Why You Should Try a Virtual Unstill Life Class
One night in the early Lockdown days of April 2020, when even doing classes outside became questionable, I realized I had to download this thing called Zoom and figure it out. The next morning we held our first virtual class, and while I know there was fumbling, it was kind of a blast–exciting and lively. Our regular in-person crew was joined by friends from neighborhoods all over Seattle and even a few folks from other states. It was a heady and creative time when we appreciated our health and our social connections, and found ourselves exercising for new reasons.
Fast forward five years, and most people eschew virtual workouts. Since many spend lots of time on video calls, they have been thrilled to return completely to in-person workouts. But there are loyal fans of my virtual classes. and I would make the case that there are very good reasons to do them.
So, for your consideration, here are SIX reasons why you might consider doing a virtual Unstill Life Workout.
1. It’s Time Efficient
No commute to factor in. Just roll out of bed, eat a banana, and you’re ready to go.
2. You Get Privacy with Community
It’s less intimidating to be in your own space. If you don’t feel up for small talk at that time of day, that’s just fine. Participants are really only watching me, so you don’t need to look good, and could even have your camera off if that makes you more comfortable. At the same time, you aren’t completely alone. You’ve got me, and a small community of fellow exercisers, and that’s a really nice feeling.
3. Explore Equipment Options and Support Your Home Fitness Practice
For some folks, doing a workout from home opens up more equipment options. Most people will lug one pair of dumbbells to class, but at home they may have other options, some lighter, some heavier. This variety is a huge benefit since most participants are actually capable of using heavier weights for some exercises, which is beneficial for building muscle and bone density. Likewise having lighter weights available can make a particularly challenging exercise more manageable. Regardless of the equipment you have, doing workouts in your own home, yard or gym space also opens your eyes to exercises you could be doing on your own–just more support for a home fitness practice.
4. Join from Anywhere
We have had in-person Unstill Lifers join classes when they travel, from New York, Martha’s Vineyard, California. And now there’s even rumor of a client in Berlin joining–our 6:30am class is 3:30 her time. Seattle folks who aren’t convenient to our Capitol Hill and Madison/Madrona locations, jump into a class from wherever you are.
5. Get in on the Accountability
From what I see, it’s hard to pull off doing a challenging workout on your own. This is why I have a job. A virtual class gives you a huge leg up in this respect. It’s at a specific time, so not subject to procrastination. And you’ve got Coach Rachel telling you what to do minute-by-minute and cheering you on. Dollars to donuts, you aren’t doing this on your own.
6. It’s Fun, and There’s an Awesome Soundtrack
Y’all know I value fun (my Masters in Education is in the Psychology of Play), and I think that may come through even more in the virtual setting. Somehow the whole improbable set up that technology allows just cries out for us to play across the airwaves. I love playing some good tunes and dancing around the living room. The production values are low, kids! We’re talking: my computer on my mantel, my husband walking through in the background for his daily immersion, a camping lantern for a spotlight. Not gonna win any fitness video awards! And I have to believe there’s something to love about that.
As with all Unstill Life workouts, you can come as you are, modify as you need, use me and our community to dial in the appropriate level of challenge for yourself on that day. Your first virtual class is free, so come try one to see if it’s up your alley. Our primary, always-virtual class is Thursdays 6:30-7:15am Pacific time, but other classes may be available as virtual too, so get in touch with me if you’re interested in trying one.
