How to create amazing workout videos

Videos are hands down the best form of engaging content. You can use them to build a stronger connection with your clients. When they can see and get to know you, along with your expert guidance, they'll feel more comfortable and confident in sticking with your services. Learn more about the reasons for videos in our latest blog post here.

How to get started

Plan! Get a calendar together and set yourself dates as to when content should be created and uploaded. Put this into categories - are you filming follow along style workouts? Or more specific movement videos like how to do a dumbbell RDL? Is today strength or stretch? Are we flowing mindfully or creatively? Make sure you have an outline of what is needed.

Find a place to film. Preferably somewhere clutter-free with good lighting, enough space that your feet and head don’t get cut off and where the overall ambiance speaks to your brand. This should be a place with little to no interruptions or thorough fare - exceptions are obviously okay, especially if it’s a candid blooper of your puppy trying to get your attention!

Length. Know how long your video is going to be so that you can make sure you stick to your time and plan accordingly. For short movement videos, 3-4 reps is best in order to accurately show the technique.

Equipment. Having good quality videos is very important. Use a tripod so your camera can be steady and at the right angle. Speaking of, use a high quality camera! But before rushing out to buy new kit, check out the capabilities of your phone, most modern day smartphones now have incredible built in cameras. Blurry videos are to be avoided - no-one wants to struggle to see their teacher or what moves they are supposed to be doing. And on top of that, they should be able to hear you! Microphone is key and should pick up your voice clearly. Our friendly onboarding team has tons of experience and are always on hand to recommend the best mics and equipment.

What’s next?

You’re ready to film, you're set up and your equipment is organised. We have a couple of suggestions:

Decide the orientation. Landscape videos are perfect for clients that use their desktops. They’re also perfect for follow along videos for maximum screen use on mobiles. Portrait, on the other hand, is better for movement based gym workouts. Clients can then place the phone down after watching your demo and proceed with the workout. Remember to angle your camera to get the best out of your orientation.

Audio. As mentioned previously, interference is not good. Try to place the microphone where your clothes don’t cover it and where it won’t pick up other sounds. Playing audio in the background is okay, when it’s softer than your voice. But rather make use of our Spotify and Apple Music integrations that take users to your pre-specified playlist. This is also great because it allows your clients to choose if they want to listen to your playlist or their own - giving them some autonomy in their workouts.

You’re done! Right?

Not quite. There are a few editing things that you need to check before uploading your video. Is it in the right format? We suggest using a quality of 480p or higher for videos longer than 10 minutes. At a maximum size of 2-3 GB. This allows for best quality and no buffering. There’s lots of free online software available to help you compress your videos if needed. Also, is there editing needed? We suggest having a lookover your video and adjusting lighting or transitions if needed. Maybe you do want to remove that blooper of your puppy, up to you!

Now that all the nitty gritty is sorted, you’ve double checked and made sure shots include all workout equipment and body parts… you’re done!

So just remember, whether you’re guiding someone through a series of yoga poses or a HIIT workout, your technical and creative skills are what will elevate your videos from mere instructional guides to more captivating and inspiring videos. Keep pushing your boundaries, refining your brand and bringing your personality into every frame. This will help to make your mark in the growing online fitness community.