Set Up Your Space for Online Pilates Classes
How to Set Up Your Space for Online Pilates Classes
Starting your Pilates journey online is exciting, but preparing your space at home makes all the difference. At Pilates with Nat, I guide clients through private Pilates sessions and small group classes on Zoom, and one of the most common questions I hear is: “How should I set up my space for class?”
This guide will walk you through the essentials so you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to move before your first session.
Why Preparing Your Space Matters
Pilates is about precision, alignment, and mindful movement. Whether you’re working with me in a private session or joining a group class, having the right setup ensures I can see your form, give personalized feedback, and help you progress safely. With a few simple steps, your living room, bedroom, or office can transform into a supportive Pilates studio.
Step 1: Clear Your Workout Area
Choose a space where you can:
- Lie down with arms overhead and out to the sides
- Swing your legs from side to side without bumping into furniture
- Stand tall without tripping hazards nearby
This gives you freedom to move through the full Pilates repertoire.
Step 2: Choose a Supportive Surface
A thick Pilates or yoga mat is ideal. If your floor is hard, place your mat on a carpet or rug for extra comfort and to avoid bruising your spine when rolling on the floor.
Step 3: Wear Comfortable Clothing
Opt for fitted but comfortable clothes—leggings, a tank top, or a fitted T-shirt. Loose clothing makes it harder for your teacher to see your alignment, which means they can’t offer the best corrections during your class.
Step 4: Set Up Your Camera
For online Pilates, camera placement is key. Position your device so your whole body is visible on screen. This allows me to check posture, form, and movement patterns.
- Use a laptop or tablet if possible. Larger screens make it easier to follow along).
- Adjust camera height for either standing or floorwork\ mat exercises. In my classes we pause to adjust our camera angles before transitioning.
- Avoid strong backlighting (like sitting in front of a window). Instead, make sure your space is well lit from the front or side.
Step 5: Connect to your Online Class
Each studio will have different directions for logging into class. I typically teach on Zoom and email a link to clients 24 hours before the session.
- During class, I mute participants to reduce background noise.
- Clients can choose Gallery View to see the whole group or Speaker View to focus on me and follow along more closely.
Step 6: Show Up for Yourself
Even online, Pilates creates a sense of connection and community. Moving together provides motivation, accountability, and support. My classes are offered live only to keep you present and engaged.
Ready to Begin?
Taking the time to set up your space means you’ll get the most out of your Pilates experience. If you are new to Pilates or would like more personalized attention than a group class, consider starting with a Private Pilates Session.
Private lessons help you build a strong foundation before joining group classes and allow me to tailor the program to your body and goals.
Or, if you’re excited about moving together in a supportive group, check out my upcoming Pilates classes on Zoom.
Whichever path you choose, I look forward to helping you build strength, balance, and confidence—right from the comfort of your home.
With breath and balance,
Natalie
Pilates with Nat