Best Tools for Effective Online Personal Training

Updated December 2025

As online personal training continues to grow in popularity, having the right tools can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of virtual coaching. Whether you are a trainer or a client, using the best fitness tools can enhance your training experience. Here’s a list of the best tools for effective online personal training in 2025.

1. Video Conferencing Platforms

Tools: Zoom, Skype, Google Meet

• Purpose: Facilitate live 1-on-1 training sessions.
• Benefits: High-quality video and audio, screen sharing capabilities, and easy scheduling.
• Calories Burned: N/A
• Difficulty Level: N/A

2. Fitness Apps

Tools: MyFitnessPal, Strava, Fitbod

• Purpose: Track workouts, nutrition, and progress.
• Benefits: Helps clients monitor their diet and exercise while providing trainers with insights.
• Calories Burned: Varies by activity.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to use.

3. Wearable Fitness Technology

Tools: Fitbit, Apple Watch, WHOOP

• Purpose: Monitor heart rate, calories burned, and activity levels.
• Benefits: Provides real-time data to adjust workouts accordingly.
• Calories Burned: Varies by individual activity levels.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.

4. Resistance Bands

Equipment Needed: Various resistance levels

• Workout Routine:
  • Exercise: Band Squats
  • Sets: 3
  • Reps: 12-15
  • Duration: 30 seconds rest between sets
• Calories Burned: Approximately 200-300 per hour.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate.

5. Dumbbells

Equipment Needed: Adjustable or fixed weights

• Workout Routine:
  • Exercise: Dumbbell Shoulder Press
  • Sets: 3
  • Reps: 10-12
  • Duration: 30 seconds rest between sets
• Calories Burned: Approximately 300-400 per hour.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to advanced.

6. Stability Balls

Equipment Needed: Various sizes

• Workout Routine:
  • Exercise: Stability Ball Crunches
  • Sets: 3
  • Reps: 15-20
  • Duration: 30 seconds rest between sets
• Calories Burned: Approximately 150-250 per hour.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate.

7. Online Training Platforms

Tools: Trainerize, TrueCoach

• Purpose: Manage workout programs and client communication.
• Benefits: Provides structured programs and easy access to trainers.
• Calories Burned: N/A
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.

8. Nutrition Management Tools

Tools: Noom, Cronometer

• Purpose: Assist clients in tracking their nutritional intake.
• Benefits: Helps trainers provide personalized dietary advice.
• Calories Burned: N/A
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.

9. Foam Rollers

Equipment Needed: Standard foam roller

• Workout Routine:
  • Exercise: Foam Roll Lower Back
  • Duration: 5 minutes
• Calories Burned: Approximately 100-150 per hour.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner.

10. HSA/FSA Approved Fitness Equipment

Tools: Eligible resistance bands, dumbbells, and more

• Purpose: Financially accessible fitness solutions.
• Benefits: Allows clients to invest in their health without breaking the bank.
• Calories Burned: Varies by activity.
• Difficulty Level: N/A.

Using these tools can significantly enhance your online personal training experience. At HipTrain, we offer affordable live 1-on-1 video personal training sessions that leverage many of these tools for maximum effectiveness. Our certified trainers are here to help you achieve your fitness goals with flexible scheduling that fits into your busy lifestyle.