a lot of positive responses to the effectiveness of the online program, it probably means that it is worth trying out – that is, if it fits your preferences.
You also might recognize media advertisements for some online workout programs as well. This can also be helpful, but it is still important to do some personal research in determining whether you think it is a good program to choose or not.
Availability
What many online workout program customers do not consider before investing in a subscription is their own personal availability. You do not want to waste money on a subscription that you are not willing or able to find the time to use.
You can also find online workout programs with live streams for interactive workouts. If you are an early bird, you might consider finding a program that offers these in the mornings and vice versa if you are a night owl.
Getting Started With An Online Workout Program
While online workout programs are much different than in-person gyms, some might still require the same equipment. However, you should not feel the need to buy everything that the online program has.
If you have the basic items needed to get yourself into shape, you should be fine. Below are a few recommendations for equipment you could invest in before getting started with an online workout program.
Weight Training
If you are using an online workout program for weight training, you might come to find that the program has access to several types and sizes of weights. While it is great if you have a large number of weights stocked up, it is not entirely necessary.
If you have the means and actually want to buy an entire weight bench and squat rack, there are plenty of options available online. If not, however, you can still participate in just about every activity offered in your online workout program.
At the most basic level of weight training, you might look to invest in a few different pieces of equipment:
- A few sets of dumbbells varying in weight
- A barbell with various weighted plates
- A medicine ball
- Some type of object you can use as a weight bench
- Lifting gloves, lifting belt, other supportive/safety equipment for lifting
If you get some or all of these items, you will be well on your way to training with your online workout program. You should not feel inclined to go all out and buy every piece of equipment in the program if you do not have the means or desire. Weight training is not about how fancy your equipment is.
Cardio
The great thing about an online workout program that offers cardio exercises is that cardio is insanely good for your body, and it hardly requires any equipment. Cardio is an excellent style of exercise that strengthens your heart as well as your muscles.
If you are participating in an online program for cardio, you might consider having the basic items listed below:
- Running shoes
- Jump-rope
- Miscellaneous cones, exercise ladders, etc.
Unless you are running or biking, most other forms of cardio are relatively stationary:
- Jumping rope
- Jumping jacks
- High knees
- Rock climbers, etc.
Cardio consists of excellent workouts with minimal equipment.
Boxing
Boxing is an incredible way to get in shape. As you are constantly moving around, you can build your strength both physically and mentally. As with cardio, participating in an online workout program for boxing requires minimal equipment for maximum effects:
- Boxing gloves
- Athletic tape
- Punching bag
- Athletic shoes
Other than the punching bag, the other materials come at affordable prices. Also, you do not have to invest in a top-of-the-line punching bag. A basic target will do you just fine for an online workout program.
Yoga
Yoga is yet another exercise style that does not require much equipment. All you need is a yoga mat and comfortable activewear. You could also use a light medicine ball if you want to add some weight to your online yoga sessions.
What many people do not know is that yoga is not only great for relaxation but also for bodily strength. With different poses and stretches, yoga allows you to take extremely good care of your body while pushing your muscles and joints to the limit.
Dancing
Depending on what style of dance you may participate in for your online workout program, you might consider buying a few pieces of equipment. In the simplest sense, however, all you need are clothes that you feel comfortable dancing in.
Dancing is perhaps the most fun way to exercise, though it is not as popular as some other forms of online workout programs. Still, if you plan on subscribing to an online dance program, you should not have to worry too much about having to buy equipment.
The 5 Best Online Workout Programs!
Below is a list of five online workout programs that are the best you can find. In no particular order and following no specific exercise style, these programs are:
- Reliable
- Affordable
- Effective
They make the list of the top five because they can appeal to several styles and preferences.
1. Daily Burn
Daily Burn is a frontrunner in online workout programs. The program prides itself on providing access to theoretically endless programs; new workouts are added weekly – sometimes even daily. With Daily Burn, you can be sure that your online workout experience will never be boring.
Daily Burn is an easily navigable online program. By filling in a bit of information about your lifestyle, Daily Burn will provide you with workout ideas in beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. The great thing about Daily Burn is that it reaches such a wide audience. Rather than catering to one or a few specific workout styles, exercise opportunities provided by Daily Burn include:
- Full-body workouts
- Cardio
- Yoga
- High-intensity training
- Cardio kickboxing
- Muscle building
With a free trial of up to 30 days, you have the opportunity to test the waters of Daily Burn and see if it works for you. Unfortunately, Daily Burn does not give information about the prices of its subscription unless you actually purchase one, but several blogs mention that subscription prices start at as low as $14.95 per month.
