COVID-19 - Resources for teaching classes online
As a result of COVID-19 restrictions, many studios and teachers are looking for alternatives to teaching in the studio and are beginning to set up online sessions and classes for their clients.
We have been in contact with BMS, the PAA insurance provider, who have confirmed that PAA insurance holders are automatically covered for online teaching (such as via Skype or Zoom), providing they are working within their scope of practice. If you are with another insurance provider please check with them directly.
Plan Ahead
If you’re giving online classes a try for the first time, we recommend you plan your strategy in advance. Consider the safety of your clients and design your sessions around exercises and repertoire that are suitable for their environment. Check in with them beforehand to discuss how the sessions will run – discuss their space and any extra equipment they have available, and how to set up their camera and mat for best results.
We also suggest you review and update your waiver form to include this new teaching format.
Chris Lavelle, PAA Vice President, successfully held her first online sessions recently using a simple set up and Zoom meeting platform – a couple of privates and a class with four clients. She prepped the clients in advance and sent them a handout explaining where to set their camera so she could see them well. She also asked them to sign in early in case of video/sound issues.
Chris has offered to write a short piece describing what she learnt from her first online classes. Please share your experiences, ideas or suggestions too – let’s pool our knowledge and support each other.
Resources for teaching classes online
This may be a steep learning curve for some teachers so we’ve found some useful resources to help you:
Shari Berkowitz – Remote/Video Teaching – Best Practices
Registration for the recording of her recent webinar, handout and Discuss Forum. Note, you have to set the time zone/date to continue to registration.
Lesley Logan – How to teach virtually
Ada Wells – Adding Remote/Online Options in the Wake of COVID-19 (free)
Ada held a webinar over the weekend as part of the Contemporary Pilates Haven Facebook group monthly mastermind which covered technical requirements, how to start up quick and simple, possible liability considerations with clients/employees. To access the replay join the Facebook group and search under announcements for the link.
Pilates Bridge Article (free) – How to Teach Virtual Pilates Sessions/Online Fitness Classes: Everything you need to know
Communication strategies for your new direction
COM Marketing – PAA webinar recording: ‘How to build a Strong and Resilient Business in Uncertain Times’
Practical tools
Zoom (meeting platform) – 5 tips for working from Home, hosting a digital event, and more
WPbeginner – The Ultimate Coronavirus Small Business Guide – WordPress + Tools to Grow Online
Paypal.me – A simple method for accepting online payments
Paypal.me how to video – How to set up a PayPal.me page so people can pay you
Finally, please don’t neglect your own health:
Pilatesology want to make it as easy as possible for you to keep moving during this time. They are posting FREE workouts that require NO membership, NO email sign up, just click and work out. Here is their first: Pilatesology free at-home workout
Several well known instructors, including Jean-Claude Nelson and Kathi Ross Nash, are also sharing free daily workout videos on their Facebook or Instagram pages at the moment. Keep your eyes open for others.
Isolated maybe, but not alone: Stay in touch with fellow instructors, share information and support through your local Pilates Facebook groups. Reach out if you need help (support@pilates.org.au).
Practise what you teach: Eat well, rest well so you can continue to support your clients.
For the latest information: National Coronavirus Helpline
For information on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), call the Australian Government’s National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080.
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