"E-training" with online personal trainers

From downloadable aerobic routines to sites that let you track your progress toward goals, the Internet offers ways to help get you fit.

By Elizabeth Wasserman

Certified personal trainer Traci Fisher knows that there are two kinds of clients: those who need to be motivated to exercise face-to-face and those who like to work out on their own schedule. That's why Fisher and her partner, Sue Noe, added an online "e-training" component to their East coast business, Jump Start Customized Fitness (jumpstartcustomfitness.com). Using the Internet, clients can watch video clips and visual demonstrations of their Jump Start personal training program to get moving at any time, day or night. "This is for people who want to be held accountable for exercising but they don't want you standing next to them when they work out," Fisher says.

As the New Year looms, many people recommit to getting fit. You may be considering a new fitness routine to battle the bulge from holiday eating or to fulfill a long-awaited resolution. An online fitness program is the most convenient option for those who have busy schedules, are reluctant to exercise in public, or wish to avoid the high cost of gym memberships. In fact, the number of Certified Fitness Trainers working with clients online doubled between 2004 and 2005 and is expected to nearly double again this year, according to Sam Herschberg, director of business development for the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSAonline.com).

From downloadable aerobic routines to sites that let you track your progress toward fitness goals, the Internet offers ways to help you fit into a bikini, train for a marathon, or just improve your health. Read the whole story: Here's how to find the best workout with "virtual" trainers on the Net

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