How These 5 San Francisco Businesses Are Using Instagram to Grow Their Brands

When it comes to Instagram marketing, it can be tough to get the attention of your target audience, especially with so many other fitness businesses taking to the 'gram (a recent study showed 80% of fitness businesses use Instagram*) to promote their services.

Although it can be challenging to make an impact with Instagram marketing, it can be done—just take a cue from the San Francisco-based fitness brands, below. Each uses its Instagram business profile, including Instagram posts, Stories, and Highlights to attract, convert, and build community with their customers.

In need of some Insta-piration? These five fitness accounts are worth scrolling:

Love Story Yoga offers heated Bhakti yoga classes to San Fran’s Mission neighborhood—and uses its Instagram to really (head)stand out. Posting a mix of client photos, branded inspirational quotes, instructor interviews, and retail, Love Story Yoga’s Instagram does a beautiful job of showcasing both engaging and promotional content.

Specific content we love from Love Story Yoga:

• Daily Instagram Story featuring the studio’s class schedule

• Instagram Stories Highlight including a studio tour, which gives prospective students the chance to see the space ahead of time

• Stories Highlight of instructors sharing why they love yoga

3rd Street Boxing prides itself on being San Francisco's "last real boxing gym" with a brand and Instagram business profile that pack a serious punch. The social media account doesn't disappoint, featuring rich photography, fun client Q&As, honest testimonials, and demos to give new clients a sneak peek inside a class. Looking to inspire your inner Ali? Give @thirdstreetboxing a follow.

Ideas we love from 3rd Street Boxing's Instagram account:

• Instagram Stories Highlight featuring training tips from the 3rd Street Boxing team

Branded hashtag (#3rdstreettribe) on Instagram posts highlighting members and their individual boxing journeys

CORE40 is known for a truly transformational approach to fitness in SF and a rad Instagram business profile. It's filled with awe-inspiring photography, with shots of the Megaformer (the business's signature piece of equipment) as well as instructors and clients in class and around the studio. Plus, clients aren't shy about posting their favorite workouts. You can check out both CORE40's Instagram Stories and Highlights to see fun, user-generated content.

Ideas we love from CORE40's Instagram account:

• Instagram Stories Highlight with the brand's values: gratitude, impact, connection, strength, love, courage, innovation, and transformation

• User-generated content across various posts, Instagram Stories, and Instagram Highlights

Yoga Flow SF focuses on heated Vinyasa Flow classes that are both challenging and fast-paced in both of its airy locations in San Francisco. The business's Instagram account is just as welcoming and inspiring, with a bright aesthetic and Instagram posts that break down proper form, highlight studio offerings (kids’ yoga and childcare included), and share uplifting mantras. Yoga Flow SF is a must-follow social media account for a daily dose of #inspiration for both yogis and business owners, alike.

Ideas we love from Yoga Flow SF's Instagram account:

• IGTV videos breaking down proper form for poses like crows pose and double pidgeon

• Instagram Stories Highlight with teacher training specifics and testimonials

We’ll just come out and say it: MNT STUDIO’s Instagram account is dreamy. Featuring beautiful photography, product favorites, and brand swag, there’s a lot to swoon over. This Instagram account oozes with the brand’s personality and flair, providing a warm welcome for clients-to-be.  

Ideas we love from MNT STUDIO's Instagram account:

• Short video posts of class and personal sessions showing Instagram users what it’s like at MNT

• Instagram Stories Highlight promoting MNT’s retreat and teacher training, including curriculum specifics, upcoming dates, and additional Q&A

*December 2018, MINDBODY Technology Use Survey