The holidays are a weird time for gyms. Spirits are high, schedules are chaotic, and attendance can dip as travel, parties, and year-end fatigue kick in. Totally normal, but it doesn’t mean your gym has to feel quiet.
One of the easiest ways I’ve found to keep members showing up in December is to lean into the season. A themed workout brings energy, laughter, and just enough novelty to make training feel fun again.
This is my go-to: the “12 Days of Christmas” workout. It’s simple to run, scalable for all fitness levels, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
How the 12 Days of Christmas Workout Works
Just like the song, the workout builds as you go.
You start with the first movement.
Then you add the second, perform it, and repeat the first.
Then the third… back through the second and first… and so on.
By the end, you’ve completed all 12 movements, with plenty of sweat, laughs, and groans along the way.
Example
- Day 1: 1-minute plank
- Day 2: 2 push-ups → 1-minute plank
- Day 3: 3 squat jumps → 2 push-ups → 1-minute plank
Keep building until all 12 “days” are complete.
The Full 12 Days of Christmas Workout Routine
I’ve kept this mostly bodyweight so it works in almost any gym setting. You can easily adjust reps, load, or intensity.
Day 1: 1-minute plank
Day 2: 2 push-ups
Day 3: 3 squat jumps
Day 4: 4 lunges (each leg)
Day 5: 5 burpees
Day 6: 6 mountain climbers (each side)
Day 7: 7 kettlebell swings
Day 8: 8 sit-ups
Day 9: 9 jumping jacks
Day 10: 10 glute bridges
Day 11: 11 high knees (each side)
Day 12: 12-calorie row or bike sprint
Run it as:
- One continuous chipper
- Partnered (split reps for higher energy)
- Timed, with rest as needed
Why This Christmas Workout Works So Well
1. It’s Scalable for Every Member
Beginners can modify movements or reduce reps. Advanced members can:
- Add weight
- Increase pace
- Go unbroken
Everyone trains together, just at their own level.
2. It Builds Community Fast
There’s something powerful about tackling a long, slightly ridiculous workout as a group. Members cheer each other on, laugh through the burn, and bond over the shared suffering.
That sense of camaraderie is exactly what keeps people coming back during the holiday season.
3. It Keeps Training Fun (When Life Is Stressful)
December can be hectic. A festive, lighthearted class gives members permission to enjoy training without pressure.
Pro tip:
🎶 Put on a great Christmas playlist
🎅 Encourage festive outfits
📸 Snap photos for social media
For more ideas on keeping members engaged year-round, check out our other posts here: Keeping Member Fitness Motivation High
Make it Your Own!
This workout is meant to be flexible. Feel free to:
- Swap exercises based on equipment
- Create a kids or beginner version
- Turn it into a friendly competition
- Offer small prizes or shout-outs
You can even run it as a special holiday class or event to bring lapsed members back through the doors.
Final Thoughts
The goal isn’t to crush PRs, it’s to create a positive, memorable experience. A festive workout like this shows your members that your gym is more than a place to train. It’s a community that celebrates together.
If you’re looking for an easy way to boost attendance, energy, and connection in December, the 12 Days of Christmas workout is a simple win.
Happy holidays, and happy training 🎄💪
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