My 21 Day Fix Review with Real World Personal Results

21-day-fix-results

After purchasing and actually following the 21 Day Fix program exactly for three weeks, I decided to share my thoughts on this at-home workout. Is the promise of losing up to 15 lbs in just 21 days realistic? It depends.

I posted my original 21 Day Fix review in 2014. In 2019, I decided to make some major updates after seeing hundreds of women and men making long-lasting changes to their lifestyles. Learn how you you can to!

The program was originally marketed as more of a quick fix, but I think it is so much more than that. Yes, you can definitely drop the initial weight pretty quickly following the 21 Day Fix plan, but I like the program best for those who are also looking to make a permanent lifestyle change while also being up for some seriously quick weight loss.

Here is my maybe a little too honest 21 Day Fix review of what I loved about the program and what wasn’t necessarily my favorite.

The Trainer Behind The Fix: Introducing Autumn Calabrese

Beachbody Super Trainer Autumn Calabrese
Autumn Calabrese

Autumn Calabrese is the celebrity trainer and fitness competitor responsible for this program. Pairing up with Team Beachbody, Autumn is responsible for the portion-controlled eating and well-rounded exercise routine.

The mother-of-one brings her own unique training and motivational style to the table. When compared to other Beachbody trainers I’ve had experience of working out with like Shaun T, Tony Horton, Chalene Johnson and Leandro Carvalho, Autumn is calmer and always reassuring.

I like to think of her training style kind of like your bff, offering words of encouragement. She always has a way of throwing in a motivational saying right when you need it most – for example, when you really want to give up on the move you’re doing. she will get you to push through.

Who the 21 Day Fix is Perfect For

21 Day Fix base kit unboxed on desk
Simple nutrition, simple fitness. Here is what you get with the 21 Day Fix base kit – 21 Day Fix Nutrition Guide, Quick Start, 3 Day Quick Fix, Portion Control Containers, and Workouts.

The 21 Day Fix is  not only designed to get you looking as good as you could possibly look in 21 days, it’s also about teaching you how to eat healthier in proper portions.

It’s about learning to eliminate processed foods and making exercise a part of your daily routine – not just for the 3 weeks of the program, but to create a lifestyle change.

The Basics Behind This Program

  1. You work out 7 days a week for 30 minutes with a mixture of strength training, cardiovascular and recovery workouts to get into the habit of exercising daily.
  2. Portion control diet system: You use the 21 Day Fix-approved 7 color-coded containers to make sure you’re eating the right amount of food in the correct macro-nutrient percentages for optimal health and weight loss.

The Nutrition Plan
The eating plan is for the beginner and/or for someone who struggles with bad eating habits:

  • It’s not a starvation diet.
  • It’s a well-rounded sustainable way of eating (eating healthy, no eliminating or restricting food groups)
  • You can expect pretty fast weight loss in the beginning followed by gradual sustainable weight loss when doing multiple rounds.

The 21 Day Fix workout program was created to help you lose up to 15 lbs in 21 days through simple fitness and simple eating. Its Portion Control eating system and seven, 30-minute workouts each week are designed to burn calories and eat the correct portions of the right foods. The unique aspect of this workout program is not so much the workouts but the simple nutrition plan. If it doesn’t fit into the color-coded container or isn’t listed in the eating plan, you don’t eat it. Simple!

Why the 21 Day Fix Program is Unique! The Colored Portion Control Containers

21 Day Fix Portion Control Container System

There’s a promise to help you lose weight or get in shape almost everywhere you look. But for the most part, it’s the same old stuff we’ve all tried and failed with in the past.

The portion control containers are what make the 21 Day Fix program a unique and effective program. It’s also what makes the program easy to follow for anyone.

The containers  are color-coded for a foolproof diet plan. Whatever fits into the container from the specific food group is what you’re allowed to eat. It’s better than calorie counting, because if it’s an approved food and it fits, you can eat it. You can even sneak in that glass of wine in exchange for a yellow container, which I just think is amazing – and just makes it better to know nothing is totally off limits(remember it’s a lifestyle).

Here’s the breakdown of containers you’ll receive and what they’re for:

  • Green: Vegetables
  • Purple: Fruits
  • Red: Protein
  • Yellow: Complex Carbohydrates
  • Blue: Healthy Fats and Cheese
  • Orange: Seeds and Oils

Research into portion control shows that eating larger portions of foods and beverages is linked to being overweight. With the use of proper portion control and the consumption of high energy dense foods several trials to improve weight loss.

The 21 Day Fix diet is not just an “eat less” and lose weight approach. There is a real focus on choosing the right foods that supply your body with the nutrients it needs to look and feel your best.

Sample Foods from the Different Color Categories

Green Purple Red YellowBlueOrange
Kale RaspberriesChickenYamsAvocadoPumpkin Seeds
SpinachBlueberriesTurkeyBeansAlmondsSunflower Seeds
AsparagusBlackberriesEggsWild RiceCashewsSesame Seeds
BroccoliPomegranateYogurtBrown ricePeanutsFlaxseed
BeetsWatermelonShellfishPotatoWalnutsChia Seeds
TomatoesCantaloupeFishCornHummusPine Nuts
CeleryOrangeLean BeefOatmealCotijaOlives
PeppersTangerineTofuPastaCheddarPeanuts
CucumbersGrapesWild GameLentilsParmesanCoconut

This is just a sample of foods, there are lots more foods included in the nutrition guide. There are also oils and nut butters which are measured with a tsp(gray) and a list of free foods that you can have without limits.

Depending on your weight and your weight loss goals, you first calculate your daily calorie needs, which sets you up for your plan level. Then you look into how many of each colored container you get each day depending upon your meal plan level. 

Container Level Examples

Below is a quick chart I put together to give you an idea of just how much food you will get to enjoy on this program.

WEIGHT<169 LBS169-195 LBS196-222 LBS>223 LBS
CONTAINERS1200-1499
Calories
1500-1799
Calories
1800-2099
Calories
2100-2300
Calories
Green3456
Purple2334
Red4456
Yellow2344
Blue1111
Orange1111
Tsp2456

What to Love About the 21 day Fix Portion Control System

  • Measuring is made simple, no scale or calculations!
  • You’ll eat a variety of foods in the right portions to fuel your energy levels.
  • You will not starve! The containers look little but you get to eat multiples of most. In fact, I most often hear how women are unable to finish all their containers.
  • It’s all about balance.

Remember the 21 Day Fix is not a starvation diet. It is about eating the right foods in the right amounts to make life long changes.

The containers look small, but you’ll be amazed at the amount of food that hits your plate. In fact, one of the most common concerns I hear are those wondering what to do when they can’t finish all their food for the day. This is what happens when you start eating healthy and stop filling your plate with empty calories.

21 Day Fix Container Tracking Sheet on Fridge

Tips for making the most of your containers:

  • Track everything.
  • Meal prep your snacks.
  • Have a list of easy, convenient meals. The FIXATE cookbook is a great help!
  • Keep a copy of you tracking sheet on your fridge or where you will see it often.

I don’t have the exact copy of the 21 Day Fix tally sheet I used above, but do have a link to a three day container sheet for your to use.

21 Day Fix Container Fundamentals

It’s definitely not rocket science, but it is an effective way to keep track of how much you’re eating and helps you begin recognizing what actual portion sizes should look like. Hello, giant over sized portions everywhere!!!

Could you follow the program without the containers? I’m sure. But for the several years I’ve helped others lose weight and keep it off, what people have the most success with is an easy-to-understand, step-by-step system that you can easily incorporate into everyday life.

The 21 Day Fix Workouts

The 21 Day Fix has a different 30-minute workout for every day of week. These workouts are designed to burn calories with cardio workouts, tone muscles with strength training, and help you recover with yoga and stretching.

21 day fix upper fix workout screenshot

The Workouts:

  • Total Body Cardio Fix: This is a total body cardio workout that will send your heart rate soaring and help burn fat. Be prepared to sweat!
  • Upper Fix: Get yourself ready to tone up that upper body (including those annoying arm flaps) with upper body targeted resistance training. You will work your chest, back, arms, abs, and shoulders.
  • Lower Fix: As the name implies, you will tighten up and tone your booty, thighs and calves while burning fat.
  • Pilates Fix: This is your active recovery workout. Like Pilates, this workout strengthens, lengthens and firms up your muscles.
  • Cardio Fix: This is another sweat fest. Get ready to burn some serious fat in this heart pumping workout.
  • Yoga Fix: This is another active recovery workout that is pretty relaxing compared to the previous day’s workout. I always felt stronger, more flexible, and balanced after this workout.
  • Dirty 30: This is the bonus workout. You’ll do four rounds of calorie-blasting exercises to help give you a leaner, stronger physique.
  • 10-Minute Abs: This short routine will help you burn fat and carve a lean core.
  • Plyo Fix: This workout has 6 rounds of pretty hard core cardio that will help melt fat. This one isn’t technically in the normal calendar, but you can use it in place of another cardio workout.

You can make these workouts as hard or as easy as you need. If you find the workouts too easy, simply bump up the weight and amp up the intensity of your  cardio workouts. After all, if you’re not challenging your body, you’re not going to change your body(I stole that from Autumn).

The 21 Day Fix Workout Schedule

You work out 7 days a week on The Fix. While the schedule does start on a Monday for easy tracking, you can begin the workouts any day that works for you. The most important part is to stick with the order that the workouts are listed in (no jumping around).

21 Day Fix Workout Schedule by Day

If you do end up missing a workout, there are a two simple options to get back on track:

  1. Double up the next day (do the workout you missed first, separating them if you can).
  2. Push the entire schedule back one day. Of the two methods, I prefer option one, because then you still complete the program in just 21 days.

Tips to working out 7 days a week:

If you haven’t been working out or have an extremely busy schedule, it can be difficult to stick with a new routine. Here are a few tips to help you get those workouts in:

  1. Schedule your workouts into your day. Write down when and where you will work out. Example: I will do my 21 Day Fix workout 30 minutes after I wake up, in the living room, before work.
  2. Prep your workout space. Have your DVD or streaming workout ready to play instead of having to search for it.
  3. Lay out your workout clothes next to your bed if you’re working out in the morning or have them waiting for you when you get home.
  4. Just do it even if you don’t feel like working out. Tell yourself you’ll just work out for 5 minutes and if you don’t want to continue after 5 minutes, you’ll stop. 90% of the time, you will finish your workout.

Once you create the work out habit, it is very hard to break. When you do end up missing a workout, you’ll feel a little lost without it (or disappointed in yourself) and get right back to your workouts.

The Fix Moves and Following the Modifier

21 Day Fix exercise example - single arm row in plank position
Exercise moves that work multiple muscle groups including the stabilizer and core muscles all in one movement. 

I was completely blown away that the 21 Day Fix is full of combination workout moves I was not familiar with. Renegade rows? Who knew they could be so effective?! But one of the most challenging moves for me were the side plank leg raises….yikes!!!

I definitely had to follow the modifier a lot during my first week. That’s because the moves are designed to hit your muscles from head to toe.

Make sure to listen to how she explains the moves when she first introduces them and watch her demonstration, because there are a lot of background people in the workout videos who will not being doing the same move at the same exact time or the exact same way. If you didn’t pay attention, you might get a little confused about who best to watch with many of them performing the moves in slightly different ways based on their fitness level and ability. Re-shot 21 Day Fix real time workouts are much better(covered below).

There is always a modifier!

Think you’ll have a hard time keeping up with the 21 Day Fix? Don’t worry!!! There will always be someone (Kat) who is doing a less intense version than Autumn. If you’re having trouble keeping up or have bad knees, make sure to watch how that move is done.

What Equipment You’ll Need for 21 Day Fix

You will need a few different sized weights or an exercise band and a yoga mat to do the 21 Day Fix. If you’ve been away from exercise for a while, you may be able to get away with using your own body weight as resistance for a couple workouts. But you will need the added resistance to help will help tone you up and build strength.

For beginners:

3lb, 5lb, and 8lb dumbbells or a resistance band

For intermediates/advanced:

5lb, 10lb, and 15lb dumbbells or a resistance band

A yoga mat or core comfort mat will also be of use to you when you do the floor moves. It’s not a necessity, but it’s a great investment especially for the comfort of your knees and back.

My Own 3 Week 21 Day Fix Results

Sorry about the before pictures being at a weird angle and the German Shepherd at my feet! But as you can see from my 21 Day Fix result pictures, I definitely toned up everywhere, especially in my shoulders and my abs – you can see my oblique muscles for once! My thighs got more definition in just three weeks, which is good for me since that’s where I have I tend to store most of my fat. No more jiggling by day 21! In the end, I lost 5.3 lbs, which was more than I expected since I did not have much to lose to begin.

My 21 Day Fix Results, front, side, and back photos
My 21 Day Fix results. I say the biggest difference in my thighs/hips. losing the jiggle!

I think these pictures tell the story of what you can really achieve in just just 21 days – not that I was big to begin with, but you can see the definition and fat loss. 

The Kind of Results I’ve Seen

Will you really drop the amount of weight that is promised in just three weeks? It depends on a lot of factors. If you have more than a few pounds to lose and follow the included 3 Day Quick Fix, you could do very well.

The most weight loss I’ve seen others get with this program are from a man who lost 14lbs in three weeks, and a woman who lost 11lbs in three weeks. Both of these individuals stuck to the plan exactly, drank Shakeology every day, never missed a workout, followed the doubles schedule during week 3, and they followed the 3 Day Quick Fix the final three days of their first round. It should also be noted they had more than 30 lbs to lose.

21 Day Fix Pricing Update for 2019 with New Offers

21 Day Pricing Update, includes original and extreme
Get Both the Original 21 Day Fix & 21 Day Fix Extreme

Here’s exactly what’s included with the accessories package:

  • The Workouts: The seven workouts are all around 30 minutes long, which really fit well into your schedule no matter how busy you are.
  • The Portion Control System: This is the Tupperware-looking color-coded containers that make eating healthy foolproof. You’ll get one green, one purple, one red, one yellow, one blue, and two orange containers.
  • Shakeology Shaker Cup: To mix up your protein shake.
  • 21 Day Fix Eating Plan: An easy-to-follow, portion-control diet plan with plain and simple recipes. Think make-your-own spices to put on top of chicken breast.
  • 3 Day Quick Fix: To jump start your weight loss or end with a bang, this is a 3-day diet plan designed to maximize fat loss and get you well on your way to a leaner, sexier you.
  • 24/7 Online Support: This is something useful that comes with any Beachbody product you purchase. It’s great for whenever you’re looking for support and/or motivation to keep you going when things get tough.

In 2019, the 21 Day Fix program was re-branded to include both the 21 Day Fix & 21 Day Fix EXTREME. Basically, you now get both programs (EXTREME workouts are harder and the nutrition is more strict) if you decide to order the 21 Day Fix DVDs and Accessories Bundle. The best part is the price is the same at $59.95 when the 21 Day Fix was originally released even though you’re now getting two programs.

How to Stream the 21 Day Fix

Getting two for one is not the only change since the original release of the 21 Day Fix, you can now also stream the 21 Day Fix workouts and all other Beachbody workouts (and get all the included guides) with Beachbody On Demand. And to even make it better, the workouts of the Original & EXTREME were re-shot in real-time for 21 days each (42 workouts).

21 day fix free trial offer with Beachbody On Demand

On June 1, 2017 Beachbody updated the service terms and conditions of Beachbody On Demand, so you can now try the complete service free for 14 days. All Beachbody workout can be streamed and the program materials can be downloaded/viewed digitally.

With this membership program, you also get unlimited access to all Beachbody workouts, both current and future releases. Here is the sign-up link to the free 14-day trial (scroll down to the bottom right.) Membership plans can be upgraded or canceled at any time.

There is also the 21 Day Fix Challenge Pack or Performance Pack option. These options include a bag of Shakeology or Beachbody Performance Supplement shipped on Home Direct (monthly auto-ship). The HD shipping is a discounted shipping charge of only $2, which you can cancel at any time. The challenge packs and performance packs are the best value by far.

Purchasing these items separately would cost:

  • 21 Day Fix base kit – $59.85 (value)
  • Shakeology flavor of your choice on HD – $129.95 (value)
  • Bonus Dirty 30 Workout DVD – $19.95 (value)
  • Free 30-Day Membership to Beachbody On Demand – $13.00 (value)

These packs start $160 and can only be ordered through Team Beachbody (scroll down). They equal about a $70 savings than if you ordered the two products separately. You can’t get much better than that, since Shakeology is literally a game changer when it comes to losing weight and feeling healthy. I know I love the convenience of replacing a meal with a shake – especially now with a toddler running around!

Hopefully that helps break down all of the different options and costs of the 21 Day Fix for you!

Another Update: 21 Day Fix Real Time Workouts

New 21 Day and 21 Day Fix Extreme Shot in Real Time Workouts
Forty Two Re-shot Workouts in Real Time available with Beachbody On Demand only.

I touched on this a little bit above. Both the original workouts and extreme workouts were redone. This means no having to repeat the same workout twice in a single round. I also do like the real time workouts a little more than the originals that were put on DVD (there’s a lot more energy). I don’t think you can wrong either way though!

Final Thoughts About the 21 Day Fix

The 21 Day Fix is an at-home workout program that will definitely get you in the habit of eating healthier and recognizing how much food you really should be eating at a sitting. It’s not the most exciting workout I’ve ever done (other people LOVE the workouts…just see the comments below!), I will admit that the workouts are VERY effective at getting you in much better physical and cardiovascular shape and will help you lose weight.

Whether you’re getting ready for an upcoming event or getting on the right track to reaching your greater weight loss goal through a lifestyle change, the 21 Day Fix is definitely a program to consider.

Have a question or experience with the program? Please leave me a comment below and I’ll try my best to respond within 24 hours.

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748 thoughts on “My 21 Day Fix Review with Real World Personal Results”

  1. Aside from the exercises that are with the program, should I be aiming to do a certain amount of steps or anything with the program? I’m more sedentary right now than I usually am with the quarantine in effect.

    1. There is nothing in the 21 Day Fix program that says you need to be walking a certain amount of steps with that said there is nothing that says you can’t either. Getting outside during times like these is certainly not a bad idea, even just for our mental health.

  2. I started the 21 day fix 12 days ago. But I also did a 6 week program right before. Literally nothing is happening. I eat pretty clean, every so often I fall victim to my job where they are always provided free, junk food snacks and catering. But I do really well there. I have recently added intermittent fasting to the mix, my boyfriend and I are starting to jog 3 days a week next month and I am starting to obsess. I can see a few things changing, like my arms. But other than that, my body looks and measures the same almost 2 months later. Help please.

    1. Hi Olivia, Sounds like you are little frustrated. Change will come and it does not happen at the same speed for everyone. Are you using the containers to measure your food or just winging it? I also noticed you mentioned a boyfriend, if he is working out along side you, it can be extra frustrating as most men have a genetic advantage of building muscle and losing weight faster than we do. Photos are another good way to measure progress, I can almost guarantee you there is changes that the scale and/or measurements are missing.

