This Is What's Ruining Your Virtual Fitness Classes
Modern times call for modern solutions. And speaking of modern solutions, virtual fitness classes are popping up everywhere. In fact, Global Market Research projects this once nicely sized slice of the fitness and lifestyle market is projected to take over way more of the pie and reach $30 billion by 2026.
Soon "ready, set, go" will change to "ready, set, play." And as the amount of fitness classes offered online increases by the day, we want to be the ones to warn you of what could possibly ruin your technology-dependent workout goals.
To begin with, virtual does not mean free. Sure, you can watch a good amount of free workout videos on YouTube, but there are many platforms out there that come at a price. According to USA Today, the notoriously popular Peloton app that includes a variety of virtual fitness classes costs $13 a month. Pure Barre On Demand is $290 per year, and the sweat from ClassPass costs anywhere between $15-79 dollars a month, depending on what type of subscription you get. As stated above, you can avoid the cost completely, but you run the risk of missing out on what's hyped, and possibly a class that you find you enjoy so much, it feels like it was made for you.
Jumping into a class can be potentially harmful
In addition to possible extra costs, you could be increasing your risk for injury. Tim Liu, C.S.C.S., an LA-based trainer shares with Eat This, Not That why partaking in really intense virtual classes may be risky. "Be extra careful of ones that incorporate a lot of plyometrics and burpees—or a combination of movements that aren't coached and cued for you," says Liu. "A lot of them just get you tired for the sake of being tired, and there's no progression for them." Dr. Jerry Yoo, D.P.T, C.S.C.S., echoes Liu's warnings over virtual classes, saying to Eat This, Not That, "There are many newbies who have the great intention of losing some of those 'pandemic pounds.' However, without any prior experience in fitness, jumping into a class can be potentially injurious." As many of us have previously experienced, possible injury could lead to a major health setback.
You may also find your lack of motivation is ruining your next attempt at a virtual fitness class.
Ask yourself if this method is really what you want
Many of us are blinded at first by the sheer convenience of virtual fitness. That is until we realize how much we miss the social aspects and routine built around our non-virtual gym classes. To avoid this, VerywellFit reminds us to "know thyself" and notes that online fitness may not fill all of the needs connected to a workout class. If you believe yourself to be lacking excitement over the world of virtual fitness, that's okay. The great outdoors and a workout buddy may be just the alternative you were after.
The substantial growth in the virtual fitness industry can definitely be positive for our health. But as with any fitness platform, trend, or common belief, you have to be careful. If you're interested in joining the world of virtual fitness, first make sure to find a class that fits into your budget, stirs your motivation, and won't increase your risk for injury. Now, ready, set, play.