Instructions for Live Online Zoom Classes
Prep Your Tech Prior to Class!
For the best experience, you’ll want to join from a device with a video camera and microphone, so that we can both see and hear you (like a laptop, iPad, or smartphone).
1. Create Account, Download and Install
We are using Zoom as our videoconference platform. Zoom works with all of the above devices. Please head over to zoom.us and create a free account linked with the same address you used to register for class—your email address may be significant down the road for online class access.
Download and install the mobile app for your Apple or Android device, or the desktop client for your laptop. Sign in from your device, test your audio and video, and you should be all set to join your first virtual class!
Creating your own account
To sign up for your own free account, visit https://zoom.us/ and enter your email address. You will receive an email from Zoom (no-reply@zoom.us). In this email, click Activate Account.
Signing in to your Zoom account on the web
You can log in to your Zoom account on the web at any time, at https://zoom.us/signin. Once you’re logged in, use the panel on the left side to navigate the Zoom web portal. You can update your profile, schedule a meeting, edit your settings, and more.
Updating your profile
You can update your profile by adding a profile picture, set your time zone, update your password, and more. To access your Zoom profile, sign in to the Zoom web portal and click Profile.
Downloading the Zoom client
You can download the Zoom Desktop Client for Mac, Windows, ChromeOS, and Linux, as well as the Zoom Mobile App for iOS and Android from the Zoom Downloads page at https://zoom.us/download#client_4meeting.
Starting a test meeting
You can join a test Zoom meeting to familiarize yourself with the Zoom controls and test your video/microphone/speakers before joining a Zoom meeting. Visit https://zoom.us/test and click Join.
Still need more help?
Quick start guide for new users
Note: If for some reason it is just not possible to download the application, you can join directly from a browser window, but the experience and controls are considerably more limited.
Meeting Invitation With Clickable Links
Keep your eyes peeled for your Just Breathe Virtual Tai Chi welcome email. This email contains information providing you with the meeting link, meeting ID, and additional class information. You should just be able to click and join.
Make sure to add kris@JustBreatheTaiChi.com to your contacts or safe senders list so that our emails get through! This is important so that future class invitations get through too.
Joining Your Tai Chi Class
Follow the Zoom meeting link provided to you. This link will open the meeting in your Zoom app or in your browser.
How do I join a Zoom meeting?
You can join a meeting by simply clicking the meeting link sent to you or going to https://zoom.us/join and entering in the meeting ID. Learn more about joining a meeting.
How do I join computer/device audio?
On most devices, you can join computer/device audio by clicking Join Audio, Join with Computer Audio, or Audio to access the audio settings. Learn more about connecting your audio.
Can I Use Bluetooth Headset?
Yes, as long as the Bluetooth device is compatible with the computer or mobile device that you are using.
Do I have to have a webcam to join on Zoom?
While you are not required to have a webcam to join a Zoom Meeting or Webinar, you will not be able to transmit video of yourself. You will continue to be able to listen and speak during the meeting and view the webcam video of other participants.
Join 15 Minutes Early!
The room will open ~15 minutes prior to class start time. Please join early to test your tech, say hi, and enjoy your Tai Chi community. When you arrive in the “room” prior to class start, your microphone will be muted. Please unmute yourself so that we can all say hi and be social.
Create Some Space
Take a few minutes to get situated when you first arrive. Make sure you have created a space for yourself where you have some room to move, a good wi-fi signal, and minimal background noise.
Orient your screen so you can see your teacher as much as possible. Teachers will be mindful of our virtual limitations and will change angles in order to accommodate. Try to get as much of your full body in your video as possible so that your teacher can see your movements.
Before starting class, please let us know about any physical considerations you need for your practice that day (either verbally, through chat), so that we can offer you some options or modifications during class. The chat tool allows you to private message individuals if you wish to comment privately.
During class, please be considerate to others. If you have background noise (dogs, kids, construction next door, etc.) or if you will be working through movements with your registered partner (we can hear you!) please mute your microphone. Microphones will pick up even the quietest talking.
If you arrive late, no problem, just join in!
Zoom Video Tutorial Links
How to Join and Use Meeting Tools
Questions and Talking Amongst Yourselves
Microphone Use Before/After Class
Prior to the formal class start or after class commences, feel free to unmute your microphone and practice getting comfortable with using Zoom with each other. The meeting will be set to start 15 minutes prior to the actual class start time and will continue for 15 minutes after class ends, or until the next class begins.
Microphone Use During Class
Please hold verbal questions until an appropriate time as you would in an in-person class. When prompted to ask questions, keep in mind that there will be limitations and awkward moments as only one person can actually talk at a time. Also, keep in mind that all participants will hear you as long as your microphone is unmuted. This experience is intended to promote a community approach to our practice.
Chat Tool
You will find a Chat tool in the toolbar at the bottom of the Zoom window. The in-meeting chat allows you to send chat messages to other users within a meeting. You can send a private message to an individual user or you can send a message to an entire group. You can type your questions here and we will monitor the conversation as we pause between instruction and questions. This way you won’t forget your questions!
Remember, if you have questions during class, you’re welcome to unmute yourself and ask. The teacher may not see you or constantly monitor the chat window during class, so your voice is the best way to get our attention.
Internet Connection
A broadband internet connection is highly recommended since video takes a lot of bandwidth. If your connection gets sketchy during class, try turning off your video camera (so you can still see us, we just can’t see you). That can take a big chunk out of the demand you’re placing on your device and internet connection.
Viewing Options
Within Zoom, you have the option to change what you see on your screen. You can choose between “Gallery” view (where you can see a bunch of different talking heads in smaller windows) and “Speaker” view (where you see only the person currently talking, in a large window). “Gallery” is nice before and after class so you can chat and recognize friends. “Speaker” view is usually best for the actual class. During instruction you may also want to “pin” the instructor window so that it does not change when others speak. We will go over technology prior to class, so please come early.
Use the above tutorials to better understand meeting tools.
Video Archiving
Please note that our classes will be recorded with intention of being posted for students only. The audio of your questions will be captured in the recording. Your video will only be captured with your permission and will be requested in advance. Only students will have access to these recordings.
Use the above tutorials to better understand video.
Head to Toe Set-up
Ideally, we would love to be able to see you head to toe so that we can better help offer adjustments and personalized suggestions. We know it is not always possible, but if you can arrange your camera up high and still see your monitor, that is best. Ultimately we do our best with what life offers us!