Abstract

YouTube has a plethora of exercise videos conveniently available for the general public. Videos in YouTube’s workout #withme playlist (n=75), a curated playlist made available during the COVID-19 pandemic, were analyzed using qualitative methods. Analysis focused on workout safety and efficacy based on fitness industry guidelines for exercise class structure. It was found that the videos in this curated playlist were below a marginal quality, particularly lacking in the cool down portion of a workout, which is needed to lower heart rate after the conditioning segment of the workout. Videos scored highest in the evaluation area of appropriate movement for type of exercise. Longer videos (20 minutes or greater) were of higher quality than shorter videos (less than 20 minutes), performing better in all areas of evaluation. Additionally, most YouTubers leading these workouts did not have appropriate credentials, such as certifications and degrees in exercise science or related fields. Viewers of YouTube exercise content must be wary of the content they consume on this platform.