People ask me some version of this question all the time: “Why would I pay for BODi when there are thousands of free workouts on YouTube?” It’s a fair question, so here’s my honest take on BODi vs. YouTube workouts.
I started with P90X in 2007, and since then I’ve done more than 30 Beachbody and BODi programs. I’ve also tried plenty of free workouts online. Here’s what I’ve learned.
First, YouTube Is Not the Enemy
There are good, free workouts on YouTube, and if you’re doing them consistently, keep going. Any workout you actually do beats the perfect one you don’t.
But “consistently” is the hard part. Most people don’t stop working out because the workouts are bad. They stop because every morning they have to decide what to do, how hard to go, and whether today’s video fits with yesterday’s. After a couple of weeks, the deciding wears them out.
The Difference Is the Program
A BODi program isn’t a pile of videos. It’s a plan, built by a trainer, that tells you exactly what to do each day for 4, 8, or 12 weeks. Strength days, cardio days, recovery days, and when to push harder are all laid out for you. You press play and follow the calendar.
That’s what keeps people going after week two. And it’s why I’ve stuck with BODi for almost 20 years.
The Trainers Who Made the Difference for Me
A program is only as good as the person leading it. These four trainers have shaped my training more than anyone:
- Tony Horton – P90X is where it all started for me in 2007. Tony made hard work fun, and his idea of “muscle confusion,” changing the workouts so your body keeps adapting, changed how I trained.
- Shaun T – INSANITY and his other programs taught me what real intensity feels like. Shaun pushes you, but he also makes you believe you can do it.
- Autumn Calabrese – 21 Day Fix brought simple, portion-based eating together with short, effective workouts. Autumn showed me that nutrition and training belong in the same plan.
- Kelsey Heenan – More recently, Kelsey’s strength programs, like 4 Weeks of Focus, have been a big part of my training. At 75, building and keeping muscle matters more than ever, and Kelsey’s coaching is clear, steady, and smart.
Every one of them gives you more than a workout: a voice in your living room, cues on form, modifications when you need them, and a reason to show up tomorrow.
What You Get With BODi
- 225+ programs from beginner to advanced, including programs from all four of these trainers
- A plan for every day, so you never have to guess what’s next
- Meal plans with 1,000+ recipes
- A 31-day money-back guarantee
The best value is the BODi Annual Subscription, and my code HOWTOBEFIT saves you 15% on your first year. If you’d rather start month to month, the Monthly Subscription lets you cancel anytime. For every plan and price, see How Much Does BODi Cost?
The One Thing YouTube Can’t Give You
A program plus a coach. When you start a BODi program, you don’t have to do it alone. Join me in We Are Born to Run, my free Facebook group, and tell us which program you picked. I’ll cheer you on, answer your questions, and help you get through the hard weeks.
Pick one program. Follow the calendar. And let me know how it’s going.
Disclosure: BODi links on this page are affiliate links, and I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Rich Dafter is the founder of HowToBeFit.com, a lifelong runner, former ACE Certified Personal Trainer, BODi Coach since 2007, and Polar athlete and brand ambassador for 40 years. At 75, he continues to run, hike, strength train, and share practical strategies for fitness, strength, nutrition, longevity, and more. Learn more about Rich Dafter on the About page.
