Disclosure: this page may include affiliate links which may earn me a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Since my original review of 21 Day Fix program exploded with over 280 comments, I thought it might be time to answer some of your most frequently asked questions all in one place.
Then as I began writing this post, I quickly realized it could end up being 10,000 plus words, and for that reason, this is going to be a two-part post.
This post will go over the 21 Day Fix most frequently asked questions related to the workouts.
While I understand this may not cover everything and will most likely be expanding at some point, I hope this post gets people immediate answers and not have to wait for a comment back.
And of course, if there’s a question you still have after looking through these 21 Day Fix FAQs, please leave a comment below.
And just as a reminder, I am neither the creator nor producer of this popular at-home workout program. These questions and answers are based upon my personal experience with the programs and from the people I have coached.
Here they are in no particular order.
Q. Do I have to do the workouts?
A. While it is said diet accounts for 60-80% of your results, exercise is also a crucial component to your overall health and well-being.
If you do your own exercise program or go to the gym everyday and just want to follow the 21 Day Fix diet with the containers, please take a look at the Portion Fix. The Portion Fix is basically the program without the workouts.
If you believe the workouts are going to be overly intense for you to begin with, but you’d like to do them in the future, I would suggest ordering the complete program with the workouts to save money in the long-run. Then, begin with a walking program and then start to slowly incorporate some of the easier workouts like Yoga. Follow the workout to the best of your ability and make use of the modifier – they are there for a reason!
So to be brief, yes you should be doing the workouts as this is how the overall program and eating plan was designed to be followed to get you the best results.
Q. Can I do the 21 Day Fix workouts and go to the gym?
A. I would advise against following the program and going to the gym, at least if you’re an exercise newbie. When you do both, you could risk overdoing it, which can actually prevent you from getting the results you want, rather than help you get the results you want quicker.
The program is designed to get you into the habit of daily exercise and is 7 days a week. Not all of the days are as intense as others as the lesser intense workout days give your body time to recover.
Remember, your body is not changing during your workouts. Change comes when you are resting and recovering. The workout is the stimulus.
Also, if you are following the diet exactly as it’s prescribed, the eating plan assumes you are only doing the 21 Day Fix workouts only. This means if you do add extra workouts, you may need to add a container or two. Remember…always listen to your body.
Q. I have “x” injury, will I be able to do this program?
A. I am not a doctor or a medical profession. If you have a concern about a medical condition, I suggest talking to your health care professional before beginning any new exercise program.
If your doctor asks what type of exercise the 21 Day Fix workouts involve, you could tell them this:
The workouts are ½ hour each. Some days are cardio-based workouts, other days a strength-based and there are also Pilates and Yoga workouts. There are modifiers who show less intense and low impact versions of each exercise, so it is not crazy like P90X or Insanity.
And above else, if you feel pain, stop the exercise immediately, and then modify or walk it out. If it is muscle burn, keep pushing!
Q. I’m “x” amount overweight will I be able to follow the workouts?
A. We all have to start somewhere. If you are injury free with no major illness or disease, you should be fine. Just take the workouts at your own pace, take it a day at a time, and you will start to see improvements in energy and endurance before you know it.
Once again, when in doubt, nothing can replace the advice of a health care professional.
Q. At what time should I do the workouts?
A. You should do the workouts at a time that is most convenient for you. That is always the best time to work out.
And scientifically speaking, there is no clear best time as studies are often contradictory. Yes, people may burn a few more calories working out in a fasted state in the morning, but that same person might burn more calories by working out later in the day when they have more energy to put into their workouts.
That being said, working out in the morning before the day gets hectic is often the most convenient time for the majority of people. So, if you struggle to get in your workouts in or if something always seem to come up, maybe get up a little earlier to get your workout taken first thing.
Make the workouts a part of your daily schedule. Put them in your planner, and that way, you won’t make excuses!
Q. What should I do when I finish 21 Day Fix program?
A. You have completed three weeks of the 21 Day Fix, congratulations! But don’t stop now! The 21 Day Fix is such a well rounded program you could literally follow it for life by just beginning over again.
Here is what I suggest: Reassess where you are at.
- Are your goals the same as when you began?
- Do you still find the workouts challenging?
- Are you getting bored with the workouts?
- Do you want to take it to a more extreme level?
Take a look at these questions and then decide if you want to do another round of the 21 Day Fix or move on. For instance, if you love Autumn, but want to update the workout intensity, you should definitely take a look at the 21 Day Fix Extreme program to take your workouts up a notch.
I have coached people who continuously cycle through the 21 Day Fix program. When their day 21 ends, they are on day 1 again. I also have another person who found 21 days on, 7 days off, and then repeat the program again works amazing for them.
What you do after is entirely up to you. Just be sure to keep with the healthy lifestyle choices that the 21 Day Fix teaches. You can always contact me if you need help deciding on what program would next be best for your goals.
