Livestream classes

How to add a virtual class to your schedule using Zoom or a custom streaming link.

You can run virtual classes through Arketa using either the Zoom integration (which auto-creates unique meeting links) or any other streaming platform by pasting in a custom link.

Prerequisites

If you want to use the Zoom integration, connect your Zoom account first. If you're using another streaming platform (YouTube Live, Vimeo, StreamYard, etc.), you just need your streaming URL ready.

Add a livestream class

Start adding a class

Go to Classes → Full Schedule → Add New.

Set location to Virtual

In Basic Information, set Location to Virtual.

Choose your streaming method

Two options appear:

Zoom Integration — Arketa automatically creates a unique, password-protected Zoom meeting for each class, 24 hours before start time. Recommended for most instructors using Zoom.

Livestream Link — Paste in any URL. Use this if you're on another platform, want to reuse a permanent Zoom link, or need more control over your meeting settings.

[IMAGE TODO] Take a screenshot showing the Location section of the Add Class form with "Virtual" selected, and the two streaming method options visible: "Zoom Integration" and "Livestream Link."

Finish setting up the class

Fill in the remaining class details (schedule, pricing, capacity, etc.) and click Save Class.

For livestream classes, set capacity to a higher number (100+) if you don't need to limit attendance. Unlike in-person classes, there's no real capacity constraint for virtual sessions.

Client experience

When a client books a virtual class, they receive a booking confirmation email with the Zoom link (or your custom streaming URL). They also get a reminder email before class with the link.

When using the Zoom integration, the link includes the meeting password, so clients just click and join without entering a password separately.

Starting class

You can start your Zoom class from:

Your Arketa dashboard — recommended, since it confirms you're in the right meeting
The Zoom app directly — also works fine

If you're using a custom streaming link, start your broadcast on whichever platform you're using.

Do I have to use Zoom?

No. You can use any streaming platform — YouTube Live, Vimeo, StreamYard, or anything else. Just select Livestream Link and paste your URL. The client experience is the same: they get the link in their confirmation and reminder emails.

Troubleshooting

Clients can't find the link Check that the class is set to Virtual and a link has been generated or pasted. For Zoom classes, the link is only created 24 hours before class, so it won't be visible before then.

Zoom link has a waiting room / password prompt Make sure passwords are embedded in the link (the Zoom integration does this automatically). See Zoom best practices for how to handle waiting rooms and passwords.

I want to record and upload the class Enable automatic recording in your Zoom settings and turn on the auto-upload feature in Arketa. Auto-upload Zoom recordings →