Going to the gym and getting a good workout isn’t the same as it used to be. Yes, there are still plenty of fitness centers all over the country, serving kids in sports camps to geriatric yoga classes for the elderly and resources for everyone in between.
However, the rise of social media and other virtual platforms have made it convenient for some to get their exercise routine done from the comfort of their own home – and without having to actually travel to a fitness center to speak with a trainer or get a heart-pumping workout done.
What is Connected Fitness?
This whole premise is called connected fitness; essentially, connected fitness is a way for people to exercise and achieve their health, wellness, and fitness goal while utilizing workout equipment at home. This is a perfect outlet for those who want to virtually connect, without having to actually spend the time driving to a gym or possibly feeling uncomfortable in a group exercise class full of people.
Who Can Benefit From Connected Fitness?
So who exactly is connected fitness geared toward? In reality, anyone can utilize this type of virtual platform for their workouts, if desired. But think of it this way – if you’re working from home and only have 30 minutes for your lunch break, you can pop into a quick Tabata class – all from the comfort of your home office.
Want to take a Spin class, but the kids are taking a nap? Perfect…hop on your stationary bike and pick from one of hundreds of different classes, intensities, and even locations for your ride.
Connected fitness has definitely had its ups and downs. After all, it’s hard to say how well it actually would turn out when it first began! There have been pre-recorded workouts online for quite some time; however, this doesn’t quite give you the one-on-one experience and direct feedback like a live streaming class now does.
Nowadays, you can virtually check into a class, the trainer can see that you are present, and they can give auditory and visual feedback regarding form and technique if necessary.
How to Engage with Connected Fitness
There are several different platforms to choose from depending on how you want to connect and engage in a fitness program virtually. Not only can you join live classes and compete against people from around the world, but you can choose your level of intensity, as well as class length.
Want to do an hour-long yoga class after work? There are plenty to choose from – you just need to determine the right avenue to view it. You can adjust playlists, store music, and keep track of your workout data for future viewing. And most platforms for connected fitness even allow you to send your workout information to other devices and training applications to keep track of your progress.
Overall Benefits of Connected Fitness
From the ease of tracking to seeing progress over time, connected fitness allows you to get one-on-one feedback based on your personal fitness goals. But don’t worry – fitness centers aren’t going anywhere!
The virtual platforms accessible through your home gyms make it easier for you to get your workouts in on hectic days and give you the ability to achieve your fitness goals from the comfort of your own home.
If you’re needing or wanting the ability to travel and have in-person contact to reach your fitness goals, that is available as well – you’ll just need to determine which outlet is best for your overall success.
