If there's anything that the last few years of craziness in the world have taught us, it's the power of what we're able to accomplish at home. Work, school, keeping in touch with loved ones, and particularly your fitness routine are all possible from just about anywhere with the right technology. Finding the best online workout programs allows you to make smart, safe, and effective progress towards whatever your personal fitness goals may be, and we've found some excellent options that can help you meet your health and fitness needs—all from the comfort of your own home.
The best online fitness programs offer variety, science-backed recommendations and programming, support for your individual needs and preferences, and workouts that make fitness a fun and fulfilling experience for you. From bodyweight exercises that require no additional tools to more complex routines that utilize your home workout equipment, you can find options that meet your needs and restrictions. We compiled a list of our favorite online workout programs so whether your goal is to lose weight, build muscle, improve your athletic performance, or something else entirely, you’re sure to find something here that can support your fitness journey.
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The Best Online Workout Programs - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Online Workout Programs: Future
- Best Budget Online Workout Programs: Onnit 6
- Best Free Online Workout Programs: Classpass
- Best Online HIIT Workout Programs: Fiit
- Best Online Workout Programs for Beginners: Copilot
- Best Online Workout Programs for People Over 50: BetterMe
- Best Online Workout Programs for Moms: Alo Moves
- Best Online Workout Programs for Weight Loss: Profile
- Best Online Workout Programs to Build Muscle: Onnit Digital
- Best Online Workout Programs for Athletes: Future
Best Overall Online Workout Programs - Future
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: First month is free; after that your cost is $149/month
- Free trial period: None (but the first month is only $19)
- Platform: iOS app for workouts as well as FaceTime communications with your coach
- Kind of workouts offered: Customized personal training and one-on-one coaching for any kind of workout goals
If you want the personalization, expertise, and accountability of a personal trainer without the limitations of having to meet in person, Future is the app for you. An expert coach creates safe and effective workout programs that are tailored for your schedule, lifestyle, goals, and overall preferences. We like that they hold you accountable and keep you motivated to keep working and progressing towards your personal goals. This monthly subscription model also allows you to evolve your fitness needs over time and stay supported throughout your journey, no matter where it takes you.
No matter where you like to build up a sweat or what your individual goals may be, Future's personalized plans can enhance your exercise experience. Training for a race, attending fitness classes at a gym, exercising at home, working out outdoors, doing workouts at home that fit into your busy schedule, and much more are all on the table for creating your ultimate fitness routine. By choosing the workout that works for you, you're much more likely to actually stick to your plan and see tangible results. That's the power of a mobile personal trainer.
What We Like
- Integrated Apple technology (iPhone app, Apple watch integration, FaceTime conversations, etc.)
- Can be customized for any and all fitness goals; not specific to a particular workout style
- Real-time feedback and accountability to keep you progressing
- Expert personal trainers utilize science and experience to get you to your goals
What We Don't Like
- Limited to Apple users
- Higher cost
BUY: Future
Best Budget Online Workout Programs - Onnit 6
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: This online program offers 6-week training packages in a variety of styles for $49.95; not technically a subscription
- Free trial period: None
- Platform: Downloadable Onnit videos can be watched on your phone or computer
- Kind of workouts offered: 6-week bodyweight, barbell, kettlebell, steel mace, steel club, and durability programs
Online workout programs don’t have to cost a fortune. Proof? The Onnit 6 workout program. Since it’s not subscription based, you don’t have to worry about paying a recurring fee. And whether you're a total beginner or an exercise pro, this workout series is designed to help with muscle building, weight loss, strength and endurance, and a host of other workout goals. You simply download their videos, and then utilize them from anywhere you prefer (with or without internet access!).
Choose from their bodyweight, kettlebell, steel mace, barbell, durability, or steel club options, and you'll receive six weeks worth of workouts to do on your own time. Each workout is designed by experts to challenge you where you're at currently. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced modifications are available, and each set of workouts also includes mobility training, yoga, and other recovery tools to give you a comprehensive fitness experience.
What We Like
- Bodyweight option is great for people not ready to invest in (sometimes costly) workout equipment
- 6 weeks is a ideal amount of time to stick to a program and see results (without an overwhelmingly long commitment)
- Since it's not subscription-based, you don't have to pay recurring fees
- Downloadable videos can be saved and played anytime, anywhere
What We Don't Like
- Since it's not an ongoing/subscription model, you won't continue to receive support or tools after your 6 weeks are up
- For people more interested in low-impact or yoga-type workouts, this might not be your cup of tea
BUY: Onnit 6
Best Free Online Workout Programs - ClassPass
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: Online home workout videos are free on the ClassPass website (you also have the option to purchase 8 - 80 credits for in-person classes for $19 - $159/month.)