Q. How heavy of weights do I need?
A. It depends upon your fitness level. For beginner’s, I would recommend a 3 lb , 5 lb , and 8 lb pound dumbbell set for women. For beginning men, 5 lb, 10 lb, and 15 lb pound dumbbells to start. Intermediates and advanced should add 5-10 ibs to those numbers.
Q. How long are the workouts?
A. Each workout is around thirty minutes in length. They are short but intense, a great workout without wasted time.
Any More Questions?
If you have any questions or additions regarding specifically the 21 Day Fix workouts, please leave a comment below.





Hi Bethany,
I am waiting for my 21 day fix to come to me. I ordered it last week. I am so excited to start on my new journey. I have a question regarding the workouts. I have arthritis in my knees and cannot kneel or get down on the floor at this point. I am sure once I begin losing the weight, I will be able to do this much easier. In the meantime, can I still do the workouts but a milder version of same? I heard there is a “moderate” version on the DVDs along with the regular workouts. Thanks.
Denise
Hi Denise, There is a lady named Kat in the videos that performs the low-intensity, low impact versions of each exercise. If you can not kneel on the floor you could try using a bench to support yourself with hand for some of the floor exercises. Bethany
Hi i have already ordered the program but i have a few questions. I have been exercising at least 5 days a week weights and machines and Pilates for the last 2 months. I have seen results in I am 20 to 30 lbs over weight all in my belly. I have seen results in strength and muscle gains as well as toning of arms and legs but i can not seem to lose my gut. I have achieved no weight loss but i also know that can be because muscle weighs more than fat. I own a bar so sometimes i do not have regular eating times because of my crazy schedule and sometimes pig out after a late night at work and also have a few beers after a long night usually. I love to lift weights and my pilates classes as well as kayaking and i actually eat pretty healthy. Is this program for me? Can i continue my other workouts along with doing the 21 day fix workouts and eating program?
PS. i do over 100 sit ups every day
Hi Travis, Yes, the program sounds like a good fit for you. I would recommend following the diet portion of the program too though. What you described to me does not sound like a healthy and the Fix diet will help you in that area tremendously. Bethany
Can someone with irritable bowel syndrome do the 21 day fix diet? Thank you.
Yes, being whole foods based makes it a great option. Bethany
I am trying to run to train for half marathon and 1 week into 21 day fix – worried my body is going to wear out with no rest since trying to run on low intensity days? Do you recommend the running on yoga, Pilates days or could I run one day and then double up and do successive workouts in one day like dirty thirty and yoga? Also if feeling need for more food with running how many and which containers do you suggest adding?
Hi Kim, You could mix in a rest day once or twice a week to if your body needs the rest. And, you could doubl up on the light 21 Day Fix workouts, I like that idea. I would begin by adding in a red container, then yellow, then blue. Bethany
I’m pretty active, doing some intense hiking & kayaking 1-2 × per week, & running 3-4 x per week. Can the food plan & containers be adjusted on those “heavy calorie burning” days?
HI Michelle, Yes you can add in additional containers. Bethany
Hi! i just bought the 21 day fix and about to start on it, but i got it on a Wednesday. Would it be okay to start on the Lower Fix instead of the Total Body Cardio fix?
Hi Ellene, You could do that or just do Monday’s workout and call it day 1. Bethany
Can the workouts be done at night ?
Hi Christal, You can do the workouts at night. But, I would not workout to close to bedtime as it might interfere with your ability to fall asleep. Bethany
Hi – I’m on Day three – and am so sore (thighs) that the idea of doing the leg work out when I can barely manage to sit without leaning on something seems impossible. Can I redo upper today?
Hi Lee, Your legs are sore from Total Body Cardio Fix? I would not do upper body on back-to-back days. I would try lower fix or barre legs and see if your muscles loosen up as you warm-up. Bethany
Looking at purchasing the 21 day fix, but want to be able to continue running. Is that allowable and/or does the instructions help with food adjustments for longer workouts?
Hi Anna, You can do that, just be sure to track how you feel. If you start to feel low on energy, add a container or two. Bethany
What containers would you add? My husband and I are also active (in addition to the workouts) and frankly, I feel hungry a lot of the time. I am getting headaches and I know I could feel better. I’m on the lowest level of food and feeling really frustrated as this is day 8.
Hi Katie, I would start with a green, yellow, or red container. Bethany
I am currently in the T-25 Beta phase and am starting to portion my food based on the 21 Day Fix using the colored containers. Do you recommend the workout plan associated with the 21 Day Fix program over the workouts through T-25? I am unsure if I want to purchase an additional set of workout DVDs as I already have several Beach Body Programs.
Hi Meredith, No I do not favor the 21 Day Fix workouts over T25. Bethany
I managed to get you transferred over as my coach at Beachbody.com and I was just reading up on a few things. One question. Where can I get more containers if I end up going with the 21 Day Fix? (which is what I’m leaning toward).
Thanks Bethany. Looking forward to having you as my coach!
