Embarking on a fitness journey can feel overwhelming. Caleb Marshall, better known as The Fitness Marshall on social media, emphasizes the importance of finding a workout that sparks joy. “Small changes can make reaching your fitness goals fun and enjoyable,” Marshall tells PEOPLE. “If you genuinely like an activity, you’re more likely to stick with it.” This philosophy resonates with his impressive 13 million followers across various social media platforms.
Marshall, along with his “Backup Booties” dancers Haley Jordan and Allison Florea, creates accessible workout videos catering to all body types and fitness levels. His unique blend of dance and fitness, often described as “Richard Simmons meets Britney Spears,” has garnered over 2 billion YouTube views since 2014. Free workout videos are available on his channel, with a paid subscription option for exclusive content. “My goal is to make dance and working out fun because I personally struggled with exercise, food, and fitness in the past,” Marshall explains.
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Growing up, Marshall, like many in the LGBTQ+ community, often felt marginalized, a feeling that extended to the gym environment. “Traditional fitness imagery and programs often focused solely on physical results,” he says. “Six-pack abs, fat burning – these were the dominant messages, even though that wasn’t my personal fitness goal.” This narrow focus left Marshall feeling excluded and discouraged.
It was through dance that Marshall discovered the true joy of movement and the positive impact it could have on his well-being. “I realized the power of fitness when I stopped viewing it as punishment and started seeing it as something I could enjoy,” he reflects. This transformative experience inspired him to create a welcoming and inclusive space for others through his videos. “I wanted to empower people to exercise without fear or intimidation,” Marshall shares.
His core advice is to avoid comparisons and focus on personal progress. “Show up for yourself,” he emphasizes. “Every step counts. Completing two extra workouts compared to last week is an achievement.” He encourages realistic goal setting and emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process. This positive approach is central to his fitness philosophy and the success of his programs.
The accessibility of online workouts has been crucial in breaking down barriers for many. “People who might have hesitated to join in-person classes are now thriving in the comfort of their homes,” Marshall observes. “The internet has empowered individuals to step outside their comfort zones and embrace fitness with newfound confidence.”
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When asked about the secret to his widespread appeal, Marshall’s response is refreshingly simple: “It’s just being myself. People connect with authenticity and a lack of intimidation.” He acknowledges that his style isn’t for everyone, but it resonates deeply with those who appreciate a lighthearted and enjoyable approach to fitness. This authenticity is further reinforced by his willingness to embrace imperfections. He recounts a live stream workout where he fell three times, highlighting the importance of not striving for unattainable perfection.
Marshall’s partnership with Little Leaf Farms, a salad company, further exemplifies his fun-loving approach. The “Show Us Your Shake” contest encourages fans to share creative salad-shaking videos for a chance to win $10,000. This collaboration perfectly aligns with Marshall’s philosophy of infusing joy and silliness into healthy habits.
