How to Start Teaching Online: A Step-by-Step Guide for Yoga, Pilates, and Wellness Teachers
In today’s digital age, transitioning from in-person classes to online teaching offers yoga, pilates, and wellness instructors the opportunity to reach a broader audience and create a more flexible, impactful career. If you’re passionate about your craft and ready to share it with the world, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to start teaching online and growing your wellness business.
1. Find Your Niche and Define Your Unique Offering
Before diving into the world of online teaching, it’s crucial to identify your niche. What makes your classes or sessions unique? Do you specialize in prenatal yoga, therapeutic pilates, or mindfulness meditation for stress relief? Defining your unique offering will not only help you attract your ideal students but also set you apart in the crowded online space.
Tip: Consider what your current students love most about your classes. What feedback do you consistently receive? Use this insight to craft a unique online offering that resonates with your audience.
2. Invest in Quality Equipment
While your content is the star of the show, quality audio and video are essential for creating a professional online experience. Invest in a good-quality camera, microphone, and lighting setup to ensure your students can see and hear you clearly. This investment will pay off in higher quality content that your students love. Equipment we recommend:
Use a professional microphone
Phone stabiliser in selfie mode (the latest iPhones have this built in) OR use a tripod
Ring light
Being able to record content on your smartphone on the go is the most efficient way to produce video, but you still want to do it properly. Here’s a few tips:
Audio: There is nothing worse than listening to a video with poor quality audio. Test the recording and if the sound is not strong then it is recommended to use a mic that plugs into your phone.
Stability: Another determiner of video quality is stability, there are affordable mobile phone stabilisers available today, go and grab one!
Lighting: Wherever possible, try and use natural light. Ring lights are a valuable addition to your mobile recording tools. There are many inexpensive ring lights available that have a tripod stand with a built-in mobile phone holder. Smaller clip-on ring lights can be attached directly to your mobile phone when recording.
Tip: Don’t let the technical side overwhelm you. Start with the basics and upgrade as you go. Many successful online teachers began with just a smartphone and natural lighting.
3. Create a User-Friendly Online Platform
Your online platform is where the magic happens. Whether you’re using a website, a dedicated teaching platform like Zoom, or social media channels, make sure it’s easy for students to navigate, book classes, and access recordings. The smoother the experience, the more likely students are to return. Momence, Thinkific, Thrivecart or Squarespace are just some of the tools available.
Tip: Consider offering a free trial class or an introductory course to entice new students and showcase what you have to offer.
4. Develop Engaging and Consistent Content
Consistency is key when building an online presence. Plan your classes, courses, or workshops ahead of time and create a content calendar to keep yourself on track. Make sure you are posting new classes regularly to keep students coming back, even if you have filmed them in advance (which we also recommend!) Regularly updating your blog, social media, and email list with valuable content will keep your audience engaged and eager to learn more from you.
Tip: Use SEO-friendly keywords related to your niche to help potential students find you online. For example, if you specialize in beginner pilates, include phrases like “beginner pilates online classes” or “how to start pilates at home” in your content.
5. Build a Community and Engage with Your Students
One of the biggest challenges of teaching online is creating a sense of community. Encourage interaction during your classes, host live Q&A sessions, and foster connections through private groups or forums. The more your students feel supported and connected, the more likely they are to stay with you.
Tip: Send personalized follow-ups after classes or sessions to show your students you care about their progress. These can be personalised but automated to make it less admin-heavy for you. Small gestures can make a big impact in building long-term relationships.
6. Market Your Online Classes Effectively
To grow your online teaching business, it’s essential to market your classes effectively. Leverage social media, email marketing, and collaborations with other wellness professionals to spread the word. Share testimonials, success stories, and behind-the-scenes content to build trust and attract new students. The easiest way to start is to offer online classes to your current students as a value add, and encourage them to spread the word.
Tip: Create a lead magnet, such as a free eBook or video series, to capture email addresses and nurture potential students with valuable content.
7. Keep Evolving and Learning
The online teaching landscape is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve will set you up for long-term success. Continuously seek out new training, explore innovative teaching methods, and adapt to the changing needs of your students.
Tip: Join online communities (like the well community) to get and share tips, resources, and get support in this journey.
Want to teach online? You’ve got this!
Starting to teach online is a rewarding journey that allows you to expand your reach and impact lives far beyond your local community. Start with these steps, and reach out for support to help you build a successful online teaching business that reflects your passion and expertise. Remember, every great teacher started where you are now—with a love for their craft and a desire to share it with others.
Are you ready to take the leap? Start today, and watch your online teaching career flourish!
