Buzz
The weather is freezing, and the gym is packed. Why not stay cozy at home and stream some exercise videos? Check out our top recommendations for staying fit with YouTube.
The channels we’ve selected are packed with high-quality workouts—ranging from full sessions to shorter segments you can combine for a longer routine. Except for weightlifting, these are designed for real-time participation. (We’ve excluded channels focused on quick tips, tutorials, monologues, recipes, or previews for longer sessions.) Simply choose a video from this list and dive right into your workout without any prep.
Comprehensive Fitness Solutions
Channel: FitnessBlenderSpecialty: Strength training using bodyweight or uniquely designed adjustable dumbbells. Bonus Feature: a workout with your furry friend.
Channel: Jessica Smith TVSpecialty: Cardio and strength routines (both with and without weights), including some that incorporate power walking in place. Plus, some videos charmingly feature her mom as a backup dancer. Bonus Content: Myth-debunking Q&A sessions
Channel: SofaBar (“Fit Like a Figure Skater”)Specialty: A unique twist on ballet-inspired workouts, as Sofie is a figure skater, not a ballerina. Bonus Content: Advice on improving your ice skating skills.
Strength and Conditioning
Channel: Muscle & StrengthSpecialty: Detailed breakdowns of gym routines (watch first, then execute) designed for weekly plans, such as their OT4 system and Fast 21 workouts.Bonus Content: Recipes and expert interviews
Channel: Bodybuilding.comSpecialty: Workout videos introduced with short, cinematic monologues from the trainer leading the session. Bonus Content: Recipes, fitness tips, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the lives of the trainers, such as when Calum von Moger stops by a petting zoo before diving into his workout.
High-Energy Cardio
Channel: BodyRockSpecialty: Intense interval training, featuring a 30-day challenge with daily videos, most exceeding 45 minutes. Bonus Content: Previews of their premium workout programs and quick 30-second exercise tutorials.
Channel: BeFiTSpecialty: A wide range of workouts, from dance routines to intense fitness challenges and introductory yoga. Don’t miss the BeFiT Go series, offering portable circuits designed for on-the-go workouts via your phone. Bonus Content: A handful of short mini-workouts and occasional “health hacks.” BeFiT stands out as a massive channel with an extensive library of full-length videos and diverse workout styles.
Channel: Jenny FordSpecialty: Classic step aerobics routines. Bonus Content: Detailed guidance on mastering step techniques and other useful fitness moves.
Channel: Global Cycling NetworkSpecialty: Virtual spin classes you can follow independently (using a gym bike or a home trainer if available). While many videos focus on cyclists’ intense expressions, some feature scenic routes to make you feel like you’re pedaling through beautiful landscapes. Bonus Content: Instructional videos covering all aspects of cycling.
Yoga and Floor Exercises
Channel: Yoga JournalSpecialty: Yoga practices tailored for nearly every need: boosting energy, relaxation, seated or standing poses, and targeting specific body areas. Bonus Content: Detailed guides on perfecting numerous yoga poses.
Channel: BlogilatesSpecialty: Mat-based workouts inspired by Pilates. Bonus Content: Budget-friendly recipes for clean eating.
Channel: CodySpecialty: A wide variety of yoga sessions and cardio interval workouts. Jessamyn offers Body Positive Yoga, while Kino MacGregor specializes in highly advanced yoga routines. Bonus Content: Crossfit technique advice.
Channel: TonicSpecialty: The Useful Yoga series. While it’s unlikely that a workout video can “detox” or aid digestion, these videos are perfect for self-care during times of emotional distress or stress, or for establishing a fresh morning habit. Bonus Content: Numerous recipes and New York City travel guides.
Illustration by Jim Cooke.
