As the holidays approach and the year is coming to an end, keeping consistent with our workout routines gets harder. Thankfully, many great YouTube fitness creators have brought a plethora of challenging and fun videos to help keep their audiences active even at home. Without further ado, here are some of my personal favorites workouts released on this month.
Izzy has released many great videos this month but this video requiring only a resistance band is my absolute favorite. By using different band placements to target pretty much every muscle group, this routine is a burner for the entire body. With fully guided instructions and creative variations, you won't be bored for even a second.
Level: Intermediate to advanced.
Equipment required: Exercise mat and resistance band.
Marie Steffen is currently one of my favorite creators on the platform, her frequent uploads of challenging low impact routines are a staple in my current routine. In this occasion, Marie has crafted the Longevity Plan for Women, combining mobility exercises with strength training and Pilates with the goal of maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and improving daily mobility. Progressively increasing the difficulty with harder exercises and weights, this workout plan is a great challenge with many benefits.
Level: Intermediate to advanced.
Equipment required: Light and medium weights, exercise mat.
As a part of her new Pumped program, Sydney has created cardio workouts with a core component for her weekly cardio sessions. In this particular workout alternating fast paced cardio exercises with traditional core moves, isometric holds are used as a finished to every set to maximize muscle fatigue. Light to medium dumbbells are also used to add additional resistance to the core exercises, making this workout a functional approach to core training.
Level: All levels.
Equipment required: Light and medium weights, exercise mat.
Fun and short workouts are the best way to get out of a fitness rut. This easy dance choreography uses some of the greatest songs from the Mamma Mia musical as background music. And if you struggle with following choreography, every step is previewed on screen.
Level: Beginner friendly.
No equipment.
Light jumping, can be easily modified.
Hip-Hop Abs Dance Workout by Kaleila Jordan from PS Fit
As mentioned in my previous article about standing ab workouts, dancing is an excellent way to connect with your core muscles. In this routine, hip hop steps are combined with standing ab exercises to target the core while moving the hips. Obliques and lower abs will certainly stay active through this fun routine.
When I started my home workout journey, I was overwhelmed by all the options available. Choosing a workout sometimes took longer than the workout itself, how could I even know if I could complete this video? Battling with mental health issues, I wanted something that could help me feel both physically and mentally better. While I started to enjoy movement by itself, I struggled with consistency. All videos felt the same, just copying the movements as best as I could and trying harder every time. Lacking feedback is a downside of home workouts, and even a little unilateral encouragement or written advice can go far. Even so, many guided workouts on YouTube can feel too overtly positive, to the point of coming off as inauthentic. When I discovered EMKFit, her honesty and strive not for perfection, but for movement were refreshing in an ocean of overpolished videos.
Thumbnail from one of EMKFit's Dua Lipa themed videos
Emily Thorne, a theater school graduate and certified fitness trainer from Canada, has been teaching fitness classes both in studio and online for more than five years. Her YouTube journey began during the Covid pandemic, using the platform and Twitch to broadcast at home no equipment classes for everyone under lockdown. With over 600k subscribers and a loyal following (myself included), her channel is updated every Monday with a new video.
First HIIT dance video posted on the channel
During her time as a teacher in a dance studio, Emily created her own HIIT (high intensity interval training) style workouts, as seen in the video above. In the HIIT format, only two moves are choreographed and alternated in short intervals for the entire duration of each song. Unlike traditional dance steps, the HIIT moves are often similar to regular exercises, though with a dancey flair. What makes the HIIT format so successful is that you only need to memorize the specific moves taught beforehand, which is great if you struggle with coordination and following regular choreography. By having short, intense bursts of energy with built in rest, these dance workouts also feel far more doable than following a choreography non stop for an entire class.
