How to set up your camera and space for live online yoga

Live online yoga only works if the teacher can see you. A few minutes of setup makes the difference between receiving real corrections and effectively watching a video. Here is how to arrange your device and space.

Which device to use

A phone, tablet or laptop all work. A laptop is usually easiest because it sits stably and the screen is large enough to see the teacher. A phone is fine when propped at a decent height — a stack of books or a small stool works. Whatever you use, put it in landscape orientation and make sure it is charged or plugged in.

Framing

• Place the camera 2 to 3 metres away if you can, so your whole mat is in frame.
• Set the lens at roughly knee to hip height rather than on the floor.
• Use a side or front-diagonal angle — this shows alignment better than straight-on.
• Check that your head and feet both stay in frame when you stand and when you lie down.

Lighting

Light should come from in front of you. A window behind you turns you into a silhouette and the teacher will see nothing useful. If your room is dim, a lamp facing you from the front is enough.

Floor space

You need enough room to lie down and stretch your arms out in every direction without hitting furniture. Clear the area before class rather than mid-session, and check the floor is not slippery under your mat.

Mat and props

• A non-slip mat is the one item worth having.
• A firm cushion or folded blanket instead of a bolster.
• A belt, scarf or towel instead of a yoga strap.
• Two thick books instead of blocks.
• A sturdy chair for supported or seated variations.

Internet and audio

Sit near the router or use a wired connection if you can. Test your speakers before class — you need to hear a correction called out while you are facing away from the screen. Headphones can help in a noisy home, but choose ones that stay put when you move.

Privacy

Camera on is expected in live classes, because it is what makes real-time correction possible. You control the frame: position the device so only your practice area is visible, use a plain wall as a background, and close the door if you would rather not have the household in shot. If practising on camera in a group is not for you, private 1-on-1 online sessions are an alternative.

Pre-class checklist

• Device charged, propped, landscape, at knee-to-hip height.
• Whole body in frame standing and lying down.
• Light in front of you.
• Floor clear, mat down, props within reach.
• Audio tested, notifications silenced.
• Water nearby, joined a couple of minutes early.