Best Online Workout Programs to Try in 2022 – SI Showcase

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If you’re looking to kickstart your fitness journey, lose weight or run your first marathon next year, there’s nothing like a good online workout program to help you meet your goal. They’re a fantastic solution if you can’t fit regular trips to the gym into your schedule, and in many cases, they’re more affordable than gym memberships.

These programs and fitness apps offer a robust selection of on-demand and live home workouts. You can pick and choose classes to add variety to your daily workouts, or follow recommended programs. And if you’re looking for personalized guidance, some of these programs even connect you with a personal trainer who can create a custom program of daily workouts based on your goals.

There are many online workout programs out there, but not all of them offer the same quality or experience. That’s why we’ve highlighted the key need-to-know information about the best online workout programs of 2022. Browse through the programs below and you’ll be able to quickly see which one might work for you.

Key Features:

• Best for those who need extra motivation and accountability
• $149 per month membership includes unlimited workouts and full access to a coach
• Your first month is discounted to $19 and Future will refund your payment if you decide to cancel
• Supports iPhones and the Apple Watch Series 3 and newer

Future, a virtual workout app, pairs you with a personal coach to increase your chances of meeting your fitness goals. When you sign up, you will select your coach and meet with them via a Facetime call. Your coach will create customized weekly workout plans, send daily messages and get on phone calls to help keep you motivated and ensure you get the most out of your workouts.

It’s that daily interaction with your coach that sets Future apart from other online workout programs. The communication helps to keep you accountable, and your coach will determine your workout plans to help you achieve your goals.

The Future app syncs with the Apple Watch, so your coach can review biometric details including your heart rate and calories burned during each workout. They can also use that information to tailor your workouts to ensure that you’re making consistent progress. The app itself is simple, intuitive and easy to use.

Future offers impressive customization options and is designed to fit into your lifestyle and fitness goals. Coaches create training plans that work with your schedule, goals and available workout equipment, and personalized audio guides you through each workout. If you’re going to be traveling, you can inform your coach and they will modify your training plan to fit your travel plans, making it easier to keep up with your workouts. There is no limit to the number of workouts you complete each month.

Your personal coach provides valuable support, and the subscription fee reflects that. Future memberships cost $149 per month, making it the most expensive online workout program that we reviewed. However, Future delivers value that justifies that higher cost. You’re paying less than it would cost to receive personal training at a gym, but you still enjoy most of the advantages that you would get from an in-person training experience.

Pros:

• Daily communication with your coach delivers motivation and accountability
• Customized weekly workouts designed to fit your goals and keep you progressing
• Apple Watch records biometric workout data and shares it with your coach

Cons:

• Monthly membership of $149 is expensive and won’t fit all budgets
• While an Apple Watch isn’t required, it is highly suggested
• Not currently available for Android

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Join Future

Key Features:

• Best for those who want to focus on yoga, mindfulness and meditation
• $20 per month or $199 per year
• Free 14-day trial with unlimited access to content, cancel anytime
• Compatible with iOS and available on Google Play for Android, available on computers, Chromecast and Apple TV

While many online workout programs offer yoga classes, few of them go into the depth and variety that Alo Moves offers. You can choose from Ashtanga, Hatha, kids yoga, Kundalini, restorative, prenatal and Vinyasa yoga classes, allowing you to explore each method and perhaps discover your new favorite yoga method.

In addition to a broad assortment of yoga workout classes, the Alo Moves app also offers plenty of mindfulness workouts, plus more traditional fitness workouts on topics like arm balances, backbends and flexibility.

This unique assortment of specialized workouts is appealing not only if you want to pursue yoga, but also if you are looking for an alternative to the traditional weight training, cardio and HIIT workouts that are so common on other platforms. Alo Moves categorizes each workout based on intensity and difficulty levels from beginner to advanced, which can help you determine which workouts are right for you.

All workouts are pre-recorded videos led by male and female instructors. At this time, Alo Moves does not offer live classes.

For just $20 per month, you get full access to all online classes. With such a broad range of classes, it’s easy to keep your workout fresh and engaging, as well as to continue building skills.