Music for all ages and tastes are featured in the videos
Emily's raw and unfiltered teaching style is a rarity from fitness YouTubers. Her honesty and sense of humor is very relatable to every newbie to fitness, making working out alone in a room feel far more lively than with a regular peppy instructor. Her emphasis on having fun and prioritizing mental and physical health over body aesthetics is very refreshing, with "Wrong is Strong" being her signature phrase. Low impact modifications are also present in almost all her videos, making the workouts safe and approachable for beginners. Having simple, straightforward moves without the need to learn many steps or keeping up with the rhythm also makes her videos more accessible to those new to dancing or even fitness.
Dance along themed workouts from movie soundtracks and musicals
Emily's videos often feature music from popular artists, movie soundtracks and musicals. Using current songs and all time classics, there is an option for everyone in her catalogue. Themed videos with curated playlist are also available, ranging from fun party themed HIITs to throwback playlists, great if you struggle with decision fatigue with music. Dirty HIITs are also a big favorite, featuring songs with explicit lyrics and sexier moves than usual. If you want a party in your living room while working out, HIITs are the way to go.
The Pilates inspired videos are great if you want the Pilates experience while standing
Since last year, Emily has been releasing Pilates inspired videos. These all standing workouts include moves from contemporary Pilates and barre, such as lunges, squats and plies, with an emphasis on engaging the core for stability. With a follow along format, these workouts may not be the same as a regular mat Pilates class, but the fun music and standing core work makes it worth your time.
Get a great burn with minimal equipment while having fun with the light weights videos
Besides HIIT dance and Pilates, workouts with light weights and kickboxing workouts are available on the channel. Traditional strength training videos can also be found on the strength playlist, with a more functional approach to lifting. No matter the workout style, Emily's great sense of humor and effective instructions are always present to get you through the workout.
The video that got me into EMKFit
My fitness routine has constantly changed for the last three years, yet I've always stuck with EMKFit for my weekly fun dance session. I've thoroughly enjoy pretty much every single video of her catalogue, and on Mondays I try to tune in to her weekly update. Even if you're not a beginner anymore, her workouts can be just as intense as regular dance workouts if you keep up with Emily's pace.
Why I recommend EMKFit for beginners:
No need to learn full choreography, moves are easy to learn.
All standing workout routines with low impact modifications.
Built in rest between exercises and songs.
Huge video catalogue with something for everyone.
No emphasis on weight loss and body appearance, just fun and movement.
No equipment required for most workouts.
Medium length workouts (15 minutes to 25 minutes), can be combined for a longer workout. Single song workouts are also available.
Warm up is provided in almost every workout. Additional cool down videos are available.
Relatable instructor with fun teaching methodology.
Creative moves in the dance and Pilates workouts.
If you want to try for yourself, here is a link to her YouTube channel. A playlist to her entire HIIT dance catalogue can be found here, Pilates workouts here and strength workouts are listed here. And for weekly workout livestreams and exclusive videos, her paid Patreon membership is also available for those wanting more.
October was a hard month for me to keep consistent, I was busy and struggling with fatigue. Instead of following a fitness program, I decided to keep my routine mostly low impact to focus on having fun and moving my body. Even though I didn't have the energy to workout, finding easy workouts to improve my mood kept me active. Without further ado, here are some of my picks and new finds from this month.
Step Uhm began posting dance workouts on the platform just six months ago, but you wouldn't guess that from her engaging titles and song choices. With simple yet functional editing and follow along format, her choreography makes Kpop dancing easy for newbies while staying fun. Unlike most Kpop focused channels, this channel has longer videos and dance medleys from popular groups, definitely a must for fans of the genre.
Afrifitness is back on YouTube after a long hiatus, bringing new workouts with her signature teaching style. Her recent afrobeats infused walking workouts are a great middle ground between walking workouts and dance, mixing marching in place with African dance inspired moves. Getting your steps in can be monotonous, so these workouts are a fun way to keep active while having fun.
