Online Fitness Programs: Why You Could Lose More Than You Bargained For

The Internet has changed the way that people do almost everything, including getting fit. Online fitness programs have evolved from simple meal plans and diagrams of exercises to full-blown fitness programs including personalized weight-loss services, interactive videos, and much more. While many people do find success with online fitness programs, the unfortunate fact is that some find the results more than a little painful.

Why Do Injuries Occur?

The problem with online fitness programs is that there is no qualified expert available to physically assist and assess people taking part in such programs. When you visit most gyms, personal trainers are on-hand to ensure that all exercises are being performed correctly and that people are not over-exerting themselves. In addition, these personal trainers can work one-on-one with each individual to determine a fitness and diet regimen that offers a healthy balance. Online programs, on the other hand, often leave those seeking to get in shape to make these decisions for themselves, and this can lead to injuries.

What Types of Injuries Can Occur?

Two of the most common injuries suffered by people taking part in online fitness programs are muscle fatigue and strain. These injuries occur because people may think that doing more than the recommended amount of a certain exercise or exercise will equal better results in a shorter amount of time. One personal injury lawyer New York contact adds that, because online programs can only give an average estimate for each client based upon health information that the client offers, the online program may not be suitable for each individual client. This can lead to over-exertion, respiratory distress, improper nutrient consumption, and a host of other problems.

Pre-Existing Health Conditions

One of the biggest dangers when taking part in an online fitness program, however, is the issue of pre-existing conditions, such as a heart problem. Once again, online programs can only estimate what exercises or nutritional intake a client may need based upon the client’s information, and as such, these programs may not be able to calculate specifics for heart problems, certain medications the client may be taking and more.

What To Do If You’ve Suffered an Injury?

If you’ve been injured by following an online fitness program, you may be due compensation, but seeking that compensation can be difficult. Because these types of programs are offered online, clients are expected to use the programs on their own. This means that an injured individual can have a hard time proving that the recommendations from their program were responsible for their injuries. In these types of cases, it’s almost always advisable to seek out a personal injury attorney. Being able to prove negligence and liability on the part of the fitness program will need legal expertise, especially as these programs are designed to work based on information inputted by the user.  Users may also be required to agree to waive any rights to sue should they suffer injuries or adverse effects using the program – thus putting liability back on the user.

If you’re following an online fitness program, or if you’re planning to follow such a program, you should always consult with your primary care physician before following any recommendations from the program. Your doctor will be able to examine the exercises and diet plans you are being offered, and he or she can advise you as to the safest way to undertake them.