- Free trial period: 14 days for paid version; N/A for free videos
- Platform: ClassPass website/YouTube videos
- Kind of workouts offered: Strength training, cardio, yoga, barre, and more
While ClassPass is typically known for selling credits that can be used for attending in-person workout classes around the globe, they also offer over 4,000 on-demand fitness classes right on their website. These classes range from yoga and stretching to HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and strength training, and much more. Typical options range from 10 to 30 minutes per video, allowing you the flexibility to fit them into your busy schedule whenever possible.
The ClassPass model is designed for people who live busy lives and enjoy variety in their workout routines, and their free video offerings reflect that same set of priorities for you to enjoy anytime. If you're looking for an excellent set of free workouts to fit into your busy routine, look no further than ClassPass's website and their huge library of options.
What We Like
- Option to add in-person classes to your online workout routine
- FREE videos that anyone can access
- 10 to 30-minute videos can be fit into your busy schedule
- Variety of workout styles encourage you to mix things up
What We Don't Like
- No set training programs or schedules
- No live instructors to provide feedback, corrections, or modifications
BUY: ClassPass
Best Online HIIT Workout Programs - Fiit
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: $9.99/month if you pay annually; $19.99/month if you pay monthly (for Unlimited plans). $7.99/month for access to 30+ training plans.
- Free trial period: 7 days
- Platform: Fiit app available on many different platforms, allowing you to view workouts on your phone, TV, computer, tablet, etc.
- Kind of workouts offered: A variety of workouts including HIIT, bodyweight, dumbbell, kettlebell, yoga, Pilates, functional movement, and more
HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workouts are an excellent way to get your heart pumping, burn fat, build muscle, and improve overall health and fitness. Fiit's online subscription plans offer you access to top-quality HIIT workouts in addition to their thorough support systems. If you like to keep things simple, you can access their "Only Plans" training plans. If you want more robust offerings and integrated support, however, their Unlimited plans include a huge library of workouts, music and playlists, integration with technology/equipment (like trackers, treadmills, etc.), performance metrics, community challenges, games, and more.
The Unlimited plans give you access to hundreds of on-demand workout classes at a variety of fitness levels. Keep things interesting with HIIT, strength, circuit, functional fitness, mobility, yoga, Pilates, and other kinds of classes. Or, choose individual classes à la carte or utilize Fiit's training plans for a more structured regimen.
What We Like
- App available on any platform and for any screen or device
- Can be integrated with a variety of trackers, workout machines, and other fitness technology
- Community challenges and group classes foster a sense of community and accountability
- Cheaper option for those who only want access to training plans
What We Don't Like
- You may feel obligated to purchase their trackers or equipment in order to get the full experience
- Some workout equipment is not available for purchase/delivery in USA
BUY: Fiit
Best Online Workout Programs for Beginners - CoPilot
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: $99/month
- Free trial period: 14 days
- Platform: App for Android or Apple devices
- Kind of workouts offered: Personalized workouts for home or gym as well as coaching, nutrition guidance, tracking, and live communications
When you first set out to make lifestyle changes that improve your health and fitness, things can feel quite overwhelming. CoPilot's custom fitness plans simplify the process and address so much more than just the exercise component of your overall well being. With this app, you match with a coach who then tailors a workout plan, nutrition guidance and best practices, and other healthy habits to your specific goals. They track your workouts and overall progress and provide feedback and accountability. Often called "a personal trainer in your pocket," CoPilot's programming uplevels with you, offering continued support no matter what life throws your way.
By focusing on small, doable steps each day, CoPilot is an excellent choice for workout beginners and fitness pros alike. Movement and recovery workouts can be done anywhere you like—at home, in the gym, at a class, or outdoors. No extra equipment is necessary, allowing you to do what works best for you. If you like, however, you can utilize a variety of equipment or trackers to improve your experience.
What We Like
- Focus on consistency and small steps
- Personalized workouts tailored to your specific goals
- Fully customizable for your individual schedule, location, equipment, restrictions, etc.
