With the holiday season on the horizon, now is the perfect time to prioritize your fitness and well-being. Our expert-approved 30-day pre-holiday workout plan for weight loss is designed to help you slim down and achieve a strong, toned physique. By committing to this routine, you’ll step into the festive season feeling accomplished and looking your best.

This 30-day pre-holiday workout, created by Josh York, CPT, founder and CEO of GYMGUYZ, targets fat loss, core strength, and endurance. The plan includes five workouts, one active recovery day, and one rest day each week for a balanced approach to sustainable progress.

“This personalized workout plan combines the dynamic power of circuit training with the endurance-building benefits of cardio,” says York. “You’re not just going through the motions; you’re crafting a stronger, healthier version of yourself. Circuit training gives you the thrill of each rep, while cardio enhances heart health and endurance. By focusing on your core, you’re not only sculpting your body but also boosting your overall stability.”

The Pre-Holiday Workout for Weight Loss: Weeks 1-4

Days 1, 3, 5: Circuit Training

"Move through each exercise with minimal rest, completing three to four rounds. This is more than a workout; it’s an opportunity to push your limits and celebrate progress," York explains. "Circuit training raises your heart rate and builds strength, making every session dynamic and enjoyable."

Jump Rope: 1 minute

"This [exercise] gets your heart pumping and puts you in the zone," York points out.

  1. Stand tall with your feet together, holding onto the ends of the jump rope. The jump rope should be behind you, touching the floor.
  2. Use both wrists to swing the rope overhead.
  3. When the rope comes close to your feet, jump over it.
  4. Gently land with your knees a bit bent.

Pushups: 12-15 reps

"Feel the strength in your arms as you power through each rep," York says.

  1. Assume a high plank with your body forming a straight line.
  2. Maintain a tight core, bend your elbows, and lower your chest toward the floor.
  3. Push back up to a high plank.

Lunges: 10-12 reps per leg

"Picture yourself stepping into a stronger version of yourself with each lunge," instructs York.

  1. Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and hands on your hips or a your sides.
  2. Step forward two to three feet with one foot.
  3. Bend both knees and descend into a lunge.
  4. Push through your front heel to return to the start position.

Plank: 30 seconds

"Embrace the burn as you hold your body steady, feeling your core engage," York explains.

  1. Lie flat on a mat on your stomach.
  2. Place your forearms on the ground so your elbows are under your shoulders.
  3. Extend your legs behind you as you lift your body to assume a forearm plank position.
  4. Maintain a tight core and hold the position.

Russian Twists: 15 reps per side

"Visualize carving out that waistline as you twist from side to side," York instructs.

  1. Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat.
  2. Lean your upper body back slightly and clasp your hands in front of your chest.
  3. Lift your feet off the ground.
  4. Engage your core as you twist your torso and move your hands to the left and then to the right, continuing to alternate.

Days 2, 4: Cardio and Core

For this workout, you'll begin with sprints to increase your heart rate, then perform the core workout for three sets that will make you feel centered and strong.

"Cardio enhances your endurance, while core exercises provide the foundation for strength and stability," York tells us. "You'll notice improvements in your daily activities as you build strength."

Cardio:

Interval Sprints: 20 minutes

Core Exercises:

Bicycle Crunches: 15-20 reps

  1. Lie flat on your back on a mat with your legs extended and hands at the back of your head.
  2. Activate your core and lift your shoulders.
  3. Bend and lift your knees so they form a 90-degree angle.
  4. Crunch forward a bit and twist your torso to the left, bringing your right elbow to your left knee. Extend your right leg.
  5. Repeat on the other side and continue to alternate.

Leg Raises: 12-15 reps

  1. Lie flat on your back on a mat with your legs extended.
  2. Position your hands, palms facing down, under your hips or at your sides.
  3. Engage your core and press your lower back to the ground.
  4. Lift your legs until they become perpendicular to the ground.
  5. Slowly lower them until they're just above the floor.

Side Plank: 20-30 seconds per side

  1. Lie on one side with your legs extended and stacked.
  2. Place your forearm flat on the floor so your elbow is under your shoulder.
  3. Activate your core and lift your hips off the ground.
  4. Hold this position.

Mountain Climbers: 30 seconds

Start in a high plank, maintaining a straight line from head to heels.
Engage your core.
Lift your left leg, bringing your left knee toward your chest.
Return to the starting position and repeat on the right side.
Continue alternating sides.

Day 6: Active Recovery

On this active recovery day, take it easy with low-impact activities like a relaxed swim, brisk walk, or gentle cycling for 30 to 45 minutes. Add in some light stretching to keep your body flexible and limber.

“This day is about caring for both body and mind, giving you time to recharge and prepare for the week ahead,” says York.

Day 7: Rest

Day seven is dedicated to rest. “Recovery is essential for progress and rejuvenation,” York notes. “Use this time to relax, reflect on your achievements, and set your intentions for the upcoming week.”

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