While the app features the ability to log workouts, you must do this manually, since workouts aren’t automatically added to your log when you complete them. The log can serve as motivation, and it also helps to track your progress and your accomplishments.

The Alo Moves app is easy to use on nearly any device, including a desktop or laptop computer, an iPhone or iPad. If you know that you will be without WiFi, you can download videos ahead of time, ensuring you don’t have to miss your workout. This feature makes Alo Moves an ideal choice if you travel frequently or have limited internet access.

Pros:

• View videos focused on seven yoga methods, as well as on mindfulness and traditional fitness
• Download videos ahead of time when you know you’ll be without WiFi
• Accessible on nearly any device

Cons:

• No live classes currently offered
• Completed workouts aren’t automatically added to your workout log

Join Alo Moves

Key Features:

• Best for those seeking a trainer for in-person sessions on a budget
• $29 per session, with 4-, 12- and 24-session subscriptions available
• Satisfaction is guaranteed, and you can request a refund after your first session
• Online platform only; no app available

If you prefer to work with a personal trainer, Fyt (Find Your Trainer) helps you find a trainer who fits your needs and goals. Fyt is an online platform that also functions as a trainer database. Thanks to its list of trainers, Fyt makes it easier than ever to find an online personal trainer who fits your schedule and needs. When you sign up, you will answer a brief questionnaire that will match you to your virtual trainer. Once you find a trainer, you can schedule a session at your home, gym or even a public area like a park.

Fyt is about more than trainer-client matchmaking, though. Fyt trainers are all certified, insured and vetted, and you can even view their COVID-19 vaccination status. Thanks to the Fyt platform, you don’t have to worry about doing this background research as you look for a personal trainer. You can schedule training sessions and pay online through Fyt, a major benefit when you have a busy schedule.

Since working out is more fun together, Fyt gives you the option to train with a partner or a group of friends. Your trainer will customize the workout to your group, and you’ll enjoy a discount for those group sessions. This option can boost your motivation and accountability, potentially helping you to meet your fitness goals.

If you choose to do in-person sessions, your trainer matches with Fyt will partially depend on your geographic location. Chances are you will have fewer trainers to choose from if you live in a rural area with a smaller population. Users in highly populated areas are likely to have access to the greatest selection of trainers.

If your first trainer isn’t the right match, Fyt gives you options. You can request your money back for your first session, and you can also change your trainer at any time.

At $29 per session, you will have a difficult time finding personal training for less than what you will pay with Fyt. You can save even more money by enrolling in a 12- or 24-session subscription, which will get you a five or 10 percent discount, respectively. This platform can be ideal if you are looking for in-person training sessions on a budget but want to avoid heading to your local gym.

Pros:

• Satisfaction is guaranteed and Fyt will refund your first session if it isn’t the right fit
• Choose to work out in small groups or with a partner for accountability and a discount
• Fyt trainers are certified, insured and vetted

Cons:

• No free trial
• No app available

Join Fyt

Key Features:

• Free
• Best for those looking for quality workouts on a limited budget
• Compatible with iOS and Android

The Nike Training Club app gives you access to an impressive library of class video workouts, making it one of the best free online workout programs available. You can choose workouts that target body parts, or choose workouts by type, including yoga, cardio and more. A narrator guides you through exercises and reps, but there are also trainer-led workouts that provide a more engaging experience. You can schedule workouts and receive reminders to help keep you accountable.

In addition to the robust library of pre-recorded free workouts, the Nike Training Club also offers trainer-led on-demand classes. Those on-demand workouts feature special athletes and musical guests, adding variety to your routine. Other supplementary materials include livestreams with Nike trainers and athletes, guided meditation, healthy recipes and exercise and healthy habit tips and advice. You can use these resources to create your own well-rounded training and wellness program.

The app’s interface is clean and easy to navigate, and you can pause and resume workouts as needed. The app tracks your daily activity, including the number of workouts you completed and the duration of your workout, so it’s easy to review your progress.

After you complete a workout, you can rate the training. Nike’s algorithm uses that information to suggest future workouts, but you can also choose your own or use one of the workout programs, which will guide you through a series of videos. While training is available for athletes at all levels, the workouts lack low-impact modifications, so some of them can be tough to tackle if you’re just getting started with a workout routine or are recovering from an injury.