This fully guided sports themed workout is proof that everyone can be an athlete. With fun cardio movements inspired by all types of sport, proving that functional fitness can be entertaining too. If you've never played any sports: don't worry, exercises are accesible and easily modifiable for every need. Sydney's motivational talks are also present on this video, helping to encourage you through the entire routine.
Focusing on body recomposition, this six week program has a comprehensive approach to fitness, with strength workouts paired with Pilates inspired sessions and low impact cardio. If you want to try strength training with some variety, Hourglass is a perfect way to start your journey. I especially love Olivia's standing workouts for their accessibility if you struggle with spinal issues. The Hourglass program is still ongoing and can be found here.
Low impact cardio and strength training routines.
Clear editing with next exercise previewed on screen.
Sophie from Gains by Brains has been releasing her first free program on her YouTube channel. Consisting of one functional day, one lower body session, two ab sessions and one cardio session per week, this program is focused on helping reaching aesthetic and muscle building goals by body recomposition. Many sessions require no equipment, so it's a great way to stay consistent without needing weights. The ARC I program is still ongoing and can be found here.
Comprehensive approach to fitness with increasing difficulty.
Clear editing with next exercise previewed on screen.
Many no equipment workouts available, ideal for traveling.
Focus on strengthening the core with deep core exercises.
Upper Body and Core Workout with Weights by Marie Steffen
Marie's low impact workouts have quickly become one of my favorites. Only requiring a pair of light dumbbells and a mat, this workout can feel just as effective as a regular lifting day. Seamlessly integrating strength training with Pilates and yoga inspired moves, the core is working overtime in this seemingly simple routine.
Low impact, high intensity moves to test coordination and stability.
Clear editing with written cues and next exercise previewed on screen.
Minimal equipment.
Creative compound moves to engage the target areas.
If you want to challenge your core and stability in a non traditional way, this workout uses a yoga block and a Pilates ball to test your balance and force your core to activate. By creating an unstable foundation, dormant deep core muscles are activated to compensate, something that regular abs exercises won't achieve. The emphasis on mind body connection is important too, using these simple props to awaken the connection to your muscles.
Low impact workout.
Fully guided with vocal cues.
Minimal props easily replaced at home (block can be replaced by a thick book and the ball can be a small pillow or plushie)
Easily engage deep core without crunches.
Creative use of props.
Morning Mobility: Start your day right by Julia Reppel
These days I love to train mobility at the end of my workouts and Julia's sessions are some of favorites. This recent 20 minute routine is excellent to start the day and release all the stiffness from sleeping. Follow along soft yet precise movements to awaken the muscles and open up the hips and back, feel dynamic and renewed by the end of the video.
The premenstrual and menstrual cycle can hinder physical performance. Due to hormonal fluctuations during the luteal phase (12-14 days after ovulation), resting heart rate, heat tolerance and the sleep cycle may be disrupted. The metabolic rate is also increased during this phase, also increasing the need for energy intake and expenditure.
Besides the discomfort caused by these hormonal processes, other physical symptoms like cramps, abdominal pain, breast tenderness and bloating are also frequent during menstruation. With varying degrees of intensity from case to case, period is often a deterrent for exercise for a majority of girls and women. Common conditions like fibroids, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can also disrupt physical performance, severe abdominal and pelvic pain being the main cause. With that being said, it's not surprising that many women outright avoid exercising during their period, trying to rest as much as possible to mitigate their symptoms.
Despite of their cycle, some women choose to keep up with their fitness routine, dialing back the intensity and mostly using movement as a way to wind down and relax. The decision to work out relies in many factors, mostly due to having lighter periods and milder symptoms. While some studies suggest that low impact exercise while menstruating might reduce pain and help with mental help, there's not conclusive evidence to affirm these claims. Everyone experiences their period differently, thus doing what feels right for you is what matters. Consulting your doctor about your cycle and following their advice is important too, especially if you are diagnosed or suspect having the conditions mentioned above.