Hi Shannon, Thanks for making me your coach! You can order an extra set of containers through your account, here is the direct link also. I’ll be responding to your email shortly. Bethany
Hello,
I just purchased the 21 Day Fix Extreme – I just had a baby and am interested in the program for mainly the portion control. I also purchased the extreme because I have read that the workouts on the regular program are not that challenging however it’s my understanding that the meal plan is different.
1. What is the biggest difference between the meal planning in the two programs
2. Is it true that if I am nursing, I should jump to the next category?
Hi Ericka, There are no treats in the Extreme version and the list of allowed foods is smaller. Yes, you should increase your calories when nursing, it would be best to consult your doctor on this for the exact amount. Bethany
I weigh 250 and my wife weighs 125 so how do the portions compare. Do we really eat the same amount? Of so, I am going to starve. Or does the program take body weight into account and slowly cut you back?
Hi Jim, There is different calorie levels depending upon weight. And, yes you do drop down levels as you lose weight. Bethany
I am considering ordering the program, but am unsure about ordering the shakes. They are costly and I haven’t seen you post about the rewards of including the shakes in the diet. Would you recommend them or will I get the same results without them? Thanks! Ashley
Hi Ashley, That is something you’re going to have decide for yourself. I stress to people to do research, I do recommend them, but they are not magic, still takes hard work and commitment for best results. Bethany
Hi I have been doing the 21 day fix for 4 days now and I am very sore, to the point that it is hard to even walk up and down stairs, do you suggest continuing and it will get better or is it better to take a rest day and let the body recover a little?
HI Jean, You could take a rest day, take the workout of the day really easy or substitute in the Yoga workout for the day. A little movement will help ease the muscle soreness, helping you to recover quicker. Bethany
Hi there,
How does this program compare to the PIYO? I am trying to decide between the 2. I am 210# and have some knee issues upon excursion. Haven’t worked out in a couple of years. I have in the past done turbo jam. It did bother my knees, and insanity was… Insane. Could not do it! I am not as concerned about physique as I am health benefits! Appreciate the input!
Lorene
Hi Lorene, The diets are similar, PiYo is a little more open with foods allowed. PiYo uses measurements for counting servings and 21 Day Fix the containers. For the workouts themselves, the 21 Day Fix has strength training with weights, a couple cardio based workouts, circuit workout and recovery. PiYo is more specific towards Yoga and Pilate moves, PiYo is low impact, but the workouts do get your heart pumping and blood flowing, PiYo is all body weight so you do a of push-ups and plank moves. Bethany
Can I do the workouts only and follow my own diet?
Yes, but remember diet could account for as much as 80% of your results.
I just started the 21 day fix and I’m a bit stumped. If I have 4 greens can I mix 4 items together and fit in four tubs. Or do I have to limit one tub for an item? I hope I explained It correctly. For example can I make up 4 tubs of spinach and cherry tomatoes? As long as it fits in tub?
Hi Lisa, Yes you can.
My husband & I both just finished the 21 day fix extreme workout & we were both highly disappointed in the results we got.
Yes we both lost a couple of pounds but we were expecting to see obvious results .
Very disappointed in this program.
Hi Donna, A couple pounds in a few weeks is nothing to look down at. Did you follow the diet or just the workouts? Bethany
I like the nutritional program with the 21 Day Fix, but I have found an inconsistency between the booklet and the information regarding the blue food container. The videos say that if you can fill a container with the advised foods, you are free to eat it all. The blue container is for cheeses and nuts. The booklet says to use 12 whole almonds or 8 walnuts for the blue container, but neither of those portions fills the container even half full, so what to do ?
Hi Sherry, There are a couple of exceptions to the rule. The nuts being one of them. Nuts are more calorie dense so they are limited. Go with what the booklet says when measuring them. Bethany
Thanks so much, Bethany –I’m finishing the second round of 21 days with one week off in between. I’m down 10 pounds –without doing the DVD’s as it’s gardening season, but I hope to start them soon. This program is soooo doable ! I’m a lifetime member of Weight Watcher’s, but I was always hungry whenever I tried to lose weight on their program and eventually gave up –several times ! Despite the appearance of limited food size of the containers, I can honestly say that I’ve had no cravings while I’ve been on the 21 Day Fix –a minor miracle for me ! I used to think that there was something seriously wrong with me because I was always hungry ! This is the best and most nutritious weight reduction program that I have ever come across and tried ! I have just about every diet book out there –now someone else may have them ! Even my husband is impressed and has been reducing his intake, especially of excess carbs. Oh, I forgot to mention that I’m 70 –never too late !
You’re welcome! Thanks for sharing. Bethany
Hi, i was just wondering does it matter what day you start the fix? Like if i started on a saturday can i start with monday’s workout and go in order like that? I don’t wanna wait until monday to start
Hi Taylor. Yes, you could start the schedule on any day of the week. I usually end up doing the same thing.