After two incredible launches across two sites, teaching Les Mills Body Combat 101 alongside amazing instructors, and in the midst of this new release, I decided to take on a challenge that would push my limits: completing 14 x Body Combat classes in 11 days. This journey wasn’t just about endurance; it was about honing my skills, building confidence, and immersing myself in the energy of a fresh release. BOOM!
The Launch of Body Combat 101
Les Mills Body Combat 101 is an exciting new release, packed with dynamic choreography and high-energy tracks that challenge both instructors and participants. Launching it required preparation, practice, and teamwork. Team teaching with fellow instructors made the process even more rewarding, each session was a masterclass in energy, technique, and connection.
This release introduced some thrilling new moves that quickly became favourites. The Stomp Kick in Track 2 stood out for its explosive power and precision, while the Loaded Cross in Track 3 brought an intensity that made you feel every punch. Perfecting these moves added an extra layer of excitement and challenge to each class. But perfecting a new release takes time. The choreography needs to flow naturally, and that only happens through consistent practice. Taking on this challenge of 14 classes was my way of mastering the moves, improving my delivery, and ensuring the participants felt the full impact of the workout.
The Motivation
- Practice Makes Perfect – As an instructor, practice is everything. Repeating the routines over multiple classes allowed me to refine my technique and memorise the choreography. Every class offered a chance to improve and deliver a better experience.
- Building Confidence – With each class, I grew more comfortable with the material. By the end of the challenge, the sequences felt second nature, allowing me to focus more on coaching and connecting with participants.
- Teamwork and Inspiration – Teaching alongside such amazing instructors reminded me of the power of collaboration. Their energy and feedback were invaluable in helping me elevate my performance.
The Preparation
To take on this challenge, I had to be strategic:
- Choreography Practice: Outside of the classes, I spent time reviewing the moves and transitions to ensure I knew the material inside out.
- Nutrition and Recovery: Proper meals and hydration were essential for keeping my energy levels high.
- Balancing Energy: With so many classes in a short span, I adjusted my intensity when needed to avoid overexertion.
The Experience
Each class was an opportunity to learn and grow. The energy of the participants, the power of the music, and the camaraderie with my co-instructors made every session unique. There were moments of exhaustion, but the support from the team and the participants kept me motivated.
One of the most valuable aspects of this challenge was how it reinforced the choreography. Repetition helped me internalise the sequences, making each delivery smoother and more impactful. The Stomp Kick and Loaded Cross quickly became moves I looked forward to executing and coaching.
The Takeaways
Completing 14 x Body Combat classes in 11 days during the launch of Body Combat 101 taught me:
- Repetition Builds Mastery: The more you practice, the more confident you become. Repeating the release helped me perfect the details and connect with the class.
- Collaboration Elevates You: Team teaching with incredible instructors brought fresh perspectives and energy, making the experience even more rewarding.
- Adaptability is Key: Listening to your body and adjusting your approach ensures sustainability and success.
Would I Do It Again?
Hell Yeah!. While it was challenging, the experience reinforced my passion for teaching and reminded me why I chose to be a Les Mills Body Combat instructor. Practice isn’t just about getting better, it’s about showing up, learning, and delivering your best each time. If you’re preparing for a big launch or simply looking to refine your skills, remember: practice, practice, and more practice. The more you commit, the better you’ll become. And don’t forget to enjoy the journey!