TL;DR
There are two types of video templates: short-form and long-form content
Think of short-form content as clips for gym fans that can be mixed and matched, like clips of planks or squats
Think of long-form content as class content for guided class fans, like yoga or meditation
When filming, remember to reference “my app,” not “the Playbook app” or “my Playbook”
Film an intro video and extra content — like an additional workout move or health tips — to share later
Step 1: Figure Out What to Film
Playbook’s two main video templates include:
Short-form content, which is 60 seconds or less, uses single exercise or circuit templates and is made for gym fans (i.e. clips of planks, pushups or squats)
Long-form content uses the class template and is made for guided class fans (i.e. yoga, HIIT or Pilates)
Step 2: Film Workouts
Short-form (“clips”) content
Best for shorter clips of exercises that can be mixed and matched
Short-form content filming best practices
Demonstrate moves from the best possible angle so users can see your full form
Perform three to four reps of each exercise (about 10 to 30 seconds)
Tighten in on the body as much as possible (at least 90% of the screen)
Do not explain the exercises or move the camera
Don’t worry about background noise
Film in portrait (vertical videos!)
Long-form (“class”) content
Best for continuous movement and exercise like yoga, spin or meditation
Requires your motivation and instruction throughout the entire workout
Long-form content best practices
Create an optimal environment with natural light and minimal noise
Use a tripod, microphone headset and ring light to improve the quality of recordings. Here are a few recommended products:
Film against solid backgrounds (we recommend using whtie and light colors)
Have a clear view of your workout space in the recording
Tighten in on the body as much as possible (at least 90% of the screen)
Film in landscape (horizontal videos!)
Note: We always compress short videos, 60 seconds and under, or less than 200 MB in size to 1080p by default (unless you choose a lower quality). However, the quality at which users view your higher resolution, long videos depends on their internet connection.
How to Teach an Effective Long-Form Class
When you’re filming long-form content, it's important to approach it like a guided class. Here are some ways to improve the experience for your audience:
Center Yourself in the Frame
Make sure you are centered both vertically and horizontally in the shot, and that your full body is visible throughout the workout.
Cue by Body Part
Clearly say the muscle group or area the user should be feeling (e.g., “engage your core,” “feel this in your glutes”) when giving instructions. This helps users connect with the movement and build better form.
Break Down Your Class in Segments
Intro your warm-up, main workout, and cool-down so users know what to expect. This also improves pacing and retention.
Make Eye Contact with the Camera
Look into the lens occasionally to keep the experience personal and engaging.
How to Edit an Effective Long-Form Class
Editing your content after filming can make it cleaner and more professional without losing your personality or natural delivery.
Add a Countdown Timer
Consider adding a 3–2–1 countdown before exercises or timed intervals. This gives users a heads-up and helps them stay in sync with you.
Use Royalty-Free Music
Add low-volume background music to enhance energy. Make sure it's royalty-free, and keep it at 10–15% volume so it doesn’t overpower your voice.
Level Out Audio in Post
If your voice sounds louder on one side (left or right), fix that in editing. Balanced stereo audio improves the overall user experience.
Trim for Flow
Cut out long pauses, “ums,” or technical errors to improve pacing. The goal is to keep your content smooth while still authentic.
General filming best practices
Filming tips
Remember to reference “my app” throughout, not “my Playbook” or “the Playbook app”
Project your voice
Be energetic, positive and enthusiastic!
Set your phone to airplane mode to avoid any interruptions while filming
Film multiple videos in one day
Check your phone’s storage space — you don’t want to run out of room in the middle of recording!
When you are done filming and are ready to upload, check your WiFi connection first — a strong signal should help your content upload faster!
Pro tip: Film an intro video as well as extra content — like an additional workout move or health tips — to share later.
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