Even if you’re at the office all day, it’s important to make time for workouts, too. However, it’s understandable when motivation is lacking after putting in eight hours or more—and that’s when a personal trainer can be helpful. Personal trainers can offer not just inspiration, but they take a lot of the mental workout of working out by creating a routine just for you. No more wondering what to do or repeating the same dull routine over and over. However, you often need gym access, and sometimes a sizeable budget.
Online personal trainers can offer the best of both worlds: Get a customized routine and accountability, often for less than an in-person trainer costs. Prices vary widely, typically depending on whether you opt for one-on-one coaching or a program without coach contact, but there are options for all budgets. Here’s our roundup of the best online personal trainers so you can get a customized program and revitalize your workouts.
Best Online Personal Trainers of 2026
- Best Online Personal Trainer Overall: Future
- Best Affordable Online Personal Trainer: Caliber
- Best Online Personal Trainer for Weight Loss: iFIT
- Best Online Personal Trainer for Beginners: Aaptiv
Best Online Personal Trainers Comparison Table
Best Online Personal Trainer Overall: Future
Future
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Future
- Our thoughts: We love the workout variety and how easy it is to contact your coach
- Who it’s for: People who are seeking a personal training experience with direct feedback
- What makes it different: Tons of workouts, highly customizable routines, and attentive coaches
Pros
- Easy access to coaches
- Wide variety of workouts
- Highly customizable
Cons
- Fairly expensive
- App lacks a “live chat” option for customer support
- Website not very easy to navigate
Our Thoughts on Future
Future offers dedicated coaching and support, offering “a personalized plan around your goals” that you and your coach can optimize over time. Your fitness coach checks in with you and monitors your progress, providing support designed to help you stick with your routine. We were impressed by the variety of workouts, how easy it was to create a truly customized routine, and the one-on-one coaching.
Our tester, Paige, tried Future. Her experience began by downloading the app, which she said was “very clear and easy to navigate.” Paige explained, “I really like the layout of this app. It is not too busy with visuals or features, which makes it very easy to navigate. There are step by step prompts that tell me what is next for my training subscription. The tabs are very intuitive and there are no glitches or lag in the app.” She rated it a 5 out of 5 for ease of use.
Paige also noted the app offers the option to customize for accountability. “If I wanted my coach to check in often to keep me accountable, I was able to contact her via message or FaceTime,” said Paige. She rated Future a 5 out of 5 for accountability.
She was also a fan of the workout variety, rating Future a 5 out of 5 in that category. Paige said, “I was blown away by the variety of workouts included in this app. There is definitely a workout for everyone! They range from low impact, heavy weights, sports, cardio, and more. I felt inspired to try new workouts when scrolling through all the options.”
As for drawbacks, Paige said she’d have liked a “live chat” option to easily contact customer service via the app. She also rated the value a 3 out of 5, noting that Future’s subscription cost is on the higher end. That said, she still felt it was a strong value given the one-on-one coaching and how easy it was to reach out to her coach. She added, “The app has a very seamless design and just seems very high quality. The variety of workouts and activities also makes this app a great value.”
Specs:
- Subscription options: $199 per month
- Workout class types: Workout categories include strength training, recovery, weight loss, muscle groups, movement, equipment, or duration
- Monthly inclusions: One-on-one check-ins with your coach, a customized program, and access to the video library
- Free trial: Discounted rate of $29 for the first month
Best Affordable Online Personal Trainer: Caliber
Caliber
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Caliber
- Our thoughts: We love being able to access expertly designed exercises for a fraction of the cost of one-on-one coaching
- Who it’s for: Those who want some expert input, without the price tag of one-on-one personal training
- What makes it different: Three membership plans offer options for every budget
Pros
- Caliber Plus plan offers coach-designed workout plans for only $6 per month
- Includes weekly lessons on training, nutrition, and habit formation
- There’s also a free version for those with a more limited budget
Cons
- Pricing information difficult to find—we had to email the company
- No one-on-one coaching included
- Focus is mostly on strength training, with less focus on stretching or recovery
Our Thoughts on Caliber
Caliber bills itself as a “science-based fitness coaching program” that helps users build muscle and lose weight, with measurable results. The company’s approach includes focusing on exercise, nutrition, and habit coaching, and the company says its training plans are “designed for maximum efficiency, which means faster progress with less time at the gym.” Caliber offers three different plan options:
- The Caliber app is a free, self-directed training program. Users can build training plans using the workout wizard or construct their own plans from the exercise library.
- Caliber Plus offers self-directed training for $12 per month or $72 per year, and users get over 100 coach-designed training plans tailored to specific goals, equipment, schedule, and lifestyle—plus access to Caliber Lessons, which cover training, nutrition, and habit formation.