I personally have regular periods with moderate flow, aside from mild water retention and bloating, my cramps are pretty much minimal. On the earlier stages of my fitness journey, I suspended my workouts during the heavier days. Now that exercise daily, I pretty much workout every day of my period. Personally, moving my body helps to improve my mood, which is the mental health boost during those days. I've also noticed that low impact exercise may have decreased my cramps, though this might be correlated to other factors like diet and aging.
As for what workouts I choose during my period: low impact walking workouts, easy dance workouts and slow mat routines are usually my choice. I tend to avoid strength training and high impact exercises, also prefer to skip workouts that target the lower abs. The following video by Flow with Mira is specifically designed to be done during menstruation, with gentle exercises that can be modified accordingly. Mira emphasizes that by moving your body and improving blood flow to the muscles, energy expenditure will increase mitigating sluggishness and releasing endorphins. And if you liked this workout, Pilates Body Raven has a short Pilates on Your Period workout on her channel.
This workout is gentle enough to stretch your hips and release tension
Yoga and Pilates are good options for movement during your period. Gentle exercises and poses can be performed or adapted to suit your needs, some specific yoga poses been proven to relief menstrual cramps. Improved blood circulation and lowered stress through controlled breathing are some of the reason why these practices can soothe mild period symptoms. This Hatha Yoga routine by Yoga with Kassandra includes hip focused poses to release tension and pain.
Yoga and meditation are great ways to relax and lower stress
If you struggle to focus and suffer from mood swings, perhaps low impact cardio might be more suited to your needs. I personally enjoy doing fun, no jumping walks or easy dancing indoors. This 90s inspired walking workout by Up to the Beat Fit is the right mix of fun and challenging, being easy to adapt to a slower pace while keeping up with the choreography. Besides helping to increase circulation, fun workouts will release much needed endorphins to improve your mood.
Fun movement is a good choice to improve your mood
Easy to follow dances that don't require a lot of coordination are my favorite way to keep active when I'm feeling down. Focusing on the music and the steps aids to lower stress, decreasing sympathetic activity leasing to lower pain. Dance workouts by Moves with Molly are some of my favorites due to being low impact while still feeling like actual dancing.
Even if you don't perform at your best, having fun and moving your body is what matters
Recommendations aside, here are some of my general tips for working out during your period.
Stay hydrated. Though you might feel bloated, keeping good hydration levels during your period has been hypothesized to reduce the duration of the period and alleviate cramps (full study here)
Try to consume food rich in iron, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. Replenish iron is also important to compensate for menstruation blood loss.
Reduce salt to minimize water retention. High caffeine consumption has been linked to period abnormalities and heavier PMS symptoms (study here), so try to cut back on caffeinated drinks and supplements as much as possible.
Avoid high impact exercises and strength training. Both can take a toll and your body and increase stress and vasoconstriction, which can lead to more pain and cramps.
Be mindful of your breathing to keep as relaxed as possible.
Do not overexercise. Try to either maintain or reduce your usual workout time.
Listen to music or podcast you enjoy while working out to improve your mood.
Be gentle with your joints. The drop of estrogen during your period can cause inflammation of the joints, so be mindful of your knees and shoulders.
Be easy on your abs and avoid crunches and situps. These exercises can cause a lot of strain to your pelvic floor which can increase pain.
If you're feeling too fatigued, just stop and rest. Pausing and taking rests between short workouts or walks can also help if you are feeling too sluggish.
Always follow medical advice. Consult your doctor in case of any period abnormalities or severe pain.
Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year. I love costumes, horror movies and overall fun vibe of the season. Daily workouts are no exception, so I really look forward for all the themed workouts released during this month. Implementing spooky music, costumes and even monster inspired moves; these videos are a great way to keep consistent during October while having lots of fun. Without further ado, here are some of my favorite Halloween workouts on the platform.
