How to start online personal training: the software you need

Coaching clients online is a different job from training them in the gym. You can't correct their form in person, so everything has to run through your software: their programme, their check-ins, their payments and how you talk to them.

The good news is you don't need much to start. Here's each tool, what it's for, and what to look for.

1. A coaching app (the one you can't skip)

This is the centre of your online business. It's where clients see their workouts, log their sessions and send you check-ins, and where you build programmes and track progress.

What to look for:

• A programme builder with an exercise video library, so clients can see how each movement should look.
• Check-ins and progress tracking: weight, measurements, photos and workout logs in one place.
• In-app messaging, so client conversations don't get lost in your personal WhatsApp.
• Nutrition tools, if you coach diet as well as training.
• A good client app. Your clients use it every day, so test it from their side, not just yours.

Not sure how to compare them? Use our 12 questions to ask before you pay. Popular options include ABC Trainerize, My PT Hub, Everfit, TrueCoach and PT Distinction. We're testing these now, and reviews will be linked here as they go live.

2. A way to take payments

Online clients usually pay monthly, so you want payments that repeat automatically rather than chasing invoices.

• For the full setup, see how to take payments as a personal trainer.
• Check your coaching app first. Many have payments built in, which keeps billing and client access in one place.
• If yours doesn't, a payment processor such as Stripe or PayPal lets you set up recurring subscriptions.
• Look for automatic retries and reminders when a card payment fails, so you don't lose income without noticing.

3. Booking and scheduling

Even fully online coaching usually starts with a consultation call, and many coaches offer regular video check-ins.

• A booking tool shows your free times and lets clients pick a slot, without the back-and-forth messages.
• It should sync with your calendar and handle time zones, since online clients may be anywhere.
• Again, some coaching apps include booking, so check before paying for a separate tool.

4. Video calls

For consultations, form checks and live sessions, you need reliable video. Zoom and Google Meet are the usual choices, and both work fine for one-to-one calls. Pick one, and put the link in your booking confirmation automatically.

5. A simple website

Your own network will get you your first few clients. After that, you need somewhere people can find you, see your results and book a call.

• Keep it simple: who you help, what you offer, results or testimonials, and a clear "book a call" button.
• Make sure it works well on a phone, since that's where most people will find you.

6. An email tool

Email is how you stay in touch with people who aren't ready to sign up yet. A short welcome series and a regular tip or update keep you in mind until they are. Start with a free plan and a single signup form on your website.

What to set up first

1. Coaching app. Start a free trial and set up yourself as a test client.
2. Payments. Use the app's built-in payments if it has them; otherwise connect Stripe or PayPal.
3. Booking and video. Set up your consultation call.
4. Website. One page is enough to start.
5. Email. Add a signup form once the website is live.

Don't buy everything on day one. Get your first few clients onto the coaching app, then add tools as you need them.

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