Best Online Fitness Programs of 2025: Top Picks To Get Fit At Home

So, you’ve set up your home gym. What’s next? To maximize the benefits of the best home gym equipment, consider following an online training plan to maintain focus and ensure continuous progress. It’s like having a personal trainer available anytime, anywhere, which can significantly aid in achieving your fitness goals and staying motivated. Notably, research indicates that mobile apps can effectively boost physical activity levels.

“An online workout program is ideal for beginners who need guidance in creating a training plan, individuals experiencing plateaus in their fitness journey, or anyone seeking extra motivation,” states Anthony O’Reilly, a certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor. “While numerous free options exist, even the paid programs often prove more economical than hiring an in-person personal trainer. Plus, you have the convenience of working out in your home gym or any location you prefer.”

Our team, consisting of certified personal trainers, CrossFit competitors, weightlifting coaches, and passionate fitness experts, has rigorously tested over 20 of the best online workout programs to guide you in the right direction. We’ve personally engaged with these programs, evaluating them based on key criteria:

Instruction Quality: Are certified trainers providing workout guidance?
User-Friendliness: Is the app intuitive and easy to navigate? Is the sign-up process straightforward?
Adaptability: Are training plans rigid, or can they be adjusted for unexpected events like illness or travel?
Accountability: How does the program ensure user adherence and consistency?
Clarity of Instructions: How well are workouts explained? Are there demonstrations for unfamiliar exercises?
Interactive Features: Are there progress check-ins, and is there access to coaching support?

Through this rigorous evaluation, we’ve narrowed down the options to present you with the best online workout apps available.

Best Online Workout Programs in 2025

Best Online Workout Programs Video Review

Video review of best online workout programs

Best Online Workout Program Overall: Future

Good for: Individuals needing structured workout routines and high accountability from a certified coach.

Best Overall

Future

Future Training App Logo GGR Score: 4.7

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Pros & Cons

Pros

Exceptionally user-friendly and intuitively designed interface.
Choice of coaches based on personal preferences and fitness objectives.
Wide variety of workout types.

Cons

Membership cost of $199 per month.
No real-time coaching during workouts.

Bottom Line

Despite its premium price point of around $200 monthly, Future stands out with its user-centric interface, adaptable programming, and outstanding support from dedicated personal coaches.

GGR founder Cooper Mitchell and head of content Kate Meier have consistently used Future for nearly three years, highlighting its ongoing value. This innovative personal training app allows users to select their own certified coach and work towards personally relevant fitness goals.

A key advantage of Future is its portability. For those who travel frequently and struggle to maintain a consistent workout schedule, this app offers a sense of routine and stability.

“The app’s compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer, allowing you to navigate through workouts directly from your wrist,” notes Kate, a certified personal trainer. “This feature is incredibly convenient.”

Kate Meier using Future training app on Apple Watch

After you inform your coach about your fitness goals (whether it’s weight loss, improved cardio, or strength gain), they tailor workouts based on the equipment you have available. You can receive a workout every day or collaborate with your coach to schedule lighter or rest days as needed.

Kate appreciates her coach’s flexibility and ability to adjust workouts based on her needs and daily condition. Both Coop and Kate value the accountability provided by a real coach, awarding Future a perfect 5/5 in this category.

“My coach is exceptional. She checks in almost daily to see how I’m feeling, discuss workouts, or inquire about missed sessions,” Kate explains. “This level of engagement is a significant motivator and keeps me consistent with my workouts.”

Nathan using Future training app on his phone

Initially exclusive to iOS, Future now supports Android devices and watches running WearOS 3.0 or higher, broadening its accessibility.

RELATED: Best Workout Apps

While Future’s monthly cost may be prohibitive for some, it’s still more affordable than multiple weekly in-person personal training sessions. Plus, using this link offers a significant discount on your first month. Our comprehensive Future app review provides deeper insights into our firsthand experience.

