“Joyce is a fantastic teacher pitching her teaching perfectly to the group, ensuring we are challenged but remaining physically and emotionally secure. Zoom works brilliantly for me I concentrate more, am less distracted and it literally takes just over an hour and no driving/parking stress ( I can't use public transport or walk/cycle from where I live). “ Maryon, Somerset
Just a few hints to help you get the best out of a livestream, virtual Pilates session.
Its surprising how much I can see to help you, as I can”pin” or “spotlight” you to get a close up, when necessary.
Group classes are held on Zoom, which is easy to download. Zoom website
Joining a virtual class is easy, plus perfectly safe and secure.
In fact some people find they prefer virtual classes, as they don’t have to spend time and money traveling, and avoid possible parking palaver! They can also focus more easily, as any background noise can be muted. Its also possible to join from just about anywhere in the world! And they are in the privacy and comfort of their own home. Another bonus is that you can see yourself on screen and check your alignment.
Private sessions/duets etc. can be on Skype, Zoom, Facebook Messenger, or whichever platform you feel comfortable with.
Class information https://www.walktallpilates.co.uk/classes
*Once you have paid, you will be emailed a link which you can click on a little while before , on the day of the class. Its a good idea to join a few minutes early to get set up, and gather your bits and pieces e.g. cushions, mats, balls etc
*When you’re in you can select ‘gallery view’- usually in the top righthand corner. This will enable you to see everyone, and sometimes we all have a catch up chat beforehand, and at the end of the class. During the class if you want to see just me, or yourself in a bigger screen, you can click ‘speaker view’ or ‘pin video’ , whichever you prefer. (Note that the buttons/icons to click can look different on different devices. )
*Make sure you are well lit so that I can see you easily, including allowing enough space between you and your screen. Try not to be backlit or silhouetted by a window or light behind you.
*You can have your device on a shelf or table to to do standing work, and then, move it to a low table/coffee table or put on the floor to do floor work. You can also try books under your device to help you get the right height.
*Its fine if you would rather have your camera turned off, as long as you dont mind me not being able to give you feedback on your form and alignment etc.
*Make sure your device is fully charged, and try to have other devices turned off. If you have a weak signal it can help to be closer to the router.
*Give yourself some space to move.
*Have a mat or similar, along with one small cushion, and thicker a one, also a small towel to fold under the head.
*I may ask you to mute yourself, so that there is no background noise. You can choose to unmute to speak to me.
*Most of all relax and enjoy your session. And remember I’m here to help wherever I can.
What people are saying about my Zoom classes
”Joyce’s Pilates classes are a life saver during lockdown! I have been doing Pilates with her for over twenty years. She is a wonderful teacher; kind, caring and patient. She takes time to understand our individual needs and adjusts exercises accordingly. Highly recommended!” Helen, Bristol
"Pilates on Zoom has many advantages. It's timesaving- v easy to get to and from!
I burn a candle and create my own ambience at home which is nice.
Seeing yourself if you choose is useful for checking correct positioning.
There's still the opportunity to have a chat with fellow pilates if we feel like it pre and post session.
Joyce manages the sessions so well - we get the same modelling and instruction as in a face to face class, Joyce's unique soothing voice. calming and smiley disposition, clear instructions, and humour too. Zoom pilates with Joyce has been my rock during lockdown!” Kate, Bristol
“As soon as we went into lockdown, back in March 2020, Joyce was quick to adapt her lessons on Zoom. It has been my only 'constant' since then and, after the initial adapting of laptop camera, space & lighting, I've been enjoying the lessons almost as much as I do 'face-to-face' ones. It's been great to keep our little class community going and Joyce is brilliant at making each lesson interesting. I think we've all got used to it now and I am so grateful to still have my Wednesday Pilates class going." Catherine, Bristol
”If it wasn’t for Pilates with Joyce on zoom, I wouldn’t be doing Pilates at all! I simply don’t have the ability to do it correctly, remember the moves or the motivation to make myself stick to my plan! Joyce, however, is the smiling face who takes all that responsibility away and allows me to focus solely on Pilates in body, mind and spirit. [Huge thanks Joyce!] “ Carrie, Bristol