Why Instagram is Failing PTs (And Why You Need YouTube Now)

Is it actually harder to sign online coaching clients right now, or is it just you? In this week’s episode of the Push Pull Legs podcast, Dan and Tom dive deep into the shifting landscape of the fitness industry. We discuss the noticeable "quietness" in commercial gyms this January and February, and why Instagram isn't yielding the same results for personal trainers anymore. The "YouTube Thesis" explains why long-form video is the better tool for building authority, trust, and a community that actually buys. Plus, we explore the rise of Hyrox and community-based fitness as an antidote to "Instagram burnout" and a struggling political/economic climate. What we cover: The Content Shift: Why YouTube and Email are beating the Instagram algorithm in 2026. Gym Observations: Is retail spending and gym participation actually down? Building Authority: How to "fail fast" with video to become the go-to expert in your niche. Lifestyle & Filming: Tom’s street gets taken over by the crew of Slow Horses. 0:00 Pancake Day and Dietary Choices 3:29 Pancakes: Nostalgia vs. Adult Preferences 5:06 Fitness Training Routines and Gym Observations 11:04 VO2 Max Training and Personal Trainer Class Critique 14:50 The Importance of Live Classes and Engagement 19:01 Filming of "Slow Horses" on the Street 23:22 Recognising Actors from TV Shows 26:33 The Challenge of Client Acquisition in the Current Climate 32:24 The Impact of Political Landscape and Instagram Changes 35:36 The Rise of Community-Based Fitness and Events 38:22 YouTube's Growth and Building Authority 43:17 The Long-Term Game of Building Community 46:12 Gym Trends and Economic Outlook 47:54 Recommendations: Start a YouTube Channel If you want to work with me in ANY WAY... 121, Group, Free Stuff The links are below. Stay Connected: ✅

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Why Instagram is Failing PTs (And Why You Need YouTube Now) is an episode from Push Pull Legs Podcast by Tom Hall & Dan Meek.

This episode is 48:46 long.

This episode was published on Feb 19, 2026.

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