      1. I have been just kinda winging it. I have the containers and I base my meals loosely on them. But I don’t follow the portions to a T. Should I start my round over? It’s been on my mind to start it over and follow them exact.

      2. I would try doing your first round as close to possible as the program suggests. Then after that you will have more of a feeling for what works and some things you may want to change. I don’t necessarily think you need to start over, I would just try and really use those containers and try not to skip any either, they are all important. :)

  3. Hey there, are you still taking comments?

    I just started doing 21 day fix 3 days ago and i am not seeing any difference. Should i stop the workout or continue? I am NOT a workout type of a guy. I would rather eat healthy than to push my self to my max limit.

    1. 3 Days is really to soon to expect to see a difference. If you search my site for how long to see workout results I posted a more in depth article about the subject.

  4. I am about to start the 21 day fix program. I already use an elliptical six days a week (the elliptical has resistance arms). Can I just continue with this or is there a reason to switch to one or more beachbody exercises? By “reason”, I mean effectiveness losing weight, not other exercise goals. Thanks!

    1. Hi Chad, Weight loss is going to happen as long as you create a calorie deficit. Burn more calories than you consume and you will lose weight. With that said elliptical training is going to burn calories and so will Beachbody programs.

  5. I’m on day 18 and I feel great. I don’t necessarily need to lose weight I just want to tone. What should I do after the 21 days is up?

    1. Hi Amanda, If you are enjoying the workouts you can always repeat another round. There are also the 21 Day Fix Extreme workouts that you could also progress to or another program all together. And since you want to maintain your weight you would want to recalculate your calories/containers by multiplying your body weight by 11 and adding 400 calories to get your calorie target.

    1. Of course! Results are going to vary on a lot of factors. Shakeology is not a requirement with the 21 Day Fix program or any other Beachbody workout.

    1. On the 21 Day Fix you can replace a yellow container up to three times a week with a serving of milk, the amount of the serving depends on the type of milk(almond, cow’s, etc). You can find the full breakdown on page 31 of the 21 Day Fix eating plan.

  6. Hi, Bethany! Thanks for all this great info.! I just finished the 21 Day Fix for the first time! Just today! It was great! I was wondering how to go about doing another cycle – should I just dive right in the next day (nonstop) or rest for a day or so?

  7. Hi! Would you happen to have a template for the Tally Sheet in the sheet protector that you have pictured above? I would love a copy of you’re willing to share? Thank you.

  8. Hi Bethany! I’ve read your reviews of the 21 day fix and Piyo, and am wondering which you would recommend? I have about 15 pounds to lose and currently work out for about 25 minutes, 2 days a week at the gym. My diet really needs help, and I need to keep workouts fairly short due to having 4 very young kids needing me all. the. time. ;) Thanks!

    1. Hi Michelle, The best one is going to be the one you are going to stick with. Both diets are similar. PiYo does not use the portion control containers, but you track servings. The workouts in PiYo are all bodyweight with fluid yoga and pilates moves and 21 Day Fix is more of a classic strength and cardio condition. Beachbody on Demand is a good way to try the workouts with the trial if you want to sample them before committing. Bethany

  9. Hi! I’m doing T25 right now. I’m in Beta, also going to do gamma. It’s doing a number on my feet ( arches), so fingers crossed I can finish it. I love 30 minute workouts, so I was thinking about either the regular 21 day fix or the extreme. Do you recommend one over the other? I’m not doing the meal plan, do you know if bb sells just the DVDs without the containers? Also thinking about the 30 minute px90. Not looking to lose actual pounds (5’5″ 120 pounds) just inches and to tone and get more muscle. Thanks!

    1. Hi Jen, I generally like the original 21 Day Fix workouts more than the extreme workouts but I only did the Extreme workouts once or twice. The original workouts in my opinion can be just as hard as the extreme when you push it but there is less rest periods and more advanced moves in some of the extreme workouts. I do not believe any of the base workouts are sold without the containers on DVD. Beachbody On Demand membership allows access to all of the workouts via online streaming and you would not get the containers that way. As for P90, I’m not to familiar with it, it looks well rounded with a good mix of cardio and strength training but I’ve just never done it so I can’t really say to much. Bethany

      1. Thanks! I’m going to stick with the orginal. I’m sure if my feet make it through t25 gamma, I’ll want to do something a but less extreme. If I want to up it, I’ll up the weights and take shorter breaks. Plus, later I can hybrid it with t25 and bbl. Thanks again!!

      2. I completed 1 round of both 21df and 21dfx. I like both programs, but found 21df to work better for me, funny bc based off info, 21dfx should better help me. I was better able to isolate and burn out my muscles with 21df. Also, I found 21df to focus more on all parts of the body and 21dfx to be more lower body focused. I love how she adds abs/core to most workouts in 21df. I actually found them to be equally difficult, one not more extreme than the other. The big difference for me was the vibe on set: one more extreme. I really Iove both workouts. I didn’t follow the diet, don’t need to lose weight, just want to build muscle and lose a bit of fat around my waist. I’ve started another round of 21df. Oh, I think if there was better modifications in 21dfx anyone could do it. Just thought I’d share incase anyone else is confused which to use. Both are awesome workout programs that I plan to use over and over.

      3. Hi Jen, Thank you so much for sharing this! Great information! I’ve heard from a few people that you can make the original workouts as intense as the extreme workouts just by cranking it up a bit. But I’ve not heard about the lower body focus in the extreme workouts. Thanks again. Bethany

  10. Hi,

    I looked at several of your reviews and I’m confused by your before-and-after pictures… do you take a long break between workout programs? I’m confused on why you would look normal at the beginning of every one, and then suddenly ripped at the end. It seems like you would already be ripped after one program and just continue to look pretty much the same when you did other ones… I’m not trying to be rude at all; I’m just genuinely confused! Are the results of each program super temporary or something?

    1. Hi Raina, Great question! Yes there is breaks between(even a pregnancy). The timeline is almost at 6 years so in between some of the write ups there is pretty big gap. Typically, I’ll continue to exercise and eat healthy but not be as restrictive with my calories when I’m not following a program as for a review or if I have an event. If you look at my first before photos from bbl you will see that I’m never close to the size(about 15-20 lbs less) for pics.

  11. Hi Bethany,
    Thanks for your thorough review of the 21 Day Fix – it is very helpful! I am a big coffee drinker, and I’m wondering if this is okay to continue when I get started. Thank you! ~Allison

    1. Hi Allison, You can have as much coffee as you like. You just have to be careful with what add to it as you will need to count that. If you search coffee on this site you’ll find a more in depth post that I’ve done. Hope this helps. Bethany

  12. Good Morning, Can you tell me about the food. Is it normal stuff that an average person would eat or do I need to start buying weird things. I don’t mind cutting back and eating healthy but I don’t want to start buying things I will never eat again, can you give me an idea of dinner/lunch foods.

    1. Hi Dawn, Great question! Think I will update the post with a few examples but for now a typical breakfast could be something like 2 whole eggs scrambled with spinach and a side of steel cut oatmeal. For lunch a giant salad with lots of veggies, a lean protein like chicken or turkey, and an olive oil based dressing. There is nothing crazy in the meal plan, just lots of whole foods in the proper amounts to get all your macronutrient needs while trying to limit overly processed foods(which we all should be trying to avoid). Bethany

  13. I am beginning the 21 Day fix tomorrow. I REALLY wanna tone up all over and thought to give this one a go. I am in a bit of a time crunch and want my legs/hips to be toned. What would you recommend?

    1. Follow the program how it is laid out, as closely as possible. Be sure to eat all of your containers and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. There really is not much to it, just need to stick with it and do everything to the best of your ability. Bethany

  14. Hi there.
    I am trying to figure out which Beach Body workout to do next. I tried Piyo and loved it, but wasnt sure if I should continue. Which was your favorite out of all of them? I really want to lose fat, especially in my legs and thighs and become lean and tone.

    1. Hi Laura, I don’t know if I have favorite program. Any of the programs that I’ve finished I have enjoyed. Right now I’m on day 3 of the new 80 Day Obsession program from Autumn, this program is aimed at keeping/creating curves and toning, this one might be worth taking a look at. I’ve reviewed the starter program, A Little Obsessed and will be reviewing the full program and adding more blog posts about it over the next few months. Bethany

  15. I started this program (the extreme version) but never finished. I did it for about a week & a half. I was not a fan of working out I found with my hectic lifestyle hard to get everything portioned out for the day in a timely fashion and I had a hard time with eating it all too (a lot of days it could not) but that being said it does work. I lost 10 lbs in that time frame & I was only 150 lbs at the time. I wanted to lose 20 lbs so had I kept going & by what I lost the first half of the program I would have lost all 20 lbs so I guess it must have to do with body types & metabolisms too or the work out for the extreme version burns way more. It kind of shocked me to read you only lost 5 lbs during the whole program following it to a tee where as I half arsed it for only 10 days & lost double. Just wanted to let readers know it really does work. Also I did not do the 3 day jump start.

    1. Hi Jenn, Thanks for sharing. Yep, it works, exercise and eating right always does the trick but the Fix makes it simple for people to follow understand that is what makes this program successful for so many people.. 5 lbs lost for me is kind of a lot since I hover around my ideal weight and really did not have much to lose. Bethany

  16. I am taking Thrive for nutritional reasons. Is it ok to do this along with the 21 day fix? It’s a nutrient shake. Would I just add in those calories?

  17. Hi Bethany, I really enjoy the 21 Day fix workouts, but it bothers me that you only do the upper once a week and the lower once a week. I have typically seen workout plans where upper is two times a week (like Mon and Thurs) and lower is two times a week ( like Tues and Fri). Did you follow the program exactly and only perform the specific upper body workout one day a week?

    1. Hi Annette, I followed the schedule how it is laid out for this review. You could make adjustments to the schedule if you would like. Bethany

  18. Hello! I am going to be going on vacation soon, and I figured I would do the 3 day quick fix + the remaining week do the program. When I return from vacation I will begin the 21 day fix, but I have some questions. I weigh the same as I did last year, but I have lost muscle and I don’t like it and I lost motivation to workout but I’m hoping this program gets me back into the swing of things because I LOVE the workouts! I am just wondering will the 21 day fix help me tone up and lose weight ALL over ( tone my legs, butt, hips, arms, abs, everywhere!!) I really just need to loose inches! Thank you!

    1. Hi Allie, The 21 Day Fix is all about building healthy habits for eating right and working out. After 21 days you should have built the habit of working out and portion control, which would then be a hard habits to break. And, if you love the workouts it will make sticking with them that much easier. And, yes you can tone all over with the Fix, it is a full body workout program that combines strength training, cardio, and active recovery. Bethany

      1. My main concern is toning up my lower body and abdominal area. With proper eating and working out with the videos to a T, can I lose a lot of inches and tone up?

      2. Hi again, Yes, 21 Day Fix has a lot lower body work in it. Lower abs are more about fat loss which the diet will take care of. Bethany

  19. Hi there, i was wondering when you’re following the 21 day diet–what do you leave out if you’re drinking the shakeology?

  20. Hi, is it mandatory to incorporate the Shakeology drinks each day? Or are there alternatives/regular recipes I can use instead?

    1. Hi, Lots of people do, lots of people don’t. the meal plan is pretty open to foods as well as shakes & smoothies. Bethany

  21. Hi! Do you have any knowledge on the outcome of the 21 day fix eating program mixed with the T25 videos instead? Thanks!

    1. Hi Vanessa, You can use the containers with any of Beachbody programs. T25 came out before the 21 Day fix program, but in all the recent programs the containers have been a program staple. The 21 Day Fix portion control container diet is very well rounded, healthy diet that would make a great addition to the T25 program.

  22. Hi,
    I wanted to know if you think that the 21 DF would work for me. I’m almost 40 and had my first baby a little over a year ago. I eat well enough that I’m 5’4. 150lbs. I haven’t gained or lost a pound in 12 months. I need to lose about 15 lbs. I cut calories and was working out for the last four weeks but didn’t see any tiny bit of progress. I just had my thyroid checked and all is well. I also enjoy the Insanity program. Could I do the diet with Shaun T instead. Please let me know your thoughts

    1. Hi Laurie, Congratulations! The portion control containers from the 21 Day Fix can be used with any of the Beachbdoy programs. Since you mentioned that you enjoy the Insanity workouts from Shaun T a program you may want to take a look at is the new Insanity MAX:30 program, I enjoyed this program more than the original. And, the MAX:30 program diet program also has been designed for using the portion control containers if you wish to do so. Here is the link to my review and results of the MAX:30 program – https://thefitnessfocus.com/insanity/our-insanity-max30-after-results Bethany

  23. Can you continue to do this after the 21 days? Is it recommended for people that have more than 75lbs to lose? I apologize if this was already asked, but I did not read all of the comments.

    1. Hi Tara, Yes you can continue after the 21 days, most people do multiple rounds. How the calorie brackets are tiered make this a really good program for people who do have multiple pounds to lose. Often times when people cut to many calories to soon they may lose a lot of body weight fast(not just fat tissue), but with a gradual reduction in calories along with continued exercise people are more likely to keep the weight off, plus it is usually mostly fat loss.

      1. My question is along Tara’s….I have 85lbs to lose and it is a two fold reason…one is health and the other is a bit of vanity….lol
        I really like how you are up front and to the point and not just an advertisement for the program !! When you do reach your goal weight, to keep going and maintain do you just adjust the calorie count and the exercises ? I have the program and have admittedly been procrastinating. I just would like a few suggestions on the maintaining with the same program.

      2. Hi Cindy. Generally speaking for maintenance you should be able to drop down to 3-4 workouts per week and eat 200-300 more calories. With that said, the 21 Day Fix is all about creating healthy eating and workout habits and once you get a good couple of weeks under your belt of following the program it starts to make sense.

  24. I just had scope surgery for a torn knee cartilage and in 5 weeks have to have the other knee done. I have bone on bone in both knees but am trying to put off knee replacement for a few years until I retire. Would I be able to do the exercise plan with the 21 day fix after healing? And could I start the food plan before I finished healing?

    1. Hi Jeanne, It would be best to consult with your physician as to when you will be able to start exercising or be cleared first before beginning when recovered. And, yes you can/should follow the food plan, it is a well balanced diet plan focusing on whole foods that would help your body recover.

  25. If I am training to run a half marathon, can I still incorporate the 21-Day Fix into my training schedule?
    I am also still nursing my son, so what calorie range would you suggest for a running, lactating mother?

    1. Hi Karen, I would definitely consult with your physician about what calorie amounts you should be taking as there are a few variables that go into play. When breastfeeding, women burn an additional 500 calories each day. If you’re not looking to lose weight, you would need to make this up in food. In addition, are you trying to maintain your current weight? If so, then you would need to add in the correct amount of calories each day, so adding in your 21DF workouts wouldn’t cause you to lose anything. And yes, you can incorporate the workouts into your training schedule – I would just recommend sticking to the weight-training based ones and skip out on the more cardio-based workouts. Hope this helps! Bethany

  26. hi Bethany,

    I am planning to start the eating part of the program this week, but I am having lower back pains and i am afraid to do her work out, plus i am a gym person. I just can’t do my workouts at home with 2 toddlers at home. Do you recommend any workout to follow at gym.

    thanks

    1. Hi Rubal, If you are having lower back pains I would consult with a doctor before starting any workout program, you do not want to make anything worse. Plus, pain is not something you should have to live with.

    1. Hi Teresa, You will want to try your best, but you do not want stuff yourself either. My advice would be to drop a green or purple container first and always be sure to get in the orange, blue, and tsps.

  27. Hi Bethany: I’m confused about the Calabrise Salad, It is listed as one purple container and a spoon. It seems the cheese isn’t being counted. Thank you for the clarification.

    1. Hi Lori, I saw that too. I don’t really have an answer as a slice of mozzarella probably is not an entire blue container either so I would just count it as the recipe says too.

    1. Hi Pam, The 21 Day Fix is based around whole foods so there is a lot of overlap in the diet plan and what is recommended for diabetics. But, you of course will want to consult with your physician before beginning to make sure you balance your blood glucose levels.

  28. I bought the generic 21 day fix containers, so they make no reference to Shakeology although I do have a Shakeology for breakfast each morning and have for a year and absolutely love it. My question is – how does the Shakeology count in the plan? For example, how many veg, proteins, carbs, etc do you count for one shake? Thanks for your help!

    1. Hi Tammy, You count a serving as a red container. If you add others ingredients to it, you would count those separately. Bethany

  29. Bethany,
    Will this 21 day fix work with the whole 30 diet?
    Also, I have lower back stiffness. Will I be able to do the workouts. Don’t really want to purchase the 21 day fix if I am unable to do the workouts.

    Thanks so much!
    Monica

    1. Hi Monica, From what I have read there are lots of foods that the two diets hold in common so that should not be a problem. About the back, I would check with a doctor before beginning and get cleared for exercise first. When you use the links in this post to order there is a 30 day refund policy if you are not satisfied with your results for any reason.

  30. Hi, I don’t eat Quinoa, Oatmeal or Brown Rice. Is it OK to eat Mashed Potatoes and Grits doing the 21 Day Fix?

    1. Hi Sherry, There are 21 day fix approved ways to make mashed potatoes. Grits, nutritionally pretty similar to oatmeal I would think they should be fine.

    2. Sherry- potatoes are on the list, though not highly recommended. A great alternative is to make mashed cauliflower. Simply cook it, then puree in a food processor. Add some garlic, and some pepper, and voila! Sooo tasty.

  31. My sister told me about this program. She purshased it last year. I just started portioning out my food like the programs says and I’m very pleased at how easy it is… No calorie counting, no worrying, it’s very fool proof. It’s only been 2 days though.. But I like it so far. Very convenient.

  32. I am ordering the 21 day fix but I should be eating 1200 according to my dietician instead of 1988 that the program suggested. How would this work in me being successful.

    1. Hello, Does your dietitian know that you plan on following the 21 Day Fix diet and it’s workouts? Just want to make sure he or she has all the necessary information. Bethany

  33. I’ve been doing 21 day fix with shakeology for a little over a year and I’ve lost 35 lbs. For me it’s a great program the gets you in shape and eating healthy. It’s changed my life completely. I feel and look great. I was doubtful like many others are. To me it was just another gimmick. But it actually works and if you commit 100%, you WILL get results.

  34. I’ve been looking into the 21 day fix. Started measuring out my portions with measuring cups. I’ve lost 6lbs in one week and feel much better. I’m at the point of wanting to buy the full program. I’ve noticed yourself and others post regarding team members, is this an option we receive from beach body? Or how do we sign up and become part of a group? I am only interested in the basic program. Thank you for your response.