Training Approach	Personal Training
Workout Types	Cardio, Strength, Functional Fitness
Class Length	Continuous
Cost	$199/month
Free Trial	No
Platform Availability	Android and iOS

Best Online Workout Program for Strength Training: Caliber App

Good for: Beginners or anyone seeking expert online coaching for strength enhancement.

For Strength Training

Caliber Strength Training

Caliber Strength Training App Logo GGR Score: 4.68

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Product Highlights

Strength training and nutrition focused app.
Personalized, data-driven workout programs.
Expert habit coaching.
Offers both free and paid versions.
Private 1:1 coaching available.
Weekly lessons, metric tracking, nutrition syncing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Training plans based on scientific principles.
Individualized fitness and nutrition coaching reported as thorough in paid subscriptions.
Free version includes a curated workout plan library.
User-friendly interface.

Cons

Personalized macronutrient goals are exclusive to paid versions.

Bottom Line

Caliber Strength Training offers a scientifically-backed fitness coaching program designed to build strength and improve body composition. It provides both group and individual training plans, customized and adjusted by certified coaches based on user progress.

As a certified personal trainer and product review expert, I tend to be critical of online workout programs, but Caliber Strength Training App impressed me. I appreciate its emphasis on fitness fundamentals like progressive overload, energy balance, flexible dieting, and adequate rest.

My experience is based on the 21-day premium version, costing around $200 per month, but our detailed Caliber app review covers the Pro and free version features as well.

Regarding the price, while it’s significant, it provides access to individualized fitness coaches, including a certified nutrition coach for dietary and supplement guidance to refine your nutrition.

My main usability issue was the single photo upload limit, which is inconvenient when sending multiple progress photos. The interface has minor glitches, but the overall experience remains highly rated at 4 out of 5.

Caliber Strength Training App Screenshots

My personalized workout plan was available shortly after my initial 30-minute consultation. My coach was responsive and tracked my progress through the app and my Apple Watch, providing feedback during weekly check-ins.

Caliber earns a 5 out of 5 for accountability.

While it’s a premium option, for those who can afford it and seek a high-value online workout program, Caliber Strength Training is an excellent choice.

Training Approach	Personal training
Workout Types	Strength training
Class Length	Varies
Cost	Free, $19/month (group), about $200/month (personal training)
Free Trial	Free version available
Platform Availability	iOS, Android

Best Online Workout Program For Free: Nike Training Club

Good for: Users seeking a comprehensive, free workout library with both live and on-demand classes.

Free Online Workout Program

Nike Training Club

Nike Training Club App Logo GGR Score: 4.16

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Product Highlights

Completely free access.
Extensive library of on-demand workouts and live sessions.
Over 10 workout categories.
User-friendly app interface.
No personalized programming.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Entirely free to use.
Previously paid premium content now available for free.
More than 10 workout categories.
Most workouts instructed by certified trainers.

Cons

Audio controls can be occasionally problematic.
On-screen metrics like reps and time can be difficult to see at times.

Bottom Line

Nike Training Club is a free fitness app featuring a rich workout library, including individual workouts and structured programs led by certified instructors.

Most free online workout programs are underwhelming, often lacking a substantial library of on-demand workouts, live classes with certified trainers, structured programs, or diverse workout categories.

Nike Training Club excels by offering all these features and more, completely free of charge. For a zero-dollar budget, it’s unmatched. Nike made its previously premium content free in 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly enhancing the app’s value.

Nike Training Club App Logo

As a competitive triathlete, I’ve used Nike Training Club for years. While I haven’t followed a full program exclusively, I use it whenever I need variety or lack the energy to plan my own workout.

Options range from cardio and HIIT to strength training, bodyweight exercises, and endurance workouts. The app allows filtering by workout duration, fitness level, type, and equipment. Our full Nike Training Club review details the workout variety.

Both on-demand and live classes offer good instruction, although audio can be challenging when streaming music simultaneously. Given it’s a free workout app, this is a minor issue.

I rated accountability a 3 out of 5 due to limited features to keep you on track. Otherwise, Nike Training Club is an excellent free option for diverse workout preferences.