Hot Girl Halloween: The Ultimate Halloween Dance Workout by And8Fitness
This fun workout to the beat of Halloween classics like Thriller and Monster Mash is a treat for all dance lovers. The intense choreography inspired by the iconic music videos will make you sweat while having fun. Other unconventional but spot on music choices like Everybody by the Backstreet Boys are also a nice addition. to the video.
This thrilling dance workout is a wonderful option for beginners and the entire family. Featuring classic Halloween hits like Ghostbusters and contemporary hits like Disturbia by Rihanna, this playlist is a nice mix for all age groups. The simple choreography is also easy to follow, making this video a good pick even if you're not much of a dancer.
With theatrical moves inspired by the music, this workout will definitely get you in a spooky mood while getting your steps in. Workout to modern hits by Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eillish, a refreshing change from most Halloween playlists. But do not fret, a Thriller remix by Steve Aoki is also included at the end. The steps might not be too easy to follow, but it is a fun challenge for Halloween.
If you prefer to punch zombies instead of dancing with them, this workout is for you. With easy to follow boxing to the beat of classic 2000s bands, punching and kicking has never been cooler. And the best part? Every move is low impact but do not underestimate the intensity.
All levels.
No equipment required.
Low impact, high intensity moves.
Onscreen preview of next move.
No warm up and cool down included.
Military Halloween Workout-Intense Cardio by Tara's Body
This intense workout will make you feel like you can fight any monster or ghost around. Including intense bodyweight movements like bear crawls, jumping jacks and more; prepare to challenge your endurance with every move. Some kickboxing moves are present in the workout too, so feel free to channel your favorite warrior.
Just simple makeup, fitting music and on theme exercise names are enough to make this routine a great choice for spooky cardio lovers. Classic bodyweight exercises like squats and planks are very present, with added variety to spice things up. An excellent choice for a quick burner before trick or treating.
Intermediate to advanced.
Exercise mat required.
High impact, has modifications for harder exercises.
Pilates might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Halloween, but EMKFit somehow makes it work. This all standing routine mixes Pilates with bodyweight moves, with a follow along choreography to spooky songs. You might feel as wobbly as a zombie with all the balancing work, but it's a fun way to exercise during this season.
Beginner friendly.
No equipment required, optional ankle and wrists weights.
This beginner friendly long workout is a great way stay consistent during the holiday while getting your steps in. Paul uses light weights for a section of the workout to add resistance to the upper body, the energetic music and encouraging instructions will keep you engaged during the workout.
A zombie themed aerobic step workout is one of the funniest I've ever encountered. Shot with ghostly makeup at night with zombies in the background, this is by far the best themed video on this list. The actual workout is also great, with powerful moves mimicking zombies and mummies walking.
If you love roleplaying and monster movies, this workout is your best choice for Halloween day. With bodyweight moves inspired by classic monsters and more, this full body routine targets the entire body with effective moves with a spooky flair. Every move is low impact and doable for beginners, so don't be scared to try it.
This workout isn't too Halloween themed but you definitely should be afraid. With little rest and fast paced workout intervals, your heart rate will spike more than with any horror movie. Adding dumbbells adds an extra challenge, testing your endurance to the max with burpee variants and renegade rows.
The last month and the beginning days of October have been pretty rough for me, my sleep schedule has been terrible and my diet has been pretty irregular. As for my workout routine, I successfully trained a 5K and tried to keep up with Sydney Cummings' BOLD program but I felt very tired. I decided to just focus on mobility, an aspect of fitness I've always neglected, in hopes of deloading my body to feel better.
To be completely honest: I hate stretching. I'm extremely stiff and I tend to skip the stretches after my workouts, my mobility overall is okay but could be so much better. Determined to overcome my fear of stretching, I searched Julia Reppel's channel for beginner challenges and found a short challenge made in collaboration with Marie Steffen. Julia, a sport scientist and Marie, a personal trainer and former bodybuilder, are both from Germany and post follow along workout on their respective channels. Julia's channel is mostly focused on mobility and Marie's channel hosts Pilates, mobility and strength training workouts; both channels are pretty active and getting constant new videos. I found out about Julia's channel while searching cool down for runners, her concise videos and great credentials caught my eye and made me try more.
