Online Class Vs Offline Class

The words 'online' and 'offline' are common nowadays. While some may comprehend and often use 'online' for work, leisure and workout purposes, There are some who prefer and even some occupations are more effective using the 'offline' methods. During this pandemic and re-adjusting period, it seems that both methods are increasingly gaining popularity for different age groups. For a start, let us set our common understanding on the terms 'online' and 'offline'

Online versus Offline Classes

Online

As to not confuse my dear readers, I would like to draw several differences that delineates between 'online' and 'offline' classes. For the classes, I would mean fitness classes such as strength and conditioning, yoga, barre, pilates and other trending classes.

Online classes are those conducted using social gathering platforms. I am sure you are familiar with their use nowadays and especially during the 'stay-in' period. Meetings after meetings are conducted online. Through the meetings, it is extended to classroom (with a lot of headaches, if I may add) and to fitness classes. Online classes are usually done in the comfort of your home. If required, some items which are readily found at home, can be used as substitutes for the dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, and weights which are commonly found in most gyms and exercise studios. If you do have those items at home, then there is not much fuss of cross contamination as it is used by your and the people in your household

The possibility of 'cheating' when the instructor is not watching is always tempting (hehehe). The need of 'extra' motivation is required especially if you are not paying for these online classes.

These classes are usually done in the comfort of your home so there is no additional travel expenses for fuel, transport, parking fees and less exposure to the virus. Online can also be private and therefore less distractions.

Offline

On the other hand, offline classes are fitness classes where there is an instructor who conducts his or her class in front of a group of people. Usually, these classes are conducted in gyms or exercise studios. In these venues, the use of varied of exercise machines such as the thread mill, exercise benches, workout stations are open to common use.

To a certain extent, some of these offline classes are conducted outdoors such as in bootcamps, parks and other recreation spaces. The use of stairs or benches in these areas are used to support the fitness routines.

The presence of an instructor or coach to show us the right technique and the 'proper' motivation to boost our confidence and energise while doing the fitness exercises are some preference to some (like me too). Furthermore, the taunts and cheers of the peers during the workout can serve as an extra motivation to do the 'extra' repetition. The gym buddies that you created will help through your workouts.

Regardless of your choice on attending online or offline classes, I would like to share several safety protocols that are equally important.

Safety Protocols

Water

At moderate exercise intensity,the human body generally produces 0.5 to 1.5 litres of sweat in one hour, but this may be higher in some individuals.The sweat rate increases as the intensity of exercise increases. Henceforth, it is important to have water on stand-by when you doing your fitness exercises. Electrolyte drinks are essential but it should not serve as a substitute to water. This is also important if you decide to do an offline class due to the humidity and other environmental factors.

Open environment

If you decide to do your workout indoors, please ensure that there is enough ventilation in the area. You may not want to have the smell of your sweat to be disturbing to others. It is also good to have the windows or balconies open so that air is being circulated in the area of exercise. In an offline open environment and there is group of more than 4 people, it is important that there is social distancing between you and the other participants. As much as possible, avoid the usually high-fives and other personal contacts. It is good to know your limits as it is advisable to wear a mask in an open offline class.

Personal equipment

While the use of personal equipment is not a major issue while doing your workouts at home, it is important to be vigilant if you are heading towards a gym or exercise studios. Some notable gyms are now operational and there are some guidelines that are emplaced for the safety of their patrons. I would strongly suggest that you follow these guidelines. Some of thees gyms do conduct offline classes but it is mostly now through registration. If you working out at the gym, please use the small towel that are provided to clean the bench upon completing your bench press. Let's be responsible for our and other health too.

On that note, please bring your personal mats if you are working out outdoors with an instructor. This includes your water bottle (make sure it is filled, don't ask why), extra set of clothes and other essentials.

Knowing yourself and others

Being at home or outdoors, it is equally important to know your capability in carrying out the fitness routines from these professional instructors. Some online instructors may integrate the proper warm-ups and cool down techniques. If they do not do it, you may request it from them or do you own before engaging in these activities. Furthermore, the intensity ranges so choose wisely and follow accordingly.

Quite similar to any online classes, it is good and important to identify yourself as a newbie to exercises or flexibility exercises. This will help instructors or coaches to pay closer attention to you and support you when required.

The 'know of when to stop' is equally important. I concur that all fitness routines are fun and engaging. but there is also a process in achieving your health goals. Enjoy the workouts and enjoy the process and do not beat yourself too much if you cannot touch your toes while bending forward.

At the end of the day, it comes down to your personal choice. There are pros and cons in attending online and offline classes. I would strongly suggest that you and others keep on practising those safety protocols that I mentioned earlier. Stay safe and healthy always.

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#offline #growthmindset #beraniberubah #beraniambilrisiko