RELATED: HIIT Treadmill Workout

Training Approach	On-demand and live workout classes
Workout Types	Cardio, strength, yoga, HIIT
Class Length	Varies
Cost	Free
Free Trial	N/A
Platform Availability	iOS, Android

Best AI Online Workout Program: JuggernautAI

Good for: Individuals serious about improving performance in squat, deadlift, and bench press.

AI Workout Program

JuggernautAI

JuggernautAI App Logo Check Price Use code GARAGEGYM to save 10%

Product Highlights

Smart powerlifting and powerbuilding program by Chad Wesley Smith, a renowned strength athlete and Juggernaut Training Systems owner.
Utilizes personal data like weight, training history, fitness level, training load, records, goals, and schedule.
Suitable for all fitness levels.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Highly intuitive app experience.
Intelligent and responsive AI.
Offers a two-week free trial.

Cons

Lacks the personal interaction of a real coach.
Initial dashboard navigation can be slightly confusing.
Exclusively for strength training (no cardio).

Bottom Line

JuggernautAI uses your data to create a personalized powerlifting and powerbuilding workout program.

For those focused on boosting their back squat, deadlift, and bench press, JuggernautAI is ideal. This AI-driven powerlifting program delivers near-personalized coaching from an elite athlete without the high cost.

Developed by Chad Wesley Smith, a highly accomplished strength athlete, JuggernautAI offers expert-level training for $35 per month (discount available with code GARAGEGYM). The app is also incredibly user-friendly, earning a 5/5 in usability.

Having used JuggernautAI for over a year, I’ve seen significant gains in my compound lifts, setting new PRs in squat, deadlift, and bench press, and increasing weight in accessory lifts like lunges, good mornings, Romanian deadlifts, and bent-over rows.

JuggernautAI App Dashboard Screenshots

Programming is tailored to your goals, fitness level, and daily readiness. Workouts can be adjusted based on readiness, equipment, or exercise preference within movement patterns. For instance, substitute back squats with Bulgarian split squats.

Amanda using JuggernautAI app

The only drawback is the lack of conditioning elements, but for powerlifting goals, conditioning isn’t crucial. For those preferring a mix of strength and conditioning, this may be a consideration. See my full JuggernautAI review for workout examples and usage tips.

Training Approach	Personalized programming
Workout Types	Strength
Class Length	Continuous
Cost	$35/month
Free Trial	14 days
Platform Availability	iOS and Android

Best Online Workout Program for Quick Workouts: Train Hard

Good for: Busy individuals like students, parents, and professionals needing effective 30-45 minute workouts.

Best for Busy People

Train Hard App

Train Hard App Logo GGR Score: 3.75

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Product Highlights

Virtual training program by CrossFit champion Jason Khalipa.
Three program options.
Flexible payment plans.
iOS only.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Three distinct workout programs.
Designed by a CrossFit champion.
Flexible payment options.
Community feature for accountability.

Cons

Not ideal for fitness beginners.
Not customizable.

Bottom Line

Train Hard, developed by former CrossFit champion Jason Khalipa, is designed to help users overcome fitness plateaus and achieve their goals through efficient workouts.

Train Hard features programming from CrossFit Games athlete and former Fittest Man on Earth, Jason Khalipa. Familiar to the CrossFit community, the app utilizes EMOM (every minute on the minute) workouts for maximum results in minimal time, demanding dedicated effort.

“EMOM is a minimal equipment approach for building strength and cardio endurance,” says Coop Mitchell, expert product tester and Garage Gym Reviews founder, who used the app five days a week for a month. “The daily challenge and competitive aspect within your home gym are fantastic.”

Besides EMOM workouts, Train Hard includes Force, a traditional CrossFit program, and Flex, a bodybuilding split with functional training. “Flex programming was enjoyable, incorporating functional movements often absent in typical bro splits, which was a personal highlight,” Coop notes about the Flex program, rating the virtual training experience 5/5.