    1. Hi Michelle, I think what you are referring to as team members is the challenge groups that are done. Which are a group of people doing the program together in a group setting via a social media site or app for support and accountability. My groups begin on the first Monday of each month, if you order through a link on this site, I will become your coach and invite you to one mine.

    1. Hi Cindy, You get to decide which containers that eat each meal. I have a sample meal plan if you search under the 21 Day Fix category of how I did it.

  35. Are the shakes lactose and gluten free? I have celiac and am lactose free. Other than almonds I also avoid nuts including peanut butter.
    there are dairy products that i can eat but none will be low fat. There are also choices for gluten free bread but I find the nutritional values not worth it.

  36. GuyWithKneeIssues

    I’m a rather large guy (300 lbs plus) with a a history of knee issues. I’ve ruptured my patellar twice in one knee and once in the other. I don’t have any restrictions from my doctor. He says I should lose weight. I’m currently unable to do a squat with my body weight because my legs never gained the old muscle back. I can’t even run without my knee buckling. I used to be in decent shape (220 lbs) before the knee injuries. Will I be able to do the daily exercises associated with the program. It seems like even the modified versions would be extremely difficult for me to perform. I want to do it but I don’t want to waist my money if its not a program I can do / receive results from. Please give me your honest advice if you think this program can work for me.

    Thanks

    1. Hi, Have you taken a look at the PiYo workout, it is low impact. It might be a better place to start. The plan also comes with a 30-day m/b guarantee if you are not happy with your results, just fyi.

  37. Hi there. Thanks for this review. I currently do brazillian jujitsu (usually 5-6 days a week…some days 2-3 hours, some days for an hour) & Krav Maga once a week for an hour. I do need lots of help with eating (& I’m a very picky eater…much too picky for my age). Would the workout portion really be necessary for me, or will the martial arts be sufficient? And are the recipes really simple & fast? Yea, I’m a lazy cook too…I’m the whole package. I seem to be able to either get my eating habits under control or my exercise on point, but can’t ever seem to get the two together.

    1. Hi Diane, The recipes in the eating plan are basic. The plan wants you to be able to learn portion control with balanced nutrition that you can use for a lifetime.

    1. Hi Wendy, Yes it is very flexible, I personally have been limiting dairy for the last few months and feel better.

  38. I travel very much for my job and I was wondering if this is a good program that I would be able to stick to “on the road?”

    1. Hi Kathy, I have had people use the 21 Day Fix with great success who travel for work. Another program you may want to look into that uses no equipment is PiYo. Bethany

  39. HI, Thank you so much for the clear information about the program, However I am an asian and we cook veggies with salt and spices.. After reading everything, seems like i have to avoid salt, so can you help me with any suggestions how to overcome with this? I am ready to avoid salt for sometimes whenever I eat salads(for dinner) but cannot avoid it completely(especially for the lunch).. Plz plz help me..

    1. Hi Revathi, A lot of the 21 Day Fix recipes call for salt and pepper to be used as spices. It is the sodium levels in prepackaged and take out foods that you want to be careful with. Bethany

  40. Thanks for all your information. I am a runner, I am wondering if I can follow this plan and still get my runs in or is it one workout or the other.

    1. Hi Rhonda, The program does not say you cannot run, if you are already run then I would think you could try to work in the workouts and if you need to scale back you could do so. Bethany

  41. Hello, I am just wondering about doing just the diet to start. Will it still produce results? I recently herniated a disk and need to lose some weight before I get to jarring my joints jumping around or kicking until I take some weight off my joints. What do you think?
    Thank you!

  42. Hi I am definitely interested in buying the 21 day fix I am currently attending a boot camp 3 days a week but I’m having trouble with my meals would I be able to continue my work out or should I stick to the 21 day workouts

    1. Hi Jennifer, You could try or just follow the diet part of the 21 Day Fix and as you progress add in some of the Fix workouts maybe. Bethany

  43. Hi Bethany!
    I have a question. I’m considering the 21 day fix but i don’t know if it will work for vegans. I mean, is there a plan that does not include meat or the plan as a substitute for meat in it?
    Thanks in advance,
    Carla

  44. I eat a lot of casseroles/crock pot meals and soups. I use canned creamed soup for sauces. How would you portion something like that where the food groups are all mixed together? Or are you not able to eat these kinds of things? Also, I have back issues and bad knees where I am very limited when it comes to exercise. I am worried about being able to do the program videos.

    1. Hi Patti, You might be able to find a recipe to create your own creamed soups, but most processed foods are not approved on the Fix diet. For foods that are mixed together you portion them out first, once you do it one time you can make notes as to what containers you used. Bethany

  45. I have a friend who has been doing the 21 day Fix & loves it. After reading all the information I have a couple concerns:
    I HATE vegetables! I know, I’m a grown up, but seriously hate them. Sounds like a lot of veggies to eat. Can you give me a list of options.
    Prep time..Someone said there is a lot of prep time. What is the prep time for meals each day.
    Thanks

    1. Hi Casey, Some people find roasted vegetables to be more palatable than steamed or raw. I don’t think the prep time is any longer than it normally would be, unless you are only accustomed to only eating out. Meal planning and meal prep once a week would cut down your time. I like to do my lunches and snacks on one day, breakfast is a shake, and dinner I would get more creative. The containers do take a little bit to get used to, but once you do it is simple. Bethany

  46. I just ordered & received my 21DayFix and yes, I agree it takes extra time to figure out the containers, but if you plan your meals and use a chart for the week it’s easier. I’ve started with doing a couple days at a time & prep, then put in the fridge. It makes me realize how much food I can eat, if I prep it all ahead of time & also makes you think about exactly what you want to be sticking in your mouth. I’m just starting, but already it is making me make more conscious food choices, which I hope I can stick with & make a good lifestyle change. I like that it has suggestions for treats & what color container to swap it out with….so if I do want some chocolate I don’t have to deprive myself. I also think this will be better for me than WW because you are eating fresh foods, not packaged foods. You KNOW what is going in your body 100%.

  47. Hi Bethany,

    Thanks for writing this review. I’m still undecided and not sure if I should buy it or not there are just so many mixed reviews out there :( Before reading yours. by Sonya and she wrote some very good points and the alternative she mentions looks really good(and much cheaper).

    My question is – do the shakes taste good? I’ve tried other weight loss and protein shakes before and am yet to find one that taste good.

    If I decide to buy I will let you know and keep you updated..
    Thanks,
    Kim

    1. Hi Kim, The other workout program you are comparing this one to, does not actually contain a workout to follow along with. There are video clips of exercises, but then you are responsible for putting them together. As for the taste of the shakes, everyone’s taste is different, but I don’t hear many complaints. I have a recipe post that gives over a hundred ideas for how to mix the shakes up, this way you can always get something that suits you. Bethany

  48. I’m interested in doing the 21 DF but I have a question about the workouts. I workout 5 times a week for about 1 1/2 hr at the gym. I saw that you need a resistance band and weights for those of us who are more advanced. Is there any way I can get access to the DVDs to my phone so I can take them with me to my gym?

    1. Hi Venessa, Yes, with Beachbody on Demand you can stream the workouts to mobile devices. I have a review of the service on the site if you want to search for it. Bethany

    1. Hi Rebecca, Yes, it is gluten free. I would talk to your doctor if it would be appropriate with celiac disease or if adjustments would be needed.

    1. Hi Michelle, It is 2 eggs no matter how they are cooked. Foods that change shape or irregular in shape are often listed by serving six next to the container listing.

  49. Hey,
    I love to eat seaweed salad, in which container shall I place it?
    the containers are very small? Can I stuff in it as much as possible? Do you think it would be too much? I don’t need so many fruits, can I eat a little bit less? The coconut oil is very expensive, can I use other oil? Can I drink as much water I want to? Can use other potatoes except the week one?

    Than you so much

    1. Hi Michelle, I don’t know about seaweed salad. You can fill the containers to the top no, especially stuff those greens full. You can have potatoes all the entire time. You may want to review the meal plan guide again to really knock out the details. Bethany

  50. Hello,
    Can you give me some examples for healthy fats ? Can I eat all kind of cheese, like Camembert? I am playing tennis 3times/week between 1-2 hrs each time, and additional I am doing cardio half hour everyday. Do I still have to do the workout from the videos. Thanks

    1. Hi Beth, Yes, you may have to adjust your calories, but the Fix diet and exercise program builds a great foundation for woman of all ages.

    1. Hi Kitty, If you use the links in the post and scroll to sampler in the shake category you should find it. Bethany

  51. Hi Bethany! I am 31 years old, 5’8″ and 157 lbs. I was laid off 4 months ago, broke up with my boyfriend of 3.5 years because of infidelity, and have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I used to be a model and 125 lbs. I also used to love to work out, and I have lost all motivation. My therapist and I have decided I need to start working out and eating healthy again. I want a lifestyle change and have been thinking about ordering the 21 Day Fix. The only thing I am concerned about is what if I cannot finish the allotted amount of food I am supposed to eat for the day? (You mention that this was a concern of others in your review above.) Would this ruin my results? I know it is most important to have the veggies and protein–correct me if I am wrong. All in all I think this would be a good program for me because of Autumn’s laid back style. Those are the type of people I surround myself with in life anyways. Thanks for the honest review. It is a rare and refreshing find! Emily

    1. Hi Emily, Finishing all of your containers would not ruin your results, but it is always try to when you first start out and then make adjustments if you must. While all of the containers are important, if you need to drop one it would be the yellow container first, then purple, I’ve never had anyone have to go past these two. You can also try doing partial containers too. The two most important in my mind are the orange and tsps, these are the healthy fats and you always want to make sure you get those in.

  52. Hello Bethany

    I bought the 21day fix program but have not started doing it yet. I have been searching a lot online to see how I can use this program and still be able to eat the food that is prepared at home. I am 5’3″ and currently weigh close to 180 lbs. Need to lose atleast 50-55 lbs. I am 47 years old, a type II Diabetic and mostly if not always eat South Indian Vegetarian food. It will be great if I get guidance to how I can use the boxes to make this plan work for me and I am sure many more in a similar situation.

    Any help from you will be appreciated.

    Thanks
    Viji

  53. I just have a simple question, on the veggies, do you use the size for raw, uncooked, or if you are cooking them is it cooked size? There isn’t much difference unless you look at onion,mushrooms or spinach! lol I have looked and looked but cannot find this in the plan.

    1. Hi Jennifer, Some vegetables are measured raw, it says right next to the food in the approved food list in the eating plan guide. Basically, I believe it is mostly veggies that shrink are measured raw first.

  54. Am 64 y/o..helping husband to lose weight but decided to try 21 day fix myself. Only form of exercise I can do is walking everyday due to back surgery last year. Was 116 pounds and up to 122..want to lose 6 pound sterling..have been on 21 day fix for a week now eating faithfully everything required. Have not lost any weight…will not give up but what can I do differently?

    1. Hi Mary Ann, It has only been a week, I would continue on and try not to worry what the scale says, think of all the good healthy eating and exercise is doing for your body!

  55. I am wondering if I need to do the shakes with this plan…or if it would work without? Whenever I have tried to buy products like that I seem to not use them and waste the product. Please advise?

    1. Hi Megan, You don’t have to do the shakes. Like me, most people say they help keep them on track by replacing one healthy meal and reduce cravings, but everyone is different. Just an fyi, the shakes come with a bottom of the bag policy where you can return for a refund if you are not satisfied.

  56. Hi. I’m interested in purchasing 21 day fix and ship to Canada.
    Is there Canadian site or shipping?
    Thank you for your prompt response.
    Joyce.

    1. Hi Lindsay, No it is not. It is made from partially hydrogenated oil, and the Fix diet wants you to avoid processed foods. In my opinion real butter from grass fed cow’s would be a better option than the butter substitutes ever.

    1. HI Peggy, You would of course want to check with your diet. But,. the Fix is a very well rounded diet that focuses on whole foods something everyone can benefit from.

  57. I have a question, I don’t have a lot of weight to lose and I am an Atkins person so the food isn’t an issue. I never thought I’d be writing about not seeing anyone past 40 and 50 in the pictures. I see one women who is 72. I am 56 in pretty good shape I’m 5’8 size 6 but need to lose some stomach pouch not big but as we age it sags a bit. I’ve done day one of the video and it kicked my butt to the point that I’m sore the next day. So I guess it’s already working.

  58. I am a Type1 diabetic, is this program safe for diabetics? I know it has to be better than what I am doing. My sugars are up and down, I have been tempted to order this. My problem is I am a snacker and always over eat at meals. I think the containers would help me ALOT! The diet seems to be better than the diabetic diet they put you on.

    1. HI Rene, You of course want to check with your doctor before starting. And, yes I agree with you it does seem tp appear healthier than the recommended, it just looks like it needs an update to current nutritional knowledge.

  59. Hi, I would like to try this, it was recommended by a good friend and have heard great things. My question is, I weigh 237 lbs, 61 years old, 5’2”, and I have a sedentary life. Since I need to loose 100 pounds, will I be able to do the exercises? My knees already hurt but I desperately need to lose weight. My Physician also recommended this program. Help please.

    1. Hi Terri, You should be able to most if not all of the exercises. If you find moves that cause you pain, switch it up to something else or walk it out. I don’t know what is causing your knee pain, but if your physician recommended it I would assume they think you would be okay.

      1. Hi Terri I was just reading your question. In Autumns workouts there is a woman named Kat who modifies each move. You should follow her, she is great and it’s still an awesome workout. Just start each day and do your best.
        Charlene

  60. I am thinking about purchasing this because I need a jump start. I’ve done WW and eat fairly healthy, but the summer weekends have my diet off a little. I belong to a kickboxing gym and do the hour classes at least 2-3x a week and also like to run. Since the diet and workouts compliment each other are there other options for workouts? So if I go to my hour kickboxing class (burns up to 1,000 calories) will the food allotted be enough? I figure I can do the 30 minute workouts on my running days. Just checking. Thanks

    1. Hi Ruthy, I would start with the recommended amount of containers for your weight. If you start to lose to much weight or have lack of energy then you may want to consider increasing your amount of containers.

  61. Just thought I’d chip in a man’s perspective on the program. I am 56 years old and about 40 lbs overweight (well, not anymore). I’m on day 12 of round one and I’ve lost about 7 lbs so far. The workouts are intense but very doable. My soreness has gotten significantly better over the first week. I love the variety of workouts offered each day. A few I have to modify but that’s easy to do per the videos. The eating program has also been excellent. I’ve also done WW and much prefer this program. It took a few days to figure out the containers but now it’s like second nature. The quantity of food I get to eat (i’m 235 lbs) is unbelievable. As I lose weight I know I’ll lose containers per day but that’s a price I’m more than willing to pay. Overall, I’m very impressed with the 21 Day Fix!

  62. Are you only given one set of containers? Meaning you need to wash them and re-pack things for every meal? How do working people plan this out?? Just looking for some help with logistics especially with a 12 hour shift

    1. Hi Tricia, You can get an extra set of containers. Personally, I would just measure out my food with them and then store my food in another larger container.

  63. Hi! I think I saw somewhere in the comments that 1% regular milk is okay to drink, is skim allowable too, or does it have to be 1%? Just checking before I get started. Thanks!

    1. HI Katherine, For cow’s milk it is nonfat or %1, 8 fluid ounces counted as a yellow up to three times a week.

  64. Hi Bethany,

    I just started my 21-day fix and I love it so far! I have a question for you. What is the thought of using frozen foods (veggie burgers, broiled or grilled fish, etc.) also what about frozen veggies?

    Thanks!
    -Nancy

    1. Hi Nancy, Frozen foods that are in there natural state or close to it are fine. You of course want to avoid processed and refined frozen foods.

  65. Hi Bethany,
    I am a 68-year-old woman and about 15 pounds overweight. I’ve been an avid tennis player my whole life and play fairly vigorous doubles 2-3 times a week, but I am considerably out of shape since I don’t do any other workouts. So with that background, I have 2 questions:
    1. Do you know of this plan’s results with older women?
    2. Could I forego the workouts on days when I play tennis? I’m not sure I could do both.
    Thanks for your honest answers!
    Sonia

    1. Hi Sonia, Yes, I have seen the program work for older woman. And, yes you don’t have to do the workouts on your tennis days, I would push the entire schedule back a day when you do this. Bethany

  66. Thanks for your blog I found it helpful in making my choice. Having tried Insanity & T25 I didn’t lose weight – just toned up. I found the eating programmes on those dull. I thought I’d give 21 day fix a go for the containers mostly. I can’t believe the difference it has made. I love Autumn’s laid back style & the fact that you rest in between exercises makes it easier to get the exercises right. I’m almost 60 & I think it’s less demanding on my knees than T25 & Insanity. Plus I don’t dread my workout every day! My weight dropped in the first round & I lost inches. I walk & do other exercise which I’ve always done, but the containers really helped me. After two weeks I didn’t really need them any more as I could tell what portions to have – which helps in restaurants. I’ve never had this much success with a programme before. I love 21 day fix & wish we could have more workouts from Autumn as I love her style. If you’re older this is great & it really works. You will drop weight & tone up without having to leap around like a crazy person. My husband has started it too after he noticed how much weight I’d lost. You really can’t go wrong if you stick with this.

  67. Also, when using the containers, do you use them one time for each meal. Breakfast (use certain containers) Lunch (use these containers) Dinner (use these containers)….. ect.

    I got the belly going on and gotta loose at lease 10 lbs before we have babies!

  68. This is worth the try, esp for anyone who has hit a plateau. That was me. I am on my final 20 lbs to lose. I did the program a few months ago and lost very little weight, but I know I gained muscle and lost inches! The proof is in the clothes and what people are saying (and the measuring tape) I waited about a month. This seemed to be key for me. I kept my food habits clean so as not to gain any fat. I am doing another round of it and am steadily dropping the lbs!! Don’t give up or be discouraged. Eventually I believe you will see a turnaround if you don’t give up. This really should become a lifestyle and not a one time diet. You will really feel better. IMHO

  69. I am a bit confused. I am ready to purchase the 21 Day Fix. But there are two choices: 21 Day Fix Essential or the 21 Day Fix Extreme. Which one should I purchase? What is the difference? Thanks.

    1. Hi Lisa, I’m going to write a complete comparison post, but the EXTREME is for people who have complete the original(essential) and are looking to take it to the next level. Bethany

    1. Hi ALessia, My first time through I did not keep a log, I have no idea why not. I’m doing another round now to be able to add my own result photos, after a week I’m down just over two pounds. Bethany

  70. Jackie Shaddock

    i am a Type 2 diabetic. Are there any specific cautions I should be aware of if I follow this 21day fix?

  71. This was a GREAT article! Thanks, Bethany. I think I will try it for 21 days. The website was so confusing with all the products and multiple web directions. You made sense of it all. Thank you.