As for Marie, I tried a few of her Pilates videos before but they were too advanced for my level and had no vocal cues. Though I did enjoy her polished editing and graceful movements, her workouts are definitely too overcomplicated for those unfamiliar with Pilates. Now that I was more familiar with Pilates and in urgent need of deloading, I decided to give their collaboration a try.
The challenge can be found in both channels, I followed the playlist from Marie's channel. These videos were not created as a program, but I decided to follow them as such.
Challenge details:
Eight videos total, I did one every day.
I'd definitely label these videos as intermediate.
Videos range from 15 to 25 minutes in length.
No equipment required besides a non slip fitness mat.
Warm up and cool down are provided in every video.
No vocal cues are provided, some written cues are shown on screen.
Easier and harder modifications are provided for many exercises. All exercises are low impact.
Day 1: Full Body Mobility
Day 1 is a great start to the challenge. With circuits targeting the spine, hips and shoulders respectively, this workout is excellent to train your mobility with simple exercises. The transitions are easy to follow, easier modifications are shown by Julia if you're not too confident on your form. This session felt so doable and made my entire body feel less tight, so I decided to keep up with the challenge. This video is also fairly beginner friendly, so don't hesitate to try it even if you're a beginner to mobility.
Day 2: Pilates x Mobility
Day 2 introduces Pilates to the format and it's harder than it looks. By mixing classical and contemporary Pilates movements with mobility exercises, this workout will challenge your stability and core strength. Starting with a standing sequence and ending with the classical Pilates teaser, the flow is fairly challenging, especially during the bridges. Even though I'm familiarized with Pilates movements, I struggled to get the teaser at the end. Still, Julia provides easier modifications and is visibly struggling with some of the moves, so I felt reassured that this was actually a pretty tough flow.
Day 3: Full Body Mobility Animal x Primal
I was pretty intimidated by the intermediate/advanced on the title of this workout, but it ended up being my absolute favorite from the entire challenge. Consisting of animal flow inspired movements building upon each other and ending with a full sequence putting every move together, this workout flows perfectly. Each movement keeps your mind and body engaged and the final sequence is a challenging test. The unique moves are great to engage your full body, with my favorite being the ape inspired low squat. As in the previous video, Julia shows easier alternative to some of the harder moves.
Day 4: Daily Morning Mobility Routine
This 15 minute session helped me start my day in the best way. My body was stiff due to sitting on the computer for long, with exercises to decompress the hips and shoulders. These moves might seem simple, but they can certainly make a difference if you're mostly sedentary. As in other videos, Julia shows easier modifications for a few movements.
Day 5: Deep & Dynamic Stretch + Mobility
Day 5 was far harder than I expected from the title. I struggle with tight hamstrings, so the multiple cossack squats and lunge variations were a challenge for my hips. My depth and stability was not nearly as good as theirs, but I managed to keep up with the pigeon pose near the end. If you also struggle with tight hips and hamstrings, this video will surely be a challenge. Julia provides easier modifications again, although even the modifications might be hard enough to some of us.
Day 6: Pilates x Core
I wouldn't recommend this workout if you're not familiar with Pilates, Yoga or other mat based bodyweight practices. Yes, the workout challenges your core but your wrists and shoulders will be challenged with many bird dog and side plank variations. I didn't quite enjoy this workout as much as the others on the playlist, the repetitive moves didn't flow as well. This one has no modifications and seeing Julia struggle with some of the moves was refreshing.