Coop Mitchell and Jason Khalipa in a home gym

“I highly enjoyed using this app and have been recommending it to everyone,” he adds.

Equipment needs vary by program. More details are in our Train Hard App review.

Coop’s critique is the lack of a built-in movement library (though instructional YouTube videos are available) and potential terminology confusion for non-CrossFit veterans.

“Being new to this programming style, I often consulted the group chat and internet for clarification on terms and daily workout instructions,” Coop explains.

Training Approach	Daily online workouts and coaching tips
Workout Types	Strength, functional training, HIIT, CrossFit
Class Length	Continuous workout tracks
Cost	$29.99/month
Free Trial	No
Platform Availability	iOS

Best Online Workout Program for Live Classes: Peloton

Good for: Individuals seeking daily workout variety and live class engagement.

Live Class Option

Peloton App

Peloton App Logo GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

World-class workout classes.
Diverse fitness routines.
On and off-bike workouts.
App accessible without a Peloton bike.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Top-tier programming.
Beyond just cycling workouts.
Globally accessible.
Tracks training metrics.
Home workout convenience.
Seven-day free trial.
Two plan options.

Cons

Peloton Bike required for full feature access.

Bottom Line

The Peloton app is a leading training program, excelling across various exercise equipment and routines.

If you think Peloton is just for cycling, think again. It offers workouts in running, meditation, yoga, strength training, boxing, Pilates, and more.

Instructors are engaging and effective, motivating you to work hard and achieve results. Our content publisher improved her marathon training significantly using Peloton, even learning to enjoy tempo runs.

Peloton Bike Programming Screen

You don’t need a Peloton bike to use the app. However, live classes and leaderboards require upgrading to the $44 all-access monthly membership.

RELATED: Peloton Bike Review

Former semi-pro soccer player Caroline Lubinsky used Peloton during the 2020 lockdown and enjoyed connecting with her favorite trainers daily. She rated instruction 5/5, finding instructors thorough and engaging, with memorable phrases like, “How you do anything is how you do everything.”

Note: barbell training is limited; strength classes focus on dumbbells. For heavy barbell work, consider our strength training pick.

Check out our full Peloton app review for a comprehensive look at this top-tier online workout program.

Training Approach	Live and on-demand classes
Workout Types	Strength, cardio, yoga, HIIT, Pilates, and more
Class Length	Varies
Cost	Starts at $12.99/month
Free Trial	7 days
Platform Availability	Android and iOS

Best Online Workout Program For Functional Fitness: Street Parking

Good for: Those wanting traditional “constantly varied” programming for their home gym.

Functional Fitness

Street Parking

Street Parking App Logo GGR Score: 3.76

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Product Highlights

Affordable at-home CrossFit-style programming ($19/month).
Discounted membership for longer commitments.
Effective with basic fitness equipment.
Great for conditioning.
Metcon-focused, less strength-focused.
No individualized training.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Minimal equipment required.
Workouts typically under 30 minutes.
Lower price with longer commitment.

Cons

Strength and skill work not central to programming.
No personalized coaching.

Bottom Line

Street Parking is a CrossFit-focused online program for general physical fitness at home.

For a CrossFit-centric home gym, Street Parking is a strong online workout program. It follows a typical functional fitness format with a daily WOD (workout of the day) focused on conditioning, often AMRAPs (as many reps/rounds as possible) or “for time” circuits.

Street Parking offers alternative workouts based on equipment. Daily programming includes barbell and dumbbell versions, plus “coaches’ notes” with alternatives for weather and space limitations. Programmers aim for broad accessibility.

Coop Mitchell performing plank with weight vest for Street Parking program

Besides daily metcons (15-25 minutes), Street Parking provides optional strength, endurance, skills, and mobility programming. Completing all suggested work creates a well-rounded CrossFit-style program covering all 10 “general physical preparedness” skills: cardiovascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy.

Workout variety is 5/5, but progression is 3/5. Tracking progress is challenging; workout data isn’t readily accessible long-term.

