How to Get the Most Out of Your Online Personal Trainer for Weight Loss

You’ve signed up for an online personal training program, committed to your weight loss goals, and now you're ready to transform your body and lifestyle. But here’s the truth: simply having a great online personal trainer isn’t enough. Success also depends on how you use the program.

This article shares 8 proven strategies to get the most out of your online personal trainer, maximize your weight loss, and stay motivated long-term — no matter where in the world you’re training from.

1. Set Clear, Realistic Weight Loss Goals

Before starting, be specific about what you want to achieve. Instead of just saying “I want to lose weight,” clarify your goal:

• Lose 5kg in 2 months

• Fit into size X jeans

• Lower body fat by 10%

Your online weight loss coach can create a custom plan based on this goal, making your training more focused and effective.

Pro Tip: Break your goal into smaller weekly milestones to stay motivated.

2. Stick to a Schedule and Treat It Like a Real Appointment

The biggest advantage of online personal training is flexibility but that can also be a trap. Don’t let “I'll do it later” become your daily excuse.

Set a training schedule and treat your workouts like you would a meeting with a real trainer at the gym. Add them to your calendar and show up for yourself.

3. Use Your Trainer’s Tools & Tech (Properly!)

From fitness apps and video calls to tracking spreadsheets and progress photos , your trainer provides digital tools for a reason. These aren’t optional; they’re crucial for progress.

• Log your meals if requested

• Submit progress photos on time

• Track your workouts in the app or shared doc

• Use the feedback your trainer gives

It helps your trainer adjust your program and keeps you accountable.

4. Track Your Progress Beyond the Scale

It’s easy to become obsessed with the number on the scale. But weight loss isn’t just about weight.

Track:

• Progress photos (every 2 weeks)

• Body measurements (waist, hips, chest, thighs)

• Fitness performance (e.g. push-ups, plank hold time)

• Mood, energy levels, sleep quality

This gives a more complete picture of your transformation and keeps you motivated when the scale moves slowly.

5. Commit to the Nutrition Plan

Even the best online personal trainer can’t out-train a bad diet. Nutrition is often the deciding factor in successful fat loss.

If your trainer provides meal guidance, meal plans, or calorie targets...stick to them. Let your trainer know about your preferences, allergies, or struggles so they can adapt the plan.

🍽️ “Abs are made in the kitchen,” as they say — and it's especially true in online training.

6. Communicate Honestly and Often

You’re not just buying a program — you’re building a relationship. Open, honest communication with your coach is one of the most powerful parts of online personal training.

• Struggling to stay consistent? Tell them.

• Hitting a plateau? Let them know.

• Skipped workouts or overate this weekend? Be real.

A great trainer won’t judge — they’ll adjust your plan and support you through it.

7. Stay Patient and Trust the Process

Online personal training works, but it’s not magic. You may not see huge changes overnight, but if you stay consistent, the results will come.

Trust your trainer’s process, whether it’s progressive overload, calorie cycling, or mindset coaching. Your plan is based on what’s proven to work, so give it time to work for you.

8. Treat It Like a Partnership

You’re not a passive client. You’re a partner in your transformation. Ask questions. Request feedback. Share wins and struggles. The more engaged you are, the better your coach can guide you.

This isn’t a generic app but a human-driven service designed to get you real, sustainable results.

Why Online Personal Training Works

At The Fitness Edit, we’ve helped hundreds of clients across South Africa and around the world to lose weight, get stronger, and stay consistent with affordable online personal training. Whether you want to lose 5kg or 25kg, the formula is simple:

✅ Personalized programs
✅ Expert coaching
✅ Daily support
✅ Consistency

Online doesn’t mean alone. With the right approach and the right trainer you can absolutely achieve your fitness goals from anywhere.

So, can online personal training work for you? Yes...if you work it.

By setting clear goals, communicating openly, following the plan, and staying accountable, you'll not only lose weight, but you'll also build habits that last a lifetime.

Join The Fit Edit’s proven online weight loss coaching program today. Whether you're based in South Africa or abroad, we offer personalized support, flexible scheduling, and expert guidance to help you transform your body and your confidence.