  72. Hi Bethany,
    Thank you for all your great advice, I started the program yesterday. I have a few questions
    1. I like to work out in the morning. This morning I felt sick working out. I ate breakfast (oatmeal with strawberries) at 8 am. I started working out at 8:45 Should I wait a certain amount of time after eating before I exercise? Thanks for your help in advance.

    1. Also is it a good idea to eat before working out? If so, what would be good to have? Thank you so much. I have about 10 pounds I really need to lose. I am really trying to lose my belly fat. I look like I am pregnant some of the time. Thanks again.

      1. HI Sal, Check out my snack ideas in the 21 Day Fix catergory if you are going to being eating within an hour of your workouts. Bethany

    2. Hi Sal, You could try waiting another 15 minutes or lighten your breakfast a little. Usually the closer to your workout the less you want to eat. Bethany

  73. I see pictures of people that don’t have much to lose. they look they need more tone up than lose weight. Dose this really work for plus size people sizes between 18 – 26. I sure would like testimony from over weight people and photos. I get tired seeing photos of people are already skinny

    1. Hi Maria,
      I am about a size 16-18 right now, weighing in at 200lbs. I just started the program this Monday so my last day will be August 2nd. So far I love it. The work outs are hard right now but use your own music to keep you going helps. But I am loving the containers and it teaching me how to eat whole foods in the right portion. I think that this is going to help me in the long run, not just a quick fix or just a quick 10lbs. I want to be all around healthy and this has been the easiest of all the beach body programs I have tried.
      Wish you luck,
      Tarah

  74. I have a gluten sensitivity as well as an intolerance to cane sugar. Would this program work for me? Thanks!!

    1. Hi Gail, Yes, It is based around whole, healthy foods. But, always consult with a doctor first for medical concerns. Bethany

  75. This is probably a stupid question – but when it comes to veggies for instance I am suppose to eat 5 of the green containers per day. does that mean I pick multiple veggies from the list and fill the container 5 times a day or do I fill the container with one veggie each 5 times per day –

    1. You can could do it either way, but I think one veggie five times a day would be boring. You can also mix veggies in the same container. BEthany

  76. Hi Bethany! I am so hyped in starting the 21 Day Fix but i have several questions for you.
    1. What size weights do you recommend? Or should I just try out which ones are suitable for me before purchasing?
    2. You mentioned in your comments that to some individuals the workout may be a little boring…..What is your opinion on purchasing The Zumba 30 Minute Workout DVD’s? I need something exiciting…LOL LOL
    3. I am concerned as to when I should do my workout? Is there a recommended time? I am having difficulty deciding because I work – 3rd Shift. i want to make sure that my workouts are effective.

    Dina

    1. Hi Dina, Beginners 3,5, and 8’s. Or, if you are a little stronger 5, 8, and 12’s. I don’t find the workouts boring per say, more of a comparison to some of the other workouts from trainers I have done. And, you have to remember the Fix is a 7-day a week program so a few of the workouts need to be lower intensity to give the body time to recover. The best time to workout is when you can put your most into the workouts, there is no set best time. I would experiment with your workout times and try to find a time that works best for you and stick with it. Bethany

      1. Hi Bethany!

        Okay, so concerning the Workouts….i have been told so many things about when to do workouts, so maybe my question was not clear.
        So, here I go again :-)……… Should I workout before or after my meal and how soon can I go to sleep (being that I work 3rd Shift) after working out. Sorry, I am getting so technical with this but I am so serious about losing this weight.

        Thanks!
        Dina

      2. Hi Dina, It would be best to eat your main meals after your workouts. As for sleep, people are different I need a good couple hours to unwind after a hard workout, but my boyfriend could fall asleep within the hour after a workout. Bethany

  77. Hi there! I am really thinking about trying this out! But I do have a question. Do we have to eat a full container of everything a day? I know getting the proper amount of everything is important, but I can’t really eat that much throughout the day.

    1. Hi Jessica – if you’re finding it difficult to finish all your portions, just eat as much as you can to feel satisfied and don’t worry about eating every last container. Sometimes when we start eating healthy foods, it is harder to get all the calories in because they’re more filling. Just shoot for eating all of your veggies and fruit, then protein – leaving out the carbs, fat, or dairy. And make sure to switch out what you miss each day, so you’re keeping your body guessing. Hope this helps :) Bethany

  78. Just wondering if you would recommend this program for Type 1 diabetics? I’d like to lose 5-10 lbs. and would just like to get more toned and fit. From what I’ve been reading, it sounds like the combination of diet and the workouts would be a great jumpstart, but would love to hear your thoughts as I have to really watch my fruit and carb intake.

    1. Hi Daisy, Please consult with your health care professional first. It does teach healthy eating habits you can use for life and the habit of daily exercise even if it just 30 minutes cannot be understated. Bethany

  79. On the 21 day fix if Im allowed 5 green containers a day and want to use 2 for lunch and want to make a salad can I use one for my greens and fill up the other with different acceptable items such as tomatoes, mushrooms, cucumbers all in the same container?

  80. I’m 35 in perimenopause and insulin resistant. I do crossfit 6 days a week. My diet is clean. My fitness pal shows I’m always in a cal deficit and still can’t lose a single pound. I was hoping if I get the 21 day fix containers that it may help with this while still sticking to my crossfit workouts?

  81. Hello,

    I am on day 3 on the Fix. I stumbled onto your blog, which I’ve found very helpful. Anyways, in the comments I saw various people mentioning (my husband as well) how full they are and I’m sad. I’m experiencing the exact opposite for I seem to be always hungry! I want to follow the program exactly but I am wondering if I should go from the 1200-1499 calorie target (my calorie target came to 1487) to the 1500-1800 (sorry if the numbers are incorrect, I don’t have the booklet in front of me). I’ve been decent at drinking a gallon of water a day. I’m still working up to drinking 90oz, so I don’t know if that is part of the reason why I feel constantly hungry and headachy. Your input is appreciated!

    1. Hi Diane, You could bump up a calorie level and see how you feel. If you continue to feel head achy you might want to consult a doctor too, to make sure there is nothing else going on. Bethany

  82. SO, most of the photos etc, show 20 somethings–how about early 60 somethings??
    Also, will it work for vegetarian

    1. Hi Stephanie, Yes, vegetarians will get results. Beans, lentils, and quinoa are counted as red containers instead of yellows. Exercise and eating right will show results, no matter age. Bethany

  83. Hi…Been thinking about doing this program. I try to eat clean but must not do portions right. Plus no working out consistently… Couple of questions…I usually have a 12oz glass of skim milk with dinner every night…is this allowed? Also, my husband drinks coffee, he could ween himself off sugar but not sure about it being black. Can he add a tsp or two of half and half? Also, I have a 12 and 10 yo…what catergory would they fall into calorie wise? They don’t need to lose weight but I’m a big belivier in them eating the same meals as us. Thank you!

    1. Hi Robyn, Three times a week you can replace a yellow container with a milk beverage. I have a post on this site about ways to add flavor to your coffee without the junk, if you search coffee you should find it. I would talk to your children’s doctor about their diets. The Fix foods are very family friendly and can be eaten by the whole family, you probably don’t have to watch their calories or portions. Bethany

  84. Hello Bethany.

    I’d like to purchase the 21 Day Fix Challenge package. I heard about a special Beach Body was having on DVD programs. Is it still going on?

    Thanks!

    Rose
    p.s. I appreciate your honest and thorough reviews of various Beach Body programs. After readying your PiYo review, I was sold!

    1. Hi Rose, Yes, the special pricing has been extended through the month of July. The link at the bottom of the post will bring you there, And, thank you for your kind words! Bethany

  85. Hi Bethany I seem to have read some were about ww multi grain bread 50 calories a slice are you able to have two slices as one yellow container? Thank you

    1. Hi Michelle, bread should be whole-grain not multi-grain, there is a difference between the two types. And, you don’t want light, it is best to look for breads that contain the least amount of ingredients. Bethany

  86. Sorry if I missed this above (I didn’t read all of the comments), but I have quite a bit of weight to lose. I would need much more than 21 days! How does this program work for someone like me who has a lot of work to do? Also, I don’t know how Shake works with this program (or what it is). Can you direct me to more information or fill me in? Thanks!

    1. Hi Casey, You can do multiple rounds, often referred to as cycles of the 21 Day Fix. Not sure of your question regarding the shakes, you can use them to replace a meal, as a snack, or some are good for post workout use. Bethany

  87. I have a few things against me..I am a flight attendant and traveling international makes it hard to carry certain foods in and out of the country. My hours vary and can be long with minimal sleep. Plus I have two auto immune diseases that tend to make me more tired than I used to be. They affect my muscles and joints,but I try to ignore that and keep moving. Is this something that I could possibly do and see results. I am actually a healthy eater and cutting red meats, pork, and chicken out of my diet because they promote inflammation. Do you think I can manage this with all my issues?

    1. Hi Crystal, With your conditions I would advise consulting with your doctor about a diet and exercise program that is right for you. I’m not saying the Fix couldn’t work for you, but it is always a geeod idea to check with a medical professional before starting any workout program. Bethany

  88. Hello! I recently am beginning the 21 day fix. I know earlier in a comment you said that someone should stop going to the gym and just do the 21 day fix workouts. However, I’m concerned that (even though diet is my biggest weight-related problem) by backing down on the gym end and only doing the 21 day fix workouts, that I’ll lose muscle and won’t gain as much in terms of workout, since I normally go to the gym for an hour 6 days a week. I do intense group fitness classes. What do you think? Why is it bad to go to the gym AND do the 21 day fix workouts? Thanks!

    1. Hi Emma, Everyone is different. If someone is a beginner I would recommend against the gym and the Fix workouts. You don’t sound like a beginner, so you know how your body responds and how to make adjustments than a person first starting out would. Bethany

      1. Perfect! And another question. I am already about 4 days into the 21 day fix. I’m following the eating plan, and I even work out for an hour a day, and I haven’t lost any weight. Am I doing something wrong/should I change something?

        Thanks again!

      2. Hi Emma, It is way to early to be making adjustments. Just keep with it and follow the program and you will get results. Our body weights can fluctuate 1-5 pounds a day. I actually don’t recommend weighing yourself more than once a week. Bethany

  89. Hello Bethany,

    Today was day 7 of round 1! Silly question…I was wondering if I should workout first thing in the morning or later in the day for effective results?

    Audrey

    1. Hi Audrey, Whenever is best for you. Working out in the morning or afternoon is fine, you just don’t want to do a workout to close to bedtime as it could disrupt your sleep. Bethany

      1. THank you for the input, it is greatly appreciated. Also, how late can I drink Shakeology. Based on the fix, it was required to drink as a snack. Can I have it late afternoon?

      2. Hi Audrey, I don’t believe it has to be used only as a snack. But, you can drink it anytime, late afternoon is fine. Bethany

  90. I am struggling fitting the protein. I am a vegetarian. Can you suggest some options on how to increase my protein other than the same egg whites every day :(

      1. i just found your blog i love it, i’m starting the 21 day fix and i’m trying to do as much research as i can with the food containers. what about chia seeds what category do they fall under? and what is the portion size on that?

      2. Hi Grace, Chis seeds are not listed in the book. I would count two tablespoons as an orange if I had to. Bethany

  91. Hello,

    Do you have to chop all of your food up to fit in the containers provided? How would you eat a slice of bread or pizza or are these things not allowed?

    Thanks,
    Amy

    1. HI AMy, No, you do not have to cut everything up. The meal plan tells you the serving size of a lot of the odd shape foods I guess you could say. Bethany

  92. Hello,
    I had gastric bypass in 2002 and lost a total of 150 pounds. I have since had a revision due to a problem with my intestines. So I thought I now had a second chance. I have been doing EVERYTHING correctly except enjoying wine at night. I am eating about 1000-1400 cal a day. I am walking and etc…but I am not losing anything. I only lost 15 pounds in 2 months. I think I would like to try it for the exercise aspect to break through the stop in my progress.

    Would you recommend this to people who have smaller stomachs and what modifications could we do to not eat too much if we can’t fit it all in?

    Thanks,
    Lauren

    1. Hi Lauren, You can have red wine on the Fix, in moderation of course. If you cannot eat all of your containers, the plan recommends partials and/or not skipping the same containers every day. For example if you missed a red container today, tomorrow you would want to skip a yellow, etx. Bethany

    1. Hi Michelle, The 21 Day Fix is based around whole-foods, eliminating processed foods, eating the correct amount of portions of different food groups, and eating the correct amount of calories to maintain a healthy weight loss that is sustainable and/or maintain a healthy body weight. Bethany

  93. Hi,

    I’ve been on Paleo on and off for the past 3 years and recently on it on a more strict level. Can I continue Paleo(i.e. No carbs, legumes, and most dairy) and see results doing the 21 day fix?

    1. Hi Sam, Paleo is not considered to be no carb by most, there are “quote” carbs allowed on paleo diets that are found on the 21 day fix approved foods. So you could still do the 21 df and omit foods that are not so called paleo foods. Bethany

  94. I’m on a budget so how much is the groceries for the meal plans since most vegetables and healthy foods in general cost alot.

    1. Hi Renee, I used to feel the same way, that healthy was more expensive, but I don’t think it really is. If you cut all the processed foods and junk foods out of your diet, you might find yourself spending less overall. If you have farmer’s markets in your area and/or can buy meat in bulk you can save a lot in the long-run. I also have an article on this site if you search budget, you should find it that might help. Bethany

  95. Hi Bethany,
    I am considering doing the 21 day program but I struggle with hypothyroid issues. My weight is always fluctuating from 125-150 and I can’t seem to get a routine going to stay down at 125. I am looking to lose about 15 pounds at this time but I’m at a loss on how to do so, seems like I’ve tried it all! I always gain weight when I work out because my body/thyroid is “over worked”. I like the idea that it’s only a half hour workout, which makes me think I could do it. I don’t know if you know anything about thyroid issues or not but if you do and have advice I would love to hear your feedback.

    1. Hi Michelle, I’m hoping a reader can answer your comment. Also, I would check with your doctor too. Bethany

    1. Hi Madison, That would depend a lot on the food you buy and the calorie level that you are at. I eat pretty much the same foods on a daily basis and I think my food budget is well below ten dollars a day. You could probably cut it below $5 per person at the lowest calorie level by buying in bulk and low cost foods.

  96. I’m wondering if I HAVE to do the 30 minutes of exercises daily, or if I could do 1 hour one day and none the next. The reason I ask is that my schedule makes it difficult to fit in even 30 minutes of exercise on the days I work. I’m up at 4:30am to be at work by 7, get off between 7:30-8pm, and don’t get home until around 9pm when I have to get cleaned up and get my daughter to bed. By the end of the day, I’m exhausted and want to just sleep, especially if I have to do the same thing the following day. The good thing about my job is that I am rather active. I typically get anywhere from 10,000- 13,000 steps a day with 7-20 flights of stairs, depending on the day. Would the DAILY habit make that much of a difference?

  97. Hi Bethany,

    I’ve done a lot of reading here and on FB, but not every word. I do have a couple of questions. My package 21 Day should be here Monday. Planning to weigh in and do measurements Sunday (tomorrow).

    Since I have not yet seen anything because it has not arrived, can you tell me what type of abdominal exercises are included? In particular, I am looking to avoid any variation of a true sit up or leg lift from a lying position. I have a ventral hernia that will not tolerate it. That said, I am free to do core strengthening exercises using other muscles – per my doc.

    I have about 120-130 pounds to lose and am so looking forward to learning about portion control. I also bought the package for my daughter – she received hers yesterday. When considering which calorie range to choose, do we consider what our calorie range will be at goal (and begin there), or….how should we decide which calorie range to follow?

    I do have a supportive hubby and he will be joining me. We both have an incredible sweet tooth and do give in to our treats. We have also decided we will commit to this program and see how we do. What type of treats are permitted?

    I have read some of the FB comments and see that people have improved labs, including A1C, and am looking forward to getting my labs even lower.

    Having read your post and comments, above, compared to others I’ve read, I would like to thank you for you consistency of kindness in response and always encouraging each person, as well as your candor.

    I look forward to hearing from you,
    db

    1. Hi Debbie, There are no traditional sit-ups to speak of, but if you do feel pain be sure to modify. As you strengthen your core, will likely see some of the aches and pains go away. Your calorie range is determined by your current weight. As you lose weight you drop down in calories. There is a healthy treat section in the meal plan that will help you with cravings. Bethany

  98. Hi Bethany,

    I am considering trying the 21 Day Fix but I’m not sure it is right for me and my goals. I want to be healthier overall and feel better (and I think the program would easily help me do that), I also have other goals. I’m a 6’4″ and 195 lb guy. Too most people I look pretty skinny. But I am quite dissatisfied with my physique, as I look ‘skinny-fat’…skinny pretty much everywhere except my stomach. I would actually like to be about 205 lbs — flatten my stomach while building muscle in my arms, legs, shoulders, back and chest. I know I cannot achieve this in just 3 weeks, but if I continue long-term with the program, would it provide enough protein, calories and intensity in workouts to achieve these kinds of goals? If not, any recommendations on another program that would be better for me?

    Thank you,
    Kevin

    1. Hi Kevin, I would recommend checking out the Body Beast workout program. It is better suited for helping you reach your goals. Bethany

    1. Hi Pat, Please consult with your doctor. Most doctors have heard of this program so they should be able to advise you. Bethany

    1. Hi Kathy, I would recommend consulting with your doctor before beginning. I’m sorry I can’t give medical advice. Bethany

      1. Hi Bethany

        I am in the UK and looking at starting the 21df in the next couple of weeks. At present I am on slimming world but the weight loss is not as great as what is has been previously. What I would like to ask is, is it ok to do more exercise each day on top of the workouts ? At present I walk around 20-30 miles per week with my dogs

  99. Hi, not sure if you have covered this, but I have 2 questions…how often do we weigh ourselves (I’m doing 21 DF with my husband). And is the green container before cooking vegetables or after (such as spinach). We just started today.

    1. Hi Deborah, I think most green containers are raw vegetables. It will tell you if otherwise. I would not weigh yourselves more than once a week. Bethany

  100. Hi,

    I’m wondering if this program could be used to help with recovery after chemo rather than weight loss. After rounds of chemo with nausea and mouth sores my eating habits are not good and exercise consists of walks. Would 21 day fix be appropriate?

  101. I have been trying for years to lose weight. I am now at a point where I need to lose 50 pounds. I have tried WW, watching my calories, Atkins, along with other programs. My biggest problem is there are so many foods that I just don’t like be it texture, smell, taste, too spicy, etc..my poor husband who eats everything and is the cook has tried for years to find things that I like to eat and is terribly frustrated with my picky pallet. My fear is that I am going to buy yet another program and there will be very few foods that I will eat and fail again. Is there a way I can get a list of allowable foods before buying the program to see if there will be enough varitey to keep me going for more than a week?

