Are Virtual Pilates & Yoga Classes Any Good?
We are living in a time where virtual classes are the new normal. Though, to many they are still a new and unfamiliar concept, and many people feel a little unsure about them. We asked one of our clients for an honest account of her experiences of our virtual Pilates and Yoga classes. Whilst they may not feel exactly the same as an in-person class, they still provide many benefits in their own right. Here, our client shares her thoughts:
Very recently, I decided to ‘give it a go’ and book onto a virtual Pilates class with Andra Health. I’d only ever done a Pilates class once before, and I enjoyed it, but then work, university, going out for food, googling Dogs in human clothes, and everything else got in the way from me really getting into it. However, I now find myself with infinite amounts of spare time, and a want to not just spend my days binge watching Netflix! So when the opportunity to take part in a virtual Pilates class arose, it seemed there was no excuse not to take it.
The class was perfect for all experience levels. I was nervous, even though I was in my living room alone. You have the option to switch off your video-feed, so you can see the instructor and other participants (if they have their video-feed on), but they can’t see you. I opted to have mine switched off which instantly took the pressure off for me. I didn’t have to worry about looking silly, as it was just me. Most poses had different options to increase the intensity, so you can make it as difficult as you feel comfortable.
Virtual does not mean less personal. I (usually) prefer going to the gym, than working out at home (though present circumstances haven’t left me with any other option). I like the gym because it feels more like an experience than being at home, sweating, alone. However, the live virtual class made me feel like a part of a group, as everyone was completing the class together in real time. Also, Beth was much more welcoming than my usual gym instructors shouting at me during a 6am spin class!
The virtual Pilates class had all the benefits of a traditional exercise class, but in a more personal and comfortable way. It was better than a traditional exercise class in that it eliminated all the faff. Usually, I would have to drive somewhere, decide on a cute, yet comfortable outfit, and focus on not breathing too loud, or sweating too much. A virtual class comes with all the physical benefits, and zero of the worries or stress. I completed the class by walking into my living room, wearing my mismatched clothes and I did not feel self-conscious at all. As the class is live, it made me feel more inclined to complete it than if I were watching a workout video. Also, though Pilates is a ‘low impact’ form of exercise, the virtual class made me feel good afterwards, it was really enjoyable and relaxing, and I booked onto my next class immediately afterwards.
To conclude, I would recommend a virtual class to anyone and everyone. They are just like an in-person class, only your instructor is teaching you through a screen. Plus, they cost less than a class in-person - win win.