- Caliber Premium Coaching is one-on-one coaching, and packages start at $600 for three months as of this writing. Users are paired with an accredited Caliber personal trainer and receive a personalized nutrition and workout plan, which includes unlimited in-app messaging and video form reviews with your coach, and what the company calls a a “results guarantee.”
Our tester Kate tried Caliber Plus and gave pretty high marks across the board. She first downloaded the app, which she said was “so easy to set up,” noting it was simple to create workouts right away. Kate said, “The app is very user-friendly, and I wasn’t confused trying to navigate it.” She rated Caliber a 5 out of 5 for its ease of use.
Kate also liked Caliber’s accountability, giving it a 5 out of 5. As she explained, “It’s easy to see your progress, your goals for the week, and even go into different workouts if you’re looking for something extra.”
Workout variety is also important, and Kate noted, “There was a lot of variety for strength training specifically,” with a few stretching and recovery plans as well—but nothing that will rival a yoga or Pilates workout, according to Kate. “If you are only looking for strength training, which this app focuses on, this would be great,” says Kate, adding, “They have hundreds of workouts made specifically for your goals, or even more if you want to branch out and look through their workout library.” She rated Caliber a 4 out of 5 for its workout variety.
Kate rated the value of this online personal trainer a 4 out of 5, saying, “I think this is a great price for all of the features you get.”
Specs:
- Subscription options: Free option, Cailber Plus for $6 per month, and Caliber Premium Coaching for $600 for three months
- Workout class types: Programs are tailored to available equipment, including home (no-equipment), dumbbell-only, or full-gym options, and core workouts include compound lifting, cardio, and habit coaching
- Monthly inclusions: The Plus plan that we tested includes self-directed training; access to over 100 coach-designed training plans; Caliber Lessons on training, nutrition, and habit formation; and personalized nutrition targets
- Free trial: Seven-day free trial for the Pro version, but there’s also a free version
Best Online Personal Trainer for Weight Loss: iFIT
iFIT
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at iFIT
- Our thoughts: Our tester loved the workout variety and ability to set trainer “type” preferences.
- Who it’s for: People looking for additional inspiration in the form of beautiful locations
- What makes it different: The awe-inspiring areas on display during workouts
Pros
- Incredible locations for video backgrounds
- Two plans to choose from, covering different price points
- AI coach helps you set and reach fitness goals, including weight loss
Cons
- AI coaching, not one-on-one coaching from a real person
- Pro version requires compatible equipment
- May be more expensive than similar options
Our Thoughts on iFIT
The company boasts over 10,000 workouts, over 180 trainers, new weekly content, and “stunning locations” that span all seven continents—one of iFIT’s most unique aspects.
The company offers two plans:
- iFIT Train is $15 per month as of this writing, and it works on a phone or tablet and pairs with Bluetooth-enabled, iFIT-ready equipment without a built-in screen.
- iFIT Pro is $39 per month, and this version is meant to be used with equipment that has built-in touchscreens from NordicTrack, ProForm, and Freemotion.
Both options include access to more than thousands of workouts, heart rate-based training, and access to an iFIT AI coach. While this option is ideal for reaching various fitness goals, we think it could be especially useful for weight loss, given the vast number of workouts and supply of new content, which could help maintain interest and promote workout consistency.
Charlotte, our tester, used iFit Pro. It was “so easy” to set up and install, and she noted, “They even asked about personal trainer ‘types’—like if you want someone who is more serious and informative, or fun and energetic. I liked that I could customize who I would be working with.” She also reported a positive user experience with the app, rating iFIT a 5 out of 5 for ease of use.
Our tester also appreciated the accountability built into this program, rating it a 4 out of 5. She especially liked that there were challenges and groups to join, which she found helped with motivation. Charlotte also noted, “There is even an on-demand AI trainer you can use within the app at any time.”
Variety was also a strong point, earning a 5 out of 5. “There are so many different workouts to try—you can do anything from runs to strength training, yoga, and more. I saw options that could even be body weight stuff only, so you wouldn’t even need equipment,” she said. Charlotte explained that she could choose from no-equipment workouts, minimal-equipment workouts, or workouts connected to cardio equipment like NordicTrack treadmills or bikes, making it a versatile option.
Price was a minor issue for Charlotte, who said, “This is on the pricier end. You definitely get a ton of features, but I think that some competitors also have this option for a lesser price.” She rated it a 3 out of 5 for overall value but noted that iFIT has many positive online reviews.