    1. Hi Michelle. Look in the 21 Day Fix category on this site, you will see what foods the Fix diet wants you eating. Bethany

  102. I saw an infomercial for the 21 day fix last week and started researching it, reading reviews, etc. Like someone said earlier, I really wanted to read the good and bad of this program before I order it.
    I’m 39 and in pretty good shape, most people would look at me and think “why does she want to lose weight??”. But I’m not toned at this point and that’s what I would like to see change. I’m pretty petite and with clothes on no one would think I would need to get in shape. But I’ve had 5 kids and my body really isn’t toned like I said(I can hide it well with clothes). My other reason for thinking about this program is that I am getting older and want to be truly healthy, not just fit, if that makes sense. I struggled with high blood pressure with my last pregnancy, and my family has high blood pressure issues, so I want to nix that before it starts.
    My main concern is that in our family of 7 (my husband and I, and our kids ages 12-3), is it realistic to do this? I’m not so concerned with watching the portions so closely for my kids who are super active, but what kind of family friendly recipes are there that my kids would like to eat? We don’t do a whole lot of processed foods, besides crackers (pb and crackers, cheese and crackers are big snack items for us). I don’t want to have to make separate meals for me, and my family.
    The thing I really like about this idea is the short workouts included. I don’t have time to go to the gym, and I don’t have time to do a long workout either. I like the idea of 30 minute workouts that I can do at home.
    I definitely know I can’t do the shakeology at this point, since our grocery budget is huge as it is. So is this really doable with shakeology? I have a ninja that we use in the summer months a lot.
    Anyway, sorry for all the questions, but thanks for the information. :)

    1. Hi Julianne, It sounds like your main concern is feeding the family with the fix diet. Pinterest has a lot of recipes for the Fix that you can search around for. It is not necessary to portion your children’s meals either. I would take whole foods based 21 day fix diet approved foods vs processed foods for feeding my family any day. Bethany

  103. Hi Bethany,

    I would like to thank you for your wonderful site and positive and straightforward responses to the comments section.

    I am 47 and was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome at 18. While it’s not a life threatening condition, it is a nuisance and has gotten progressively worse over the years…which I understand is common. Recently, I stumbled on a low FODMAP diet which is not a diet to lose weight, it is designed to help those who suffer with IBS find their trigger foods and overcome the side effects of bloating, nausea, constipation and/or diarrhea. The diet stresses no processed foods and no known triggers of IBS such as onions and garlic. Although it has helped confirm my trigger foods, I have been unsuccessful in losing the weight I have gained because of the constant struggle with irregular eating (times and quantities). I feel the culprit is understanding portion control and balancing my diet. I tend to eat too much meat because I can digest it better (not red meat) and pass on the fruits and vegetables because several I’m now learning are “trigger foods”. That being said, I am now waiting for my 21 day fix to arrive today. I paid the extra shipping but the holiday weekend delayed it’s arrival. I really feel the portion control will help me tremendously while cross-referencing the list of allowed foods with the low FODMAP list. I am often swollen with literally 4 inches of gas around my belly and abdomen – I feel like I’ve just feasted on a huge meal most of the time…consequently, I don’t eat. I want this condition to stop controlling my life so I can feel better about myself (don’t like looking pregnant), feel comfortable exercising again (no nausea), and lose 15 to 20 pounds. With all of the research I have done over the years on IBS, I feel that this combination makes the most sense and I will finally FEEL good again! Naturally, my primary care physician is aware of my IBS issues. He has reviewed the low FODMAP diet and has approved it as it is well-balanced. I suspect much of what I can eat will be on the 21 day fix as well. I am super excited to receive my package today and can’t wait to start this program!

    Thanks again for the great site!

    Clare

    1. Hi Clare, Thank you for sharing and please let us all know how it goes. I for one am very interested in how this will work for you. Sounds like you have put in the research! Bethany

      1. I will definitely do that. My package came in this afternoon so I am reading now. Hope to start tomorrow!

  104. I am on day 12 of the 21 day fix diet. Tomorrow is my first night shift since starting. This means I will be awake tomorrow around 1030am and will not go to bed again until the next morning around 8am. So that’s about 10 extra hours I am awake. What and how much should I eat overnight? Thanks!

    1. Hi Colleen, I would pack an extra couple of snacks and then play it by ear. If you get hungry. Bethany

    1. Hi Maria, While there are no food substitutions per-say, there are a lot of foods to change from in the groups so I don’t think there would a problem. Bethany

  105. Hello there,
    I’m current on the 21 DF Extreme. I have a work event on Thursday where I know I will want a beer or two. I plan on that being my only cheat of the whole week. (I know it sounds silly, but dollar beers ahh) Do you know how many carb containers that would equal out to or would it really be the carb containers? Any help you could offer would be great! Thanks!

  106. Hi Bethany,

    I have a few questions I would like to ask. Firstly during meal times can I combine the containers for example for lunch a yellow red and a green and for dinner a red and green. Can I only combine the containers at lunch and dinner times or at snack times as well?

    1. Hi Patti, They are a red container on there own, and if you mix in other foods to make them a meal then you also count those. Bethany

  107. I am an extremely picky eater. I find it difficult to try new things and prefer to stick with what I can eat. Are there enough choices in food selection or do I need to eat specific foods at mealtime?

  108. I purchased the 21 DF this morning. I would like to know if it would help with mid section weight gain due to menopause?

    1. Hi Evana, Yes, 21 Day Fix is based around fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and lean proteins and is low on the sugary and high fat foods. Our metabolisms slow with age so focusing on foods that take longer to digest and convert to energy will help us not gain fat. Bethany

  109. I have a lot of weight to lose and have been doing 21 day fix for a week now and it says for me to have 6 containers of veggies and protein 4 fruit and carbs and 1 of the rest it’s hard for me to get all 6 veggies and I don’t always get all the yellow containers in either do i have to get in all the containers it says I normally lack like 2 green and 1 yellow fruit and protein is easy bc I love plain yogurt with fresh fruit

    1. Hi Kristin, You should always try to eat your containers, but if you can’t then that is okay. I believe in the book it says you can use partial containers or try to not always skip the same containers on a daily basis. Bethany

  110. Hi Bethany, thank you for starting and keeping up this blog!

    I have a question about the food. I see that everything is split up into containers. Is the food in the containers all the food you eat in one day?

    1. Hi Jason, You get multiple servings of each container. For example, if your calorie range was 1,500 to 1,799 you would get 4 green, 3 purple, 4 red, 3 yellow, 1 blue, 1 orange, and 4 tsp container servings. Bethany

  111. I am considering this program as it seems pretty straight forward. I have a concern that we are convenience eaters – both running out the door or eating on the go – and so we tend to eat “bars” since they are easy. The Shakeology seems like it would be hard to do on the go. Also, my husband really doesn’t like to drink his meals!

    1. Hi Aven, There is a high-protein snack bar recipe in the eating plan guide. It makes 24 bars, so you could bake a batch or two at once for the week. I also just wrote a new post that outlines a few simple breakfasts that are 21 Day Fix approved which you might want to take a look at for ideas. Bethany

  112. Tomorrow is my last day of the 21 day fix. I would like to do another round, do I take a week off from the program or can I just start again on Monday?

    1. Hi Lauren, It is up to you. But, if you feel good I would start Monday, no reason to break the streak. Bethany

  113. Hey!
    I am waiting for my 21 day fix to come in and I was just wondering if I could still do a little bit of running along with the workouts? I was thinking just a little, maybe 1-2 miles 3-4 X a week. I figured I would do my 30 min workouts in the morning and then run in the afternoon after work? Would this hinder my results??
    Thanks!

    1. Also, I am wondering about how long I should wait to do another round of the program? Currently my target calorie intake is 1575. Should I recalculate as I lose weight to make sure that I am still in the same calorie intake bracket??

  114. I eat egg whites, do I pour the whites into the protein container uncooked to measure? ( I know silly question)

  115. Can you explain how the Shakeology part of the 21 day fix works? I was looking to order the 21 day fix essential package to get me started. It looks like it comes with the shakeology container but should I be ordering something else too? Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

    1. Hi Jenna, That comes with the Challenge Pack option. The shake should be used to replace a meal if you decide to use it. Bethany

      1. What happens after the 21 days, do you just kind of get stuck in your weight loss? Or will you continue to loss? Or do you have to buy another step?

      2. Hi Christina, You could do another cycle, move on to another program, it really depends upon your continued goals. Bethany

    1. Hi Sam, You will of course want to talk to your doctor before beginning any program and there is another program called Tai Cheng that you might want to take a look into. Bethany

  116. Oh sorry, one more question, I see you say the light dumbbells are 3-5 lbs. How much are the heavier ones?

    1. For most people 10-15 pounds. But, for some people it might be less and others more. Bethany

  117. Hello Bethany, thank you so much for your review. I have been wanting to lose about 10-15 lbs and tone up for about three years now (when I had my son). I just recently decided to get back into working out, and this program was suggested to me. I’d heard about it before but didn’t realize just how simple it sounded. I did three weeks of Insanity a few years ago, but I couldn’t get down eating right, and I HATE counting calories. This program sounds great to me, plus my husband has been saying for six years now that he was going to lose weight, but never does. He weighs 300 lbs and this program is actually intriguing to him. I have a few questions. How many times a day are you supposed to eat on this plan? Is it three meals and maybe a light snack? I have a hard time eating more than two times a day so I want to know how much we’re supposed to eat in a day. I know some programs want you to eat 5-6 small meals a day. Also, my husband eats a lot. He only eats once or twice a day, but he eats in big portions. How easy or hard is it going to be for him to start feeling full on this plan?

    1. Hi Danielle, There is not set eating schedule with program. It does not want you to go more than three hours without food, as to try and keep your metabolism high. The plan is based around whole foods so you’ll have no problem feeling full after eating but I don’t know for how long. Bethany

  118. Can you define “light dumbbells”? I’m used to Jillian Michaels workouts and she is very clear to say grab a pair of 3 pound weights or 5 pound weights. How are you supposed to know if you’re pushing hard enough without knowing how heavy of weights to use? What do you recommend and what do you think is most popular? I’m leaning towards 3 pounds but is that too light?

    1. Hi Jen, Yes, 3 to 5 pounds for light weights is perfect. I usually start with 3 to get warm. Bethany

  119. Hi Bethany,

    I am trying to decide whether or not to order the full 21 day fix, or just the containers for the portion control. I have struggled with my weight my entire life, so I know what I need to do, just having a hard time committing to diet and exercise. This time last year I was working out 6 days and week and eating very well and was 24 pounds lighter – then the busy stressful job kicked in. I have heard that the workouts are more for beginners at working out and can be quite easy. While I am out of shape and cannot perform at cardio classes to the extreme level I was last year, I don’t want to risk purchasing the entire program and being bored with the workouts. What would you suggest – purchase the entire package or just purchase the containers, follow the suggested diet and do my own cardio daily and/or consider purchasing a more intense at home workout 30 minute system such as T25? Thanks for your guidance! Liz

    1. Hi Liz, I have not had any complaints about the workouts being to easy, but I do recommend it for beginners or people coming off an extended layoff in the review, so that could be a reason. You can always return the program if you find it to easy. Bethany

  120. Can you do the 21 day eating plan and workout on your own? I usually do about 30 min of cardio and 15-20 min of weights every morning. Would that be acceptable?

  121. I am interested in trying this but i am really heavy and way out of shape im afraid to try the thirty minute workouts i dont know if i can make it thru one and getting even more disappointed in myself any thoughts or motivations ? I really want to do this just afraid of failing i need to lose 120 lbs :(

    1. Hi Holly, You are not competing with anyone. If you can’t finish a video, just do the best you can. I’ve had to pause or walk-it out during many of my workouts. Or you could just start a walking routine until you feel you have the endurance for the 21 Day Fix. Bethany

  122. Hi Bethany, Before I order I would like to determine if I can still make these crock pot meals I do 3-4 days a week. I don’t understand how to measure them with the cups. Like today I’m making Tortolini soup: Butternut Sqush, yellow and green zucchini, onions, garlic, green beans, stewed tomatoes, chicken broth, spices, tortolini with cheese, and parmasean cheese will cook all day together. I would imagine I guess which portions go with each container based on the amount in my bowl because it would be hard to serve a bowl and then separate it? Some crock pot meals are easier, but when mixed it is harder. Thank you for responding, it’s going to be hard for me to learn diet and portions. I also play raquet sports 3-4 hours a day or bike ride, so do I still do the exercises on those days?

    1. Hi Cindy, Most foods would be measured prior to cooking. After a couple of weeks of using the containers, you should be able to eyeball most foods pretty easily too. As for the extra extra, I would just see how you feel, if you are worn out then no, but if you still have the energy then yes you could. Bethany

  123. Can you purchase extra containers? I work 10-12 hrs shifts and to pack enough food for the day it would be helpful to have extras.

  124. I am about to order the 21 day fix. Are there any other shakes that I can use w/ this program? I am going to get the challenge pack to start but can’t see spending so much on shakes.

    1. Hi Jayme, Remember these are supposed to be used to replace a meal and the organic whole food quality ingredients that are used in them contribute to the cost. You can find other shakes, but be careful of ingredients, a lot of meal replacements are filled with processed sugars making them not a healthy option. Bethany

  125. I just started the plan yesterday and I am fine doing the 30 minutes exercise DVD’s daily but I had been in a good place prior to starting with 45 minutes on the treadmill a few times a week and/or other exercise classes locally. If I also do the treadmill, do I eat any more containers? or just consider that helpful deficit in calories.

    1. Hi Diane, I would just monitor how you feel and if you feel low on energy I would start adding in a couple of containers. A good goal to strive for is, weight loss of 1-2 pounds a week. Bethany

  126. Can Vermacelli noodles be used as a carb? I prefer the noodles over brown rice but wanted to be sure they are considered a good carb for the diet plan?

  127. Bethany,

    Can I use I can’t believe it’s not butter on the 21 day fix program? Thank you for all your help.

    1. Hi Carol, No processed foods, the Fix wants you to kick the junk and processed foods. Check out the sample shopping list under the 21 Day Fix category to get an idea of what type of foods you should be eating. Bethany

  128. Hi Bethany – just started 21 Day Fix and am excited to lose and become more fit. Question, I am calculating my intake should be at the 2300 cal range with my current weight. Can I drop down to use say the 1800 cal range to lose faster but paying attention to how much energy I’m feeling. Or will this backfire over time by dropping to a lesser range? Seems logical to eat less calories if one feels good energy to lose faster if feeling great. Or, am I supposed to use the range where I want to weigh eventually and am thinking about this backwards. Please be specific. Thanks so much.

    1. Hi Lilly, Good sustainable weight loss is 1-2 pounds a week. You start at the calorie level that is recommended and work down. As you start to lose weight, you drop down calorie levels as you go. I would begin with the calorie range that is recommended and go from there. Faster weight loss is not always better for the long term. Bethany

  129. I originally heard about the program through social media, etc. but am now looking into it more seriously, as some women I work with are doing it currently. So far, I like that it focuses on eating real food, nothing processed. I have two questions, both related to the diet. 1 – Does the program help you transition into some kind of maintenance after the 21st day, and 2- Will the diet be able to be followed if my husband and I are vegetarian?

    1. Hi Kerrie, There is no maintenance protocol per say, but it does tell you haw to calculate the level needed to maintain. Yes, you can follow the diet as a vegetarian no problem, you would count lentils and beans as reds instead of yellow is the only adjustment. Bethany

  130. Hi Bethany:

    So far I am happy with the program. I have lost 4 lbs in 4 days but I am wondering if there is somewhere I could find recipes or suggestions for meals. I am so afraid of not sticking to the program that my meals have been pretty boring.

  131. Hi Bethany. I am very interested in trying the 21 day fix. I was reading another article that showed you how to calculate how many calories you should eat a day. I was surprised at how many calories this program said I should consume. I know that it is way too many and I will be stuffed. I am also concerned that I will actually gain weight because the amount is so much and more than I normally eat. Do you know if I choose to follow a lower intake of calories will the 21 day fix still work for me?

    1. Hi Kathryn, Yes, the 21 Day Fix is not a starvation diet for sure. A lot of people are drinking a lot of their calories, so when they switch to a diet that focuses on whole foods it can be a transistion phase. I would not be concerned with gaining weight with the amount of calories that are recommended as it is a mathematical equation. The good news is you can make adjustments, the eating plan does go over what to do if there is too much food for you to eat. But, it does take some trial and error. If you want to prrovide your age, weight, and activity level I might be able to help. Bethany

      1. I am 29 and 226lbs. I am on my feet walking a lot of the day. I get over 10000 steps a day and walk 5 miles. I don’t know how you would classify that in terms of activity level. I am hoping next week to either start 21 day fix or some other exercise plan that will increase my activity even more.

      2. Hi Kathryn, The 21 Day Fix is sounds like an excellent program for. While you do a lot of walking the workouts will be a totally different kind of exercise for your body. But, what I really love of about the Fix is the diet. It teaches healthy eating habits that you can use for a lifetime not just for when you are following the program’s workouts. Bethany

      3. Thank you so much! I just have one last question. If I used the 21 day fix for the workout plan alone and continued the diet I am on would it still be effective as just an exercise program? I feel like the only area where I need a boost is exercising.

      4. Hi Kathryn, I’m not really sure, it depends on what your current diet looks like. I would suggest following the 21 Day Fix diet for the three weeks and then begin adjusting it to meet your lifestyle. No matter how well someone is eating I believe the 21 Day Fix eating plan would be beneficial in the long run. Bethany

  132. Hi Bethany:
    I purchased the 21 day fix program and find it pretty easy to follow. However, I am confused with the teaspoons showing up on the guide. What are the teaspoons representing as to the actual food you are eating. Wasn’t quite sure what the teaspoons represented. Thanks Bethany

    1. Hi Judy, The teaspoons foods are simply measured with a teaspoon. You have to use your own as they are not provided with the program. Bethany

  133. Hi Bethany ~ I’m on day 5 of the 21 day fix – Woo! I haven’t exercised nor dieted for years, but have plenty of experience! Right now I’m simply focusing on completing the 1st 21 day round and my current goal is to be able to do the full modification exercises by day 21. I love the workouts and the fact that I have a LONG way to go before they’ll be too basic for me! My hubby is happily helping me to create interesting, varied dishes from the food list, and it’s going well.

    My question is about the “6 slices of low sodium, fat free turkey” or ham. I’m not sure what size the slices are – can you give me an ounce measurement? Also, is there a particular brand that’s recommended? I wasn’t able to find 100% fat free meat slices…is 98% as close as I’m going to get?

    My 2nd question is about honey – when can this be used and how should it be measured?

