Recording workouts become more and more popular and it is not just a fashion or shows off thing. Many photographers and businessmen used videos and photos to promote their businesses.
And for better photos and video quality, a good camera is very important.
If you are looking for the best camera for recording workouts, then you’re at the right place.
There is a wide variety of action and DSLR cameras available, but to choose one appropriate for recording workouts, you need to consider some important aspects.
To make things easier for you, we listed the 5 best cameras for recording workouts and exercises. We also share which are the important point you should consider while choosing a camera for filming exercises.
| # | Best Cameras for Recording Workouts | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GoPro Hero 7 | Action Camera | Check Price |
| 2 | DJI Osmo action 4k camera | Action Camera | Check Price |
| 3 | Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II | Point & Shoot Digital Camera | Check Price |
| 4 | Sony a5100 | Mirrorless Camera | Check Price |
| 5 | Sony A7R II | Mirrorless Camera | Check Price |
Table of Contents
Action OR DSLR
Before directly go to the list of best cameras for recording workouts, you need to understand which types of cameras you can choose and which one works better than the other and why?
Basically, two types of cameras perform well for recording gym videos and training sessions.
- Action Camera
- Digital SLR camera
1. Action Cameras for Recording Workouts
Action cameras are popular to record actions from the shooter’s point of view. These are very compact, rugged, and light in weight.
Popular characteristics of action cameras are the following.
- Compact
- Easy to Use
- Waterproofed
- Electronic image stabilization (EIS)
- High definition videos
- Slow-motions
- burst mode
- Multiple mounting options and etc.
You may hear about GoPro that manufacturers action cameras. Also other companies such as YI, DJI OSMO manufactures action cameras.
And GoPro Hero 7 and DJI OSMO 4k action cameras are excellent choices for recording workout videos.
2. DSLR or Mirrorless Cameras for Recording workouts
The second popular option for the best camera for recording workouts is a DSLR camera.
Almost we all familiar with DSLR cameras. These cameras are used in every type of photography, vlogging, filming, almost everything.
If we compare the size and weight of a DSLR with an action camera DSLR cameras are bigger in size and heavier in weight.
But when we see the quality of pictures and films from both cameras, definitely DSLR is on top. Moreover, using different lenses, we can enhance the quality as well.
We all know the quality of DSLR cameras, so I’m not wasting your time here.
My opinion:
After reading about both cameras, you may confuse which one to choose, so here is my opinion it may help you to make a decision.
Both cameras are excellent for recording workouts, but if your purpose is only to use a camera for making long videos of workouts (more than an hour) on a single battery. Then Action cameras are a better option because they record up to 1 hour long videos with 4k video quality at 30 to 60 frames per second in a single charge.
On the other hand, if you want to use the camera for videos and for photography as well and you want to do it at a professional level. Where you want more creativity and versatility, then go for a DSLR camera.
Top 5 Best Cameras for Recording / Filming Workouts
In my opinion, these are the best cameras. I tried to list them on their performance and price.
1. GoPro Hero 7
If you’re looking for a compact, sleek design camera for workouts, then consider GoPro Hero 7. It is easy to use and the best action camera that wins t3 awards in 2019.
The most important feature that makes these cameras suitable for workout recording is the capability of recording videos with 4k quality at 60 frames per second and 12 megapixels resolution sensor.
Whether you used the GoPro Hero7 to record films or live streaming purposes, it performs an excellent job. Furthermore, they offer great app functionalities.
GoPro Hero7 features image stabilization that detects your movements, avoid the camera footage to shake, and get clear and smooth footage.
It is up to 10m waterproof, rugged, and sweatproof as well. Plus they have multiple numbers of mounting options that provide freedom to mount the camera with different objects including your body, selfie sticks, etc.
One of my favorite features of the camera is recording 4k videos at up to 60fps and the ability to detect faces, smiles, and scenes.
The backside of the camera has a touchscreen that is very sensitive and makes it easy to access and get the advantage of useful features.
The camera has a time warp feature that stabilizes the time-lapse videos and makes longer videos recorded at fast speed shareable.
The battery life of Hero 7 is excellent as well, and it is removable and rechargeable as well.
