If you're looking for a workout that blends holiday cheer with heart-pumping intensity, dancer and choreographer Kaleila Jordan has you covered. Her 10-minute dance session is the perfect mix of festive hip-hop and high-intensity interval training, designed to get your blood flowing while keeping things fun. Whether you're warming up with slow body rolls or jumping into explosive kicks, this routine targets your core, thighs, and upper body—all while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
Warm Up with a Groove
Before diving into the high-energy moves, Jordan eases you in with an active warmup that loosens up the hips and gets the blood flowing. Think slow chest circles, sultry sways, and controlled lunges—nothing too intense, just enough to prep your body for what’s coming. The warmup isn’t just functional; it’s rhythmic, setting the tone for the dance-heavy workout ahead. By the time you finish, your muscles will be primed, and your energy levels will be rising.
Lower Body Firestarter
Once you're warmed up, Jordan wastes no time turning up the heat. Lateral lunges, jumping squats, and high kicks take center stage, challenging your balance and endurance. The transitions between slow and fast movements keep your heart rate climbing, mimicking the structure of a true HIIT workout. And just when you think your legs might give out, she throws in some Latin-inspired footwork for a brief—but much-needed—breather. The lower-body focus ensures your quads, hamstrings, and glutes are all engaged, making every second count.
Upper Body & Holiday Flair
After torching your legs, Jordan shifts the attention upward with sky-reaching arm stretches and playful choreography that nods to holiday classics—think Santa’s sleigh and reindeer antics. The upper-body sequences aren’t just about strength; they’re about fluidity and rhythm. You’ll twist, turn, and even throw in a festive twerk (yes, really) to keep things lighthearted. The constant movement ensures your shoulders, arms, and core stay activated, proving that dance workouts can be just as effective as traditional strength training.
Level Changes & Crumping Energy
One of the most dynamic parts of Jordan’s routine is the emphasis on changing levels—dropping low, popping back up, and incorporating windmill arms for a crumping-inspired flair. This isn’t just about looking cool (though that’s a bonus); it’s about engaging different muscle groups and keeping the workout unpredictable. The fast-paced segments will have you sweating, but the playful nature of the choreography makes it easy to push through. As Jordan says, she’s not trying to kill you—just give you a workout that’s as fun as it is effective.
Cool Down & Final Thoughts
After 10 minutes of nonstop movement, Jordan wraps things up with a cooldown that lets your heart rate settle while keeping the holiday vibes alive. The session may be short, but the burn is real—proof that you don’t need hours in the gym to get a solid workout. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a total newbie, this routine is accessible, engaging, and packed with personality. And if you love it, there’s plenty more where that came from on the POPSUGAR Fitness YouTube channel.
So grab your water bottle, throw on some comfy activewear (Jordan’s rocking Joah Brown and Alo, but whatever you’ve got works), and get ready to sweat—holiday style. With high-energy choreography and a festive twist, this 10-minute dance session is the perfect way to stay active while celebrating the season. Who knew working out could feel like a party?