    Thanks in advance,
    Cindi

    1. Hi Cindi, It should be about 3 oz, I usually do turkey cutlets, so I don’t really no any of the brands. But, I would look for something labeled organic without nitrates. I don’t know how you could get meat to be 100% fat free so I think 98% would be fine. I don’t remember honey being listed on the meal plan. Bethany

  134. Hi Bethany! I was wondering if xylitol could be used as a sweetener for coffee , etc ? I have ordered the 21 df and I am reviewing as much info ahead of time. Thanks! Lori

  135. I bought the 21 day fix and followed it religiously for 21 days and did all the workouts as well. I only lost 7 pounds.

    1. Only 7 pounds! That’s a lot of weight to lose in three weeks, in fact that is a healthy amount to lose which is sustainable. Losing more than 1-2 pounds a week is often just water weight. You should be proud and keep at it! Bethany

    1. The plan lists some of the odd shaped foods that are allowed, so you don’t have to break everything up.

  136. Hi I’m 50 years old with Hypothyroidism, I seem to vary in weight approx 3 lbs a day no matter what I eat, this has become such a struggle. Do you think this program would work for me? I have spent lots of money over the past few years trying to find the right fix and none so far have worked. I work long hours and I am totally exhausted when I get home at night, not sure I would be able to get the workouts done. Help?

    1. Hi Janice, Everyones weight typically fluctuates 1-5 pounds a day, so I would not let that concern you. You should be weighing yourself once a week max, at this same time of day, and under the same conditions to be the most accurate. Could you do your workouts before you go to your job? Bethany

  137. Hi Bethany!
    I started the base program and I’m in the calorie range of 1,500 -1,799 and around 64+ ounces of water per day. I actually moved down from the 1,800 – 2,099 range due to it being too much for me to eat within a day. I am finding the calorie range is still too much for me to eat in a day, and I end up with roughly 2 red and 2 green containers left to eat for the day. I’m just wondering if this is normal? Before I started this system, I was eating very unhealthy and way over 2,099 calories in a day and drinking lots of sugary soda. I would like to lose 80-100 pounds, at what point is not enough calories?

    1. Hi Lindsey, What you are experiencing I have heard from a few people. Now instead of drinking empty calories you are eating whole nutrtitious foods(filling you up) and it can take a bit of time for the body to adjust. While you don’t want to force yourself to eat containers, I would suggest trying to mix it up the containers and don’t skip the same containers each day, just kind of rotate through them. Hope that helps, Bethany

  138. Hi Bethany! Thanks for the review. I was wondering if, being a vegetarian, I would be able to get results from this program? Is meat easily replaced? I know that there are suggested foods and I was wondering if any proteins are not meat. Thanks so much!

    Wow I’m so sorry, I just saw where you replied to that question in another comment!

  139. Are the food plans vegan friendly? I am not vegan but I have food allergies to chicken, eggs and cow milk. Will there be options to those when planning meals and being able to stick to them? Thanks!

    1. Hi Heather, Yes, there are plenty of food options for the vegetarian or someone with food allergies to choose from the approved food list that the Fix comes with. I have a smaple list on this site if you serarch 21 Day Fix you should be able to see some of the foods Bethany

  140. Just finished the 21 day fix. I am not too far over in the weight department about 12-15 pounds. I bought it for the exercise DVD mostly. I found the program very easy to use and the exercises are great but killer. I had been exercising but obviously not to that extent. I thought oh I can do this, could barely move for four days after the first session. The containers are very helpful with portions and getting that mindset going. I was already eating pretty clean, but needed to stop the pop/soda. After being pretty good on the system, not perfect, because life does happen, I lost 5 pounds. My goal is to loose a total of 12 lbs. I am continuing with the program, I enjoy it and can see changes happening to my body, slowly but surely. I think what is an over marketing ad is that you will get that killer body in 21 days. That is NOT going to happen, even if you are totally diligent. It will happen maybe in several of the rounds. I’ll keep you posted.
    Colleen

    1. Thanks Colleen, I 100% agree with you about the marketing, I hope that comes across in my blog post. And, thanks for sharing your experience, I enjoyed reading your story. Bethany

  141. I already ordered this product and I have already tried the shakeology (which I love and actually crave) I am 48 and going through menopause and cannot take hormone replacements; therefore, I have gained weight and several inches around my waist and hips over the past year. I have never struggled with weight issues before now, so I decided to invest in this product/program. I have two questions that I hope you can answer.
    1) Will I get results while going through full blown menopause??? ( All of my hormones are depleted and my metabolisim has slowed way down)
    2) I work long hours in the and I rarely have time for lunch or a snack- Can I drink a shake in the morning and a shake for lunch and have a healthy dinner??? and do the work outs and still lose inches? Thank you in advance.
    Nicole

    1. Hi Nicole! I’m glad you contacted me. To answer your questions:
      1. Yes, you can lose weight while going through full blown menopause. It may take a little bit longer and come more slowly, but be patient and stick with it.
      2. If you work very long hours, try planning your meals for the week on your day off and meal prepping too. This way, you can make sure you have food packed and ready to go without having to think too much about what you’re going to eat the next day. Opt for quick foods that you can eat with your hands if you find yourself always on the go, and leftovers are always a life and time saver. I would not recommend doing two shakes per day for more than a few days at a time…not for the longhaul.

      I hope this helps, but please let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with. Good luck!

    1. Hi Kathy, I really hate to commwnt on medical conditions. I always tell people if it hurts, don’t do it and modify or walk it out. I feel like everyone’s case is different. I always recommend being cleared by your doctor first for those people who have excisting injuries. Bethany

  142. I’m considering getting the program for the portion control, because healthy clean eating is hard for me. my only concern is that I’m a vegetarian. For the protein portion or meal plan is there other options aside from meat?

    1. Hi Stephanie, Yes, it is vegetarian friendly. And you can add beans, lentils, and quinoa as red containers as a vegan. Bethany

    2. I want to purchase this program, I am 5’2 and weigh 135 lbs, I want to lose 20 lbs.
      I am a vegeterian and eat mostly Indian food, will this prgram work for me.
      I eat egss but no sea food/fish/meat etc.,

      Please help

  143. I’m on the fence about buying this. Am trying hard to lose 30 pounds but have plateaued after the first 10. I know exercise is the missing component but I have severe Rheumatoid Arthritis and have been completely sedentary for about two years. Even walking a quarter of a mile makes me sore and exhausted. Will the low impact options on this plan be too much for me?

    1. Hi Karen, I would start by sticking with the walking plan. Walking can be good exercise, you just need to track how much you are walking and try to improve on your distance and time. Bethany

  144. Hi Bethany,

    I want to try the program but I have 100 – 120 pounds to lose. Is the 21 day fix program going to work for me? Do I do cycles until I reach my goal weight? When I reach my goal, do I continue the program or does it teach me a new healthy lifestyle?

    1. Hi Charline, It will work, if you put the work in. Yes, most people do more than one cycle. And it does teach you healthy eating habits that you can use for a lifetime. Bethany

  145. I’ve ordered the program and hadn’t received it yet. I stumbled upon your site and have found it quit helpful.. My ? is that of the fruits and veggies on the list is frozen fruit with no added sugar and canned veggies with no salt acceptable? I know fresh is always best choice but some items are seasonal.

    1. Hi, Frozen fruits and vegetables are fine. Some frozen varieties can atually contain more nutrients as the freezing process locks in the nutrients. Canned fruits and vegetables should not be included(except tomatoes) as the canning process destroys their nutrients. Bethany

  146. Hi Bethany,

    Thank you so much for taking the time to answer so many comments and questions!
    I’m considering doing the 21 day fix, as I have some friends who have been very pleased with the plan and their results. However, the Shakeology shake mix is very expensive! Do you have any recommendations for a high quality meal replacement shake that isn’t $130 (cringe) a bag?
    Thank you!

    1. Hi Emily, I am happy to hear your friends are loving their results! Yeah, I have looked around because I wanted to do an alternative article like I have done for some others, but when you match the actual ingredients, the only thing I could find was taking two supplements together but then the rice point was actually higher. I would not let this defer you from trying the Fix, even it is just the base. Bethany

  147. Hi Bethany

    I am thinking of trying the 21df program. I just had my second baby and am looking to lose some of the extra weight. I’m 5’2 1/2 I weigh about 159. I’m looking to lose about 40lbs and I believe the portion containers will help a lot however I am an extremely picky eater and really don’t eat veggies at all. I do love fruit tho. Is it required to eat a lot of veggies or can I sub fruit instead?

    1. Hi Jessie, You really should not subsitute fruit for vegetables. The sugar contant in fruit is much higher than vegetables. I’m not saying fruit is bad, but you should really only conusme in moderation. The Fix wants you eating a balanced diet of macronutrients, that is why there are the different containers. Not eating the correct ratios would kind of defeat the purpose. Bethany

  148. One other question… I also have PiYo but only got through the first Align workout before 21 day Fix arrived. I decided to start that one first. Then I saw your amazing review on PiYo! I like both instructors. Would you recommend one program over the other, or what would you do if you had them both?

    1. Hi again, That question is difficult. I don’t recommend one over the other, they are both great programs. If I was just starting out or was coming back from a long layoff, I would start with the 21 Day Fix. But personally, I did enjoy the PiYo workouts more. Bethany

  149. Totally agree with Shay on February 21 – 5 days into the program, I’m noticing a tremendous difference. I personally like the workouts, and fixing up my diet is a total game-changer.

    I was very hungry and had a headache the first couple days. Today, I’m sugar and alcohol free. I’m avoiding treats for now. I hope I can keep it up, but I now have more energy so there is motivation to not screw it up.

    2 questions:
    1. I am 133 lbs with a goal to lose 5-10 lbs, tone up all over, and fix my binges and cravings in my diet. I am in the 1200-1500 calorie goal. I use the containers as a rough guide, but my biggest weakness is letting some extra healthy fats creep in (a little extra olive oil, a bit more dressing, an extra piece of cheese…). I often miss 1 of my fruit servings (it’s harder for me to get fruit in, I’m more a veggie person). I push myself with the workouts, sometimes I need to pause for a few secs before getting back in there, but I give them my honest effort. Do you think few days of being slightly higher than my calorie goal or being a little off balance with the type of food I’m getting in would be detrimental to my long term goals?

    2. We have some regular, not brown/whole grain, pasta and rice in the house that we’d like to use up. Are these still allowed as long as they fit in the yellow container?

    Thanks!

    1. Hello, For your first question, just do the best you can as time goes by you are going to find the cravings diminish. You’ll also be able to adjust your diet as time goes on to, finding out what works best for you and your body is what it is all about. The Fix diet just puts you on the right path, you have to follow it, but at the same time you have to fit it into your lifestyle. For the second question, I would consider donating the white pasta and rice to a food bank. You want to have carbs, but you want the slower digesting carbs from whole wheats and brown rices. Bethany

  150. So excited to start however. I forgot that I’m nursing! Ha! Can I still do this program and add more calories? Are the shakes ok to drink while nursing?

  151. Hi just wondering when is the best time to exercise…i work early mornings and am not really a morning person but i have my evenings free..would evening exercising be ideal

    1. Hi Natash, Evenings are fine. The best time is when you can do and put your best into your workouts. Just try have your workout done an hour as to not interfer with your sleep. Bethany

  152. Hi,
    I just want to order the portion control containers. At this time I have nowhere to workout at home. I have a membership at anytime fitness. Is there anyway to get the diet? I need to know what foods are allowed and how much to eat.
    Thanks,
    Stacy

  153. I’m extremely over weight and do need a life style change. My question is on average how much weight do you lose per round and also My weight is so high that after doing the calculation my calorie intake is higher than the scale so how may containers of each color would I use. I’m on nutri system but have only lost 1.2 pound this month and I didn’t lose any last month. I really believe 21 day fix will work better for me.

    1. Hi Beth, I would not say there is an average weight loss per round. What you want for weight loss is, a weekly loss of 1-2 pounds this help make sire you keep the weight off for the longterm Feel free to contact me privately from the contact page in the header, if you would like help figuring out you containers. Bethany

  154. Question for you, Bethany. Am I able to use my isolate protein as a replacement shake for breakfast instead of shakeology? I know that those are what the plan calls for as a replacement meal, but if I am being totally honest, it is VERY expensive! Thanks!

    1. Hi Nikki, Protein isolate is a fat digesting whey protein, not really good for meal replacement. That would be best taken after your workouts to refuel your muscles quickly. Bethany

  155. I’m curious as to why it’s so cheap through your link? And, what does it mean if you’re my coach? Are there restrictions on the diet? Thanks for your help!

    1. Hi Rebecaa, I’m not sure what you mean by it being so cheap through the link, that is the normal base kit price. A coach is there to motivate and support you throughout the program, some do a better job than other’s, I try my best. Not sure what you mean by restrictions on the diet, you can’t eat everything you want all the time, but I think it is pretty flexible. Bethany

  156. Hi Bethany,
    I just saw the commercial, and I am looking at buying the 21 day fix. I appreciate your honest opinion on te product, really answered a lot of questions I had. However, I am a person who does like to workout in groups, I feel like going off of their energy helps me get through the workout. Would you say that this 21 day fix?

    1. Hi Candice, I don’t really know the answer. The workouts have Autumn as the trainer and then there are the people working out in the background, she gooes around motivates them, so it kind of like a group class setting. But, you would be doing the workouts at home, maybe you could find a workout buddy to do the workouts with. Bethany

  157. I’m thinking about purchasing the system but not sure how to use the containers for my lunch. I usually make some sort of chicken/turkey dish that will last me the work week and take some daily. For instance this week I made a turkey chili. I cooked a lb. of lean ground turkey, added in a can of black beans and tall jar of southwest style salsa What container(s) would I use and how full on each?

    1. Hi Debbie, All you would need to do is make your recipe like normal, but once you measure the ingredients, add them to the container and then prepare. Just be sure to note how much of each container you use. There is nothing against using halves or quarter containers. You can find a lot of recipes on Pinterest that use the containers for making recipes too. Bethany

      1. Thanks for the reply but still unsure what to do, I don’t measure the ingred just mix all 3 together. The lb of turkey, can of beans and jar of salsa. I don’t know how to use the containers after its made.

      2. Hi Debbie, I would suggest using containers before it is made. put the ingredients in the corresponding color container and mark it down. Bethany

  158. Hello! I am thinking about ordering the program, but wanted to get your thoughts about doing the program in cycles. In the infomercial many of the people with great results continued to do the program in cycles. Do you think that is a good approach or do you suggest I try other programs after this one?

    1. Hi! You can do multiple cycles or move on, it really depends on you. I think it is different for everyone and what works for one person might not be best for another. I would do one cycle see how you feel and then decide, it is much easier then to do so. Bethany

  159. Hi! I am interested in the program, however I have celiac disease. I was curious as to what is in the shakes and if they contain any gluten?

    1. Hi Debbie, The shakes are gluten free, but I think I read somewhere they are processed in a plant that does process products that contain gluten, but I am not 100% sure on the later. I will need to check-in to it further to be sure. Bethany

  160. I really don’t want to loose weight. I am 43, 5’1 and about 112 pounds. I really need to tone up the jiggly stuff. I have increased my protein and water intake as I was told that if you increase your protein to match your current weight the cellulite will firm up. No luck so far! I do workout but very sporadically. I feel I have good grasp on what and how much to eat and my meals are healthy. I usually eat a greek yogurt w 1 oz sliced almonds for breakfast, an Herbalife shake for lunch with an added protein powder , a lean meat (chicken, talipa, tuna), 1/2 cup of a carb and 1-2 cups of veggies for dinner. I add in 1/2 cup of cottage cheese two times a day for protein. So with all that being said I’m wondering if this program is for me. I have a busy schedule and honestly I am too tired to workout most days when I get home so I talk myself out of it therefore working out is difficult to stick with. I need a program I can do at home but I’m not sure how much the workouts will help me if I don’t follow the food plan. How many days a week do you work out and what weights/extras do you need to have? Thanks for your help!

    1. Hi Annie, I have never heard that about cellulite, once you firm up it will improve that is for sure. While you are eating healthy foods, in my opinion your diet is really high in protein rich foods. You need those healthy carbs/fruit for the energy and healthy fats for your body to function optimally. High protein diets over a long period of time might also cause kidney problems. I would not focus as much on getting rid of the cellulite as I would on eating a healthy well rounded diet, the cellulite will take of itself. As for the fix, the diet alone is not going to help you overly firm and tighten, the workouts will help build muscle which will tighten you up. You need light dumbbells or a strength band for some of the workouts. The workout schedule is 7 days a week, but you could add in a rest day to break it up. Bethany

  161. For everyone wondering if it is really worth the money, I say yes! I mean I am on Day 5 of the 21 Day Fix Extreme and I am already noticing a difference in myself both physically and mentally. It is so easy to follow and not time consuming at all! I mean I haven’t finished the program yet but even I can tell after only 5 days that it was worth the cost. And this is coming from a university student without a lot of extra cash. I don’t mind the expense at all because this program is already changing my life!

  162. I received my package on Friday and have read every bit of information I could get my hands on even this web page.

    The question I have is I eat pretty health I work out almost every day the problem I have is knowing what to eat for breakfast and lunch at work. my day starts at 545 am and I cant eat before 730 my stomach gets nausea. what would I take for breakfast. and in what color container would I use.

    I am looking forward to starting the program.

    1. Hi Sherryl, Are there any specific foods that make you nauseas or just breakfast in general. The 21 Day Fix has lots of foods to choose from and if you don’t like so called breakfast foods, eat what you do enjoy.Bethany

  163. Hi Bethany,
    Are you familiar with the 17 day diet? We have some friends that have been following it and had success. I know the 17 day diet has a book and recipe book to follow, but not really sure how it compares. Just wondering what you think between the 21 day fix and that program?
    Thank you,
    Julie

    1. Hi Julie, I did a little research on the 17 Day Diet, and it is definitely a fad diet program. The things that catch my eye is that it is basically a higher protein diet, while the Fix really tries to get you eating more well-rounded. Highe protein diets are not sustainable in the long run. And the first week of the 17 Day Diet is ridiculous – it is too calorie restrictive if you’re over 120lbs.

      While the Fix has a variety of workouts that change day to day, the 17 Day Diet workouts seem rather boring, repeating the same three workouts that include walking or another cardio activity for 30-60 minutes and some pretty soft weighlifting for week after week. I do not have a treadmill or a nice area to walk in the winter, so I would definitely choose the at-home workout program that has a trainer showing me the moves that change to day.

      Also, I want to eat healthy with weight loss I can sustain over time, not lose weight quickly only to put all the weight back on the moment I start eating a healthy, well-rounded diet with balanced macronutrient ratios. For me, it would hands down be the Fix…not just because I’ve tried it and know it really works, it’s because I really dislike these fad-type programs that will be out of style in no time. Hope this helps. Bethany

  164. Hi I am very interested in the program, I have always struggled with weight issues, now I am 4months post baby, and really over weight with awful eating habits and struggle with ppd.
    Is it worth the envestment?

