Are you struggling to get on video and connect with your audience? If so, you’re not alone. Many fitness professionals find it challenging to express themselves confidently on video. But the truth is, video is one of the most effective ways to build trust with your audience and show them who you are. Whether you’re sharing workout tips, personal stories, or business advice, getting comfortable on video is a skill that can be developed.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through practical tips and strategies that can help you become more confident and engaging on video, allowing you to reach and connect with your ideal clients.
1. Boost Your Energy
One of the biggest challenges with video is projecting enough energy to capture your audience’s attention. If you’ve ever watched your old videos and felt like your energy was too low, you’re not alone. Early on, many fitness coaches, including myself, make the mistake of thinking that over-the-top energy comes off as fake. But here’s the thing: Over-the-top energy feels awkward in person, but on video, it translates really well. People are more likely to engage with you if your energy is higher.
To boost your energy, try standing up while recording. This simple act can increase your energy levels and make your voice sound more dynamic. Think about how your voice changes when you’re excited or speaking to a group of people. That’s the kind of energy you want to convey on video.
2. Lighting is Key
You can have the best content in the world, but poor lighting can ruin your video quality. Make sure you’re filming in a well-lit area. Natural light works wonders, so try to position yourself in front of a window whenever possible. If you’re filming at night or in a dim space, a ring light can do the trick. A ring light provides flattering, even lighting that reduces shadows on your face, making you look more polished and confident. Plus, good lighting can make you feel better about how you look on camera, which helps with your delivery.
3. Master the Art of Conciseness
One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that being concise is an essential skill for creating effective video content. Whether you’re sharing a tip or promoting a product, getting to the point quickly is key. A great way to keep your videos punchy is by limiting your content to short, digestible chunks.
Instagram Stories, for example, allow you to record four 15-second slides, forcing you to be brief and focused. Even though you can record multiple slides, sticking to this format will keep your message clear. Similarly, podcast episodes or YouTube videos should also be kept concise, especially when you’re teaching something. Viewers appreciate clear, actionable tips without the fluff.
4. Let Your Personality Shine Through
Video is all about showing who you are and letting your personality shine. Early on, I made the mistake of sounding robotic and formal. But as I gained confidence, I realized that the more I allowed my personality to come through, the more my audience connected with me.
You don’t need to be perfect or overly professional. In fact, you don’t have to worry about being formal at all. Just imagine you’re having a conversation with a friend. Whether you’re discussing the benefits of a healthy diet or sharing fitness tips, speak like you’re explaining it to someone you care about. Your audience will appreciate the authenticity, and it’ll make them feel more connected to you.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
Finally, the most important step to improving your video skills is to practice regularly. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Don’t worry about making mistakes—embrace them as part of the learning process. In fact, some of my most popular YouTube videos were created when I was still figuring out my delivery. Those early attempts didn’t have perfect lighting, and my energy wasn’t as high, but the content was solid. And because I kept improving with each video, I was able to build a loyal following over time.
If you’re nervous, start with low-pressure environments like Instagram Stories. They disappear in 24 hours, so there’s little risk involved. Challenge yourself to get on video every day for 30 days, even if it’s just a short tip or motivational message. The more you get in front of the camera, the more comfortable you’ll feel.
Final Thoughts
Remember, creating great video content is a skill that takes time to develop. By focusing on your energy, lighting, conciseness, personality, and practice, you’ll quickly become more comfortable on camera. Video is one of the most powerful tools you have as a fitness professional to connect with your audience, showcase your expertise, and grow your business.
So, start small, be consistent, and above all, have fun with it. You’ve got this!
