Jillian Michaels Adds Kettlebell Swings to Jump & Burn Circuit

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  Health and Fitness on Sun, Nov 23rd, 2025 by CNET

How Top Trainers are Re‑imagining Their Workouts – And Why You Should Follow Their Lead

In a recent CNET Health & Fitness feature, readers are taken behind the scenes of some of the world’s most famous exercise instructors. The article, “8 Exercise Trainers Add to Their Workouts to Get Fitter – and You Should Too,” showcases how even seasoned pros are constantly refining their routines by incorporating new equipment, techniques, and research‑backed strategies. With a blend of personal anecdotes, expert insight, and actionable advice, the piece serves as both a spotlight on the trainers themselves and a practical guide for anyone looking to level up their fitness game.

1. Jillian Michaels & the Kettlebell Swing

The article opens with Jillian Michaels, the “Trainer” star, who’s integrated kettlebell swings into her signature “Jump & Burn” circuit. Michaels explains that the swing “activates the posterior chain, improves explosiveness, and adds a cardio burst without the high impact.” The CNET piece links to a 2015 Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research study that quantifies the calorie‑burn potential of kettlebell training, underscoring why the swing has become a staple in both beginner and advanced programs.

Practical takeaway: Start with a 12‑lb kettlebell and focus on a hip‑drive, not a shoulder shrug. A downloadable PDF in the article provides a beginner progression chart.

2. Kayla Itsines & the Suspension Trainer

Kayla Itsines, the mastermind behind the Bikini Body Guide, swaps her usual body‑weight moves for TRX suspension training. In a side‑by‑side demo, she demonstrates the “TRX Y‑Push‑Up” and “TRX Squat,” noting that the unstable surface forces the core to lock in, “making every rep count.” The article provides a link to the official TRX website, where readers can browse different models and even get a discount code from Kayla’s partnership.

Practical takeaway: Begin with the “TRX Row” to build pulling strength; add a single‑leg squat to target hip stability.

3. Jeff Nippard & the Weighted Sled Push

Jeff Nippard, a science‑driven trainer and YouTube personality, shares his approach to power and speed: the weighted sled push. He explains that the sled “combines resistance training with cardio, elevating heart rate while preserving joint integrity.” A referenced link to a European Journal of Applied Physiology article details the muscular adaptations seen with sled training, reinforcing the move’s efficacy.

Practical takeaway: Keep the load moderate (20–30% of body weight) and focus on a steady, controlled push. Use a towel‑grip for safety.

4. Anllela Sagra & the Battle Ropes

The model‑turned‑trainer Anllela Sagra brings the battle ropes into her high‑intensity interval training. “Rope slams are great for shoulder health and upper‑body endurance,” she says. The article includes a side‑by‑side video comparing her “double‑wave” technique to a “alternating wave,” complete with a commentary on how each variation targets different muscle groups.

Practical takeaway: Alternate between a 30‑second wave and a 15‑second rest. This keeps the heart rate elevated while giving the shoulders a chance to recover.

5. Rich Froning & the Sled Drag

Team “Powerlifting” legend Rich Froning swaps his usual deadlifts for sled drags to improve grip strength and lower‑body power. He stresses that the “drag position forces the glutes and hamstrings into a deep stretch,” which translates to better performance in Olympic lifts. The article includes a link to an interview with Froning on Athlean‑X where he explains the biomechanics in more detail.

Practical takeaway: Start with a 40‑lb sled and aim for a 20‑meter drag. Focus on keeping the chest up and shoulders back.

6. Emily Skye & Plyometric Box Jumps

Emily Skye, famed for her “No Sucks” program, emphasizes the power of plyometrics. She demonstrates the box jump, highlighting the importance of “soft landings and a quick plant.” The piece links to an injury‑prevention guide on the American College of Sports Medicine site, offering evidence on how proper landing mechanics reduce ACL strain.

Practical takeaway: Choose a box height that allows you to land with knees slightly bent; avoid hard landings that could cause micro‑tears.

7. Mark Rippetoe & the Barbell Complex

Barbell maestro Mark Rippetoe adds a “complex” that chains together back squats, deadlifts, and cleans. The article explains that the complex “forces the nervous system to work harder, building both strength and conditioning.” A link to Rippetoe’s “Barbell Complex” video series gives readers a visual roadmap for performing each movement safely.

Practical takeaway: Keep the weight light (50–60% of 1RM) and perform 10–12 reps of each movement without touching the bar between sets.

8. Chris Hemsworth & Olympic Weightlifting

Last but not least, actor‑turned‑fitness enthusiast Chris Hemsworth brings Olympic weightlifting into his regimen. He shows a clean and jerk routine, emphasizing the “hip‑drive, explosive lift” that engages almost every major muscle group. The article references a 2023 Sports Medicine review on Olympic lifts and their cardiovascular benefits, supporting Hemsworth’s choice to incorporate these complex movements for functional strength.

Practical takeaway: Use a PVC pipe to practice the form first, then progress to a lightweight barbell; focus on a strong base before adding weight.

Why These Additions Matter

Across all eight trainers, a common theme emerges: progressive overload through varied modalities. From kettlebells to battle ropes, each tool offers a unique stimulus—whether it’s instability, speed, resistance, or explosive power. CNET underscores that this variety not only combats plateaus but also keeps workouts mentally engaging.

The article also stresses the importance of research‑backed practice. Every trainer cites studies or expert commentary, reminding readers that fitness isn’t just anecdotal; it’s a science that can be systematically improved. The links to peer‑reviewed journals, instructional videos, and product pages make it easier for readers to dig deeper and replicate the moves safely.

How to Get Started

CNET’s guide is intentionally accessible:

1. Identify one new tool that resonates with your goals (e.g., kettlebells for cardio‑strength, TRX for core stability, battle ropes for upper‑body endurance).
2. Watch the provided demos to master the fundamentals—focus on form, breathing, and controlled movement.
3. Incorporate the tool into your routine at a low volume (2–3 sessions per week) and gradually increase intensity.
4. Track your progress with simple metrics—time, reps, or perceived exertion—to ensure continued improvement.
5. Stay informed by exploring the linked resources: research articles, gear reviews, and expert interviews.

Final Thought

The article concludes with a bold challenge: “You don’t need to become a professional trainer to elevate your fitness; you just need to be willing to experiment.” By spotlighting eight world‑class trainers and their favorite additions, the piece offers a roadmap for anyone who wants to break through stagnation, reap the science‑based benefits of diverse training modalities, and ultimately, become fitter.

Whether you’re a gym novice or a seasoned athlete, the key takeaway is simple: Add variety, add research, and keep moving. The tools and techniques highlighted in the article provide proven pathways to a stronger, more resilient body—and the links included give you the resources to do it right. So grab that kettlebell, set up a TRX, or jump onto a plyo box—your next level of fitness awaits.