Day 7: Full Mobility x Core
Unlike the previous day, Day 7 is more mobility based but still focuses on core exercises. This session has a lot of variety, with creative functional movements to engage the deep core. I'm not good at traditional core exercises, but these mobility moves do help to enhance my mind body connection. One of the final moves was a plow (basically rolling like a ball) with a hip extension and I felt so accomplished when I got it correctly. This video has no modifications and is for intermediates, so search for easier options if you're a beginner.
Day 8: Mobility Flow
The final workout of the challenge is a mobility routine consisting of five short flows. With complementary exercises building upon each other to create each sequence, every more will challenge your stability and coordination. Flow number 5, consisting of straddle variations, was the hardest for me yet I completed it without much trouble. Something I loved about this video is that the transitions between one exercise and the other were so seamless, making the entire workout feel dynamic and energizing. No modifications are provided on this video.
Bonus Day: Pilates x Mobility, Lower Body x Core
After finishing the playlist on Marie's channel, I noticed that Julia had her own playlist with one more video. This Pilates based workout is beginner friendly, combining mobility moves with the Pilates methodology of controlled exercises. This flow was great and overall far more dynamic than the Day 6 Pilates x Core workout, so I recommend substituting for this one if you're more of a beginner. As in other videos, Julia show easier modifications of the harder movements.
Challenge Pros:
Both trainers have excellent form.
Modifications are provided for harder exercises.
Creative moves and flows.
All low impact.
Warm up and cool down are included in every video.
Comprehensive approach to fitness including Pilates, mobility and functional training.
Movements are previewed on screen.
Excellent video quality and editing.
Great background music choices.
Challenge Cons:
No vocal cues. Written cues and previews are provided but transition times are very fast.
Most videos are not beginner friendly even if labeled as such.
Some exercises can be hard to follow.
Can be heavy on the wrists and shoulders at times.
Final thoughts:
Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by this short challenge. For the first time, mobility seemed like something doable and even enjoyable instead of a painful chore. As mentioned in the beginning, I did this challenge during a terribly busy week, it helped me unwind and made me look forward for each session. I felt challenged and learned quite a few moves I've never seen before; a welcome change from my usual routine. I combined these workouts with cardio and strength training, doing these before helped to prepare my body for exercise.
Nine days is not nearly enough to see noticeable changes, but I tried to focus more on my range of motion and stability. I also managed to engage my core more, to the point of noticing some soreness during the rest of the day. I'm trying to stretch my hamstrings more, seeing some slight improvement especially when doing Pilates.
After completing the challenge, I subscribed to both channels and been doing some of their individual workouts. Julia's workouts are short but excellent ways to train mobility; Marie's Pilates workouts are definitely tough but worth the challenge if you're experienced. Regardless of their different approach to fitness, both trainers provide excellent quality content with great form and variety.
September is a great month to get back in track with your fitness routine or start new habits. As many people return from summer break, many instructors have taken the opportunity to release new content for everyone returning to their regular routines. Here are some of my personal favorites uploaded this month, with awaited returns and exciting new routines being the main highlight.
Caroline Girvan is back with a demo of her app program
Caroline Girvan, one of the most respected strength training instructors on the platform is back on YouTube to celebrate reaching four million subscribers. Even in this celebratory video, her routines are as a tough as ever with this heavy leg day sequence. With longer rest times than previous routines, this workout in particular is centered on pushing the lower body to the max with progressive overload and increased range of motion. With her signature polished aesthetic and on screen tips, this video is definitely her highest quality upload to date.
The full Iron Pro program is exclusively available on her CGX app; if you prefer a free option the original Iron Series is an excellent choice.
Equipment needed: At least two sets of heavier weights or a barbell. Optional bench for unilateral Romanian deadlifts and wedge/yoga block for elevating the heels.
Workout duration: 40 minutes, no warm up included. Sets of 45 seconds followed by one minute rest.
