Making time to exercise can be a challenge in a busy world. And not everyone has access to a gym or money for a gym membership. Thanks to advances in technology, “virtual exercise” via fitness apps is making it easier for people to get the exercise they need to keep their bodies and minds in good health.
What is virtual exercise?
Virtual exercise involves the use of technology to bring workouts out of a gym or exercise class and into your home. Virtual exercise can reduce or eliminate many barriers to getting in a workout, such as a lack of time, loss of motivation, or even fear of being judged. Guided exercise using technology can now help individuals break those common barriers and not only exercise, but do so more efficiently.
Using fitness apps at home
One popular virtual exercise option is a fitness app. There are thousands of fitness apps available for download on smartphones and tablets. Many of them connect with your operating system's native health app, making it easy to keep track of your goals and your overall health.
Using your device can help with exercise “self-efficacy,” which is a person’s confidence in their ability to engage in exercise or physical activity. Using your digital device from the comfort of your own home eliminates the feeling that other people may be judging you when you're working out. Fitness apps also enable users to keep track of their activities, see a demonstration of the exercise (often from different angles), set and monitor progress toward health goals, and get notified of exercise reminders or motivational messaging.
Some popular applications, to name a few, include:
- Workout Trainer by Skimble
- Nike Training
- Find What Feels Good
- Workout for Women
- FitOn
- Sworkit
Costs effectiveness of fitness apps
For people who feel they can't afford a monthly gym membership at a gym with perks such as classes or specialized equipment, a paid fitness app can be a more manageable cost. The cost of the applications can vary greatly, though many have free versions or free trials--be sure to read the information on the app page before downloading so you know what to expect.
Virtual workout sessions from the comfort of your home
The home is usually a safe and comfortable environment for exercisers, especially when you consider the idea of “gym intimidation” that can cause many individuals to avoid the gym. Yet for many folks, exercise motivation comes from having an instructor leading a class or workout.
On-demand television and subscriptions now make it easy to have the feel of a personal gym in your own home. For example, some of the more popular options available are:
- BODi (formerly BeachBody On Demand)
- PiYo
- Les Mills Virtual
- Daily Burn
- Insanity Workout
- 21 Day Fix
There are also fitness companies like Peloton, which bring live spin classes right to your home. The downside of these options is the cost. Peloton bikes are now starting at $1,445 and treadmills $2,995.
Is working out at home right for you?
Working out at home may sound enticing for some, but it is important to assess yourself and your environment. Be honest with yourself. Some considerations may include:
- Are there potential distractions in your home?
- Is there enough space for the exercise you choose?
- Will it be easier to make excuses for avoiding workouts if you’re at home?
Using technology is an easy and convenient way to be more physically active. Just don’t forget about the beauty of the outdoors for exercise or about the benefit of human interaction at a gym or exercise class. What’s most important is to keep moving!
For more tips on exercise and your health, visit the Move section of our Be Well health and wellness blog.
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