Step into Santa’s workshop and try this festive full-body workout! With holiday-themed cardio, strength, and core exercises, you’ll be energized and cheerful from warm-up to cool-down.
Grab your family and dash like a reindeer, get strong like an elf, and finish feeling powerful enough to help pull Santa’s sleigh.
No matter your fitness level, the playful names will keep the workout fun and effective. It’s perfect for bringing a little holiday magic to your movement. Let’s get to work!
Workout Routine
Warm-Up: Workshop Wake-Up
Do each of the following exercises for 1 minute.
- Jingle Jog: jog in place.
- Tree Top Reaches: stretch tall, reach side to side.
- Toy Tinkers: alternate pulling knees to chest.
- Wrap & Twist: torso twists.
Circuit 1: Reindeer Training
Do each of the following exercises for 40 seconds followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat 2 times.
- Dasher Dashes: fast feet in place.
- Prancer Push-Ups: regular or knees.
- Blitzen Burpee: squat, plank, squat, jump!
- Cupid Climbers: mountain climbers.
Rest for 1 minute before starting Circuit 2.
Circuit 2: Snow Day Strength
Do each of the following exercises for 40 seconds followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat 2 times.
- Snowball Slams: throw ball to ground or pretend.
- Winter Woodchops: diagonal core chops.
- Frosty Lunges: alternating reverse lunges.
- Icicle Holds: squat hold (last 10 seconds pulse).
Rest for 1 minute before starting Circuit 3.
Circuit 3: Santa’s Sleigh Stamina
Do each of the following exercises for 40 seconds followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat 2 times.
- Sleigh Pull Rows: bands or bent-over rows.
- Present Push Press: overhead press.
- Chimney Climbs: high knees.
- Ho-Ho Holds: plank.
Cool Down: All is Calm
Now that your workout is finished, take some time to cool down, stretch, and enjoy a moment of calm before settling down for a long winter's nap!
- Candy-Cane Twists: slow torso twist.
- Hamstring Stocking Stretch: forward fold.
- Deep Peppermint Breaths: breath in for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, then breath out for 4 seconds. Repeat 4 times.
Congratulations! You've completed Santa's Workshop Workout!
For more ideas and tips for staying active this winter, check out SDSU Extension's Physical Activity resources!