By using Daily Burn, you will also have access to dozens of blogs to help sharpen your healthy lifestyle, with articles about eating habits, different workouts, and recipes to try.
2. Peloton App
As a company that gained traction through the release of its stationary bike, Peloton has made exceptional advancements in its online workout presence. The Peloton App is a great choice for people looking to have a wide range of exercise styles to choose from.
Some featured workouts for the Peloton App include:
- Cycling
- Running
- Strength training
- Yoga
- Cardio training
- And much more
The Peloton App only costs $12.99 per month, with certain discounts for military, students, and more that can bring the price down to as low as $6.99 per month. In addition, if you are low on equipment, that is no problem. With Peloton, you have access to hundreds of online workout programs that require no equipment at all.
The Peloton App is great because it allows you to track your progress while giving you access to one-on-one digital workouts specifically designed for your exercise style of preference. Plus, with over 125,000 customer reviews, Peloton has managed to maintain a 4.9/5 rating. With this level of customer satisfaction, it is clear to see why so many people choose Peloton.
3. Obe Fitness
With over 5,500 online classes to choose from, Obe Fitness is one of the most interactive online workout programs available. You will never be bored with your workouts if you go with Obe. With so many training options of:
- Low-weight
- Heavy-weight
- No-weight
You have a range of choices of exercise styles.
What makes Obe Fitness extra special is that they have scheduled programs to help you reach your goals in a certain amount of time. Whatever exercise path you take, Obe makes sure to accommodate your fitness goals with a personalized plan to guide you to success.
Obe Fitness has a calendar of its live schedule that includes programs run by professional online fitness trainers in exercise styles, including:
- Cardio boxing
- Yoga
- Power training
- Barre
- And so much more
With subscriptions ranging between $17 and $27 per month, you get professional guidance at a reduced price. There is no need to have to worry about finding time to get to the gym when you can do your Obe workouts in the comfort of your own home.
4. P.Volve
P.Volve is an online workout program whose effectiveness is proven by its immense customer satisfaction. With workouts designed to get you and keep you in tip-top shape, P. Volve is a wonderful online workout program.
Volve was created to provide low-intensity workouts for those who want to sculpt their body to perfection. P. Volve offers resistance-based exercises to keep you in shape through styles including:
- Strength & sculpt
- Women’s wellness
- Cardio burn
- Mat definition
While it is not absolutely necessary to buy extra equipment, the biggest downside to P. Volve is that some of their exercises are best executed with the purchase of their pricey equipment. Though, especially as a beginner, their subscriptions ranging from $15 to $20 per month are quite nice on your wallet.
5. Nike Training Club
The biggest advantage of the Nike Training Club is that it is completely free. As a subscriber to the Nike Training Club, you have access to several different exercise-style classes as well as articles on eating healthy, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and other information that is meant to educate you on your journey to a healthy lifestyle.
The Nike Training Club offers programs involving:
- Strength training
- Cardio
- Yoga
- High-intensity training
As the Nike Training Club is run by professional Nike trainers, you do not need to question the qualifications of your mentors. Plus, with free access to everything in the program when you become a member, there are few other – if any – downsides to the online workout program.
If you are not trying to spend money on your online workout program, or you simply want to try it out with a trusted, familiar company, the Nike Training Club will be an excellent choice.
Can I Start An Online Workout Program At Any Time?
The wonderful thing about online workout programs is that you can start them whenever you want. You do not have to wait for monthly classes, make it on time to set appointments, etc. You are free to use your online workout program whenever you want.
One of the main downsides to online workout programs is that they may not have the ability to convince you to work out as much as an in-person trainer or gym can. Since it is on your own time, you must stay determined in your pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. Some days, you may just not be feeling active at all. On occasion, this is okay, but it is good to find some sort of motivation or accountability.
If you can find effective ways to hold yourself accountable and make sure you stick with your online workout program, you will be well on your way to maintaining peak physical performance. Being able to start an online workout program can be either beneficial or detrimental. It is up to you to decide whether you can find the strength to stick with the program.
(If you are looking more for the best online fitness classes rather than an entire program, we’ve got you covered!)
Takeaway
There are so many different online workout program choices for you. The most important thing to do is decide what exercise style you are looking for and research different programs that suit your needs and desires.
Working out is an excellent way to improve your overall lifestyle, and online programs can be just as effective as going to the gym.
