Tips for Tackling a New Les Mills Body Combat Release
As a certified Les Mills Body Combat instructor, one of the most exciting (and challenging) parts of my role is mastering new releases. With the upcoming release launching in January 2025, it’s the perfect time for me to refine my approach to learning and delivering a powerful class. Here are some key areas I focus on to make the process smoother and more efficient.
Start Early and Break It Down
I don’t wait until the last minute to dive into the choreography. As soon as the new release becomes available, I watch the masterclass in full to get a feel for the flow and energy. Then, I break the release into manageable sections—such as warm-up, combat tracks, and conditioning. This makes the material less overwhelming and gives me a clear structure to follow.
Master the Music
Music is at the heart of Body Combat. I listen to the release playlist as often as I can, whether I’m driving, working out, or relaxing. Familiarising myself with the beats and transitions makes it easier to sync my movements and remember the cues.
Focus on One Track at a Time
Instead of trying to learn everything at once, I do focus on one track at a time. I spend dedicated sessions memorising the moves, understanding the cues, and practising the techniques. Once I’m confident with one track or two or three together, I move on to the next. This sequential method helps me build confidence and ensures I retain the choreography.
Bonus Tip: Practice Your Cues
Cueing is just as important as the choreography itself. I practise verbalising my cues out loud as I go through each track. This not only helps me learn what to say but also ensures my timing aligns with the music and moves. I make sure to include motivational and instructional cues for participants. The ultimate best way to learn is practice, practice and practice.
Mastering a new Les Mills Body Combat release is a rewarding challenge. By focusing on these key areas and staying consistent, I know I’ll be ready to deliver an unforgettable experience because ultimately feeling the energy from your participants is what it’s all about.