- Assistance for overall lifestyle changes and not just exercise
What We Don't Like
- Higher cost
BUY: CoPilot
Best Online Workout Programs for People Over 50 - BetterMe
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: There are several subscription options (weekly for $4.99/week; 12-week option for $29.99; annual subscription for $120)
- Free trial period: Some app functions are available for no cost so you can test things out
- Platform: Mobile app available for iOS and Android
- Kind of workouts offered: A variety of workouts for all skill levels (also available are nutrition, tracking, mental health, habit-building, and other functions)
BetterMe Health Coaching is all about taking a holistic approach to your health and wellness. Healthy habits, tracking and accountability, and integrating physical and mental health all add up to helping you live a healthier, happier lifestyle. Personalized programming in addition to food tracking and optional challenges can be very helpful in allowing you to progress towards your health and fitness goals.
For the home workouts available through BetterMe, there are quick and efficient options available for people of all fitness levels, including options for people with limited mobility. There are many bodyweight workouts that can be done from anywhere, and there is definitely an emphasis on weight loss and working towards that goal. You can choose from beginner, medium, and advanced options, with exercises that target all parts of your body.
What We Like
- Focus on holistic lifestyle changes
- Beginner, medium, and advanced options for exercise choices
- Personalized programming that fits into your lifestyle
What We Don't Like
- Can sometimes feel like they're trying to “upsell” you on their more costly products
- Main emphasis is weight loss, so if your fitness goals lie elsewhere, this might not be the best fit
Best Online Workout Programs for Moms - Alo Moves
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: $20/month or $199/year
- Free trial period: 14 days
- Platform: Mobile app available for iOS and Android
- Kind of workouts offered: While the main focus is on yoga and meditation, there are also strength, Barre, Pilates, HIIT, core, mindfulness, and other kinds of classes available
Alo is a well-known yoga company that also offers an at-home membership which allows you to get the full yoga studio experience from anywhere. With thousands of classes that focus on both physical and mental health, you can find workouts that will fit into any busy routine. In addition to high quality yoga classes, there are options for Barre, Pilates, core, HIIT (high-intensity interval training), and many other kinds of workouts. You can also choose from guided meditations to help you improve your mindfulness practice.
For busy moms who find it hard to make it into the studio but still want to reap the benefits of a robust yoga practice and regular fitness routine, Alo Moves is an excellent and affordable replacement for a studio membership. The flexibility and variability of the classes offered allows you to customize your workout experience and get exactly what you want from your fitness routine. The added emphasis on the integration of mental and physical health makes it particularly powerful for moms who have a lot on their plate.
What We Like
- Emphasis on yoga and mindfulness in a way that fits into a mom's hectic schedule
- Thousands of classes offered
- Flexibility and variability
- Reasonable cost
What We Don't Like
- If yoga isn't your thing, the Alo brand may not feel like the best fit
- No personal training or customized plans
BUY: Alo Moves
Best Online Workout Programs for Weight Loss - Profile
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: Customized plans vary by location and specific goals
- Free trial period: Start with a free session to determine if it's a good fit for your needs
- Platform: Weekly calls with your coach, mobile app, other options available
- Kind of workouts offered: Personalized to your needs
Profile at Home is a subset of the larger Profile offerings that are designed to help you meet your personal fitness and health goals. Profile at Home sets you up with a coach that you have weekly conversations with about your nutrition and fitness goals, and you can also work with them on a tailored meal plan (which includes foods that can be shipped to you depending on your location).
Your coach will help you set and work towards realistic and healthy goals, including both your nutrition and exercise plans. If weight loss is your goal, Profile offers excellent support for making the necessary lifestyle changes and sticking to your goals and plans.
What We Like
- Personalized coaching and frequent communications
- Emphasis on nutrition as well as exercise
- Virtual and in-person options
What We Don't Like
- If you just want a workout program, this may be "too much" for your needs
- High cost
BUY: Profile
Best Online Workout Programs to Build Muscle - Onnit Digital
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: Onnit Digital programs range from $9.99 for a package of 10 workouts to $49.95 for 6-week training sessions
- Free trial period: None
- Platform: Downloadable Onnit videos can be watched on your phone or computer
- Kind of workouts offered: Bodyweight, barbell, kettlebell, steel mace, steel club, mobility, strength, and durability programs available
Looking to build muscle? Onnit offers a variety of online workouts that are excellent for people looking to pack on some muscle. The Onnit 6 packages come in Bodyweight, Steel Club, Steel Mace, Kettlebell, Durability, and Barbell options. Each program lasts 6 weeks and can be completed at home, no matter your current fitness level.