    1. Hi Arien, Yes, but you have to put the work in. Follow the diet and do the workouts and you will definitely get results. Bethany

  165. Hi Bethany,

    Thanks for your insight and answering so many questions. After reading through them, you have answered some of mine! Right now I’m stuck at a plateau! About 2 years ago I lost 30 pounds on my own changing my diet, eating strictly gluten free and semi grain free, and working out 3-4 days a week. I have maintained and stuck to the same regiment, however added kickboxing and some FB challenges from beachbody coaches. I just cannot get over this plateau hump and lose the last 20. I’m going to order the 21df next week in hopes that it will push me over. I have tried adding more calories, but I feel like I can’t eat any more! Any suggestions?

    1. Hi Jen, I would stick to the Fix exactly as suggested as far as exercise and recommended calories for your weight. It may not necessarily be calories, but what types of food you’re eating and micronutrient ratios.

      Hitting a plateau can also just be a sign that you need to change things up, so getting the Fix could be exactly what you need to help push you past your plateau. Just push your hardest each and every workout and remember that if you’re not challenging your body, you’re not going to change your body. Hope that helps! Bethany

  166. Hi. I am really interested in this program. I really like how to incorporated portion control and healthy eating. It seems super easy to follow, however is this something someone who is very obese can do? It is anything like P90X? Or is this for beginners? I weight about 325 pounds and am 5’8. I get of breath climbing up the three flights of stairs. I really want to do this, but I am worried I might not be able to. I am able to go on the treadmill on a high incline without getting too tired, so I can handle some cardio. I am also 25 if that helps. I would love an honest opinion!

    1. Hi Hailey, I have known obese individuals who have been able to successfully followed the program with great results. And more importantly, they were able to conquer their eating and begin living happier, healthier lifestyles.

      As long as you’ve been cleared by your doc for exercise, you will be fine. It is definitely not as crazy as p90x. Just make sure to take every workout at your own pace, following the modifier at first, and pause the workout or walk it out to take a breather whenever you have to. It is not a race, so just stick with it, and every workout, you will get stronger.

      I would suggest not doing the program with weights for your first week at least and simply start getting yourself used to eating healthy portions and getting used to making exercise a part of your day. I hope this helps! Bethany

  167. Today is my first day! I am very excited to get back on the right path. However, I still have the nagging feeling that i am eating to much to lose weight. I would like to lose 50 pounds or so in the long run and i am in the 2100-2300 caloric range. How can eating so many calories help me lose weight? Maybe i just need to get away from my old mindset. I just want to make sure i am doing it right. Thank you in advance for any information.

    1. Hi, Yes, get away from the old mindset as it does not work well for long term weight loss. As you lose weight your calories will decrease. Slow and steady is the way to keep the weight off for good.

  168. Hello,
    I am thinking about getting the 21 day fix, but I’m not sure if it will be right for me. Two years ago I got pregnant with my son, I was 120 pounds. I ended up gaining so much weight from the pregnancy that I am now 230 pounds and 5’3″. I really don’t like this change and I really want to loose the 100 pounds. I know it will take a lot of dedication and I’m ready for that but is this program going to help me accomplish my goal? I don’t have any knee problems, occasionally I have some lower back problems but its from the weight.
    Thanks, Kayla

  169. I like to make meals for the week so that I’m not cooking each night because with 2 kids and night classes I don’t have time to do that. How do I incorporate homemade soups and casseroles into 21 Day Fix?

    Please answer quickly as I’m looking to purchase but if I have to cook or plan all my meals for every day all the time, then this won’t work for our family.

    Thanks for your help in advance, Julie

      1. If you have to use the containers to measure out your families meals, will it be enough for 4 people? I’m not understanding very well. It just doesn’t seem like that would be enough unless u did it 4 times…once for each person. I really don’t want to have to cook my family dinner then turn around and cook myself something different.

      2. Hi Laura, You use the containers to measure out your meals, not the entire families. Fix meals are family friendly, you don’t have to use the portion control for them. Bethany

  170. Hello,

    I just purchased the 21DF. Are we supposed to do all the exercises on both DVD’s in one day?

    So excited to begin!!

  171. I am in great shape. I workout 10-14 hours a week– doing martial arts, strength training, and HIIT. I used to be heavier and have lost a lot of weight but I’ve been stuck at a plateau for a long time now. I like the simplicity of the eating program, but I feel like 1234 calories for someone as active as I am is too low. Is it worth it to do the healthy eating part of the program?

    1. Hi Eleanor, The calorie target in the 21 Day Fix is setup for people who are following the 21 Day Fix workouts. You could adjust your calorie target up if it is not providing you with enough energy for your workouts. And, yes it is worth it. Bethany

  172. I have a couple of questions about the program. My husband and I are both going to do the 21day fix.

    For my husband, he is suppose to have 6 of the red containers a day, so can he use 3 for his lunch and three for his dinner?
    And do we have to only eat the foods that are listed in the book?

    I also go to the gym 2 times a week, can I continue going to the gym and do my daily works as well?
    We both want to lose weight for our daughters wedding in August.

    1. Hi Theresa, Yes, you can split the 6 reds any way that you see fit. And, yes you will want to stick to the foods in the book especially for the first 21 days. You really should only do 21 Day Fix workouts. Bethany

  173. I am trying to start the 21 Day Fix. I have my package. I am trying to make up a menu but am having trouble. The booklet says my calorie content should be 2100-2300 but I cannot find any examples at this (or close to this) calorie level. They’re all for much lower. I am a Team Beachbody club member but the menu planner doesn’t seem to work well with 21 Day Fix. Do you know of any websites, etc. with menus for my level?

    1. Hi Patricia, I don’t think there are any sites that will have a menu specific for your calorie level, so what I would do is eat a double serving or whatever you need to do in order to get to your target calorie range. Also, shoot for the higher calorie snacks for in between meals to keep you satisfied. I hope this helps, but please let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck! Bethany

  174. I have 21 day fix and have had it for a while….I’m going to start it this monday…I want to lose 20 pounds ..tried WW but it was boring to me…I used tio run alot but my thighs started getting really big and I hate big thighs..I’m now trying to lose these big thighs….Im afraid to start working out again because I do not want my legs to get any bigger I do not know what I’m doing wrong….I’m a very picky eater I do not like dairy, do not like eggs…not that crazy about meat so I started eating alot of junk …I know my metoblism has completed slowed down…..I have Turbo Fire, Insantity made my knees hurt…I have T25 never done it…I do not like the after taste that shakelogy leaves in my mouth….so i’m at lost…if I start 21 day fix do you think it will help.

    1. Hi Juanita, Yes, it will help if you follow the plan how it is setup. It is based around healthy whole foods and is balanced in macronutrients. Bethany

  175. Hello Bethany,
    how do you count tomato sauce? or soup?
    And what is the count on the grams of carbs ( 1 cup) or protein ( 2 cups) on the 1200 to 1399 plan
    Thank you ,
    Debz

    1. Hi Debbie, The purpose of this plan is to get you away from measuring your food. You use the containers, you do not count grams. As far as tomato sauce and soup, it would depend upon the ingredietns, the fix wants you eating whole foods so you would need to add the ingredients to the containers. Bethany

  176. Hi there!
    I just want to say thank you for the review and the answers to all these questions!
    I am on day 3 of the program, and I am so full i can hardly eat anymore. My question is this, do I HAVE to eat everything it tells me to? I double checked and Im filling my containers correctly, the right number of times, and drinking a ton of water. I have eaten nothing that is not on the list from the guide, being extra careful there. I have never been a big eater, yet.. here i am 30lbs overweight. I’m all healthy according to my doctor, sooo, it has to be WHAT im eating and how much at the end of the day, right? I have never eaten breakfast, rarely eat lunch, and never snack during the day. literally I eat supper and have some snacks in the evening.(that has stopped:)) I do believe my body is very angry with me HA! But, Im forcing food in my belly and it makes me nauseous, and soooo tired! Is this normal? or is it just my years of AWFUL eating habits kicking my butt?
    do I keep eating everything or do I cut back a little bit?
    Thank you for your time!

    1. Hi Jenny, Sounds like your metabolism is correcting itself. It is going to take some time to get used to the new eating schedule. I would try to stick with the program the best you can, but if you are getting sick then of course take a step back. Bethany

    1. Hi Breena, As long as you are burning more calories than you consume you will lose weight. You would likely lose weight, but it would also likely take longer to see results.

  177. Hi,
    I’m deciding between 21 day fix and PiYo. I think I have decided upon starting with the 21 day fix and continuing the meal plan and moving onto PiYo. I do have a question about the Shakeology. I am wheat, dairy, and soy free so I use an option (made by Rainbow Light). Is this an option of would it be better, at least for the 21 days to just forgo the shake option altogether?
    Thanks for any suggestions.

  178. I’m looking into starting this challenge and placing my order today! However, I’m a little confused on the whole container thing. I mean I understand that you fill them based on categories, and if it fits then you can eat it….

    However, container wise is that what you get to eat the entire day?
    Then for the caloric intake part of this say the number in my chart says 2- is that 2 serving sizes I need to eat a day? I know this doesn’t exactly go by serving sizes or counting calories, but I’m trying to figure out if how it works or if it’s the concept of me needing to refill the container twice a day?

    Also, when it comes to containers how many sets do you get? I’m just trying to figure out if one is supposed to fill them each day how many we get or if in a sense they would have to be washed each night.

    I’m really looking forward to starting this! I just want to know what I’m getting into with the container part of it all

    1. Hi Sara, The number of containers you need is dependent upon your calorie level. For instance, in level 1 you may get 2 servings of the yellow container a day, in level 2 it might be 3 servings of the yellow. You get one set of containers, but there is the option to order another set of just the containers. They do clean easy, just fyi. Bethany

  179. Hello! A few people i know are doing this which got me looking into it. I think a lot of people have trouble with portion control (myself included) but I think I generally have a decent grasp on what’s healthy and what’s not. I currently follow a mostly gluten free diet and i do crossfit 5x a week with usually 1/2 hr extra lifting/small workouts as well. Whatever your opinion on crossfit, i’m just wondering if you think this plan would work out for me if I follow the food but don’t follow the workouts and just stick with what i do now? I think my biggest problem area is my stomach, I would say that I’m mostly muscle everywhere else, but there’s always somewhere where we can lose, right! Thank you for your opinon and advice, I appreciate it!

    1. Hi Liz, Yes, you can follow the diet portion and do your own workout routine. I’m going to have to check out crossfit at some point, they just opened a facility in my area so it is an option for me now. -Bethany

      1. Thanks! Good luck! It’s not for everyone and I know a lot of people have negative opinions but it works for me! I definitely need the motivation of a group class. I can’t work out by myself or at home. Thanks again!

  180. I was just wondering if I can stick to the 21 day fix for more than 21 days– I wouldn’t be starving myself right? I’d imagine my body would just plateau with the workouts.

    1. Hi Katelyn, Yes, you can do multiple rounds. In fact, I recommend people to continue as long as they see fit. I do not use the containers any more, but I continue to use what I have learned from using them, if that makes sense. As for the workouts, I think that is true with anything, you will want to switch it up at some point because over time the body adjusts. Bethany

  181. I really want to change my eating habits and to workout. I am 47, 5’2″ and weigh 179 and so I am classified as obese and my doctor is worried about diabetes. I also have bad knees and need to lose the weight for this too. This also causes depression as I used to be small until I had a hysterectomy about 9 years ago and now I have fought weight gain. I also have an on the go schedule and work swing shift hours so eating habits are bad on the go grabbing and grazing. So this program, WW, Nutrasystem all sound wonderful, but they all are too expensive for this single mom of three who works and is attending school full time to just to support myself and kids. Just like this program it says low in cost or reasonably priced. Not for someone like me. I wish there was a way for this stuff to be affordable or have a way to be scholarship-ed for it or something. My health for my kids is also important but don’t have the means for all the stuff that looks amazing in the commercials. Sad that some of us who need a program like this can’t do it :( What is suggested for a next to nothing budget but want to lose weight and get healthier?

    1. Hi Dayna, Focus on a whole foods diet, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy dats. Avoid any processed foods and ecercise 3-5 times a week for 30-40 minutes. Bethany

  182. Hey! I am on day 2 of the Fix and The food part is going great but the workout are where I’m falling short. Even with the low intensity modifications I still get really winded because I have asthma and am just out of shape in general. Its like every 10 minutes I have to sit down and breathe or take my inhaler and it seems counterproductive. Would it be possible for me to just walk for a little while instead of the dvds until I can lose some weight and get my asthma under control again? I never had issues working out with my asthma until after I had my kids and gained weight so I know the weight is what’s holding me back. Would it compromise the program if I just walked for 45 minutes to an hour everyday? I plan to do multiple round of the program and make it my lifestyle and eventually I’ll be able to do the regular workouts with no problem but for now I just can’t. I did get the ok from my doctor to do the program but she advised me to see if there was a less intense option available such as walking or swimming if the workouts were too much. I never thought at 21 years old I would have such little energy to do a simple arm workout, hopefully this program is my key to getting back in shape!

    1. Hi Amanda, Yes, starting a walking exercise program and following the Fix diet is perfectly fine. You probably will not burn the same amount of calories walking for 45-60 minutes, but that is okay, you will see results and build endurance for the workouts in the future. The most iomportant part is that you stick with it and do the best you can! Bethny

  183. Thanks Bethany for your quick response and your help. I’m definitely purchasing it today and I’m actually excited to start this new journey in my life. Once again thank you!
    P.S i signed up for a beach body coach but i was wondering if you know how i can change my coach. I rarely hear from my coach or get any support.

  184. Hi Bethany…thank you so much for your review. However, I still have doubts …so before I buy the product, i was thinking that i might ask you what you think about me using it…
    I am 31 yrs old latina women and obese (5’1/265lbs). I’m pre diabetic and have a high risk of having high blood pressure and I want to make a change NOW! I want something to give me a boost into the right direction. I have been a “yoyo” dieter for sometime and will lose up to 5-8lbs and then I stop losing. It’s hard for me to keep motivated afterwards, since I stop seeing the numbers go down. I’m really thinking about investing in the 21 day because of my poor eating habits and no regards for portion control. However, I have been wondering if this can be a program for me. I see the informercials and usually they have these people who do not look anything like me (meaning they look like all they need to do is lose about 15lbs and get toned)…which makes me think that this might be too good to be true.
    Please be honest and let me know if you think another program might be better for me.

    1. Hi Liz, I first want to congratulate you on deciding to make a change…that’s honestly one of the toughest decisions to make, but you’ve got the right attitude about bettering your health. As for the 21 Day Fix, I know exactly what you mean by the infomercial, but the truth is, it is a REALLY great program if you’re just starting out, regardless of your current weight or how much you have to lose. If you had been on another program review, I would’ve suggested this workout for you to start your weight loss journey with.

      The workout shows modified versions, which I would follow when you’re first starting out. Also, remember to take the moves at your own pace (you don’t have to go as fast as they do…I don’t always) – losing weight and getting healthy is not a race, it is a process that will take time. The good news is that with each passing workout, you will get stronger. And the more you begin to fill your body with good, whole foods, the better you will begin to feel. I would even guess that you could get yourself out of the pre-diabetic category with well-rounded eating.

      The Fix’s portion control system will really teach you to begin to recognize proper portions, and it will help you learn to appreciate what you’re putting into your body and how it makes you feel. The 21 Day Fix is not about just a quick, 3-week fix, it’s about changing your eating habits for good and getting yourself moving day to day – it is the perfect program for you.

      If you have issues with motivation, you will always be assigned a Team Beachbody coach who will be able to provide you with the support you need whether you have a question or need some motivation. I know I also offer monthly Facebook challenge groups where you would be able to easily connect with others who are doing the exact same thing you are and facing the same challenges as you.

      What you’ve decided to do is amazing, so make sure to write down the reason why you’re working out and eating right, and then put it on your fridge, so every time you don’t feel like working out or feel like eating something less-than-healthy, you will remember the reason WHY you’re doing this and stick with. Your health is on the line, so the 21 Day Fix is definitely a step in the right direction. I hope this helps – good luck! Bethany

  185. Just a few questions….How do you measure a steak or burger or any type of meat? Do you have to cut it up in order to fit in the container? Also, how do you eat out and still follow the portion control with the containers?

    Thanks.

    1. Hi Michele, for eating at-home, I always cut up the meat before putting it into a container, but definitely not for something you’re not planning on cutting up. For a burger, it does suggest dicing up the cooked meat and shoving it in, but you can always guesstimate a burger that is roughly the size of your palm. The good news is that with time, you will be able to eyeball portions more easily, which is what the Fix is all about. And, the other good news is that 21 df eating plan contains a restaurant food guide that lists common eating foods and what containers to check off. Bethany

  186. Hi, I am interested in trying the 21 day fix but am worried it may make me lose too much weight. I am 125-130 depending on the week and really only want to get down to about 120 / just get more toned. Do you think this program would be good for me ? I usually eat pretty healthy but I think the pre-measured containers and workouts would be a great way to keep me on track and not slack. Look forward to hearing your comments!

    1. Hi Jeri, how much weight you lose depends on how many calories you’re consuming vs. how many calories you’re burning, so you do not have to lose a lot of weight if you don’t want to. The Fix comes with a diet plan for those who are more interested in maintaining their weight rather than losing weight. And don’t forget that you’re already relatively thin, so in 3 weeks, you’re not going to lose a ton of weight whether or not you follow the maintain or lose weight daily caloric needs.

      The containers are really great for keeping you on track and eating healthy, and I really think they’ll help you along with the 1/2 hour daily workouts! I hope this helps, but if you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck! Bethany

      1. i am 70yrs old and weigh 128-132. I would like to get down to 120 also..the exercise program might be a problem ..I have siaactia and not excerise only walk…also had a herninated disc operation in 2010…would I be able to do some of these excerises if I took it slow? Will it be good for me?
        Marilyn

      2. Hi Marliyn, Thanks for commenting, but Ireally don’t know. Like everyone should, please cosult with your doctor first before beggining. Bethany

  187. Hello, I have an issues with portion control, and think this program would help. But I would like more info on the containers. How are you suppose to portion soups and stews? Because the vegs and proteins are together. We eat alot of these.

    1. Hi Natasha, you would portion out the ingredients before hand. It takes a bit of math, but it is straightforwad. There are lots of good recipes you can find on Pinterest for inspiration too. -Bethany

  188. I am curious about the exercise program.. I too have mobility and problems with bone on bone joints. the workouts from the t.v. ads look impossible for me to do. and I would never be able to get up off the floor myself. you recommended the tai cheng dvds to another person. would that be better for me?. or could I lose weight just by doing upper body exercises and chair exercises? I am in a wheel chair mos tof the time. thanks for your help.

