Online Pilates classes at home can be a great way to stay in the fitness world without breaking the bank. Motivation will be the greatest risk, but if you can conquer that, then tips will help you get the most out of your routine.
Key Takeaways:
- Positioning your laptop monitor or TV screen smartly and conveniently is essential so you don’t need to turn as much to see it.
- A good Pilates mat and pair of our grip socks will be an essential item for all exercises with a magic ring a close second.
- You don’t have luxury of having an instructor, so remind yourself to not rush through any exercises.
Handy Hints To Maximise Your Home Workout
When it comes to virtual Pilates classes, making the most of your home workout requires some preparation and a good mindset. Here are some handy hints to ensure you get the most from each session.
1. Positioning your screen
Proper screen positioning is essential for virtual Pilates classes. This ensures clear visibility and audio of the instructor while maintaining correct posture.
Think about it.
You want your TV or laptop screen to be in a position where you don’t need to twist your neck to see what the instructor is doing. After a few sessions, you might have a good idea of where to place your monitor.
In addition, bigger is better. Try to get the largest screen possible since this will be crucial in seeing what the instructor is doing and the form required for each exercise. In a nutshell, make the entire process as easy as possible.
2. Use the replay function
Many virtual Pilates platforms offer a replay function, allowing you to revisit classes you’ve missed or review specific exercises. Focus on areas you want to improve by rewatching relevant class sections.
Whether it’s a complex move or a series of exercises, replays allow you to practice at your own pace and maintain proper form.
3. Join early and build connections
Joining your virtual Pilates class a bit early offers several benefits. It can enhance your experience and help you build connections with other participants, which can go a long way toward developing an online Pilates community for yourself.
Building connections with others can make the virtual class feel more like a community and provide additional motivation and support.
If the session is live, then you can also interact with the instructor, notify if you have any movement limitations or injuries, or just have a casual chat.
4. Use earphones for convenient communication
Using earphones during virtual Pilates classes can enhance the experience in several ways. If you want to communicate during a session, having a laptop with an in-built microphone or, even better, a pair of good earphones will be immensely convenient.
Earphones are better because they help reduce outside distractions, so you can focus on your workout properly.
Preparing for an Online Pilates Class
Proper preparation for an online Pilates class can significantly impact your workout experience. Here’s how to get ready:
Wear the right clothing
Wearing the right clothing for your online Pilates class is essential for comfort and effectiveness. Choose clothing made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool and dry. Avoid overly tight or restrictive clothing, which can hinder your movement and distract you during the workout.
Invest in basic equipment
Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your online Pilates experience. And you may need a few items if they are required for an online class.
These might include:
- A Pilates mat. Invest in a good-quality Pilates mat that provides cushioning and grip. A mat with adequate thickness helps protect your joints and provides exercise stability.
- Resistance bands. Resistance bands are versatile and can be used for various exercises. They add resistance to your workout, helping to build strength and flexibility, and are relatively cheap.
- Pilates (magic) ring. A Pilates ring, or magic circle, is helpful for targeting specific muscle groups, such as your abductors, and adding resistance.
- Small weights. Light hand weights or dumbbells weighing 1kg or less can be a great way to add resistance to certain exercises.
- Reformer machine. If you have money to splash or prefer to create a dedicated Pilates studio in your home, investing in a good reformer is a wise idea.
Balance your lighting
Using ambient natural light is best. However, if you can’t manage that or need to supplement with artificial light, then making sure it isn’t coming from a harsh point source will be helpful.
Proper lighting is crucial for creating a comfortable and effective virtual Pilates experience.
Why You Should Consider Online Pilates Classes
Participating in Pilates classes online offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your fitness journey.
Firstly, they provide unparalleled convenience by allowing you to work out from the comfort of your own home. You don’t need to dress up (much) and spend money on fuel.
Since there are many to choose from such as YouTube Pilates channels, you are sure to find the one that suits you. This gives you the freedom to select classes that align with your schedule and preferences, enabling you to establish a workout routine that suits your lifestyle.
Cost-effectiveness is another key benefit of online Pilates classes. They are typically more affordable than in-studio Pilates sessions, allowing you to maintain regular practice without breaking the bank.
Last but not least is the comfort of your own home.
You can work out in your own space at your own pace, free from any self-consciousness that might arise in a public setting.
What Not To Do During An Online Class
To ensure a successful and productive virtual Pilates class, it’s essential to avoid certain pitfalls.
- Dropping out - When facing technical issues, it’s important to address them promptly to ensure seamless participation and a positive experience.
- Hearing notifications from your phone - To stay focused during the class, turn off notifications on your devices and let others in your household know that you’re in a workout session to maintain engagement.
- Rushing - Proper form is essential while working out at home, so take your time and avoid performing exercises incorrectly to prevent injury.
- Not warming up - Always start with a warm-up and finish with a cool-down to reduce the risk of injury and optimize the effectiveness of your workout.
- Overexerting yourself - Listen to your body and avoid overexertion to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of injury.