Specs:
- Subscription options: iFIT Train is $15 per month, and iFIT Pro is $39 per month
- Workout class types: A dozen types of workouts, including running, strength, walking, cycling, Pilates, HIIT, yoga, rowing, elliptical, mindful, recovery, and barre
- Monthly inclusions: iFIT Train works on a phone or tablet and pairs with Bluetooth-enabled, iFIT-ready equipment without a built-in screen, whereas iFIT Pro is made for equipment with built-in touchscreens from NordicTrack, ProForm, and Freemotion; both include access to more than 10,000 workouts, heart rate-based training, and access to an iFIT AI coach
- Free trial: 30-day free trial for new paid Train memberships
Best Online Personal Trainer for Beginners: Aaptiv
Aaptiv
| Fortune score | 4/5 |
at Aaptiv
- Our thoughts: We consider this a solid starter program, given that exercises don’t always focus on ways to increase resistance to achieve progressive overload.
- Who it’s for: Those who are just starting their fitness journey and want a customized routine
- What makes it different: Workouts are created by AI, using classes designed by fitness experts
Pros
- Customizable workout routines with expert-led exercises
- Excellent workout variety
- App notifications help with accountability
Cons
- No one-on-one coaching
- Difficult to end or change workouts
- Less opportunity for progressive overload
Our Thoughts on Aaptiv
Aaptiv uses AI to create personalized plans for users, with classes created by fitness experts. The company offers more than 10,000 on-demand classes across 16 categories, including treadmill, yoga, strength training, walking, stair climber, boxing, mobility, barre, Pilates, indoor cycling, elliptical, sleep, meditation, stretching, rowing, and outdoor running. The trainers who create the workouts—which AI then uses to build a personalized workout program—include world-class athletes, health educators, and physical therapists.
Paige, our tester, gave Aaptiv a try. She appreciated that the app was “well organized” and “easy to navigate,” and said it was pretty simple to find her preferred workout. However, she said, “I struggled to find the end button if I wanted to end the workout early or switch workouts.” She rated Aaptiv a 3 out of 5 for ease of use.
When it came to accountability, Paige explained, “The app gives you an option to turn on notifications on your phone to increase accountability. I appreciate this for those who prefer notifications to remind them of their workouts.” She noted that there’s no one-on-one coaching and gave this online personal training option a 4 out of 5 for accountability.
Paige rated workout variety a 5 out of 5, saying, “The variety of workouts is wide. Within each discipline, there are several workouts to choose from, each focusing on different intensities and body parts. The names of the workouts are exciting, such as ‘chest flex sesh,’ and I was excited to try new workouts.”
One drawback: “Besides choosing progressively intense workouts or upping/adding weights, there was little opportunity for progressive overload,” says Paige. “After a while, the extent of the workouts may become stagnant without adding difficulty on your own.”
Overall, our tester had a positive impression of Aaptiv after trying it out. “I think the price for this app is worth it,” said Paige, adding, “You get a great variety of workouts and tips from the voiceovers that make it a good value. It also gives you several options to track data and progress, which is worth the price.” She rated it a 3 out of 5 for overall value.
Specs:
- Subscription options: $14.99 per month or $99.99 per year
- Workout class types: Choose classes from 16 categories, including treadmill, yoga, strength training, walking, barre, meditation, rowing, and more
- Monthly inclusions: Includes unlimited access to thousands of workouts
- Free trial: Seven-day free trial
Other Online Personal Trainers We Tested
We tested some other options as well, but excluded them from the final lineup for various reasons.
- Boostcamp delivers personalized workout plans, but our tester said there weren’t many visual instructions and considered it better suited for those with more experience.
- SHRED offers excellent accountability features, according to our tester, but she noted the various workout categories could be overwhelming for a beginner.
How We Tested and Selected the Best Online Personal Trainers
Here’s what we prioritized when selecting the best online personal trainers.
Setup and Ease of Use
We looked for online personal trainer options with user-friendly apps that were easy to navigate and straightforward—not overwhelming—to use.
Accountability
We consider accountability an important part of any fitness routine, so our testers noted whether each app had an accountability feature and how well it worked.
Workout Instructions
It’s imperative to have clear guidance when working out to avoid injury. For that reason, we prioritized apps with thorough instructions, including video demos and/or audio instructions.
Programming
We didn’t want a cookie-cutter workout that we could easily find online, but a routine tailored to our individual goals and preferences. We looked for options that offered individualized instruction, whether from a human coach or an AI-based option that could deliver a personalized workout plan.
Value
Here’s how our recommended online personal trainers compare when it comes to cost.
How to Find the Best Online Personal Trainer for You
Here are some things to consider when you’re looking for an online personal trainer.
Your Fitness Goals
Take time to think about your health and wellness goals so you can be clear about what type of support you need from an online personal trainer. You may also want to speak with your healthcare provider when doing this, as they can help you set realistic targets.
Time Commitment
Are you looking for shorter workouts that can be squeezed into a lunch break, or longer workouts that cover all major muscle groups in one gym session? Consider how much time you can commit to a workout and how many times per week you can work out when choosing an online personal trainer.
