The Fitness Pilates Blog

Virtual Pilates Classes are here to stay

It looks like virtual classes are here to stay. How can instructors continue to keep these fun, engaging and different to retain clients and help them achieve their fitness goals?

When teaching the same group for a protracted period of time, it’s important to keep the classes fun and engaging.

Here are some ideas:

Have a theme or focus for the class: A fairly simple idea allows you to change the emphasis regularly, while still getting a well-rounded workout each time. Having an Arms Day, Abs Day or Back Day helps programming for each of the different areas of the body

Incorporate props: Although not every client will have a full array of studio-quality props, there are always household items they can use as substitutes.

Add music: Creating a playlist can be a great way to add more excitement to the class, but there is one caveat — be aware of cueing in time with the music. If there’s a delay in either audio or video, the clients may not be on the same count as you.

Virtual training has opened a world of opportunity for instructors and clients alike; however, I don’t think it will ever completely replace in-person training.

Here are some ways virtual training benefits clients and instructors:

Holidays or work travel: Clients often want to continue working out while on holiday or while traveling for work, but it’s not always possible to find a suitable trainer or class nearby. As long as they have internet, they can keep up with their regular instructor and fitness routine even if physically apart

Bad weather: Weather often gets in the way of in-person training sessions. Being able to connect virtually means Mother Nature won’t interrupt clients’ fitness routines
Maintenance: In-person sessions can be the place to introduce new movements and make sure they have the correct form, technique and performance. Virtual classes done in between in-person sessions can be a guided review of the new material, making sure progress is maintained

Join the free Fitness Pilates Instructor Newsletter Click here