Frequently Asked Questions

Gym Optional is a mobile app that connects you with verified personal trainers for live 1-on-1 virtual training sessions. Browse trainers, book a session, pay securely, and join a video call — all in one app. No gym required.

Trainers set their own session rates. A flat $5 booking fee is added at checkout. There are no monthly membership fees for clients — you only pay when you book a session.

It depends on the trainer and session type. Many trainers offer bodyweight-only sessions that require no equipment at all. You can filter trainers by the equipment they work with, including dumbbells, resistance bands, kettlebells, or no equipment.

When your session is confirmed, a video link appears in the app. At your session time, tap "Join Session" to start a live 1-on-1 video call with your trainer. No extra apps needed — video is built right into Gym Optional.

If you cancel more than 24 hours before your session, you receive a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours of the session start time are non-refundable.

Yes. All payments are processed securely through Stripe, an industry-leading payment processor. Your credit card details are handled entirely by Stripe and are never stored on our servers.

You can message any trainer directly through the app's built-in messaging feature. Use it to ask questions before booking, discuss your goals, or follow up after a session.

Download the app, sign up as a trainer, and complete the onboarding process. You'll set up your profile, upload your certification and ID, connect your bank account through Stripe, and set up your subscription. Our team reviews every trainer application — you'll hear back within 48 hours.

Gym Optional offers a 3-month free trial. After that, the subscription is $15/month. Your card is collected during signup but you won't be charged for the first 3 months. You can also earn extra free months through our referral program.

You set your own session rates. Payments are processed through Stripe Connect — you'll connect your bank account during onboarding and receive payouts directly from Stripe according to their payout schedule.

Every trainer gets a unique referral code. When someone you refer signs up as a trainer and gets approved, you earn 1 extra free month on your subscription. You can earn up to 3 bonus months (6 months free total).

Yes. If you need to take a break, you can freeze your account from the app. Your billing is paused and your profile is hidden from clients. When the freeze period ends, your account automatically resumes.

You can report a user directly from their profile or from a conversation. You can also block users, which immediately cancels any upcoming sessions between you. Our team reviews all reports.

Trainers can delete their account from the app's settings screen. This cancels your subscription, removes your profile, and cleans up all associated data. Clients can request account deletion by emailing support@gymoptional.com.

Email us at support@gymoptional.com. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.