You might look at the group fitness schedule at Corpus Christi Athletic Club and wonder what the difference is between Les Mills BODYPUMP, BODYCOMBAT, BODYSTEP and others. Les Mills classes are some of the most popular group fitness programs in the world. They’re science-backed, music-driven, and designed to deliver real results. But each format serves a different purpose, and choosing the right one can help you reach your fitness goals faster.
There are many Les Mills workouts to choose from – so how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes Les Mills Workouts Different?
Les Mills programs are professionally designed group fitness classes that combine expert programming with motivating music and coaching. Every few months, the choreography and playlists are refreshed, which keeps workouts exciting and prevents participants from plateauing. From strength training to cardio endurance, weight loss, flexibility, or stress relief, there’s a Les Mills class designed to support your goals.
At Corpus Christi Athletic Club, our certified instructors guide you through each movement safely while creating a supportive, high-energy environment.
BODYPUMP: Strength Training for Lean Muscle and Tone
If your goal is to build strength, tone your muscles, and boost your metabolism, BODYPUMP may be your perfect fit. This barbell-based strength training workout targets every major muscle group using light-to-moderate weights and higher repetitions.
The beauty of BODYPUMP is that it’s completely scalable. You choose your weight, which makes it approachable for beginners and challenging for seasoned lifters. Over time, members often notice increased muscle definition, improved endurance and greater overall strength.
Because strength training supports bone density and metabolic health, BODYPUMP is an excellent foundational workout for long-term fitness. This class is offered in 45-minute and 55-minute sessions at Corpus Christi Athletic Club.
BODYCOMBAT: High-Energy Cardio and Stress Relief
For more of a workout that helps you burn calories and blow off steam, BODYCOMBAT delivers. Inspired by martial arts, this non-contact cardio kickboxing class incorporates punches, kicks and athletic conditioning sequences set to powerful music.
Each 55-minute BODYCOMBAT class improves cardiovascular endurance, coordination and agility while giving you that satisfying, stress-relieving release. Many members love the empowering feeling they get from this workout. You’ll leave sweaty and feeling energized and strong.
BODYSTEP: Cardio and Strength in One Dynamic Workout
This isn’t your ‘90s step class! Although BODYSTEP uses a step platform to combine cardio bursts with lower-body strength training, it is designed around athletic movement patterns, not complicated choreography like classic STEP classes. Using bodyweight or light weights, you’ll climb, squat, lunge, and move through athletic sequences that challenge your legs and elevate your heart rate.
This class is excellent for building endurance and toning the lower body while keeping this 55-minute workout fun and rhythmic. It’s high-energy without being overwhelming and you can work at your level.
BODYBALANCE: Flexibility, Core Strength, and Recovery
For those seeking balance, both physically and mentally, BODYBALANCE blends yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi into one flowing 55-minute class. This format improves flexibility, builds core strength, enhances posture and reduces stress.
BODYBALANCE is especially beneficial if you’re pairing higher-intensity workouts like BODYPUMP or BODYCOMBAT with recovery-focused movement. It’s also a fantastic entry point for members who prefer low-impact exercise but still want to build strength and mobility.
CORE COMBAT HYBRID: Power Meets Precision
For members who want the best of both worlds, Core Combat Hybrid blends the athletic intensity of BODYCOMBAT with targeted core training. Expect high-energy cardio intervals paired with focused midsection work that strengthens and stabilizes.
This 30-minute hybrid format delivers sweat, power, and core strength in one dynamic session, making it a favorite for members who want maximum efficiency.
ATTACK/COMBAT HYBRID: Athletic Cardio at Full Throttle
Enjoy the best of both worlds – 30 minutes of cardio with BODYATTACK and 30 minutes of Marital Arts fitness with BODYCOMBAT.
RPM: Ride Through Rolling Hills and Sprints
RPM is an indoor cycling workout inspired by the experience of riding outdoors. Set to powerful, motivating music, you’ll travel the equivalent of 12-15 miles of varied terrain, climbing hills, racing through flats, and pushing through endurance segments, all while controlling your own intensity. By adjusting the resistance dial on the bike and changing your pedal speed, you decide how challenging the ride becomes. That means beginners can ease in while experienced riders can push their limits.
RPM is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular endurance, build lower-body strength, and enjoy a powerful calorie-burning workout in a motivating group environment.
SPRINT: Fast, Powerful, and Highly Efficient
SPRINT is for those who are short on time but looking for maximum results, This 30-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workout uses an indoor bike to develop speed, power, and endurance.
The format alternates short bursts of maximum effort with recovery periods, allowing you to push your limits safely while improving cardiovascular performance. Because the class is short and focused, it’s designed to deliver big results in a small window of time.
SPRINT is perfect for members who love intense training sessions and want an efficient workout that challenges both strength and stamina.
LES MILLS GRIT Strength: Build Power and Lean Muscle
LES MILLS GRIT Strength is a 30-minute HIIT workout designed to improve strength and build lean muscle using a barbell and weight plates. This class combines explosive strength training with short recovery periods to keep your heart rate elevated while developing total-body power.
Expect fast-paced, athletic movements that challenge your muscles and push your endurance. Because the workout is short and high intensity, it’s ideal for members who want serious results without spending hours in the gym.
GRIT Strength is particularly effective for building muscle, boosting metabolism, and improving overall athletic performance.
LES MILLS CORE: The Ultimate Core Conditioning Workout
Like the name implies – if you want a stronger midsection that will lead to better overall performance, LES MILLS CORE zeroes in on the muscles that support everything you do. In 45 dedicated minutes, this focused workout challenges your abs, glutes, back, and hips using resistance bands, weight plates, and bodyweight exercises.
A strong core improves posture, enhances athletic performance and helps reduce injury risk. It’s short, intense and incredibly effective.
How to Choose the Right Les Mills Class
The right Les Mills program depends on your goals. If you want to build muscle and tone, strength-based classes like BODYPUMP are ideal. If weight loss and cardio fitness are your priority, BODYCOMBAT may be a better fit. If flexibility, stress reduction, and core strength are what you’re after, BODYBALANCE is a strong choice.
Of course, the most effective fitness routine often includes a mix of strength training, cardio, and mobility work. Many members at Corpus Christi Athletic Club rotate between formats throughout the week to create a well-rounded workout plan.
Why Take Les Mills Classes at Corpus Christi Athletic Club?
Group fitness is about more than just exercise, it’s about community. At Corpus Christi Athletic Club, our Les Mills classes combine world-class programming with local support and encouragement. Our instructors coach proper form, offer modifications, and help you push yourself safely.
Les Mills programs provide structure, motivation and measurable results in a fun, energizing atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Les Mills Programs
Are Les Mills classes good for beginners?
Yes. Les Mills workouts are designed to be scalable. You control your weight, resistance, and intensity, and instructors provide options for different fitness levels.
How often should I take Les Mills classes?
For balanced fitness, most members benefit from taking three to four classes per week, mixing strength training, cardio, and flexibility formats.
Can Les Mills classes help with weight loss?
Yes. When combined with a balanced nutrition plan, Les Mills workouts can support weight loss by increasing calorie burn and building lean muscle mass, which supports metabolism.
Do I need experience with weights before trying a class?
Not at all. Instructors guide you through everything. If you’re new, arrive a few minutes early and let the instructor know — they’ll help you get set up.
Is it okay to combine Les Mills classes with personal training?
Absolutely. Many members at Corpus Christi Athletic Club use group fitness classes to complement personal training for even greater results.