By Nick Dougherty
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February 11, 2025
Why Most People Fail at Reels Creating Reels isn’t hard. Staying organized, consistent, and strategic is where most fail. This framework will help you build an effective Reels system that keeps your content sharp, engaging, and results-driven. 1. The Doc of Truth – Your Reels Blueprint Before making content, define your core message so every Reel aligns with your brand. Answer these questions: What is the purpose of your videos? What do you stand for? What do you stand against? Where are you taking people? What makes you unique? Who can back up what you say? What are people getting from you? Would anyone share your video? When they go to your IG page, can you turn a glance into a stare? Is there an easy way for new followers to get started? 2. Who Is Making the Reels? This is your TV show. Think about: Who is behind the production? It’s not about volume—it’s about context and clarity. Thumbnails should stand out and look unique. 3. Make 7-10 Reels at a Time Batch content creation to stay ahead. Then distribute across platforms. 4. One-Take vs. Multiple Takes One-take videos = Fast, raw, real. Multiple takes = More polished, but more time-consuming and expensive. 5. You Can’t Afford to Make Them Yourself It takes too long to shoot, edit, and post everything solo. Hire a content team or use a streamlined system. 6. Look Like a Pro High-quality visuals and sound matter. Keep branding consistent across Reels. 7. Every Video Should Follow a Framework Use proven formulas to make Reels engaging and effective. 7 Reasons Your Business Needs Reels More Reach: Instagram favors Reels, pushing them to new audiences. Higher Engagement: Short-form video captures attention faster. Better Brand Trust: Video builds deeper connections than images. Lead Generation: Reels turn viewers into followers, then customers. Algorithm Boost: IG rewards accounts that consistently post Reels. Shareable Content: Easy for followers to spread your message. SEO & Discoverability: Reels show up in search results, getting you found faster. 5 Other Ways to Use Reels & Where to Distribute Post to Facebook Reels – Expands reach to another massive audience. Upload as YouTube Shorts – Capitalize on YouTube’s push for short-form content. TikTok Reposts – Repurpose Reels onto TikTok for more engagement. Website Integration – Add Reels to your website to boost credibility. Email Marketing – Embed Reels in emails to keep subscribers engaged. 🔥 10 Instagram Reels Frameworks (Used by Top Creators) These frameworks are designed to grab attention, drive engagement, and increase reach . Hook → Teach → CTA (Call to Action) Start with an attention-grabbing question or statement. Teach a valuable tip in a concise way. End with a CTA (e.g., “Follow for more!” or “Comment below!”). Before & After Transformation Show a "before" state (struggling with a technique, fitness level, or skill). Transition to the "after" (mastering the technique, improvement, or success story). Challenge-Based Reels Introduce a martial arts challenge (e.g., “Try this kick combo!”). Show how to do it. Invite viewers to try and tag your studio. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS) Content Give a sneak peek into classes, instructor prep, or student training. Keep it raw and engaging (students sweating, sparring, celebrating wins). Reaction or Duet-Style Reels React to trending martial arts clips, fails, or highlights. Add your expert commentary or humor. Fast-Paced Montage with Music A mix of training shots, sparring, and students in action. Use high-energy music and quick transitions. “Mistakes to Avoid” Format Show a common mistake in martial arts. Explain why it's wrong. Demonstrate the correct way. “POV” (Point of View) Style Example: “POV: You just signed up for your first martial arts class.” Show the experience from a new student’s eyes. Storytelling (Personal Journey or Student Testimonial) Share a powerful transformation story (yours or a student’s). Use captions or voiceover to tell the story. “Listicle” (X Tips in X Seconds) Example: “3 Mistakes That Are Holding Back Your Kicks” Quick, informative, and engaging. 🥋 10 Instagram Reels Topics for Martial Arts Studio Owners These topics are designed to attract new students, engage the community, and build authority . “Why Every Kid Should Learn Martial Arts” Benefits like discipline, confidence, and self-defense. “3 Self-Defense Moves Everyone Should Know” Demonstrate easy-to-learn techniques. “How to Throw a Perfect Kick (Common Mistakes)” Teach proper form in an engaging way. “What to Expect in Your First Martial Arts Class” Ease the nerves of potential students. “My Biggest Martial Arts Fail (And What I Learned)” Share a personal or funny moment to build relatability. “Best Warm-Up for Fighters & Martial Artists” A quick and effective warm-up routine. “Student of the Month Highlight” Celebrate a student’s progress and dedication. “The #1 Myth About Martial Arts (Debunked)” Address common misconceptions like “Martial arts is just for fighters.” “How Martial Arts Can Help You in Real Life” Talk about confidence, focus, and discipline. “Funniest Things We Hear as Martial Arts Instructors” Share hilarious questions or comments from students. Final Thought Reels are non-negotiable for business growth. Stay consistent, follow the framework, and use Reels strategically to attract, engage, and convert your audience across multiple platforms. Get filming and start winning! 🎥🔥