Program Review: Les Mills Combat

Les Mills Combat is definitely among my very favorite Beachbody workouts!! For me, kickboxing produces an adrenaline rush like no other, and this program has truly awesome music that kicks it up a notch further. A mix of throwback jams and recent hits, the program includes tunes by everyone from Evanescence to P!nk, from Fallout Boy to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, from Skrillex to Cascada... and even MC Hammer's "Can't Touch This." If you're a music lover, this program is for you—it makes the sessions go by in a flash!

Unfortunately, Les Mills and Beachbody terminated their agreement in 2015, and this program is no longer available (although it does show up once in awhile in Beachbody's seasonal sales—shoot me an email if you'd like to be notified when this happens!) The closest program to this is definitely going to be the new Core de Force program that's coming out Nov. 1, 2016.

This program got me excited about morning workouts again—not an easy feat! It provided me with some nice toning on my legs and core. It's very empowering and it has helped me feel confident in my body again after feeling somewhat alienated from my body during our fertility treatments this past summer.

Program length: 60 days

Workout length: 30 to 60 minutes

What equipment is needed? Free weights are needed for the two strength sessions. For the rest of the sessions, weighted gloves are recommended, especially after the first week or two as you get stronger.

How is it structured? The program comes with six sessions—one for each day of the week, plus a rest day. There are two HIIT sessions that focus on intense strength work, and four kickboxing sessions with high-intensity cardio—punches, kicks, and combinations.

What kinds of moves are involved? The moves in Combat are inspired by boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, and capoeira. It's mostly punches and kicks, with a focus on form and involving your whole body in every move. The HIIT sessions include strength moves such as lunges, rows, and overhead presses, as well as intense cardio moves such as Burpees.

Low-impact? No, but there is a low-impact modifier.

Are modifications shown? Yes, there is a low-impact (and lower-intensity) modifier who is easily visible on the screen throughout most of each session. This program is suitable for beginners and those who are new to fitness, but will be plenty challenging for experienced exercisers.

Interested in trying this program? Learn more in my video review or email me at LivingVibrantlyEG@gmail.com to find out when my next challenge group starts! I can also guide you to my recommended sources for the equipment mentioned here, or get you set up with a different workout program if this one isn't up your alley. I'm only an email away... Let's chat!