How to make a workout video?

Are you a personal trainer? Do you wish to become a fitness influencer? Or, perhaps, you’re just really passionate about inspiring others to lead healthier lives?

No matter what your answer is, learning how to make a workout video is always a great idea. Why? This is exactly what we’d like to discuss.

Source: Pexels

Why fitness brands need videos

Videos are not just a trend; they are also perfect for growth in the fitness industry. Here's how they can benefit your brand:

Broader audience reach

Fitness videos break geographical boundaries, allowing you to connect with people worldwide. Your audience doesn’t even have to understand the language you speak; your content can inspire anyone.

Showcasing expertise

Creating a professional workout video makes you look like an expert in your field. When viewers see you demonstrating proper techniques and sharing unique workout plans, they start trusting you and your opinion more.

Increased engagement

Videos are more engaging than images and text. Platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts thrive on short, dynamic content. A well-made fitness video encourages likes, comments, shares, and saves.

Monetization opportunities

Fitness videos open the door to multiple income streams. From ad revenue on YouTube to premium subscriptions for exclusive workout content, the potential for financial gain is definitely there.

Community building

Videos allow you to create a sense of community. Sharing routines, challenges, and motivational content fosters a loyal following that looks forward to your next upload.

How to make a fitness video: 8-step guide

Source: Pexels

Now that we’ve discussed why you might want to create a workout video, it’s finally time to see how you can do it.

Step 1: Plan your concept

The two main things you have to do before anything else are defining your goal and learning more about your audience.

Are you going to make videos for beginners, advanced fitness enthusiasts, or specific groups? Will the video be a yoga flow, a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session, or a strength-building workout? Is the video for educational purposes, brand promotion, or monetization?

Answering these questions will guide the video creation process and help you avoid missing important parts.

Step 2: Get the right equipment and tools

You don’t have to purchase a pricey professional camera, but there are still certain things you might want to think about.

A modern smartphone with a good camera works well. Just make sure it can film in at least 1080p (the higher, the better, though).

To improve your content even more, you’ll need a stabilizer, a microphone, and lighting equipment. Natural light is also good sometimes, but LED ring lights, for example, can give indoor shots a better look.

And don’t forget about editing software, of course. We recommend choosing one at this stage so that you’ll know what features are available for you beforehand. The best part? You don’t even need to purchase one, just do a quick search for “video editor free download” and you’ll see plenty of options.

Step 3: Script and rehearse

While you may not need a word-for-word script, having an outline is always a good idea. Choose the perfect location, think about an intriguing way to introduce yourself and the exercise, divide the session into clear sections, and start rehearsing.

You should be 100% comfortable with your workout so that the audience will feel your confidence. 

Step 4: Start filming

It’s finally time to bring your vision to life.

Start with a warm-up to prepare the viewers. Try to focus on your technique and highlight proper form to make sure viewers will be able to follow you.

Film from various angles and perspectives to make the video more dynamic and interesting to watch. And don’t forget to engage with the camera and motivate your viewers.

No need to worry about making mistakes; they can be fixed during editing.

Step 5: Edit the video

Editing is the stage where all the magic happens; it’s time to turn your raw footage into a visual masterpiece.

Trim unnecessary parts and cut out all the dead time. Short videos usually perform better than long-form content, so try to remove all the details that don’t have to be in your video.

Add background music to set the mood. It can be something calm and relaxing, or feisty and motivational, depending on your workout and goal. Go for royalty-free music to avoid copyright claims.

Use text to display exercise names or useful tips that you want the audience to remember. It’s also a good idea to add subtitles, since many viewers mute videos.

You may also add some effects, transitions, and overlays to make the video even more entertaining. But don’t overdo it. Added elements shouldn’t overpower your message.

Step 6: Optimize for the chosen platform

All platforms have their unique requirements. Optimize your video for each one.

For example, short, vertical videos work best on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts, while longer, horizontal formats are perfect as regular YouTube content.

Many video editors provide output templates for various platforms, so you won’t even have to adjust all the settings manually.

Step 7: Publish and promote

After editing, it’s time to upload your video.

Use an intriguing title, write a proper description filled with relevant keywords, and add hashtags to make it easier for viewers to discover your content.

Promote your video across social media and encourage followers to share it.

Step 8: Analyze and improve

Once your video is live, monitor its performance using analytics tools. Pay attention to metrics like watch time, engagement, and audience retention. Use this data to improve your future content.

F.A.Q.

1. Do I need professional equipment to make a workout video?

Not necessarily. Many creators start with a smartphone and natural lighting. As you grow, investing in tools like a tripod, external microphone, and good lighting can significantly improve your video quality.

2. How long should a workout video be?

It depends on the content and platform. For Instagram, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok, aim for under 60 seconds. For regular YouTube or long-form content, 10–30 minutes is ideal to provide a complete workout session.

3. What software can I use to edit my workout video?

There are many options available, from beginner-friendly tools like Movavi Video Editor to professional-grade software like DaVinci Resolve. Look for a free program to start editing without having to make a purchase.

4. Can I monetize my fitness videos?

Yes! Platforms like YouTube offer ad revenue opportunities. You can also create premium content, offer paid subscriptions, or collaborate with fitness-related brands for sponsorships.

5. How can I make my video stand out?

Focus on authenticity and quality. Use multiple camera angles, trendy music, and clear instructions. Additionally, try to create your unique style or approach to fitness.

Read next: How to stay committed to your fitness goals