Update: Les Mills On Demand is now called LES MILLS+. The review below was written when the service was still known as Les Mills On Demand. Program availability and pricing may have changed.
Working out at home has become my preferred way to exercise since gyms closed in 2020. Now that I have a dedicated space and a program that keeps me interested, I enjoy the convenience of exercising at home more than going to the gym.
Les Mills On Demand is a major part of that transition. The workout variety keeps me from becoming bored, while the ability to choose different programs makes it easier to include cardio, strength training, and high-intensity exercise in my routine. I have found plenty to like, although some workouts require modifications because they are more high-impact than my body can comfortably handle.
How I Started Using Les Mills On Demand
I was introduced to Les Mills On Demand through my gym. When gyms closed during the height of the pandemic, YouFit gave members temporary access to the service. Before that, I had been using P90X, but repeating the same routines each week was starting to feel monotonous.
Les Mills On Demand gives me the change I need. Instead of working through one fixed set of videos, I can choose from different workout styles, instructors, durations, and intensity levels. That variety helps me stay interested and makes it easier to choose a workout that matches how I feel on a particular day.
Having a dedicated workout room at home also helps. I can turn on a class, use the equipment I already own, and begin without driving anywhere or planning around a gym schedule.
What Makes Les Mills On Demand Different
Les Mills has been creating group fitness programs for decades, and many of its best-known workouts are offered in gyms around the world. The on-demand service brings that same instructor-led format into my home.
The biggest advantage for me is that it does not feel like purchasing a set of DVDs and repeating them indefinitely. New classes and programs give me more choices, and I can access workouts through the app on my phone, tablet, or television.
The service includes hundreds of workouts covering strength training, cardio, martial arts, cycling, yoga, flexibility, HIIT, and other options. Workout variety is its strongest feature.
I can choose an individual workout or follow a structured program. I prefer following a program because it keeps me accountable and encourages me to rotate between different types of exercise. I download the workout schedule, print and laminate it, and keep it in my workout room. Otherwise, I would probably select BODYCOMBAT every morning.
My Favorite Les Mills Workouts
There are several workout styles I use and enjoy. These are my favorites.
BODYCOMBAT
BODYCOMBAT is my favorite Les Mills workout. It is a martial arts-inspired cardio program that incorporates movements from boxing, karate, Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Capoeira, and Kung Fu.
The combinations of punches, kicks, and athletic movements make the workout energetic and fun. It raises my heart rate without feeling like I am simply repeating traditional cardio exercises. No martial arts experience is necessary, although it takes some practice to become comfortable with the combinations.
BODYPUMP
BODYPUMP combines light-to-moderate weights with high repetitions for a full-body strength-endurance workout. Since I have always enjoyed weight training, it gives me a way to include resistance work while still following the music and energy of an instructor-led class.
The instructors use Les Mills barbells, plates, and benches, but I am able to use the weights I already own. Brand-specific equipment is not required for me to participate.
BODYATTACK
BODYATTACK combines athletic cardio movements with strength exercises such as squats and push-ups. Running, lunging, and jumping may be included, so this is one of the programs I need to modify.
The workout is challenging, but I appreciate that I can continue moving even when I cannot perform the exact exercise demonstrated on the screen.
LES MILLS GRIT
LES MILLS GRIT introduced me to high-intensity interval training. Depending on the class, the workout may emphasize strength, cardio, or athletic conditioning.
I enjoy the intensity and the ability to accomplish a demanding workout in a shorter amount of time. However, the speed and impact also mean I have to pay close attention to my limits.
Modifying High-Impact Les Mills Workouts
One drawback of Les Mills On Demand is that some classes include more jumping and high-impact movement than I can comfortably do. I am prone to plantar fasciitis flare-ups, and my body does not respond well to repeated jumping.
The instructors often demonstrate modifications, but I still make my own adjustments when necessary. I march instead of running, replace jumping movements with squats or steps, and continue with a different exercise if I cannot safely perform the one being shown. Burpees and I have a nonexistent relationship, so I substitute another movement that keeps my heart rate elevated.
I also cannot always transition from standing exercises to floor exercises as quickly as the instructors. Rather than rushing and sacrificing form, I move at my own pace. A home workout does not have to look exactly like the instructor’s version to be effective.
Anyone managing foot, joint, back, or mobility concerns should consider the amount of impact in a class before beginning. Low-impact substitutions can make many workouts more accessible, but some programs are naturally better suited to people who enjoy fast, athletic movement.
Equipment Needed for Les Mills On Demand
Equipment requirements depend on the program. BODYCOMBAT can be completed without equipment, while BODYPUMP generally uses weights and may include a barbell and bench. Other classes may use a step, indoor cycling bike, mat, or resistance band.
I already own a good set of weights, so I do not need to purchase the Les Mills barbell or bench. The only branded item I have chosen to purchase is a flat SMARTBAND because the resistance bands I already own are tubular. You can also learn more about incorporating resistance loop bands into home workouts before deciding whether additional equipment would be useful.
One of the advantages of a large workout library is that you can select classes based on what you already own. Plenty of workouts require little or no equipment, while others work better in a more complete home gym.
Les Mills On Demand Pros and Cons
My experience with Les Mills On Demand is positive overall, but the service will be a better fit for some people than others.
What I Like
- A large variety of workout styles
- Instructor-led classes with motivating music
- Cardio, strength, HIIT, cycling, flexibility, and other options in one membership
- Structured programs for people who prefer following a schedule
- Workouts that can be completed at home and on your own time
- The ability to modify many exercises
What May Not Work for Everyone
- Some workouts include considerable jumping or high-impact movement
- Fast transitions can be difficult if you need additional time moving between standing and floor exercises
- Certain programs require weights, a bike, a step, or other equipment
- The large selection may require some experimentation before finding the right classes
The variety helps me stay motivated with my fitness routine, but choosing an appropriate program and making modifications are important parts of my experience.
Les Mills On Demand Pricing
Les Mills On Demand offers monthly, three-month, and annual billing options. The monthly membership is $14.99 per month, the three-month membership is $11.99 per month when billed quarterly, and the annual membership is $9.99 per month when billed annually.
The longer the commitment, the lower the monthly cost. I initially selected the three-month plan after my complimentary gym access ended, but I have since switched to the annual membership because I know I will continue using the program.
Who Is Les Mills On Demand Best For?
I recommend Les Mills On Demand for someone who enjoys energetic instructor-led classes and wants plenty of variety without going to a gym. It is particularly appealing if you like switching among cardio, strength training, martial arts-inspired exercise, cycling, and HIIT.
It may be less suitable for someone who needs an entirely low-impact program or prefers slow, individually demonstrated movements. Modifications are possible, but you must be comfortable adjusting exercises rather than trying to match every jump or transition shown by the instructors.
My Overall Les Mills On Demand Review
Les Mills On Demand gives me the variety I need while working out at home. BODYCOMBAT remains my favorite, but following a structured schedule encourages me to include strength training and other workout styles instead of repeating the same class every day.
I recommend the membership for the right person. For someone who wants energetic workouts, strong instructors, and a broad selection of classes at home, Les Mills On Demand is an excellent option. The most important step is choosing workouts that suit your fitness level and being willing to modify high-impact movements when needed.