7 Online Training Myths Trainers Must Stop Believing Today

Dec 27

7 Online Training Myths Trainers Must Stop Believing Today

Online training isn’t a lesser version of in-person fitness—it’s an entirely different model, and when done correctly, it can be even more effective, scalable, and sustainable.
But misinformation is still one of the biggest roadblocks keeping good trainers from building great businesses. If you've ever felt like online training isn’t taken seriously—or worse, that you aren’t taken seriously—these are likely the myths at play.
Here’s what the science and your own professional practice need to know.

Myth 1: Older Adults and Less Tech-Savvy Clients Can’t Train Online

This is more than a myth—it’s a harmful stereotype that prevents people from getting the support they need.

In reality, older clients thrive in online coaching settings when given appropriate guidance and accessible tech. Research has found that home-based training removes common barriers for older populations—such as transportation, weather, and intimidation (Collado-Mateo et al., 2021).

Most importantly, your delivery and onboarding process matter more than their tech background. With patience and clarity, many older adults not only can do online coaching—they prefer it.

Myth 2: Without In-Person Contact, Clients Won’t Stay Accountable

Accountability doesn't require a physical presence—it requires structure.

According to Hwang et al. (2017), remote training that uses messaging, wearable tracking, goal-setting, and real-time feedback can actually increase adherence. It’s not about where you are. It’s about how you coach.

ASOC teaches trainers to build structured online experiences that match or surpass what’s offered in gyms—without the commute or awkward small talk.

Myth 3: Online Training Is Unsafe Due to Lack of Supervision

Poor coaching is unsafe. That’s true online and in person.

When executed properly, virtual coaching can include clear video instruction, form-check reviews, real-time heart rate tracking, and custom feedback. These tools reduce risk and support safe technique (Müller et al., 2016).

Trainers can also blend live and asynchronous formats to match client needs. ASOC emphasizes proper screening and education—not “template dumping.”

Myth 4: Online Training Isn’t Motivating Without a Gym Environment

This is based on outdated assumptions, not evidence.

Research shows that online programs can be just as motivating when they include features like progress tracking, virtual challenges, and leaderboards (Xu et al., 2016). These features replicate social dynamics and promote intrinsic engagement.

And for many clients—especially older adults or those managing health conditions—working out at home is less intimidating, more convenient, and more consistent.

Myth 5: Limited Equipment Means Limited Results

This myth stems from a gym-first mindset, not a client-first one.

Evidence shows that minimal-equipment training—bodyweight, resistance bands, step-ups—can be highly effective when customized to the individual (Hwang et al., 2017). In fact, many clients already have more than they need collecting dust in their homes.

Success doesn’t come from access to machines. It comes from thoughtful programming and clear progression, both of which ASOC teaches you how to deliver.

Myth 6: Client Privacy Is at Risk With Online Platforms

Privacy is important—but this concern is about how you coach, not whether you coach online.

Reputable platforms used by online trainers are built with GDPR and HIPAA compliance standards. The key is choosing platforms that offer strong data protection, educating clients on digital privacy, and keeping your processes transparent.

ASOC walks you through how to choose secure platforms that protect your business and your clients.

Myth 7: Using External Tools Undermines Intrinsic Motivation

External tools (like reminders, challenges, or leaderboards) don’t eliminate intrinsic motivation—they can support it when used correctly.

According to Klussman et al. (2022), true intrinsic motivation is built through self-connection, which includes goal alignment, autonomy, and competence. Programs that support personalized feedback, goal setting, and client reflection actually enhance long-term motivation.

ASOC teaches you how to build programs that create real change—not surface-level compliance.

Here’s the Real Myth: That You Can’t Be a High-Quality Online Coach

The online fitness industry is saturated with content creators—not coaches. That’s why so many trainers assume they need to scale to 86 clients to make money.

You don’t.
You need structure.
 You need quality.
 You need a system that lets you coach the way you want to coach—and that’s what ASOC gives you.

Most ASOC-certified coaches serve 15–25 clients, charge their worth, and stay far away from burnout—while still earning five-figure months.

The difference? They don’t chase volume. They deliver value.

Build a Coaching Business That’s Professional, Profitable, and Built to Last

📘 Start with a free resource to evaluate your readiness:
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You don’t need more templates. You need training that teaches you how to coach, market, and monetize your way. That’s what ASOC delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the biggest myths about online personal training?

The top myths include the belief that older adults can't train online, virtual training lacks accountability, it's unsafe, or that home workouts are ineffective. These are all debunked with research and practical experience.

Is online training effective for older adults?

Yes. Research shows that older adults benefit from online training when it's designed well. It removes barriers like travel and weather, increasing consistency and adherence (Collado-Mateo et al., 2021).

Can I build a successful online fitness business without social media?

Absolutely. ASOC teaches you how to grow your business using systems, lead generation strategies, and referral pipelines—without relying on social media alone.

How many clients do online trainers usually work with?

Successful online trainers often work with 15–25 clients. Scaling responsibly allows you to maintain quality and avoid burnout, which is a major focus of the OPTS program.

What’s different about the OPTS certificate from ASOC?

Unlike other programs that offer generic templates, the Online Personal Training Specialist certificate teaches you how to build your own business model, craft custom services, and create a sustainable coaching system that fits your lifestyle and values.

References

  • Collado-Mateo, D., Lavín-Pérez, A. M., Peñacoba, C., Del Coso, J., Leyton-Román, M., Luque-Casado, A., Gasque, P., Fernández-Del-Olmo, M. Á., & Amado-Alonso, D. (2021). Key factors associated with adherence to physical exercise in patients with chronic diseases and older adults: An umbrella review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(4), 2023. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18042023

  • Hwang, R., Bruning, J., Morris, N., Mandrusiak, A., & Russell, T. (2016). Home-based telerehabilitation is not inferior to a centre-based program in patients with chronic heart failure: A randomised trial. Journal of Physiotherapy, 62(4), 183–188. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2016.08.002

  • Müller, A. M., Alley, S., Schoeppe, S., & Vandelanotte, C. (2016). The effectiveness of e-&mHealth interventions to promote physical activity and healthy diets in developing countries: A systematic review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 13(1), 109. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-016-0434-8

  • Xu, X., Li, J., Zhou, L., Li, K., Hong, Y., & Tong, X. (2016). Effectiveness of an e-health platform to improve the adherence rate of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for chronic heart failure: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Cardiology, 221, 798–803. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.07.093

  • Klussman, K., Curtin, N., Langer, J., & Nichols, A. L. (2022). The importance of awareness, acceptance, and alignment with the self: A framework for understanding self-connection. European Journal of Psychology, 18(1), 120–131. https://doi.org/10.5964/ejop.3707
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