Written by Sreya Sanyal
The Fitness Marshall brought his scintillating moves to Singapore, where sweaty crowds donning their best sportswear danced away in unison to danced to chart-topping songs such as Swalla, I’m A Slave For U, Shape Of You, and Side To Side.
Accompanied by his “Backup Booties” Bria Nachele and Haley Jordan, Caleb Marshall AKA the Fitness Marshall set the Vivocity stage on fire with his empowering routines for the the Body x The Fitness Marshall Dance Party, hosted by Cotton On Body.
After thoroughly sweating for two hours, ZALORA also managed to engage in in conversation with the man himself, the Fitness Marshall, where he opens up his inspirations, distaste for traditional cardio and love of sweet potatoes.
1. What first sparked your interest in fitness and why did you decide to go into the business?
This goes back to me being 8 years old and obsessed with Britney Spears. Since I was a child, I thought my calling was to somehow be Britney Spears. Then I got to College and started teaching these dance fitness workouts and I realized my calling was to be a Richard Simmons version of Britney Spears. So I started producing my own content and by the time I graduated, I had reached 100,000 subscribers — so it was at that moment I knew that this is what I’m supposed to do with my life.
2. What is the concept behind your brand of fitness training?
The Fitness Marshall is for everyone no matter who you are what you look like or what your fitness background is. People get to dance, feel sexy, feel empowered and be their most authentic self. It’s a physical, mental and spiritual workout.
3. Are Fitness Marshall’s workouts appropriate for those who have old injuries?
Absolutely. You just do what you can and modify as necessary. You can still get an intense sweat on.
4. Not everyone is of the same fitness level. In your group classes, how do you accommodate varying fitness levels?
The Fitness Marshall is all about inclusion regardless of fitness background. It’s not about getting the moves right, it’s about moving and having fun while doing it. I also always include level variations for people who want a lower impact version.
5. What is the most effective exercise for busy people?
The Fitness Marshall videos on YouTube 😉
6. Who are your favourite athletes or fitness inspirations?
Richard Simmons for sure. He really pioneered this dance fitness craze and made people feel comfortable being themselves by being his most authentic self. It’s really amazing what he stands for and I absolutely look up to him.
7. Do you keep a strict diet? Do you have any indulgences or cheat days?
Both. I eat very clean. But I also just smashed a tub of ice cream last night. It’s all about balance.
8. What do you look for in your workout clothes?
Tank tops. Sweats. Trackpants. Sneakers. I love being comfortable when I move and being in clothes that don’t restrict me. Before I buy any camp joggers and get in the most crazy position possible and make sure the fabric can handle it. I don’t want anything limiting my movement
9. What exercises do you do when you can’t get to the gym?
I dance. It’s what my body naturally gravitates towards. I do not have the attention span to do traditional cardio, I just can’t. Five minutes on a treadmill and I have to tap out.
10. What is one superfood you swear by and how do you eat it?
Sweet Potatoes. Baked sweet potatoes, sweet potato fries, sweet potato soup, sweet potato noodles I LOVE SWEET POTATOES.
11. What is the best advice you have received about body image/fitness/keeping a positive outlook?
Celebrate the small steps. It’s not about overhauling your life in a week and getting instant results. Every new step towards your goal is a victory that should be celebrated. Just getting off the couch and doing one dance is amazing!
12. Where do you see yourself in the next, five years?
Sitting on a golden throne that reads “King Of Cardio”.
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What are some of your favourite workout videos by the Fitness Marshall?