At $19/month, Street Parking is affordable compared to in-person CrossFit gyms, but pricier than some apps, earning a 3.5/5 for pricing. No free trial is offered.

A members-only Facebook group fosters community and support. See our Street Parking review for more on accountability and features.

Training Approach	Daily workouts and programming
Workout Types	Functional fitness, HIIT
Class Length	Continuous
Cost	$19/month
Free Trial	None, but sample workouts available
Platform Availability	iOS only

Best Online Workout Program for Bodybuilding: MAPS Anabolic

Good for: Individuals committed to strength and muscle mass gains.

Best for Bodybuilding

MAPS Anabolic

MAPS Anabolic Program Logo GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

One-time purchase for lifetime access, no subscription.
Carefully periodized programming.
Includes a free “at-home mod” for minimal equipment.
Traditional version requires a full gym setup.

Pros & Cons

Pros

One-time flat fee, no subscriptions.
Simple online web portal.
Comprehensive exercise instructions and demos.
Smartly phased programming.

Cons

No app, web browser access only.
No individualized programming.

Bottom Line

MAPS Anabolic, created by bodybuilders and personal trainers, is a top hypertrophy-focused resistance training program without subscription fees.

MAPS Anabolic is part of Mind Pump Media’s MAPS Fitness Products, featuring targeted periodized programs (4-16 weeks) for various goals: muscle building, fat loss, strongman training, powerlifting, mobility, and more.

After completing MAPS Anabolic, I consider it a top online workout program for building muscle. It’s foundational, focusing on essential compound and isolation exercises.

MAPS Anabolic features heavy squats, deadlifts, overhead pressing, and bench pressing, alongside weighted pull-ups, sit-ups, calisthenics, barbell curls, triceps extensions, good mornings, and more.

RELATED: Best Weight Benches

Amanda performing front squat with barbell

As a personal trainer, I value MAPS Anabolic’s simplicity. It’s for those wanting strength and muscle gains, not trendy exercises or grueling HIIT.

RELATED: How To Lift Heavier

MAPS Fitness Products are purchased once for lifetime access. Repeat programs for continued progress through progressive overload and consistent rest.

The website isn’t the most user-friendly, earning a 3/5 for usability.

More details are in our MAPS Anabolic review.

Training Approach	Online workout programs
Workout Types	Strength
Class Length	12 weeks
Cost	$117, no subscription required
Free Trial	No
Platform Availability	No app required

Best Online Workout Program for Yoga: Centr

Good for: Yoga enthusiasts interested in diverse fitness programs and nutrition advice.

Best for Yoga

Centr Fitness App

Centr Fitness App Logo GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

Fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness app.
Extensive workout and program library.
Healthy recipe database.
Workout and recipe tracking.
Guided meditations by Chris Hemsworth.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Affordable monthly price.
More than just workouts, includes nutrition and mental health.
Detailed instructions with text and photos.
Private Facebook community.
Easy-to-use app.

Cons

No interactive coaching.
Not ideal for beginners.

Bottom Line

CENTR Fitness app is a comprehensive platform with workout library, recipes, and mental health resources, user-friendly and affordable.

With yoga, pilates, and meditation plans, Centr app is great for mobility, flexibility, and stress management. Founded by Chris Hemsworth, it offers well-rounded fitness with strength training, HIIT, and functional fitness programs.

GGR Performance Editor Anthony O’Reilly and Social Media Manager Brittany Combs tested Centr and praised its instruction and programming, rating both 5/5. “Instructions are very thorough,” Anthony noted, “with text, photos, and video.”

Woman using Centr app on phone

Centr Power is the flagship program, but various bodyweight, yoga, and strength programs are available. Workout variety is rated 3.5/5, with programs ranging from 3 to 13 weeks, mostly 6-8 weeks.

Accountability and interactive features are limited (1/5), with no personal coaching or online community interaction. Anthony rates accountability 4/5 but notes, “Push notifications require program sign-up. Daily workout adherence may yield minimal notifications.”