Preferred Workouts
When it comes to workouts, there’s really no one-size-fits-all option. Everyone is different and prefers different types of workouts. Think about which types of workouts and exercises you most enjoy, and check that any prospective online personal trainer offers them as options. Similarly, think about whether you’d most like to work with an actual human coach, one on one, or whether you’d be happy with a human-designed workout that’s compiled by AI. Both have pros and cons, but it really comes down to personal preference and budget—more on that below.
Cost
Online personal trainers can range from several dollars a month to hundreds of dollars per month. For example, working one-on-one with a human coach generally costs more than signing up to receive an AI-created workout program. Consider how you prefer to be motivated—whether you’d benefit from the constant check-ins and guidance from a real person, or whether you enjoy a self-guided workout—as well as how much of a priority this is for you. That may help you decide how much you’re willing to spend on an online personal trainer. There isn’t a right or wrong answer, of course. But make sure you’re clear on your budget and what you feel is worth paying for when examining options.
Benefits of Online Personal Trainers
To learn more about the benefits of using an online personal trainer, we spoke with Brian Abell, an ACE-CPT-certified personal trainer and Precision Nutrition Certified Coach who co-founded FitHappens Personal Training. He worked as a traditional in-person trainer before switching to fully online coaching, which he says has numerous benefits, including:
- A 360-degree coaching approach: Abell says, “In-person training is mostly just supervised exercise. You show up, you lift, you leave. The deeper stuff, why you’re stressed, why you’re not sleeping, why you grabbed fast food three times this week, never gets addressed because there’s no time or space for it. We can sneak in little coaching tips here and there during an in-person workout, but it is not nearly as comprehensive as a 30-minute coaching call dedicated to everything in your life, not just exercise.”
- More accountability: “Doing your workouts independently within the structure of a safe program built by your coach is also very important,” explains Abell. “It starts building the internal drive and self-accountability that in-person training honestly never develops. After a certain point, in-person coaching becomes a crutch. I saw it time and time again: a huge chunk of in-person clients show up for their sessions and completely check out the rest of the week. Virtual [training] forces a different relationship with your health.”
- Less rushed: Abell notes, “Our check-ins aren’t interrupted by rest timers or the next client walking in. We can actually dig into what’s getting in the way. Nutrition, sleep, stress, mindset, all of it.”
These are some reasons why online personal trainers can be a major boost to your fitness routine. However, as always, we encourage you to check with a healthcare provider before starting any new fitness routine.
What to Avoid in Online Personal Trainers
Abell says there are some things to avoid when looking for an online personal trainer.
- A program that lacks a lifestyle focus—Abell says, “Look for someone who’s asking about your life, not just your macros. A good online coach wants to know how you’re sleeping, what your stress looks like, what’s made you quit before.”
- No plan for behavior change—You should also look for “an actual behavior change framework,” says Abell, “Not just a meal plan and a generic workout PDF.”
- Automated communication only—Ideally, you’d communicate with your online personal trainer via messages and weekly consults, not just app notifications, says Abell. (However, we realize that some online personal trainers don’t include one-on-one coaching, so this may not always be possible.)
- A program or coach that encourages dependence instead of self-sufficiency—According to Abell, ultimately, you want “someone who’s trying to work themselves out of a job, meaning they want you to eventually not need them because they have taught you so many things and helped you become self-sustainable.”
- Lack of credentials—Abell says credentials are important, citing NASM, ACE, NSCA, and more as options. You should “make sure they’re actually certified,” notes Abell, “Not just fit with a camera.”
Frequently asked questions
What is the best platform for online personal trainers?
After testing, we found Future to be the best overall online personal training platform for one-on-one coaching with a fitness expert. That said, everyone has different health goals, personal preferences, and budgets. Some people may want one-on-one interaction, whereas others may prefer a more self-guided option. Consider what matters most to you and look at which platforms best match your preferences.
How much should I pay for an online personal trainer?
Our options range from $6 to $200 per month, but you can also find free—and also even more expensive—options as well. The point is that online personal trainers can vary widely in terms of pricing. We recommend first determining whether you want one-on-one coaching from a real person or would be happy with exercises designed by real coaches but compiled into a tailored workout by AI. If you prefer the former, you can expect to pay considerably more than if you opt for an online personal training option that doesn’t include one-on-one coaching.
Are 30-minute personal training sessions worth it?
Yes, they certainly can be. Even working out in small increments of time can add up to big results. One of the most important things in choosing a workout plan is to make sure it fits your lifestyle. Not everyone has an hour a day to devote to fitness, but that’s not the requirement. Decide on a session duration and frequency that suits your schedule, even if it’s a 30-minute workout, and your online personal trainer should be able to create a workout tailored to your needs.