The BOLD program is a great choice for those looking to get back on track
Sydney Cummings, one of my personal favorite trainers on YouTube, is back from maternity leave with the BOLD program. Consisting of twenty workouts, this comprehensive program is a thorough approach to fitness. With strength training and cardio focused sessions full with varied exercises, the workouts fly by quickly along with Sydney's signature teaching style. The cardio sessions with light weights were definitely my favorite, helping me with endurance during 5K race prep. While this program might not be ideal for muscle hypertrophy, it is a great way to get back on track with a more functional focus on fitness.
You can find the complete BOLD program playlist in this link.
Equipment needed: Light and heavier weights, fitness mat and resistance bands. Optional equipment: aerobic step, bench for step ups, jump rope.
Workout duration: From thirty to forty minutes. Warm up and cool down are included in the workouts. Five workouts and two rest days per week, for a total of thirty days.
Have fun and sweat tons with this great Soca step routine
Tara is one of the top dance instructors on the platform, now back with a choreographed aerobic step routine to Soca music. This high energy workout will surely get your heart pumping, combining traditional step moves with fun Caribbean dance moves for explosive fun. Regardless of the French-only instructions, the routine is actually surprisingly simple to follow along even if you don't speak the language. Keep in mind that this workout is fairly high impact, so be prepared to modify to your needs.
This workout is part of a full fitness program designed by Tara and her friend Solene, feel free to check out their website for more information.
Equipment needed: Aerobic step. Optional hand towel or small fabric for the dance.
Workout duration: 26 minutes. No warm up or cool down are provided.
Level Up 2.0 is a fourteen day challenge with (almost) zero equipment needed aside from a mat. HIIT and bodyweight moves are the core of this challenge, with many pulses and explosive intervals to elevate the heart rate. Besides the fast paced HIIT sessions, there are slower sessions inspired by Pilates with a focus on engaging the muscles. Two stretch days are also included in the challenge, making it a short yet complete program to test your endurance.
Dance along Ozzy's greatest hits with this creative tribute
To pay tribute to the Prince of Darkness, Molly has created one of the most unique dance workouts I've done on YouTube. Inspired by Ozzy's entire discography, the dance moves are masterfully choreographed to match the lyrics and rhythm of his greatest hits. Aside from the creative steps and instructions, Molly also introduces facts about Ozzy's life and career. This workout is a beautiful and well crafted routine to celebrate his legacy.
No equipment needed.
Workout duration: 46 minutes. Warm up and a very emotional cooldown are included in the workout.
Low impact does not mean low energy with this powerful workout
This low impact but high energy kickboxing inspired workout is a great way to burn calories while listening to awesome tunes. To the beat of fierce music by female singer and rappers, get ready to kick, punch and dodge all the way through. Emphasizing on movement instead of perfection, the message of self love and empowerment is loud in this workout.
No equipment needed. Low impact.
Workout duration: 25 minutes. No cool down provided.
Get the best of both worlds with this fusion workout
This short but sweet workout should not be underestimated, it's definitely a burner. Combining the controlled moves of Pilates with HIIT inspired exercises, you will be challenged by interval of mindful movement followed by fast cardio intervals. By adding a resistance band, a Pilates ball and light weights, your balance and stability will be challenged in every move.
Equipment needed: Exercise mat, light weights, resistance band and a Pilates ball.
Workout duration: Twenty minutes. Warm up and cool down are included.
Smile with this fun dance workout to Congo inspired beats
This dynamic workout inspired by traditional Congolese music and dance moves is a joy to follow along. With clear on screen previews and timers, the workout can be easy to follow even for beginners to African dance. The Afroletics original music is also synced to perfection, matching beats with every step. The instructors' positive energy irradiates through the screen, transmitting the viewer their wonderful vibes.
No equipment needed.
Workout duration: 15 minutes. No warm up or cool down are provided.
Hello, I'm Andy, a former couch potato turned home fitness enthusiast. I've created this blog to share my personal experiences, recommendations and more about everything related to online fitness. I believe fitness should be more accessible, so I've created this blog in hopes of encouraging fellow beginners to start at home.