Pros:

• Choose from a broad selection of workouts focusing on yoga, core and strength training, stretching, full body workouts and more
• Insights and tips about mindset, nutrition, recovery, movement and sleep deliver a holistic wellness approach
• New workouts are added weekly

Cons:

• No option to engage with a personal trainer
• The narrator-led workout videos can be dull

Join Nike Training Club

Key Features:

• Best for fans of dance-based workouts
• Premiere subscription $16.99 per month, Platinum subscription $34.99 per month, Prima subscription $349.99 per year
• Try your first Platinum month for $5
• Compatible with iOS and Android

Marketed to a female audience, DanceBody LIVE features high-energy soundtracks and engaging choreography to make daily workouts more entertaining. Subscriptions give you access to more than 300 on-demand classes, more than 10 daily live classes and new content released monthly.

You can pick and choose from on-demand classes or follow the class progression laid out by one of the available programs. Some programs target body areas and muscle groups, like the arms and back or abs, while others focus on beginners, prenatal and postnatal workouts or even helping brides to get wedding-ready. While you won’t engage directly with a trainer, the program structure guides you through the process of choosing your classes.

Live classes are streamed from the DanceBody New York City studio, and you will need to register for them ahead of time. The classes feature two-way video, providing a sense of connection and community that can help to keep you motivated throughout your workout journey. Attending a live, scheduled class also increases the chance that you’ll make time for your workout.

With three subscription options, you will probably find a subscription that is right for your goals and budget. The Premiere subscription is just $16.99 per month, making it an affordable choice that still gives you full access to the on-demand workouts and programs. If you want to participate in live classes, then the $34.99 Platinum subscription gets you that access. If you’re ready to commit, you might choose the Prima option, saving $70 per year compared to the Platinum membership.

Pros:

• Dance format is fun and high-energy, while still delivering an intense workout
• Two-way video during live classes creates engagement and accountability
• Pre/post natal and wedding prep programming available

Cons:

• Designed only for females
• Premiere subscription doesn’t include access to live classes

Join DanceBody Live

Key Features:

• Best for those who want plenty of variety in their workouts
• $12.99 per month for Peloton App, $44 per month for All-Access membership
• First two months are free for new subscribers
• Available on iOS and Android smartphones, tablets, computers and TVs via Apple TV, Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, LG and AirPLay

While the Peloton name may be synonymous with the Peloton Bike, you don’t need to own the bike to benefit from the thousands of online workouts available on this app. While some workouts use the bike and other equipment like rowing machines and treadmills, others focus on pilates, boxing, yoga, meditation, strength training, running, barre and more. Many of the classes require no equipment, making this app a budget-friendly choice.

Peloton also offers highly focused programs to help you reach a specific goal, like running a 5K or a marathon. Recovery and mobility programs focus on topics like the power of sleep and developing your inner calm, providing a well-rounded approach to fitness and wellness.

The workouts are well-produced, sleek videos featuring Peloton trainers who motivate and keep you going. There’s a heavy focus on music, and you can even choose your workouts based on instructor-curated playlists featuring popular artists like Alicia Keys, Prince, The Beatles, Elvis and Outkast. Both live and on-demand classes are available.

The app features a community-driven structure, so even though you may be working out at home, you can stay motivated and accountable. The Leaderboard function lets you see how your workout progress stacks up against your friends. Peloton also offers the ability to add tags to your profile, so you can connect with other community members with similar interests.

The $12.99-per-month app membership gets you access to the live and on-demand classes, and is one of the most affordable online workout programs available. If you’re using Peloton devices, like the Bike, Tread or Row, you will need to upgrade to the All-Access membership for $44 per month to gain full access to exclusive content like scenic rides.