In addition to the Onnit 6 suite of workout programs, Onnit also offers their Onnit In 30 packages. These each include 10 workouts for under $10, and there are several selections to choose from. Decompress to Defy, Mobilized Strength, My Warm Up – Your Workout, Kettlebell Athlete, Morning Mobility, Move & Groove, and a Bundle package can all be purchased, giving you access to that set of downloadable workout videos that you can view from anywhere. Each of the Onnit In 30 workouts take less than 30 minutes, allowing them to fit into your busy schedule or supplement your other fitness pursuits.
What We Like
- Super affordable Onnit in 30 packages allow you to test out the workouts
- No subscription required, allowing you to view the videos whenever you want
- Challenging exercises are ideal for building muscle
What We Don't Like
- No ongoing support
- No customizable plans or personal training
BUY: Onnit Digital
Best Online Workout Programs for Athletes - Future
SPECS
- Subscription breakdown: First month is free, after that your cost is $149/month
- Free trial period: None (but the first month is only $19)
- Platform: iOS app for workouts as well as FaceTime communications with your coach
- Kind of workouts offered: Customized personal training and one-on-one coaching for any kind of workout goals
Future's personalized fitness programs are excellent for athletes and those already steadily involved in fitness and training routines. Stepping up your training to the next level or getting a more focused and personalized routine is exactly what Future's expert coaches can offer, all while taking into account your current schedule, lifestyle, and overall preferences. The added accountability of a personal trainer and that extra nudge of motivation may be just what you need to take things to the next level.
Future's personalized programming can help you start from scratch or enhance your current training routine. Whether you're training for an upcoming event or race, wanting off-season support for your sport, recovering from an injury, or just need that extra push in the right direction, Future's coaches can help you make progress towards your goals and see the results you're looking for.
What We Like
- Integrated Apple technology (iPhone app, Apple watch integration, FaceTime communications, etc.)
- Can be customized for any and all fitness and athletic goals; excellent way to upgrade your current fitness routine
- Real-time feedback and accountability
- Smart coaching for athletes that need science-based workouts and programs
What We Don't Like
- Limited to Apple users
- Higher cost
BUY: Future
Online Fitness Programs vs. Traditional Gyms
Online fitness programs have really changed the game when it comes to accessibility, scheduling, and convenience. Being able to take workout classes on the go or fit in a quick exercise session between meetings makes it so people with all kinds of lifestyles and schedules can still prioritize their fitness goals. Rather than being limited by class times, proximity to a gym or studio, social anxieties/intimidation, cost, or other factors that play into traditional gym memberships, online fitness programs give you the flexibility you need to fit your workouts into your busy life.
Of course, there are also many people who still prefer traditional gyms. The camaraderie, increased motivation to push yourself when others are watching, and variety of equipment available make in-person training more appealing to some people. At the end of the day, what matters is that you move your body in a way that is fun, satisfying, and reasonable for your personal situation.
FAQs About Online Workout Programs
What is the most effective home workout?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The most effective home workout is the one that you will actually do. Whether that's bodyweight exercises in your living room, strength training in your basement gym, or yoga in your backyard, the workout that gets done will always beat the one that remains a dream.
How many days should you work out?
This is another one that will vary from person to person. Typically, three to five days of dedicated physical activity per week will get you to the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity. For more intense workouts, more recovery time is required in between sessions, while low-intensity exercises can be done every day of the week (for some people).
What is the best free online workout program?
ClassPass's free online workout videos are a high-quality, easy way to try new workouts at home without any financial commitment on your part. The variety of workouts to choose from make them great for any kind of exerciser and the varying lengths of the workouts make them easy to fit into any busy schedule.
How can I tone my body fast?
While real results take real time and effort, the combination of starting an effective exercise routine and honing in on your nutrition or diet is usually the best way to see tangible toning and results. Strength training is absolutely essential for increasing lean muscle and seeing tangible changes in your body composition.
How many days should beginners work out?
To prevent injury and avoid burning out too soon, starting with two to three days per week of exercise is often recommended. Starting small and gradually building up your time spent exercising is a great way to form lasting habits that lead to healthy lifestyle changes.
About the Author
Kialei Kappel is a fitness expert with a degree in Exercise Science from BYU, over 10 years of field experience, and more than 10 industry certifications. She is currently working on her Masters in Public Health.
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