If you’ve ever watched a fitness reel and thought “why does their content look so professional?” – chances are, the answer is B-roll.
B-roll is the secret weapon that transforms amateur-looking content into something that actually stops people scrolling. And the best part? It’s not hard to film once you know what you’re doing.
What Is B-Roll?
B-roll is supplementary footage that plays over your main content. When you’re speaking to camera (A-roll) and suddenly there’s a shot of you setting up equipment or walking into the gym – that’s B-roll.
It serves multiple purposes: it makes your content more visually interesting, it covers cuts and transitions, and it adds context and atmosphere to your message.
The 5 Essential B-Roll Clips Every Fitness Coach Needs
If you filmed these five clips, you’d have enough B-roll to elevate weeks of content:
1. Walking into the gym
This establishes where you are and creates authority. Film from behind as you enter, or get someone to film you from the front. Keep it simple.
2. Setting up equipment
Loading a barbell, adjusting a bench, chalking your hands. These shots show competence and preparation.
3. Exercise demonstration
Not a full workout – just clean, well-lit clips of key movements. Film from multiple angles if possible.
4. Writing or planning
Writing in a notebook, scrolling through a phone, looking at a program. This adds depth and shows thoughtfulness.
5. Lifestyle moment
Coffee in hand, stretching, a moment of rest. This makes you relatable and human.
How to Film B-Roll in a Busy Gym
The biggest barrier to filming B-roll isn’t technique – it’s confidence. Here’s how to get over it:
Ask if unsure. Most gym owners are happy to help, especially if you’re a regular and you’re not filming other members.
Pick quiet times. I film on Sunday evenings when the gym is empty. Early mornings work too.
Set up fast. Phone on tripod, press record, do the thing. The longer you faff, the more self-conscious you’ll feel.
Own it. The more confident you look, the less people care. Most people are too focused on their own workout to notice.
Get the Full Cheat Sheet
I’ve created a free B-roll filming cheat sheet that includes: specific shot ideas for coaches, equipment recommendations (including my £20 Amazon tripod that changed everything), and a shot list you can use for your next filming session. TO GET THE B ROLL CHEAT SHEET FOR FREE – Simply email the word ‘BROLL’ to hello@pictureperfectphoto.co.uk and we’ll get it straight over.
About the Author
I help wellness brands, both product and service-based to stop DIY-ing their content and start building strategic content systems that convert. From batch shoots to content coaching, I work with wellness entrepreneurs who are ready to show up with authority, without spending 15 hours a month on content.
Whether you’re selling supplements, skincare, coaching packages, or holistic services, I help you create content that reflects your premium brand and actually drives sales.
