Use this checklist before your first virtual training session.
1. Required Technology
The senior may use:
- Smartphone
- iPhone
- iPad or other tablet
- Laptop
- Desktop computer with webcam
A tablet, laptop or desktop computer is generally preferable because the larger screen can make it easier to see the trainer.
The device must have:
- Working camera
- Working microphone
- Working speakers
- Reliable Internet connection
- Current operating system and supported video-conferencing software or browser
2. Internet and Wi-Fi Requirements
A reliable Internet connection is essential for virtual fitness training.
We recommend at least 5 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload speed available at the training location. This provides a practical buffer above the bandwidth required for standard one-to-one HD video calls.
Zoom, for example, currently lists approximately 1.2 Mbps upload and download for 720p HD one-to-one video. Actual performance can vary depending on the device, Wi-Fi conditions and other activity on the network.
Test the Internet Where Training Will Occur
Do not simply test the Internet next to the router.
Test it in the actual room where the senior will exercise.
If the connection is weak:
- Move the device closer to the Wi-Fi router.
- Consider a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system.
- Connect the device by Ethernet when practical.
- Stop streaming video on other household devices during training.
- Pause large downloads or uploads.
3. Camera Position Is Critical
The trainer needs to see the senior's entire body while exercising.
Position the camera approximately 6–10 feet from the workout area, depending on the room and camera lens.
The camera should be stable and positioned so the trainer can see:
- Head and shoulders
- Torso
- Arms
- Hips
- Legs
- Feet
A stable phone or tablet stand, tripod or secure piece of furniture can be useful.
Avoid holding the device during exercise.
Test the Camera Before the Session
Have the senior perform several basic movements while someone checks the video view.
The trainer should be able to see the complete movement without the senior moving out of frame.
4. Recommended Exercise Space
Whenever possible, provide an open exercise area of approximately 8 feet by 10 feet or larger.
The senior should have enough room to:
- Stand comfortably
- Raise both arms
- Walk several steps
- Sit and stand from a chair
- Perform exercises without contacting furniture
The exact space required will vary depending on the senior's abilities and the exercises prescribed by the trainer.
5. Remove Trip Hazards
Before training begins, inspect the entire exercise area.
Remove or move:
- Coffee tables
- Loose rugs
- Electrical cords
- Clutter
- Footstools
- Unnecessary chairs
- Other objects that could cause a trip or interfere with movement
Pets should also be kept outside the immediate exercise area when possible. Even well-behaved pets can unexpectedly move underfoot during exercise.
6. Make Sure the Senior Can Hear Clearly
The senior must be able to hear the trainer's instructions clearly throughout the session.
Before training:
- Turn the device volume up to a comfortable level.
- Test the speakers.
- Make sure the senior can hear normal conversation.
- Consider external speakers if the device speakers are insufficient.
- Consider an appropriate headset or hearing-compatible audio device when appropriate.
If a senior has significant hearing difficulty, a family member or caregiver may need to assist with communication.
7. Lighting and Visibility
The room should have adequate lighting so the trainer can clearly see the senior.
Avoid placing the senior directly in front of a bright window because strong backlighting can make the person appear dark on camera.
If possible, position the senior facing a window or light source rather than having the light directly behind them.
8. Charge the Device
Fully charge the phone, tablet or computer before the session.
If practical, keep the device connected to power during the workout.
Make sure the charging cable will not create a trip hazard.
9. Consider a Family Member or Caregiver as a Facilitator
A third-party facilitator can be extremely helpful, especially for a senior who is new to virtual training.
The facilitator may help:
- Start the video session
- Position the camera
- Adjust the volume
- Test the microphone
- Move furniture
- Remove trip hazards
- Keep pets away
- Help the senior understand the trainer's instructions
A facilitator can be particularly valuable for seniors with hearing or vision limitations, cognitive challenges, limited technology experience or difficulty following instructions independently.
The facilitator does not necessarily need to participate in the workout. Their role may simply be to help the senior get properly set up and remain safe and connected.
10. Complete a Test Before the First Session
We strongly recommend a complete technology and environment test before the first workout.
Confirm:
☐ Device is charged
☐ Camera works
☐ Microphone works
☐ Trainer can be heard clearly
☐ Internet connection is stable
☐ Device is securely positioned
☐ Senior's full body is visible
☐ Exercise space is approximately 8 feet by 10 feet or larger when possible
☐ Furniture and trip hazards have been removed
☐ Pets are out of the exercise area
☐ Lighting allows the senior to be seen clearly
☐ Senior understands how to join the virtual session
Important Virtual Training Terms and Responsibilities
Virtual training requires the senior and/or responsible family member or caregiver to provide and properly operate the necessary technology and maintain an appropriate exercise environment.
ElderFIT and its trainers are responsible for providing professional fitness instruction within the scope of virtual training. However, ElderFIT and its trainers cannot control the senior's Internet connection, device, audio or video quality, camera placement, exercise environment, hearing or ability to understand and follow instructions. As such, neither ElderFIT nor its trainers are responsible for setting up a customer’s in-home virtual training requirements, or providing IT troubleshooting support before, during, or after the virtual training session.
The client or responsible family member/caregiver is responsible for determining that the senior is appropriately prepared and capable of participating in virtual training.
If a session cannot be effectively completed because of inadequate technology, connectivity, device placement, audio/video problems, an unsuitable exercise environment, communication limitations or the senior's inability to hear, understand or follow instructions, the session will not automatically qualify for a refund or replacement session.
If there is any question about whether virtual training is appropriate for a particular senior, contact ElderFIT before scheduling the session so the situation can be discussed with the ElderFIT team by emailing [email protected]