Heather Michele
Your Virtual Pilates Studio
Updated: Mar 30, 2020
NEW - Virtual Pilates Classes
Welcome to your new Virtual Pilates Studio!

I will be holding classes via Zoom!
In case you are wondering how this will look, I will see all of the students on my screen in tiles, I can enlarge each tile individually as needed just the way I would walk up to you in the class for a better look. I will teach you with my words (as usual) and you won't need to look at the screen. When I demonstrate exercises you simply look over at your screen to see the demo.
I chose this method for delivery because you need real-time feedback and a way to stay accountable to your Pilates Practice. We have access to tons of exercise videos online to do anytime we want, but without feedback on our form, a set time to attend and the additional accountability to maintain our normal schedule, it will be too easy to let it get buried behind other tasks.
Movement is critical in a time like this to keep you and your immune system strong, care for your mental and emotional health and maintain all the physical progress you have made. It is important to me that I still provide you a way to get in your Pilates each week. I’m nervous about how this will work and I thank you so much for sticking with me through what I’m sure will be a few technical bumps but these are unprecedented times that we are all navigating together. So how will this work?
Classes Class times and days remain the same with the exception of the Tuesday 5:30 class will move to 5:45 giving me time to download and save the previous class:
Tuesday 4:30 and 5:45
Thursday 4:30 and 5:45
Class participants will join live at the class time via the Zoom link. Please try to log in a few minutes before class time to check your set up and make sure your camera is working and angled so I can see you.
Yay technology!
Privates and Duets You will join live via the Zoom link at the beginning of your session time, Other video programs will work as well such as Facetime or Facebook Video etc.
The set-up - You need a good internet connection. Consider turning off other devices that are connected to your wi-fi if you are experiencing any delays. - Make sure the area you are working in has plenty of space. You want enough room around to be able to extend your arms and legs to the side and arms overhead. - A well-lit room will be best for me to be able to see your body and movements to provide the best corrections. - We will spend a few mins at the start of your session getting your camera set up and testing audio levels. When we place your camera it will be more important for me to see you versus you seeing me. If you’re using a cellphone be sure to put it on Do-Not Disturb or Airplane mode to be sure calls and texts won’t pull you out of class.
The props
I will keep the props needed for each class at a minimum and offer substitutes for props that you don’t have at home. Here is list of props I recommend to have on hand or order online although they aren’t necessary and there are substitutes. You will know in advance which 1 or 2 props we will be using in class, so that you can have your props or substitutes within reach at the start of our class session
Resistance Bands (not circular) - Light to medium resistance – substitutes would be yoga strap, long rolled up towel or rolled up top sheet.
Air Stability Disk – Substitutes would be plush toss pillow, or super flattened/half-inflated ball.
Small Ball – ball sized 8”-12” in diameter – substitutes would be air disk or plush toss pillow.
1 or 2lbs hand weights – cans of soup or small bottles of water work as well
Yoga or Pilates Mat- 2 towels stacked for cushion or carpet is nice padding as well.
Foam Roller – 36” long medium to soft density- a thick beach towel or blanket can be rolled up to create a roller to lay on, although it is not ideal for rolling exercises.
Yoga Block - You could also stack a book or two
Magic Circle- If you have one- If not we can use the small ball and resistance band.
I linked the best deals for some of my favorite versions of these props but do not feel that you must order these specific props, you can use what you have or the substitutes. If you have questions about your similar props or substitutes, please message me.
About Zoom
Zoom is an online meeting software that is super easy to use. If you are using your phone, you will want to download the Zoom app and make sure that your camera and audio works and from a laptop you can download the windows or mac version for free as well. Once it's downloaded, you can just click on the meeting link that I'll send you and then you're in! If you're a little scared of the tech involved, don't worry, just shoot me a message and we can run a test Zoom call to see how it works with your set up and I can walk you through.
The Why
I truly believe the value of Pilates goes beyond the machines and comes from my knowledge of your body, movement principles and the Pilates Method overall. I know your body, I know your tendencies and I know most of your modifications. As such, the cost of sessions will remain as is. If you decide that the virtual training option is not right for you, I completely understand and respect and support your decision. If you have sessions remaining in your package, I will extend the expiration to the end of this year. As much as I enjoy teaching you in person, I’m confident we can make this work while we wait out this Shelter in Place.
Again, I truly appreciate your support of my small business during these trying times and I thank you for staying dedicated to your Pilates practice. We all need a little movement right now. As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.