Woman working out with Centr app

For diverse strength and bodyweight programs, Centr offers good value, especially with 3-month or annual rates. Read more in our Centr review.

Training Approach	Expert-led daily workouts and self-guided workouts programmed by fitness professionals
Workout Types	Strength training, HIIT, yoga, pilates
Class Length	Varies, usually 6 to 8 weeks
Cost	$29.99 monthly, $59.99 for 3 months, or $89.99 yearly
Free Trial	7 days
Platform Availability	Android, iOS, Apple Watch

Best Online Workout Program for Running: Runkeeper

Good for: Runners seeking guidance for race training.

Best For Running

Runkeeper app

Runkeeper App Logo Check Price

Product Highlights

Asics’ app for tracking and improving running.
Free Runkeeper and Premium Runkeeper Go versions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Free and subscription options.
Audio cues.
Goal-setting tools.
Indoor and outdoor tracking.

Cons

Training plans only in Runkeeper Go.
Android glitches and crashes reported on long runs.
Apple Watch pairing issues reported.

Bottom Line

Runkeeper is a reliable, user-friendly run-tracking app for all experience levels. Runkeeper Go offers extra features like custom plans and live tracking.

Looking to train for a 10K, half-marathon, or longer race? Runkeeper, by Asics, tracks and improves your running and pacing.

While untested by us, it offers features to keep you motivated, including community features to share runs and compare with others, even finding users at races.

The free Runkeeper app tracks runs, walks, and hikes, or offers training plans for various race lengths, from 5Ks to marathons. Most training plans are in the premium Runkeeper Go version, priced at $9.99/month (or under $40/year), comparable to other apps.

Runkeeper provides guided workouts and meditations, primarily focusing on running and cardio, lacking variety for strength training needs. However, for running-focused individuals, it’s a robust tool with accountability and interactive features.

Training Approach	Tracking runs and offering training plans
Workout Types	Cardio, running
Class Length	Varies by training plan
Cost	Free with a premium version for $9.99/month or $39.99/year
Free Trial	Free version, free trials of training plans available
Platform Availability	iOS, Android

Best Online Workout Program for Beginners: Aaptiv

Good for: Beginners seeking guided fitness journeys.

Best for Beginners

Aaptiv

Aaptiv App Logo GGR Score: 4.13

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Product Highlights

Audio-guided workout app.
Over 2,500 workouts.
New workouts weekly.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Audio-based classes.
Thousands of workouts.
Weekly new classes.
Goal-based programs.
Free trial with annual plan.

Cons

Fewer coaches than competitors.
No nutrition information.
Free trial requires annual plan sign-up.

Bottom Line

Aaptiv is a great audio-based alternative to video workout programs.

For workout program novices, Aaptiv is excellent, offering primarily audio-based workouts. No need to watch a screen; just use workout headphones and follow audio coaching.

Aaptiv includes endurance and strength workouts, plus audio-led programs in running, pilates, strength training, stair climber, mobility, rowing, sleep, and meditation, earning a 4/5 for variety.

Certified personal trainer Amanda Capritto rates programming 3/5, noting its focus on individual workouts. “Decent progressive overload programs exist, though basic and 4-6 weeks long, suitable for beginners.”

Aaptiv App Screenshots

Interactive features are 3/5, offering basic community features. Users can browse others’ workouts and join programs to track shared progress. Aaptiv also sends workout reminders and notifications.

Priced at $14.99/month or $99.99/year, it’s a 4.5/5 value. A 7-day trial is available with annual subscription sign-up. Learn more in our Aaptiv fitness app review.

Training Approach	Primarily audio-based workout coaching
Workout Types	Endurance, mobility, strength, yoga, meditation, sleep
Class Length	4 to 6 weeks, or single workouts
Cost	$14.99 per month or $99.99 per year
Free Trial	7-day trial with the annual subscription plan
Platform Availability	iOS, Android

Other Online Workout Programs We Tested and Researched

Our team tested and researched many workout programs, but not all made our “best of” list. These are still worth considering.