Overall it is an excellent action camera for filming and recording long gym sessions that you can get for around $300.
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- Excellent 4k video quality
- Good image quality
- Useful UI improvements
- Image stabilization works incredibly well
- The camera body is waterproofed, don’t need for extra waterproof casing
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- Still relatively expensive
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2. DJI Osmo 4k Action Camera
The second best camera for recording workout and training sessions you can get for the same price as GoPro Hero7 is the DJI OSMO action 4k camera. Moreover, if you’re looking for a perfect alternative to GoPro Hero7 you should look at this camera.
Both GoPro Hero 7 and DJI OSMO cameras are excellent for recording workouts.
With 12 megapixel sensors and 4k HDR, you can record and shoot high-quality videos and photos. The body of the camera is rugged, waterproof, and sweatproof.
The DJI Osmo has dual screens on the rear and front of the camera which allows you to convert it into selfie mode. Using the quick switch button, you can move the view from the front to the backside screen and back to the front side.
The body of the camera is heavier and larger than GoPro Hero7. The backside touchscreen is 1 inch wider than Hero7.
The battery of the DJI OSMO is removable (like GoPro Hero 7) which offers you to take extra batteries and enjoy an unlimited amount of recording sessions.
Other useful features include 8x slow motions (1080p@240fps), 11m Waterproof, Voice Control, and more. Furthermore, the 145-degree angle offers to capture a wide area.
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- High-performance 4k video quality
- Image stabilization gives smooth footages and prevents shakiness
- Premium and waterproof design
- Excellent cam for vlogging
- Easy to use
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- Does not have GPS or HDMI port
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3. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
If you are looking for the best DSLR cameras for recording workouts and exercise you should give a try to Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II.
The camera features 20.1 megapixels APS-C sensor, an Excellent autofocus system, 3-inch widescreen that tilts, and the capability to capture Full HD videos at various frame rates. Plus a wide range of ISO ranges that ensures you capture high-quality footage in low light.
G7 X mark II already has an impressive response as the best camera for recording workouts. It is solidly built, easy to hold, and features an impressive autofocus system. The camera is also very balanced in terms of size and weight and compact style lets you pack the camera in your gym bag easily.
The camera features image stabilization that ensures get sharp and clear videos and photos even in movements.
You can record Full HD 1080p videos which are impressive at this price point.
It has a touch and rotatable screen. You can rotate the screen upwards up to 180 degrees and 45 degrees downwards. These angles help you to record videos and capture photos at different angles easily and effectively. Moreover, by tapping the touch screen you can focus the objects instantly.
Other useful features are Built-in wifi for file transferring, continuous shots up to 8 fps, excellent dynamic range, and more.
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is an excellent camera and filming workout videos with budget-friendly DSLR this one is our first recommendation. The design of the camera is Compact and sleek that makes them travel-friendly. Also, image quality and video quality are superb. If you’re okay with 1080p video quality (which is not an issue), consider this camera.
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- Perform brilliantly in low light
- Tilting touchscreen
- Manual control allows making changes as you like
- Features Raw shooting mode
- Optical image stabilization
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- Maximum 1080p Video Quality
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4. Sony a5100
If you’re looking for a camera that features fast autofocus and captures ultra-high-quality videos at an affordable price, then the Sony a5100 is for you.
The camera offers an Ultra-fast autofocus system with 179 AF points and 6fps.
Similar to G7 X, the design of the camera is compact and lightweight and has a 24.3MP APS-C sensor that works amazingly in any environment include low and good light.
The Sony a5100 has a 3-inch wide flip screen that works amazingly to capture videos and photos. Furthermore, the lenses are interchangeable and compatible with other lenses. The flippable screen allows capturing videos and photos from different angles.
The dial and control system of the Sony a5100 is simple and layout well. You can easily change ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and other menu settings.
The image quality and ultra focus system allow capturing outstanding photos in seconds.
With sony a5100 you can record 1080p videos at 60, 24, and other frames per second rates.
The Sony a5100 is a lightweight and compact DSLR camera. The compact size, flipped touch screen, and interchangeable lenses make it a versatile camera.
The image quality and video quality are excellent as well and worth getting in 2021 under $500 as a good camera to record workouts and exercise videos.
