Live Virtual Pilates vs. On-Demand Workouts - Which is Best for You?

When I first started teaching Pilates, I had so many people tell me they’d tried YouTube or other pre-recorded workouts before and couldn’t stick with them. And I get it —knowing which is best for you can be challenging.

Hitting play on a video at home is convenient, but it’s not the same as having someone there to guide you, watch your form, and give you that little nudge to keep going.

Alternatively, live virtual Pilates classes lack the ease and flexibility to work out any time you want.

At Mind Flow Pilates I offer both! And the beauty of it is that you can access both live virtual classes and on demand workouts all in one monthly membership.

This means you can combine the accessibility of at-home workouts with the accountability, connection, and energy of a live virtual class. If you’ve been wondering whether to invest your time in live sessions or stick with pre-recorded videos, here’s why I think both can work for you.

1. Real-Time Guidance and Feedback

One of the biggest advantages of live virtual Pilates classes is that you can correct my form and offer real-time cues and corrections. for everyone who joined the live.

This makes a huge difference for beginners because proper alignment is essential in Pilates to get the most out of each movement and prevent injury.

The on-demand videos in the Mind Flow Pilates library also include real time cues throughout the session, but nothing beats seeing it in real time.

2. Built-In Accountability

Let’s be honest — it’s easy to say “I’ll work out later” when you’re relying on a video. But when you’ve booked a spot in my Follow & Flow Pilates class, you’ve committed to showing up at a specific time.

That little bit of accountability is often the push you need to keep your practice consistent, which is where the real progress happens.

Alas, consistency with pre-recorded workouts can still be achieved! My tip? Set alarms on your phone or other electronic devices, and/or block out time in your calendar for movement to help hold yourself accountable to working out when you said you would.

3. Community Connection

Even though we’re meeting online, there’s still a sense of community in live classes. You get to recognize familiar faces, share a few words before and after class, and know you’re moving alongside others who are on a similar journey. This connection helps make Pilates something you look forward to rather than just another task on your to-do list.

4. A Mindful Start and End to Each Class

Something unique to Mind Flow Pilates is that we start every class with 2 minutes of CBT-style journaling and each class with a short sound bowl therapy session.

This simple practice sets your intentions, clears your mind, and helps you be fully present once we begin moving. It’s a ritual that is replicated in live virtual classes and pre-recorded workouts — and many of my students tell me it’s their favorite part of class.

5. Adaptable in the Moment

In a live setting, I can adjust the class based on what everyone needs that day.

If I notice the group is struggling with a particular exercise, I can offer modifications or switch it up. With on-demand videos, I still offer modifications for each workout just in case someone watching needs it.

No matter how you choose to move, I try my best to make sure everyone can participate in Pilates safely and comfortably at their level.

6. Consistency Without Commuting

One of the biggest perks of virtual Pilates classes and on-demand workouts is how easy they are to fit into your life.

You don’t have to factor in travel time, parking, or even leaving your home — but you still get the structure of a scheduled session. That means you’re far more likely to keep showing up for yourself.

7. Energy You Can Feel

I do have to be honest here… there’s something about the energy of a live class — even through a screen — that just isn’t there in a pre-recorded workout.

When we’re all moving together, breathing together, and flowing through each sequence in real time, you can feel the collective focus and motivation. It’s an experience that leaves you energized and centered long after class ends.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of starting and stopping with pre-recorded workouts, or craving the community live virtual classes offer, I’d love for you to join the Mind Flow Pilates Studio.

You can start and stop your membership at any time. I offer a number of options for all income levels and personal needs. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve done Pilates before, my online Pilates studio gives you the structure, support, and mindful space to actually enjoy your workouts — and keep coming back for more.

Book your membership today and see how Mind Flow Pilates can transform your practice, your mindset, and your energy.