Comparing online and in-person pilates classes

Amidst the ups and downs of 2020, you may have found your regular exercise class replaced with a digital stand-in. For many of us, these online fitness classes were a welcome addition to our newly restricted lifestyle, where staying active became harder to consistently commit to (trust us, we know!). Whilst a great short-term solution to a necessary slowdown, we discovered there’s no substitution for the benefits for mind and body provided by joining a group in a physical setting.

Let’s take a look at five key benefits of face-to-face pilates classes compared to online.

1. No need to rely on technology

We’ve all been caught out by a glitchy Zoom call where we spend five minutes asking: “Can you hear me now?”, “Is this better?”, “Is my face freezing?” only to have to end the call and try again. No matter how technologically capable the studio and clients are, there’s always the possibility of unreliable wi-fi or other hiccups that can cause frustrating interruptions and disruptions to your pilates practice.

2. Feel at peace in a tranquil setting

Our clients love the serene, retreat-like location of our studio. Class is taken outside in the fresh-air, by the picturesque Chapman River in Bluff Point Geraldton. The soothing sounds of nature provide total relaxation as you treat your mind and body to the strengthening and calming effects of pilates. Taking class from your living room might leave the integrity and sanctity of your practice open to distractions in the form of pets, children, smartphones and other realities of a busy life.

3. Work harder to achieve better results

Experts say that people who exercise in groups are more likely to push themselves harder than those working-out alone. This can be attributed to ‘The Köhler Effect’ — the idea that a team setting provides a motivational advantage, improving the endurance and performance of each individual member. Louise, one of our regular Active Pilates clients admitted to “cheating a little bit” when working out at home (and we’re sure she’s not alone!). Finding that extra push you need as you’re working your core can be as simple as exercising beside equally committed students and a motivating instructor.

4. Receive guidance from an expert

In a studio setting, a qualified pilates instructor is able to observe your form and provide immediate feedback to help you improve your technique and posture. Professional supervision and guidance can protect you from injury, and help you get the most out of your body and workout. A study has compared outcomes for two groups of people given a fitness plan - one group worked with a trainer and the other exercised alone. The fitness outcomes of the supervised group were greater, despite both groups lodging similar exercise minutes. All physical activity is worth doing, however gaining the guidance of a qualified instructor can help you reach your fitness goals.

5. Become part of a community

The social benefits of attending a class regularly can help improve our quality of life. One of our clients reported feeling ‘elated’ when face-to-face Active Pilates classes returned, and much of this can be attributed to the wellbeing effects of belonging to a group and seeing familiar faces every week.

If you gave up your regular exercise class during the period of online-only, now’s the time to come back to the studio. Joining our classes and working face-to-face with our qualified instructors can unlock your strength, mobility and flexibility.