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- Compact Design
- High Image Quality
- Easy to use
- Dual Video Recording Mode
- Fast AutoFocus
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- Lacks in Electric View Finder (EVF)
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5. Sony A7R II
If you are interested in buying an absolutely amazing advanced camera with a compact design for workout recordings and gym sessions, then Sony a7 II is a treat for you.
The camera has a 42.4MP resolution and a Full frame sensor, which is impressive and offers to capture wide and high-quality photos and videos in any environment.
The design of the camera is compact and slim that makes it travel-friendly and the handgrip offer an excellent grip so you can hold the camera easily.
The Sony a7R II has a fast Fast Hybrid AF(autofocus) with 399 points that focus the object and its movements perfectly and gives you a sharp and clear image and videos.
Sony a7 II equipped silent shutter feature, which is great when you don’t want to make any sound.
The image quality is more than brilliant in any light and condition. A wide range of ISO numbers and 42.4MP sensitivity of sensor plus full-frame allows capturing outstanding shoots.
The feature I like the most in Sony a7 II is the 5-axis image stabilization. It eliminates almost all shakiness and you can capture excellent crystal clear photos. Along with impressive photoshoot 4k video recording capability and ultra hybrid focus system let you record top quality videos.
It also features Wi-Fi, NFC, and their is lot to explore.
Whether you’re just starting or you’re a professional trainer, Sony a7R is the best camera for recording workouts. Simply an outstanding camera and with this camera we closed our list of best cameras for recording gym videos and workouts.
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- Full frame sensor
- 42.4 million pixels
- in body image stabilization
- 4k video
- high performance camera
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- contnouos shooting needs to oimproved it is only 5fps
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Buying Guide: What makes a good Recording Workouts camera?
Whether you choose an action or DSLR camera when these points are in your mind. You can better decide which are the best cameras for recording workouts.
1. AutoFocus: The camera you’re going to purchase should have an excellent AF system. When you move around or exercising the camera can focus you automatically and instantly.
Because most of the time, no one’s holding the camera that focuses on you, and also it is difficult to focus every time manually.
That’s why to look for a camera that has an effective AF system. This enables the camera to focus on you every time, and you didn’t miss a single detail, especially when you make a workout tutorial.
2. Lens: The second important thing is the camera lens. Whether it is an action or DSLR camera, try to get a camera which lens covers the maximum area.
Most of us work out in smaller rooms or gyms and in smaller places, cameras with wide lenses can make a huge difference.
3. Sensor: Camera Sensors are as important as lenses. If you are interested in a DSLR camera, then it is better you choose a camera that has APS-C or Full frame sensor.
Also, check how many megapixels does the camera offer the more it’s better.
And for an action camera, the size of sensors is between 1/2.3 inch to 1 inch. The size of the 1-inch sensor captures more light and performs better than a 1/2.3 inch sensor. So its better you go with higher sensitivity.
4. Image Stabilization: Image stabilization is a feature in cameras that stabilize the image and videos. When you hold the camera and walk or run.
Because of movement and hands shakes the sensor cannot focus the objects, and as a result, you capture blurry or shaky video and images.
But a camera that has an image stabilization feature allows the sensor to focus on the object and you get clear and crystal photos and videos.
So for the workout, it is a good feature, but if you placed the camera at a tripod or one place, then it is not necessary to include this feature.
5. Battery Life: As a professional workout person, you’ll need to capture long videos for up to half an hour or more than an hour. And that’s why it is necessary the camera has excellent battery life.
Ideally, you choose a camera that offers rechargeable batteries so you can take 2 or 3 extra for long workout sessions.
Otherwise, choose the best camera for recording workouts that allows you to plug into power during workouts.
Conclusion
Filming workouts and gym sessions are not difficult when you have a good camera to shoot all action.
Since buying a camera is a long-term decision and also cameras are not cheap. So it’s better you do your proper research and decide carefully which one will be your best camera for recording workouts.
If you want to buy an action camera both GoPro Hero7 and DJI Osmo action are equally good and worth having. In DSLR and mirrorless if you have a good budget without any doubt go for Sony a7R II.
