Willis Michalchuk has worked in the health and fitness industry for over 20 years. Recently, Willis Michalchuk has witnessed the growing trend of online fitness videos and training. Many personal trainers are worried that their jobs may be in jeopardy due to this growing use of technology; however, Willis Michalchuk notes that trainers must seize this as an opportunity rather than a detriment.

Willis Michalchuk stated, “When I realized that more people were going online to get fitness instruction, I was a little worried. I understand why many people in my field are concerned about the technology issue. Personal trainers are expensive and fitness videos can be found online for free.” Although many people are reaching out to online outlets for their fitness solutions, Willis Michalchuk believes they still desire a personal contact, which a video cannot provide. “People who are looking for weight loss assistance clearly are having trouble accomplishing goals on their own. Free online videos do not offer any personalization or accountability and they do not have the ability to empathize with the viewer. So if people feel more comfortable in their own homes, personal trainers must adapt. Once I realized this trend, I began offering live training sessions online and in-home training. This allows the client to be in the comfort of their own home, but it also allows me to personalize a program and offer assistance during the workout,” Willis Michalchuk explained.

Willis Michalchuk is attempting to grow his online and in-home business while still working at a local gym. Even though the growing technology trend seemed like it would weaken his job security, Willis Michalchuk believes it has expanded his reach. Willis Michalchuk said, “I am now able to train anyone from all over the world. I went from only being able to recruit clients at my local gym, to now being able to train anyone that has an Internet connection.” Willis Michalchuk hopes that more trainers will begin to adapt to this rising trend. “Obesity is a growing problem in our society,” he said, “and many people are self-conscious about setting foot in a gym for the first time. This is allowing us to build rapport with our clients, but also keep them safe and comfortable. I think this trend is going to help trainers battle the obesity epidemic more than ever.”