Power Athlete

Power Athlete, by former NFL athlete John Welbourn, offers programs for athleticism, strength, conditioning, and mobility.

Grindstone includes strength, accessory, skill, and conditioning work, designed for busy individuals. The app is user-friendly with progress tracking and good instruction via demo videos and written guides.

Related: Power Athlete founder John Welbourn shares mobility tips

CompTrain

CompTrain, by CrossFit coach Ben Bergeron, known for coaching elite athletes like Katrin Davidsdottir, follows a CrossFit format with strength, skill, and conditioning. While our team hasn’t extensively used it, Garage Gym Reviews Senior Editor Kate Meier found its classroom training option well-structured in CrossFit gyms, noting periodization in movement cycles.

Woman performing plank outdoors

MisFit Athletics

Misfit Athletics, another functional fitness program, targets competitive CrossFit athletes with daily WODs and strength/conditioning. It includes tracks for teens, masters, and “anywhere” workouts, plus remote coaching. We believe Misfit offers great programming but await firsthand testing.

Sorinex Squatober/Deadcember

Sorinex sponsors Squatober and Deadcember, two-month powerlifting programs (October and December) focusing on squat and deadlift with accessories. Free on Instagram, they’ve helped GGR staff writer Anthony O’Reilly add weight to his lifts.

RELATED: How to Survive Squatober

However, they lack educational content and assume powerlifting programming knowledge. Social media Q&A is available but limited.

P90X

P90X, a throwback home workout combining weightlifting, bodyweight, HIIT, and cardio, is effective for fat loss and lean muscle gain. However, it’s still DVD-based, also accessible via Beachbody on Demand ($99.99/year or $59.99/3 months), which is less streaming-friendly.

HWPO

HWPO (Hard Work Pays Off) is five-time CrossFit Games champ Mat Fraser’s programming, via Hybrid Performance Method. Three tracks: traditional, HWPO 60 (time-efficient), and HWPO PRO (elite athletes). Garage Gym Reviews staff writer Sosha Lewis, a user for 4 months, praises its intentional, progressive programming.

“Strength gains are evident, but endurance improvements are most notable,” she says. “Daily videos include warm-ups, WOD details, and movement demos. Fraser’s five-time ‘Fittest Man in the World’ expertise is clear in this program.”

Woman performing front squats in a CrossFit gym

Fitness Coach: Home Workout

Fitness Coach: Home Workout markets as free but training programs require a $19.99/month subscription, not clearly stated upfront. Quizzes for personalized training plans are algorithm-based, effective but not exceptional, and may not justify the cost.

PRVN

PRVN, led by coach Shane Orr and five-time CrossFit Games champion Tia-Claire Toomey, offers PRVN60 for everyday athletes and PRVN remote coaching for competitive CrossFitters. PRVN60 provides strength, skill, and conditioning in one-hour workouts.

Obé Fitness

Obé Fitness offers 20 daily live classes and 8,000+ on-demand options. Untested by us, it’s noted for prenatal and postpartum workout classes, with positive online reviews.

P.Volve

P.Volve is a low-impact, movement-based workout program for muscle sculpting and personal evolution. Untested by Garage Gym Reviews.

Daily Burn

Daily Burn aims to make fitness fun and accessible, with positive online reviews and testimonies, though untested by us.

Barre3

Barre3, tested by our intern Claire, is praised for organization and workout variety fitting various schedules. The $29 monthly cost was too high for a student, but recommended for others, even without Barre/dance experience (though more dance elements were desired).

Glo

Glo is recommended for yoga, meditation, and Pilates, with a 7-day trial and $18/month subscription. Android app interface issues are noted in online reviews.

IFIT

iFIT workouts are motivating and fun with energetic trainers, but more of a workout library than a comprehensive program. Best value for NordicTrack or ProForm cardio equipment owners. See our iFIT reviews.

