Getting Started Online
It’s easy to get started online – but whether it’s your first time attending an online class, or you want to improve the experience – here are my tips for getting the most out of your practice.
You’ll want a device with a video camera and microphone, so that I can both see and hear you (like a laptop, tablet/iPad, or smartphone). The bigger the screen the better so that you can see me teaching you clearly.
Get Everything Ready
Before you begin your class make sure you find a space with enough room to practice freely have any kit you might need at hand (cushions, socks, an extra layer) have Zoom installed on your device and can sign in to the class position your device where you can comfortably see it turn up the volume on your device so that you can hear your teacher have a good internet connection (video uses a lot of bandwidth).
How it works
I use Zoom to deliver my online classes. It is a popular video conferencing platform that you may already be familiar with.
If you haven’t used Zoom before, don’t worry, it’s easy to set up. First, you’ll need a Zoom account. Head over to Zoom’s sign up page and create a free account linked with the same address you used to book your class with me.
Although it’s possible to use Zoom through a web browser I highly recommend that you download and install the mobile app for your Apple or Android device, or the desktop software for your laptop.
Then you can sign in from your device to check your audio and video works, and you should be all set to join your first class! If you can’t hear me, make sure you have clicked “join audio” and if you’re struggling to find that, just the option to “leave meeting” and re-join again choosing “join audio”.
What to expect
When you find a class or course you want to join, you need to book on through the class page. This will take you to my booking software which will ask you to register your details and pay for the class or course in advance.
Email confirmation
Once you have paid, within a few minutes you will receive an email that contains a link to your online class. Don’t forget to check your junk folder for the email, and if you find it there remember to mark it ‘not junk’ to prevent missing future emails. Keep the email safe.
Reminders
I typically send an email reminder with the link an hour before the class and if you provided your phone number we may send a text reminder too.
The link in the email or text will allow you to join the class in either an app or you browser.
Ready to begin
I will open registration for the class 5 minutes before the class is due to begin. Please take a few minutes to get yourself settled when you first arrive. I recommend that you create a space for yourself where you have some room to move, a good wi-fi signal, and minimal background noise.
I will greet you as you sign in and will ask you to gather any blankets or cushions that you’ll need for the class.
Controlling your screen
Within Zoom, you have the option to change what you see on your screen. You can choose between “Gallery” view (where you can see a bunch of different talking heads in smaller windows) and “Speaker” view (where you see only the person currently talking, in a large window). “Gallery” is nice before and after class so you can chat and recognise friends. “Speaker” view is usually best for the actual class.
Position your device
Usually it’s better to place your device higher up on a table or shelf so that you can see me from a variety of positions. Please have your mat rolled out and ready. Or if you don’t have a mat, you can just practice on your carpet or a rug on wooden floorboards. Some people find a large towel on a carpeted floor works well too.
Connection issues
If your connection gets sketchy during class, try turning off your video camera (so you can still see me, I just can’t see you). That will usually help as it places less demand on your device and internet connection.
Yoga Kit
You can buy yoga and pilates equipment from a variety of places online. I’ve used and can recommend Yoga Matters and Mad.
Friends & family
If you live with friends or family, they can join in too. Participants need to be over the age of 18 for safeguarding reasons. You need a screen big enough for you both to be able to see clearly and enough space to practice together without furniture obstructing your practice.
Good class etiquette
Starting a yoga class
When you join the class, your microphone should automatically be muted. This is to reduce any audio feedback, and keeps the virtual meeting space from becoming an echo chamber!
As a general rule, if you have arrived before the class start time, you may wish to unmute yourself to say hello to me and to let me know about any new injuries or illness you currently have. Then you should mute your microphone once the class has started.
I will say hello and give you an overview of the theme of the class for that session. You might hear me mention that I’m starting the recording – the recording will be in “speaker view” so that only I will be visible.
Asking questions
If you have any questions for me during the class, you’re welcome to unmute yourself and ask. I can’t monitor the chat window during class, so your voice is the best way to get my attention.
Please note, if you do unmute yourself, the recording will be in “speaker” view and so you will be visible on the recording that is available to other yoga students who are registered with me after the class.
Interruptions
Learning at home is different from being in a dedicated studio space, and it’s natural that you may encounter interruptions from pets, children or a delivery. If you need to switch off video or leave the room temporarily – that’s okay.
The end of a class
At the end of your class, there will be 5 minutes for you to chat to me and your fellow students. I actively invite you to ask questions or speak to friends. I find this helps us to stay connected socially as part of a group. But if you’re feeling pretty chilled and you’re happy to slip off quietly you can just choose to ‘leave meeting’ and that’s fine with me too!
Feedback
The day after your class, you may receive an email asking for feedback. If you have anything you wish to share, or any questions that have come to you after the class, this is a good place to ask them.
If you have any requests for different lengths of class, different styles of yoga etc, please let me know as my timetable is always evolving. The more feedback I get, the better idea I’ll have of what our community finds helpful, and the more valuable my content will be.