Pros:

• No equipment needed for many classes
• Live and on-demand variety of classes
• Community elements like the Leaderboard feature foster connection and accountability

Cons:

• No ability to engage with trainers
• Peloton App subscription doesn’t include access to the exclusive content for Peloton devices like the Bike or Tread

Join Peloton

Key Features:

• Best for expectant and new moms looking for comprehensive fitness and nutrition support
• $29 per month, $74 per quarter, or $240 per year
• Free seven-day trial
• Available on iPhone, Android, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Kindle Fire

The Bloom Method gives expecting and new moms access to quality, well-rounded fitness support. A subscription includes access to more than 350 on-demand pre- and postnatal training sessions hosted by pre- and postnatal coaches. These video workouts focus on topics like birth preparation, cardio HIIT, dance cardio, fourth trimester rehabilitation, postnatal yoga and more.

While you can explore the many videos available, guided programs and trainings offer structure, too. You can view videos corresponding to your trimester, or watch videos on certain topics, like postnatal and ab challenges. The app even has a four-week video series supporting moms who have experienced loss.

In addition to the robust workout class selection, the app gives moms much more comprehensive resources. You can get a free consultation with the in-house pelvic floor physical therapists, as well as access Q&As and post-C-section birth care videos. You will also get access to meditations that are ideal when you’re pressed for time, and nutritional recipes to support you during and after pregnancy. Monthly workout calendars can also help you to stay on top of your fitness.

Perhaps most importantly, you will have access to the private Bloom Facebook group. You can ask Bloom coaches questions, and the community of mothers provides valuable support. This group can serve as motivation and accountability, helping you to keep your fitness journey on track.

If you’re looking for even more personalized support, the Private Bloom Foundations Crash Course covers topics like techniques to rebuild your core, how to breathe correctly and how to activate your core in daily movements. The course starts with a 90-minute Zoom meeting, and you can schedule 45-minute follow-up sessions, which can be helpful during the postnatal healing process. The one-time Foundations Zoom session is $250, and follow-up sessions are $125.

Pros:

• Designed specifically for pre and postnatal fitness
• Resources include not only workout videos, but also consultations with physical therapists, a private Facebook community, recipes and more
• Option to upgrade to the Private Bloom Foundations Crash Course for additional support and guidance

Cons:

• Designed for pre- and postnatal use, this platform isn’t an ongoing fitness solution

Join The Bloom Method

Key Features:

• Best for those looking for detailed progress tracking features
• $19.95 per month
• 30-day free trial gives you full access
• Stream from your TV or laptop with Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast, Amazon Fire; compatible with iOS and Android devices

If you’re looking for HIIT classes and intense workouts, you’ll find them within the Daily Burn app. You can choose from a broad variety of more than 2,500 live and on-demand videos including cardio workouts, cardio kickboxing and muscle building techniques as well as beginner Pilates and yoga basics.

If you choose the high-intensity interval training option, you’ll receive personalized HIIT workouts every week. Your instructor will provide step-by-step instructions and modifications, and videos are available in 10-, 20- and 30-minute lengths, so you can fit a session into your busy schedule.

The Daily Burn 360, a full-body group workout, is a live session that takes place at 9:00 am EST daily, and is later available on-demand. Designed for those getting started on their fitness journeys, the workout requires no equipment and includes plenty of modifications.

This app’s tracking and data capabilities stand out from many other workout programs. Your workouts and progress are automatically recorded as you complete each class. The app also features a weight tracker and provides you with an estimate of the calories that you’ve burned, a perk for anyone with weight loss goals. You can establish weekly goals for yourself within the app, too, such as running a certain distance or burning a particular number of calories.

Subscribers receive access to the Daily Burn Community group on Facebook for additional support and motivation.

Pros:

• More than 2,500 workout videos provide excellent variety
• Live Daily Burn 360 sessions can create motivation and accountability
• Thorough and automated tracking makes it easy to monitor your progress

Cons:

• While it offers more tracking features than most, it lacks the ability to track your diet and caloric intake

Join Daily Burn

Key Features:

• Best for those who want to workout wherever, whenever
• $14.99 per month or $99.99 per year
• Week-long free trial automatically rolls over into a subscription if you don’t cancel it
• Compatible with iOS and Android devices

Aaptiv takes a different approach to workout videos. This app features an audio-only format, so you listen to your workouts, rather than watching them. This design means you’re not tethered to a TV or computer screen, and you can take your workout anywhere with you.

