on April 21, 2022
This technology will help you with your online classes
You’ve probably already read the first part of our series “Fit on the Internet” and dealt with the different platforms available. Maybe you already know which one you prefer and how to implement it, too. That’s good. When it comes to technology and necessary equipment, you don’t have to worry too much-you probably have most of it already. There is no need to go crazy- the basics will do for a professional appearance.
Internet access for online classes
Sending videos and especially streaming live classes requires lots of internet data. The better the quality, the more data used. You should take this into account when choosing your internet provider. Fortunately, fiber internet connections and 5G are increasingly available.
Our recommendation: Fiber internet connection
It promises stable transmissions, even when many devices are online at the same time. A minimum of 500 MBit/s is offered here. That is already blazingly fast. However, you’re on the safe side with 1,000 Mbps. That’s professional.
Advantages:
- maximum speed
- maximum stability
- Until fiber is available, there are broadband offers with high speed
Disadvantages:
- unfortunately not yet available everywhere, nationwide roll-out will take a while yet
- high-priced compared to the broadband connection
- you need a fiber connection in your studio
Tip:
Find out about availability online.
Talk to your local provider about possible connections, installation dates, and offers.
The classic: broadband connection
Maybe you’ve streamed a movie at 16 Mbps. That’s not really possible. So upgrade your studio as much as you can. Mostly 100 MBit/s are possible, if 250 MBit/s are offered don’t hesitate. It costs a little more per month, but your classes will be much better received by your members. It’s worth it.
Advantages:
- immediately available
- available almost everywhere with sufficient speed
- inexpensive
- many providers
Disadvantages:
- if many users are online at the same time, the performance will be weaker
- from time to time there are disturbances
Tip:
Find out the maximum speed in your region and get it for your studio. Switching providers (also with a view to a future fiber internet connection) can bring financial benefits such as switching bonuses and lower rates. Check out the internet for great deals!
The future of mobile communication: 5G
Being online with your cell phone has been the reality since the first smartphone was on the market. High quality, however, is not. 5G is set to change that. It is up to 100 times faster than the still widespread LTE standard and will increase your possibilities and the quality of your mobile content.
Advantages:
- maximum speed
- maximum stability
Disadvantages:
- unfortunately not yet available everywhere
- you need 5G-capable devices
- expensive rates
Tip:
If there are no sufficient online speeds and data volumes at your location, use the mobile network to access the internet with a so-called cube or speedbox.
Check the 4G/LTE or 5G network coverage at your location with your provider beforehand.
PC, tablet or smartphone – the best device
Of course, it is theoretically possible to put your streams online exclusively with your smartphone- but it’s for sure not comfortable. On a laptop or PC, you can evaluate and edit your files much better and operate the platforms more securely. If you want to stream live, fast internet access and a fast computer are indispensable.
Computers have enough RAM and hard drive or SSD capacity. If you want to edit 4K videos professionally, you should get 16 or 32 GB of RAM. A comfortable notebook would be, for example, the HP 14s-fq1377ng, notebook with 14-inch display, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD storage for around 700 €.
Tip:
Look out for daily special offers or buy the equipment used. There is also platforms online where you can get used notebooks with warranty at low prices. This is good for your wallet and the environment.
To archive your movie files, you can also use external disks or a cloud- provider.
Recording: Camera and Co.
Your professional online classes should also come across professionally to your members. Sharp, well lit, easy to hear and pixel-free. That’s why you shouldn’t skimp on technology and consider equipment that deliver good image quality.
Professional and very high quality equipment would be for example:
- DSLR (e.g. Nikon D780, approx. 2,000 €) or system camera (e.g. Sony Alpha 7 III, approx. 1,800 €) with full-format sensor for brilliant, sharp and smooth movies
- standard zoom lens around 24 -70 mm (approx. 1.800 €) focal length for the right image detail
- a solid tripod with a good video head, e.g. Manfrotto or Gitzo (from approx. 300 €), so that only you as the trainer are moving – not the image
- Bluetooth lapel microphone (around 50 €) or headset, e.g. Lavalier or the t.bone for intelligible announcements
- MP3/voice recorder, e.g. Zoom (around 100 €) for brilliant sound
- LED panels or softboxes for good lighting (e.g. NANLITE LED studio set Forza SB-1200, just under 1,000 € or Godox 3 Pack SL-60W LED video light, just under 600 €, both at Amazon)
- please also remember: equipment like batteries, memory cards, cables, …
Tip:
Must-haves to start are a camera/lens, a tripod and microphone/recorder. When it comes to lighting, first check what you have in the studio.
Here, too, you can save a lot of money if you buy used equipment from a professional dealer. The professional dealer also gives a guarantee and is a competent contact person on site.
If you want to try it first, most dealers offer everything you need for rent.
Conclusion
There is the right technology and equipment for successful online classes for every studio size and budget. Maybe someone in your studio has a knack for it and would like to take the lead.
Any questions?
Want to learn more about digital offerings and Magicline? Reach out!