The New Initial Training Is Here

Launching in selected regions from October 1, Les Mills Initial Training will follow a redesigned format, shaped by your feedback and tailored to modern learning techniques. The new two-day training helps current and existing Instructors connect with members, lead with purpose, and deliver life-changing experiences while discovering their true potential. Let’s dive into what the changes are and why they’ve been made.

The redesign focuses on three key areas:

Purpose: A stronger emphasis on the Les Mills collective mission – to change lives – woven throughout the learning journey.

Breakthrough moments: More opportunities for personal growth, helping Instructors discover their own style and build confidence.

Streamlined learning: Improved pre-work, reduced assessment time, and practical tools that make it easier to add programs.

Core elements like Connection and Performance remain central, but new content guides Instructors to blend the five Key Elements, encouraging authenticity and individual teaching styles.

A major addition is the “Make Fear Your Friend” module, part of Empowering Beliefs and External Objectives, which helps Instructors recognize and overcome limiting beliefs.

The journey is now more cohesive, linking Initial Training to Advanced Training with a clear focus on values, ‘why’, and empowering beliefs.

We spoke with four Instructors who experienced the new Initial Training to hear their thoughts:

What were your first impressions of the redesigned Initial Training?

Ender: “Pure excitement and clarity. The new training is full of contagious energy, packed with purpose, and shows in a very practical way how we can grow as Instructors. What’s truly inspiring is that it doesn’t just teach us what to do – it helps us feel confident in how and why we do it.”

Shaun: “The materials are exceptionally polished and intuitive, making navigation effortless. I’m particularly impressed by how the training goes beyond technical skills to embrace the role of a true fitness leader. It encourages Instructors to explore the deeper purpose of fitness and personalize their own journey.”

Eileen: “My first impression was: Wow, how cool! So much has been harmonized and simplified. Day 1 is fully accessible, and on Day 2, coaching models are standardized, making the training more streamlined. This format also opens the door to new ways of delivering training in the future, like running multiple programs simultaneously or fast-tracking experienced Instructors.”

What changes stood out most to you?

Ender: “I thrive on organization, so the schedule was a highlight. The Connection Key Element is much clearer, the ‘Make Fear Your Friend’ module was incredible, and gaining a deeper understanding of Amplify & Commit has transformed how I teach.”

Shaun: “The Instructor Handbook and learning checklists are game changers. They guide reflection, track progress, and make learning structured and accessible. Layer 2 Coaching, especially education, is now positioned under motivation, which clarifies the flow from technical mastery to inspiring participants.”

Daniel: “Prioritizing Connection and Performance, spreading learning evenly across two days, and extending certification over 30 days allows Instructors to grow at a steady pace while developing confidence and competence.”

How will this benefit new and existing Instructors?

Ender: “For new Instructors, the training immediately connects them with our mission to change lives, giving clarity, confidence, and purpose. For experienced Instructors, it’s an opportunity for renewal, revisiting the ‘why’ and learning new tools keeps teaching fresh and inspiring.”

Eileen: “For new Instructors, the checklists create a structured, step-by-step approach that reduces overwhelm and builds confidence. For existing Instructors, learning to blend the five Key Elements and prioritize them in real time helps create a unique teaching style and enhances the flow and impact of every class.”

How does the training encourage Instructors to develop their own style?

Ender: “It strengthens our positive beliefs and reminds us we don’t need to copy others. Layers 2 and 3 create space for authenticity, helping us trust our voice and presence. Being true to ourselves is incredibly freeing and empowers our participants.”

Shaun: “By identifying limiting beliefs and recognizing personal strengths, Instructors can adjust their teaching dynamically. This allows them to deliver life-changing fitness experiences consistently while staying authentic.”

Daniel: “Performance is now standardized across all programs, which removes unnecessary barriers and lets Instructors focus on integrating their own style naturally into the classes.”

Eileen: “In the Performance chapter, we learn to Amplify and Commit – amplify your natural personality and commit fully to your actions. This approach ensures every Instructor develops a style that is genuinely their own.”

What does “Make Fear Your Friend” mean in practice?

Ender: “It’s recognizing insecurities – forgetting choreography, giving a wrong tip, or not connecting with the class. Naming fear takes away its power and reminds us we’re growing and challenging ourselves.”

Shaun: “Fear isn’t a setback; it’s a sign of growth. Embracing it with curiosity transforms it into fuel for progress, unlocking confidence, skill, and mastery.”

How does this training prepare Instructors for their first teaching slot?

Ender: “It shortens the gap between certification and teaching by preparing Instructors for real class scenarios from the start. They gain confidence, practical tools, and the reassurance that they can teach authentically.”

Eileen: “Fear is often why trainees delay teaching after IT. The new format breaks this down: teaching in pairs and groups, repeated practice, and discussions on managing fear all give Instructors the courage to step confidently into their first class. Those who are brave are free.”

New Les Mills Initial Training launches in the UK and Middle East regions from October 1. Other regions will follow. Please check LES MILLS CONNECT for details.