Online Workout Programs Our Community Loves

We polled our Home Gym Community Facebook group for favorite fitness programs. 148 members create their own programming, but many also voted for these programs:

Wendler 5/3/1

Jim Wendler’s 5/3/1 is a simple, effective strength program with full-body workouts three days a week, using a 5/3/1 rep scheme and accessory work.

Pen and Paper

Pen and Paper offers nearly 40 strength-focused programs, generalized and specialized, filterable by frequency, body part, equipment, and level.

Conjugate

The Conjugate Method, by Louie Simmons of Westside Barbell, alternates max-effort and dynamic exercises in three-week cycles for strength and skill development.

Starting Strength

Starting Strength, by Mark Rippetoe, is a barbell training methodology. Coaches are available via the Starting Strength website. It’s a long-term systematic program with macro and mesocycles.

RP Strength

RP (Renaissance Periodization) is a functional fitness program offering remote coaching or customizable templates. Templates allow choosing training days and muscle group focus.

Mountain Tactical Institute

Mountain Tactical Institute designs programs for tactical professionals and outdoor athletes (law enforcement, military, mountain sports), including strength, conditioning, and mobility.

RELATED: Guide to Outdoor Training

How We Picked and Tested the Best Online Workout Programs

The Garage Gym Reviews team has extensive workout experience, using programs in gyms and home gyms. Recently, team members have used JuggernautAI, Train Hard, Future, and more.

Testing sheet for online workout programs

We started with our program experiences, then researched other notable programs based on creators or research backing. We also polled our community for their program preferences.

Final program selections considered:

Pricing

Affordability is key. Online programs should be more affordable and convenient than personal training, offering good value for their offerings.

Instruction

Programs should offer clear, expert instruction and easy-to-understand workouts.

Equipment Requirements

Programs were favored that are adaptable to minimal home gym equipment, though some cater to barbell and treadmill users, most can be modified.

Accessibility and Ease of Use

User-friendliness and app interface quality were rated highly.

Accountability

Accountability features like reminders, coach motivation, and trainer interaction were evaluated on a 1-5 scale.

Nathan using Future app for pull-ups

Benefits of Online Workout Programs

While many home gym owners can design their own workout programs, online programs offer unique benefits:

Accountability: Paying for a program or having a coach increases workout adherence and effort.
Time-Saving: Pre-designed programs save time spent planning workouts, especially periodized programs.
Reduced Mental Energy: Following a program eliminates the mental effort of workout planning.
Weakness Targeting: Programs address weaknesses, preventing biases towards preferred exercises.
Periodization: Varied rep schemes, tempos, and volume in programs support continuous progress.
Expert Programming: Programs are often designed by certified trainers, coaches, and athletes.
Rest Days Included: Programs ensure necessary rest and prevent overtraining.

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How to Choose the Best Online Workout Program

“Best” is subjective. Consider these factors when choosing:

Primary Goal

Align program type with fitness goals (strength, weight loss, etc.).

Time Requirement

Choose programs fitting your schedule, with options from 15 to 60 minutes.

Equipment Requirements

Select programs based on available home gym equipment.

Accountability

For those needing accountability, consider programs with personal trainers or strong tracking features.

Cost

Budget is crucial. Choose programs with monthly subscriptions within budget or consider one-time purchase programs.

Best Online Workout Programs FAQs

Common questions about online workout programs:

What is the best home workout program?

No single “best” program exists. Recommendations vary based on individual goals. Our list covers top programs for different fitness objectives.

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

Yes, effectiveness varies by individual motivation. Online programs can be effective for motivated individuals; in-person training offers stronger accountability.

What is the best free online workout program?

Nike Training Club is our top free pick, offering diverse workouts by certified professionals, though lacking accountability features.

Do online workout programs work?

Quality varies. Top programs by certified professionals follow effective training principles (progressive overload, periodization) and are highly effective.

Who has the best workout program on YouTube?

Exercise caution on YouTube. Seek certified professionals with programs based on solid exercise principles, not just clicks.

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