Online fitness classes are becoming more and more popular. They allow for greater flexibility for both Instructors and attendants and give Group Fitness Instructors a platform to teach without having to splurge on a studio and equipment or work for another gym.
They do, however, present a number of challenges not seen in in-person classes. In order to face these challenges front-on and run a successful online fitness class, here are Fitness Audio’s top tips.
1. Have the Right Lighting
Having the right lighting is paramount when it comes to any type of group fitness class. You need to ensure that your lighting is the right level of brightness so that your class can see you sufficiently. Try to use natural light to the best of your ability. If you are holding your class in the evening or don’t get a lot of natural light in your room, it is worthwhile investing in lighting equipment, such as a ring light.
2. Ensure Your Camera Positioning is Optimal
Where you position your camera makes a huge difference in teaching virtual fitness classes. You need to position it far enough so that your audience can see your full body, however not so far that it will impact the visibility of your workout routine.
The best thing to do is to experiment before your class and mark out the position where you think visibility is optimal. Don’t be afraid to ask your students for feedback on how well they can see you during your class too.
3. Think About Your Audio Setup
Whether you’re teaching an in-person or online group fitness class, having a quality audio setup is of the utmost importance. You need to ensure that your class can hear you clearly and that your music does not overpower your instructions. Because of this, we always recommend Fitness Instructors invest in a wireless headmic and a mixer. This will guarantee crystal-clear audio and give you control over your voice-to-music balance.
4. Consider Your Music Options
Unfortunately, playing music in online fitness classes is not as easy as in face-to-face fitness classes. Your music can sound crackly and low-quality over streaming services, particularly if your attendants don’t have the best speakers on their devices. Because of this, many online Fitness Instructors tell their students to play their own music, or even share playlists with them.
Like with your camera positioning, the best thing to do to tackle this issue is to experiment. Play music over a practice call and see how it sounds when you stream the call from various devices.
5. Keep Your Background Simple
It is particularly important that you keep your background as simple as possible for virtual classes. If someone looks away and then back at the device, you want to be the focal point that catches their eye. Performing in front of a plain wall with minimal furniture/decorations in the background is the way to go.
You also want to minimise external distractions. To do this, avoid teaching in front of or next to any windows and keep pets and children away!
6. Connect with Your Audience
One of the biggest challenges of any type of online class is that it’s not as easy for teachers to connect with their audience. It is important to still try, however. Always greet your students at the start of the class and ask about their days. Also consider giving them an opportunity at the end of the class where they can unmute and talk to you and other attendees. Making the effort to form relationships with your students will improve loyalty to your class and maximise student retention.
7. Smile
Last but not least, smile! It’s the easiest way to win over your audience and set a friendly and positive vibe to your class.
If you need assistance with getting the right sound equipment for your online exercise class, get in touch with Fitness Audio today. We will be able to advise you on what products are worthwhile and which ones you won’t need.
