How to be ready for your first Zoom class with confidence and ease.
There have been many changes that have gone on over the past two years. One of the biggest things to come out of the pandemic is that more and more things have moved online.
For me here at the studio that has meant at times, some of my classes have moved to Zoom.
I realise that trying a Zoom-based class can be daunting. Not knowing how to get into the class. How to set up your room for Zoom class. Troubleshooting any issues that may arise. So much so, that many choose not to try Zoom for these very reasons.
That’s why I have created this month’s blog for you:
SETTING UP YOUR ROOM BEFORE THE CLASS
Your room set up is important so that you can see & hear me & have the space to do your exercise. Make sure you take the time to set up your room in advance. I have given some general guidelines below;
COMPUTER SET UP:
Use a computer, tablet or cast the class to your TV. A phone is too small to see me properly.
Ensure that your computer is plugged into a power supply.
Put your computer or device on a chair or the floor, with your screen angled to your body.
If you need to check out your setup prior to the class you can use - Zoom test call. This link lets you check your microphone, camera and setup.
Place the computer far enough away from your mat so that your whole body can be seen on screen when lying, kneeling, standing or sitting.
ZOOM SOFTWARE
First step is to download Zoom onto your computer. To download Zoom, click here
I recommend that you download the actual Zoom software onto your computer. I do not recommend accessing classes by going to www.zoom.us and then clicking on “Sign In.” From past experience the connection is more stable when accessing Zoom through the software.
The best way to learn Zoom and get the right setup is to practise. You can use this link and test out your microphone, camera and your setup prior to the class.
Once you are happy with it, end the Zoom test call and then follow the steps below. (When first starting using Zoom, I used this link before every class to ensure that my setup was right. It’s a great tool.)
How to join one of my classes:
1. Download Zoom and set up your account.
2. Sign into your zoom account
3. In the right hand side of the screen click on the ‘Join a Meeting’.
4. Enter the meeting ID link
5. Get ready for your class
EQUIPMENT
This is an example of how to set up your equipment for a Zoom class. It’s a good idea to have everything you will need within easy reach.
Below is a list of equipment that may be required for classes. Note it varies for Pilates and Yoga.
Pilates
Pilates/yoga mat
Towel
Water bottle
Optional cushion, bolster or throw pillow
Resistance Band
Magic Circle/Pilates Ring
Gym Ball
Chair (useful for standing or balancing exercises)
Foam Roller
Yoga
Pilates/yoga mat
Towel
Water bottle
Optional cushion, bolster or throw pillow
Optional blanket to cover up with during relaxation
Yoga blocks
Yoga strap or belt
You will not need all of these things for every class, and some of them can be substituted with everyday household items. When you book your class, you will usually get a list of any equipment you will need for that class in your confirmation email. If you don’t have any equipment or props, don’t worry, as most of the exercises/poses can be done on their own.
LIGHTING:
It is very important that I can clearly see your body. This helps with instructing you through the exercises and providing different options that may suit your body better.
Prior to the class, check your lighting with the zoom test link.
If the lighting is too dark, you could try the following;
Open blinds or curtains and let in more natural light.
Add a lamp if necessary. A selfie ring light on a tripod works really well and can be purchased for minimal cost online or from Kmart/Big W, etc.
OPTIMISE YOUR HOME INTERNET CONNECTION AND REDUCE DROP OUTS:
To ensure a smooth class without any drop outs, here is a few tips that can help:
Turn off the Wi-Fi on other devices, particularly phones. They often have multiple apps running that may affect Wi-Fi connectivity.
If you have poor connection or it keeps dropping in and out, setup for the class near the router location. The internet connection is strongest near the router. (Note: not always necessary to be near the router, it’s more if you live in an area without good internet and have drop outs)
SET UP IN A QUIET + PRIVATE SPACE
Set up your Zoom Yoga/Pilates space somewhere where you wont get distracted. This is ‘You Time'. It’s very disrupting for you if partners, children and animals are in and out of the room and climbing on top of you.
Having said that, some class participants don’t mind this, and I’ve been known to teach a class or two with young children joining in with poses or dogs coming for cuddles during the floor work. It’s what you feel comfortable with.
SOUND
Ensure that your microphone is set to mute. During the class I can unmute you to welcome you into the class. During the class I keep it muted so you can play your own music in the background - as long as you can hear me and the instructions that I provide.
I know it can be daunting at first to use Zoom and move to online classes. That is why I have created this guide for you to use so you can join the online Zoom classes with confidence and ease.
*Due to personal and work commitments, I am not currently running Zoom classes. I hope to offer them later this year, so please feel free to keep an eye on my class schedule page for when they return.
Sam