Early adopter on Zoom
My journey to hosting successful online Pilates classes started, of course, in March 2020, when the British Prime Minister declared that everyone must stay at home to prevent the spread of coronavirus. I, like other fitness instructors, felt a huge threat to my livelihood, but quickly taught my first class on Zoom…and never looked back!
Being creative with at-home props
During the early months, we improvised, creating Pilates props using household objects. Old tights (pantyhose) or leggings became resistance bands, cans of beans became weights, broom handles for Pilates poles, even dusters to mimic the action of a Pilates reformer!
Finding space
I converted a small single car garage into my Zoom Room and picked up an old TV from a neighbour so I could see my clients on the big screen. I inherited some mirrors from a local gym. I made sure at least one end of the room (in camera shot!) looked professional.
Post-COVID growth
Lockdowns were lifted, and still people wanted to learn online. They loved the convenience of an online class. No need to go out in the winter, no commute, no battling for a car parking space! Complete privacy in the comfort of your own home.
I continued to run classes on Zoom until 2024 when I launched my own app Pilatify, and continue to deliver 2 x live-streamed classes per week, Monday evening and Thursday morning (UK time). Classes are automatically recorded and placed in a video library along with many other on-demand classes. Clients now use their own resistance band and ball but we still sometimes do a weights class with cans!
Online Pilates is here to stay
Clients LOVE the accountability of the live classes and there’s always time for some pre- and post-class chat. They’re achieving their goals in a convenient and affordable way, with high quality teaching streamed into their own homes. I’ve practised and honed my online teaching skills over the years, and still teach people face-to-face each week. This really helps me be an effective online instructor!
I have an infinitely scalable online product, I can work from anywhere in the world, and I believe in what I do. Pilates can transform the way you move and feel, enabling you to do the things you enjoy, and live the life you want.
Have YOU tried Pilates online? You might be surprised at how great it can be.
By Claire Seager
Bio:
Claire Seager is a 50 year old Pilates instructor in the UK, who’s been teaching and running her Pilates business for 10 years. She employs 4 teachers, offers small group classes in local venues and private classes in her Home Studio. She teaches online on her Pilatify App. She believes that Pilates can transform the way you move and feel and is for every body.
Websites: www.claireseagerpilates.com and www.pilatify.me
Social Media: @claireseagerpilates @pilatify_me_
Discount code: PILATIFY_KFIT for 50% off first 3 months when you sign up for Pilatify here: https://pilatify.gcph.tv/signup
