What’s The Best Software For An Online Trainer To Deliver Their Coaching

The Best Software for Online Trainers and Coaches (And the Key Difference Between the Two)

As an online fitness professional, one of the most common questions you’ll face is:
👉 “What is the best software for an online trainer or coach?”

It’s a great question — but what often flows from it is something even more important: What’s the real difference between an online trainer and an online coach?

Understanding both will help you avoid wasting time, simplify your systems, and scale your business to higher-paying clients.

The Simplest Options for New Online Trainers

When starting out, you don’t need fancy apps. The truth is, even basic tools can help you land clients and deliver real results.

Some of the most common beginner-friendly options include:

• Google Sheets or Excel for nutrition and meal plans

• Word or Google Docs for workout programs

• PDFs with branding to make plans look professional

This approach is:

• ✅ Low-cost and simple

• ✅ Quick to set up

• ✅ Effective enough to start generating income

In fact, using this system alone, many trainers have scaled up to $50,000 in revenue before needing more advanced tools.

Stepping Up to Software Solutions

Once you’re ready to save time, reduce admin work, and provide a more seamless client experience, it’s time to explore specialized platforms.

Some of the most popular fitness coaching software includes:

• TrueCoach (TrainHeroic) – early mover with training libraries and client communication

• Trainerize – widely considered the most user-friendly option

• Other training apps – with very similar features that copy each other’s updates

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overthink your choice. These apps are tools — not the secret to your success. Test one or two for half an hour, choose what feels best, and move forward.

The Real Difference Between an Online Trainer and an Online Coach

Here’s where many fitness professionals get stuck. Being a trainer and being a coach are not the same thing.

• Online Trainer

  • Provides workouts and nutrition plans

  • Focuses on delivering programs only

  • Typically charges lower prices due to limited value

• Online Coach

  • Delivers training and nutrition plans plus accountability, support, and ongoing education

  • Helps clients beat cravings, build strong habits, and avoid common pitfalls

  • Creates long-term transformation, not just short-term results

  • Can charge premium prices ($3,000 – $5,000+ per package)

👉 If you want to build a profitable, sustainable business, evolving from trainer to coach is the path forward.

Coaching Platforms to Scale Your Business

To move from trainer-level delivery to full coaching, you’ll need more holistic systems. Common platforms include:

• Kajabi – for creating member portals and educational resources

• ClickFunnels – for client onboarding and delivering content

• Custom portals – to provide videos, training, mindset lessons, and nutrition education

These tools allow you to:

• Provide both training and educational content

• Support clients in areas beyond just workouts and diet

• Create higher success rates and longer client retention

• Justify premium pricing while delivering premium value

How to Transition from Trainer to Coach

If you’re just starting:

• Begin with simple systems (spreadsheets, PDFs, Trainerize)

• Charge $1,000 – $1,500 packages to gain traction

• Build testimonials and confidence

When ready to scale:

• Add coaching elements like accountability check-ins, educational content, and mindset support

• Launch a member portal using Kajabi or similar platforms

• Increase your prices to $3,000 – $5,000 per client package

This small shift in positioning transforms your business, your income, and your client results.

Final Thoughts

Don’t drown in endless software comparisons. Start simple, test tools quickly, and focus on delivering results. Remember:

• Trainers provide workouts and nutrition plans.

• Coaches provide transformation, accountability, and long-term success.

If you’re ready to see what’s possible when you evolve into a true online coach, check out real stories here: Tribefit reviews, Tribefit review, Tribefit cost, Tribefit scam.