Professional trainers lead each workout, and music playlists are curated to help get you motivated. Aaptiv offers more than 2,500 workout programs including treadmill, strength training, yoga, running, elliptical sessions and more.

Aaptiv also offers multi-week programs developed to help you achieve certain goals, like running a 5K or maintaining weight loss.

While Aaptiv is a bit more basic than other online workout programs, that’s also what makes it appealing. It’s designed so that you can pop in your earbuds and work out anywhere. The app is streamlined and simple to use, ideal for anyone looking for an audio-driven workout that does not require a lot of setup.

Pros:

• Take audio-based workouts anywhere
• Choose from programs that help you achieve particular goals
• Low-cost option, particularly with a year subscription

Cons:

Join Aaptiv

How to Choose the Best Online Workout Program for You

As you explore the best online workout programs of 2022 that we’ve highlighted above, it’s important to choose a program that’s also the best fit for you. Thinking about the following qualities can help you to narrow down your choices and find the program that you will not only enjoy, but that will also help you to get the results you’re looking for.

Cost

Consider how much you can comfortably spend per month on a workout program, and don’t forget to budget in any equipment purchases that you will need to make. Keep in mind that many programs offer discounts if you purchase a quarterly or annual subscription.

Fitness Goals

Defining your fitness goals can help you to determine the types of classes and programs you need. Think about whether you’re looking to build muscle, lose weight, run a marathon or achieve another specific goal. Look for a program that offers a variety of workouts for your fitness level, whether you’re looking for low-impact exercises or high-intensity workouts.

Live or On-Demand Classes

The ability to attend live workouts can be a major motivational factor, and it can help to keep you excited about your fitness journey. Live workouts also change up your workout routine and can provide a chance to connect with others, which is important if you’re working out at home. Some online workout programs offer live workouts, but others don’t, so you need to consider how important these classes are to you.

Accessibility Options

Consider what type of accessible environment is best for you. If you often use a certain device, like your phone or computer, make sure you can access the workout program on your device. You will also want to think about how the program is structured. For example, do you want the freedom to pick and choose your workouts from all of the available videos, or would you rather have the guidance of a structured program that picks your workouts for you?

Required Equipment

If you’re considering enrolling in a program, make sure that you have—or can get—the type of equipment required. Many programs offer workouts that require no equipment at all, while others might require some basics or even more expensive equipment like dumbbells, kettlebells, treadmills and ellipticals.

Add-Ons

Think about whether you want a program that offers any specific add-ons. These include options like meal plans and nutrition plans, community groups and even one-on-one support from a personal trainer.

FAQs

What do I need to get started using an online workout program?

Many online workout programs allow you to get started with minimal fitness equipment. That equipment might be as simple as a yoga mat, resistance bands or hand weights, and there are many fitness classes that require no equipment at all. You may also need a way of streaming live classes, such as through a smartphone or tablet, or you might just need to be able to log onto the platform and log your workouts. Some apps integrate with an Apple Watch or other wearable, which allows for enhanced biometric tracking.

Are online workout programs as effective as in-person classes?

You can get the same value from online workout programs as from in-person classes, depending on your motivation. Online programs are often more affordable and accessible than in-person classes, so you may be able to work out more consistently. However, there’s less accountability with an online workout program, so it’s easier to start skipping workouts than if you’re attending a live class that follows a specific schedule.

Which online workout program is the best for weight loss?

The best online workout program for weight loss really depends on how you prefer to work out. Daily Burn features a weight tracker and Aaptiv offers a weight loss program, but the most effective program will be one that keeps you motivated and excited about losing weight and getting fit.

Final Thoughts

Whether you can’t make it to the gym or don’t have the budget to hire a certified personal trainer, these online workout programs can help you to still achieve your fitness goals. Offering everything from dance-inspired at-home workouts to HIIT workouts just like what you would experience at the gym, these programs deliver convenience, affordability and valuable resources, too. All of these top picks offer quality programming at a variety of price points, so chances are you’ll find that one of them is the right fit for you. 

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.