Every quarter, the cycle begins again. A new Les Mills Body Combat release drops, and with it comes fresh choreography, music, and a renewed challenge to learn and perfect the movements. As an instructor, this process is both exciting and demanding, requiring dedication, repetition, and a strategic approach to ensure I can deliver an engaging, high-energy class for participants.
Week 1: First Impressions and Early Familiarisation
The release typically arrives about four weeks before a gym’s official launch, though the timeline depends on the facility’s plans. The moment I get access, I immediately watch the full release video, this first viewing is all about feeling the vibe: understanding the energy, seeing what’s new, and mentally mapping out how I’ll approach my training.
I usually watch the release video at least two or three times in this first week. I don’t focus on memorisation just yet; instead, I take it all in, noting any standout combinations, new techniques, or particularly challenging sequences. The warm-up tracks (Track 1a and 1b) are my first priority, as they set the tone for the entire class. These I begin practising at home, airplaying the video onto my TV, stepping through the movements slowly to start locking them into muscle memory.
Week 2: Building Familiarity Through Repetition
By the second week, the music becomes part of my daily routine. I listen to the tracks as I get ready in the morning, in the car, and even on the treadmill at the gym. When walking, I subtly practise punches and footwork, reinforcing movement patterns while staying active.
This week also marks the start of structured practice sessions in the gym studio. Two to three times a week, I dedicate time to working through each track with the video on my iPad, either around a class I’m teaching. I don’t aim for perfection, far from it. Instead, I focus on how the choreography feels, refining my stance, balance, and transitions. The mirror becomes an essential tool, allowing me to assess technique and positioning in real time.
Week 3: Ramping Up Intensity
By the third week, my training kicks into high gear. The practice sessions become daily, sometimes even twice a day. Now, I run through the full release, ensuring I have a strong grasp of the key tracks: 1a, 1b, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7. These form the core of the class, and mastering them builds confidence in my ability to teach the release fluidly.
This stage is about refining my connection to the music. I ensure my coaching cues are clear (in my head at least), my energy levels are consistent, and my transitions between movements feel natural as possible.
Week 4: Bringing It All Together
In week 4, I focus on the details. The bulk of the work is done, but I continue running through the full release, reinforcing patterns and addressing any weak areas. I’ve hopefully nailed the warm-up, power tracks, and key combinations, the rest tends to fall into place organically.
At this point, I also begin tapering my training slightly to ensure I’m fresh for launch day. The adrenaline and excitement of delivering a new release to participants always bring an extra boost of energy.
The Never-Ending Journey
The process of learning a new Les Mills Body Combat release never truly ends. Even after launch, I continue refining my technique, adjusting my coaching, and finding new ways to make each class dynamic and engaging. Every release presents a new opportunity for growth, both as an instructor and general fitness. The challenge is constant, but that’s exactly what makes it so exciting.