    1. Hi Rose, yes, Tai Cheng sounds like a better program for you to begin with. PiYo would likely be to difficult oyu at his point. Be sute to consult with your doctor before beginning any program. As for as weight loss it is a little to much to explain in a comment, check out the category about health and fitness on the sidebar, there is lots of information there that should help you out. -Bethany

  189. Hi.

    Can I buy the individual
    Greek yogurt containers? How do I know if one Greek yogurt is equivalent to one red container?

    Can I buy the tuna packets instead of can? How do I know if it’s equivalent to one red?

    I need to be able to grab and go.

    Any other foods that I can quickly add to my lunch bag?

    1. Hi Sandra, you could fill a red container with Greek yogurt to see. Not sure which size Greek yogurt container you are refering to, I buy the larger yogurt containers to save money. Again, not totally sure about the size of the tuna packets. You can check the serving size against a can to see if they are the same. For quick lunches, I would just grill a bunch of chicken breast for the week and add some veggies, this way you only need to cook once. -Bethany

  190. Hi. I am new to this program. I researched the program before I bought it for me and my husband. But I am not gonna lie I have my doubts. I am really hoping that we can do it. I am also gonna admit. Me and my husband are obese and have horrible eating habits. I got this because I am hoping it teaches us to eat more healthy and get into shape. Is this program something that we can manage? Or is it something for people to lose just a few pounds and maybe shakeup in a few weeks?

    1. Hi Tonya, The program is certainly right for you. It is meant to be a program that you can make a healthy lifestyle eating change out of. The program teaches “portion aproach” with the colored containers. This way you can learn balance between foods and how much you should be eating of each. I understand where you are coming from with the name 21 Day Fix, it does sound like a program you do for a dew weeks. And, people often do that need to drop some weihgt quick. But, I think what the creators of the program were also going for was, it takes 21 days to form a new habit. So, if you follow the program for 21 days you will have formed a habit of eating right and exercising daily. Hope that makes sense. -Bethany

      1. I didn’t realize that’s what the name of program was referring to.21 days to make change into a habit.I read so many of these comments and your responses. I have learned a lot,not only about the system…but many concepts and the thought patterns of people who are trying to lose weight. Thanks so much Bethany for taking the time to not only review product,but also all your informative responses!

  191. i just got the package last friday. what to start it next monday. not really sure how to use it. i weight 190 pounds can you help me how to use the containers please.

  192. While I appreciate your replies, as well as, your honest opinion about the annoying YA repeated over and over in ALL of your DVDs, why aren’t you doing anything about it?

    You could remake your DVD program OR if that’s too expensive have your editor remove ALL the YAs. Once you have a product YA free, issue a recall. Replace with NO extra charges (that includes postage) to your dedicated and frustrated customers.

    When Stephanie June 21, 2014 12:44 wrote, “was actually a little surprised that they didn’t edit it out or tell her to stop saying that.” Your comment was, ‘It really is surprising they didn’t edit at least one or two per workout, lol .” Why would even you have one or two?

    I’m taken back that you agreed with the thousands of people voicing the same complaint and here’s why. Your reply says…I’ve got your money, therefore, I don’t care.

    You know you have a good product, as far as, the exercise program. Why wouldn’t you want to correct the problem? Word of mouth, written reviews, etc. speak volumes. You don’t want your company to be known as a customer NO service business. Bad reviews wether written or verbally expressed can cause a business to go belly up.

    Jennifer August 1, 2014 8:48 wrote: I just started today. I’m very excited. My only real gripe is that I wish they had marked the containers, what each represent. I marked them with nail polish, I’m a chick, I need visuals. LOL

    Having voiced my opinion, PLEASE don’t entertain the thoughts of remaking the program but limiting it to NEW customers only! And BTW, I was reading your reviews to help me with my decision to order. I believe you know what I decided.

    I am not trying to loose weight. I weight 98 lbs not by choice but because of colitis and no pituitary gland. Based on these conditions, along with MULTIPLE surgeries my muscle mass and stamina are practically nonexistent. I am DESPERATELY looking for good program with UPBEAT music that will provide energy to keep me going. Music that comes to mind, is soundtrack from Footloose. Based on aforementioned, please contact should you do reproduce a ‘YA’ free with upbeat music program PLEASE contact me ASAP.

    Sincerely,
    Lynn

    1. Hi Lynn, sorry for the confusion, I have no relationship with the prodution of the program. I just wrote a review of the program to help people decide if the program is right for them.

      The YA thing is a mute point for me if someone should order the program or not. In fact, most people love Autumn as a trainer. People have called her their favorite trainer, putting here in the same class as Tony Horton. And, just to clarify the program comes with a 30-day money back guarantee if not satisfied with the results. Bethany

  193. Would this program be beneficial for a diabetic?
    I need to lose weight and get into shape, since I have only been walking for exercise.
    But my priority is controlling my blood sigsr levels.
    Looking forward to your reply.

    1. Hi Janet, In my opinion, yes this would be a great program for diabetics, but please check with your doctor before beginning. The Fix is well rounded and focuses on whole foods, so it should keep your blood sugar levels steady. Bethany

    1. Hi Joann, only you can tell that. It does come with a 30 day money back guarantee. I believe beginners and intermidiates who struggle with diet will benefit the most from the Fix. -Bethany

  194. Hi I am Joann and I want to do the 21day fix my big problem is eating and over eating work over nights 10pm to 6am DONT no when to eat Breakfast and lunch or dinner plus snack between meal I wake up 12pm to get my day started

    Is this a good work out for me I love to dance so I got hip hop abs liked its just my eating an when to eat with my work n sleep time by me working 10pm to 6am but I got board . little long but I want the 21 day fix think it would help me n plus the containers will help me

    1. Hi Joan, the 21 Day Fix are not dance focused workouts. That said, they are great overall body workouts that include strength training and cardio. As for when to plan your meals, you should exproment to see what works best for you. Just try to space your meals and snacks evenly 2-3 hours a part. -Bethany

  195. Hi Bethany,

    I just gotta say…. I LOVE Autumn!!! I’ve been doing Beachbody workouts for years and she is now second to Tony for me! I like the moves in this workout, and I like that Autumn is more laid back. Sorry… not the biggest fan of Chalene. I’d say these workouts are pretty comparable to the intensity of the original Beachbody 90 workout but I really like that most of the workouts end with a series of ab work. I found the 21 day fix after doing the Ultimate Reset and it was a great way to continue the healthy eating and integrating it into our regular lifestyle. I haven’t really lost any weight but I appreciate the portion control as a way of staying on track and my husband and I really really really like the workouts!!! (although the yoga one is pretty lame)
    Just my 2 cents,
    Nicole

    1. Thanks for commenting Nicole! I’m the opposite, I love Chalene’s style while Autumn and Tony are not my faves. Bethany

  196. I have done The Fix and loved it but was thinking about getting T25. I had it before and to be honest, wasn’t really sore after my workouts and perhaps because of that, it didn’t really hold my interest. I know that isn’t always something you need to have, but was ALWAYS sore after The Fix. I liked that because I felt like something was happening! Anyway, having done one round I am thinking of doing the Fix again or getting T25. Thoughts??

    1. Hi Lyndsay, you’re right soreness is not neccesarily a sign of progress, but it does feel nice to be a little sore the next day. I would stick with the Fix until you start to see a loss of progress and then switch it up. Bethany

  197. I am in my first week of the 21 Day Fix, I signed up with a local Beachbody Coach who is running the challenge in a group of 8 people. We have each other for accountability, our coach for questions and meal plans. I am loving it. I am heavy and have been suffering with fibromyalgia and myofascial pain for many years, I have that under control somewhat now and it was time to think about me! I recently started at the weight loss game by walking, then turned it up a notch with this. Our coach also leads a FitClub 2x a week at the school gym. You need to be dedicated and focused – but when you are paying for this – you will stay dedicated and focused. You also need the support of your household. I have dropped 6 pounds in the first week!

  198. Hi, I have questions regarding the food. I do not eat meat, or at least I haven’t for the last 2 years. I don’t miss it at all and have no desire to start eating it again. I do follow a strict diet of very little dairy, no salt, I use Stevia for sugar, not much bread, only a few slices a week. I eat a lot of veggies, both raw and cooked in olive oil and seasonings. You would think with that kind of diet, I would be fit, but I am about 30 lbs overweight. I thought 21 day fix might work for me. My question, how do I adjust my food intake since I don’t eat meat? I do eat eggs everyday so that is some protein. Can I add more veggies or beans/lentils? I was eating oatmeal everyday but was advised to stop that to cut the carbs. If I keep going like this, there will not be much left to eat, lol. Any advice?

    1. Hi Barb, in my opinion, you can have oatmeal, slow digesting carbs are fine especially if you are working out. Cutting sugar, white flour, and salt would be better than cutting whole grain carbs. I have been getting a lot of questions about the 21 DF and vegan eating, so I will be writing a post in the next couple weeks answering the major questions that I have been receiving. Bethany

  199. Hi :)
    I think about starting 21 day fix program lately. I have lots of beach body program such as turbo fire, insanity etc. and I’m trying to find something new and makes me keep going. I loved Chalean but got bored doing the same things. What do you think?

    1. Hi Ebru, I’m the same way, 60-day programs are about my max to stay focused. I like hybrid schedules too as you get to mix up the trainers. Bethany

  200. Hi, I’am a 48 year old women who has a history of heart problems. I have had 4 open heart surgeries for the most part I’am pretty healthy and pretty much on track with healthy eating, exercising, and drinking water throughout the day everyday (gallon+.) I’am looking to get rid of belly fat, and toning up, and not really looking to lose alot of weight (although I know I’ll lose some) do you think this program would work for me. And have you had anyone else with this condition or similar do this workout? Also searching for a new workout system. (They get boring after awhile.)

    1. Hi Yvonne, just be sure to check with your doctor before beginning, but I do believe the Fix is a great program for all fitness levels especially beginners and intermediaries. Not to my knowledge have I coached anyone under the same circumstances as you, not that means anything. And, your right progrma do get boring after a while. Bethany

      1. You can’t get rid of specific body parts, you have to drop your overall % body fat. Also, if you need to tone then that means you have to lose weight. Muscles are under the layers of fat, you can’t just change their shape without increasing their size or reducing fat. Both situations require a significant change.

  201. Hi Bethany – thanks for the honest evaluation. I am thinking of trying the program – i do eat very well – but i love wine (hence the belly) . I live in Ontario, Canada – will they ship to Canada using the link you have provided ?
    Thanks, Vicki

  202. I just bought the 21DF and read the info. It doesn’t say how many of which container(s) a Shakeology shake uses, which means I don’t know how to count it in my tally sheet. I notice you use Shakeology on your diet plan. Please tell me which container(s) a serving of Shakeology covers. I don’t want to buy Shakeology until I have that info.

    BTW – thanks for sharing your plan and the editable worksheets – very helpful!

  203. I did the 21 day fix…At first I lost 1.8 lbs the first week. I have not been perfect on he eating plan but have only missed 2 days of working out. I did not weigh myself again until the 21st day. I found that I had ended up only loosing .5 lbs overall but lost inches and feel stronger. I did not do the 3 day Quick Fix. I am bummed that I did not lose more weight but have been reading things of why I didn’t. Maybe eating hummus and almonds in the same day, etc. Love the containers as it has helped me with portion control. Any suggestions you have would be great.

    1. Hi Lisa, congratulations on losing 1/2lb and several inches! It may not be much to you, but it is a definite triumph. How much you lose in the three weeks will also have to do with how much you need to lose overall. And muscle takes up less space than fat, so losing inches, but not weight is not a bad thing. In order to get the best results from any at-home workout program, especially from such a short one, you really have to follow the diet 100%, which means being perfect on the eating plan. I know it’s hard to do when you’re first beginning, but it is necessary to benefiting from the program to the highest degree. I would also recommend following the 3 Day Quick Fix as it kickstarts your weight loss. Eating hummus and almonds is okay if it fits within your container target for the day, but not eating well the whole time is what will hurt your results. I hope this helps, but please let me know if you have any questions :) Nice job!
      Bethany

      1. Ugh-big weight loss pet peeve. Muscle does NOT weigh less that fat. I wish people would STOP saying that. A pound is a pound, weather it’s feathers, bricks, potatoes, fat, or muscle. The difference is that muscle is LEANER than fat, so 140 lbs of muscle will fit into those jeans better than 140 lbs of fat..

      2. Hi Lisa, Fixed to include muscle takes up less space. I have it written hundreds of times on the site, good catch. I think it is more of saying “muscle weighs more than fat” then people believing a pound of muscle actually weighs more than a pound of fat. Bethany

      3. Saying muscle is “leaner” than fat is also incorrect. Fat is the antonym of lean. It is like saying black is less white than white. What should be said is that muscle is DENSER than fat so losing a pound of fat and gaining a pound of muscle will make you shrink.

  204. McKenzie Robinson

    Hi Bethany!

    I am thinking of ordering the 21 day fix to help with everything!! Working out has never been much of a problem for me but eating has ALWAYS been difficult, so the meal plan is what I am most interested in. I don’t enjoy cooking at all, therefore I don’t really know how to properly season anything! Does the 21 Day Fix include 21 breakfasts, 21 lunches and 21 dinners, and the ingredients for all?

    Thank you!

    1. Hi Mckenxie, the Fix does not come with recipes for every meal. It does contain recipes for seasonings that you can make in bulk. The recipes in the 21 Day Fix are very basic. -Bethany

  205. Hi Bethany,

    I just received my 21 Day Fix but am confused about where to find the meal plan and recipes. The book that came with the program only has a few recipes and I am not good at meal planning. Any suggestions?

    1. Hi Becky, you are right the recipes in the meal plan are simple. I believe they are done like this to give people more room to experimnet with foods and to get the correct ratios down. Maybe, take a look at my sample meal 21 Day Fix meal plan post. There should be a link to this just before my author bio. -Bethany

    1. Hi Tiffany,

      While you’ll need multiple rounds to reach your weight loss goal. This program is for anyone that struggles with diet no matter how much or how little they have to lose. The portion approach is unique that you learn how much of the different foods groups to eat to obtain the correct ratios of foods for you. I find after a couple weeks, people really begin to understand much more about how their eating habits should be. -Bethany

  206. Hi Bethany,

    I just ordered the 21day fix. I will be starting it next week.. I teach water aerobics 3x a week and was wondering if it’d be okay to skip the DVD workout on those days ? My class consists of 20m of cardio -exercising running around the pool and 35-40 mins of strength training with water weights or resistance band or water elastic ? My class is a full body workout. Would this be okay ? I want to lose 10-15 lbs and feel if it weren’t for my water class … I’d weigh a lot more than I do.. I love sweets. I am 5’5 and weigh 153 and am 44 years old. I am definitely a large framed woman and don’t expect to be “skinny” …..Just fit and toned … Doable ? Thanks !

    Danielle

    1. Hi Danielle, yes I would push the workouts back, not skip that day. What I mean is, just do the 21 Day Fix scheduled workout the next day. Good luck with the program, sounds like the portion control system will be perfect for you. -Bethany

  207. Hi Bethany,

    I just purshased the program and I am waiting for it in the mail. I’m super excited. I’m a Weight watchers life time member and have been for about 7 years. I got engaged in November and put on about 12 lbs. To be honest, I think WW is a great program with weight maintanence IF you follow it and track everything, but I dont really care for it to LOSE weight. I am doing the 21 day fix to kick start my workouts and diet again and then plan on continuing WW for maintanence. Do you think this is a good idea? I am about 5’1 and currently weight 137 but want to get back down to my normal 125. I am NOT a workout person but I plan on incorporating the DVD’s into my day. My struggle is snacking and portions. Do people still see solid results if they arent following the DVD’s to a T? I plan on doing the DVD’s some days but also like to jog around my neighborhood and take zumba classes. Thanks in advance!

    1. Hello, Just do your best. Results are going to be fifferent for everyone. The most important thing is you are improving on a daily basis. -Bethany

  208. Hi Bethany:

    thanks for all the interesting insight to 21 day fix! I started doing Beach body workouts when a friend challenged me to do P90X. I have done P90X, P90X2, and P90X3. I tell my husband the only other man I’ll get up early in the morning for is Tony Horton! I lost 25 lbs with Tony’s help. I still needed portion control help, not because I am a junkfood person, but because I didn’t KNOW how many calories I was eating. I am a competitive swimmer and SUP’er and wanted to lose 10lbs and get a ripped abd.

    I am 2 weeks into the 21 day fix and seeing great results!!My kids still say ‘mum you still have a belly’ but it is getting smaller! I expect I will repeat the 21 day fix program another couple of times before I reach my ‘ripped’ goal but I will actually enjoy doing it!!

    I’ve just bought shakeology and Activit (have taken it for 2 days)…can’t wait to see what the next week + brings!

    i am also a practicing MD and noticed how much my positive energy and weightloss inspires my patients, fellow MD’s and staff! Thanks Beachbody!

    Sharon

  209. Hi, Bethany
    I just ordered the 21 day fix & I am just curious, what exactly do they mean by doing rounds,
    I have 50lbs to lose & was told I have 11 rounds to do
    Thanks

    1. Hi Maryann, rounds means number of times completing the 21 day fix. One round equals 21 days of the fix. So, 11 rounds would mean doing the 21 day fix 11 times over. Not sure who told you, you will need 11 rounds, but a rule of thumb is you want to lose 1-2 pounds of weight a week, more than this is not sustainable and you would just put the weight back on. -Bethany

  210. I am an active 88 year old. I have about 30 lbs to lose and cannot seem to do it. I have tried everything and cannot lose even 1 lb. I exercise every day as good as I can. I have poor lung function and so my breathing sometimes is labored. I like the looks of the 21 df but I don’t know if I can do the exercise, even though now I walk 3 min. a day and go to the gym 6 days a week. What do you thinkj?

    1. Hi Lillian, while I think the 21 df diet can help anyone, the workouts are likely going to be a little intense. I would recommend consulting with your doctor first. -Bethany

  211. I received my 21 Day Fix and am a little confused about the orange containers. If you only get 1 each day, why does the set have two orange containers?

      1. Hi Bethany,

        I came across your website researching 21 day fix. My husband and I ordered the program and are starting today. Questions for you…

        1. When you fill the containers…is it okay to pack the food in the container? For instance, we used romaine lettuce with spring mix and baby spinach but if you just drop the lettuce in the container, it’s only about 3 bits worth. So…we packed it in to the point of where it came above the top of the container a little bit, but the lid still went on without problems. We also did this with chopped chicken, packing it in to take up the air space in the containers but not coming above at all on that one.
        2. I do not like plain greek yogurt so I bought vanilla. Was that okay?
        3. I put malt o meal cinnamon granola in my yellow container to go with my yogurt. Okay?
        4. I used Olive Garden’s Italian dressing in the orange. I plan to use half at lunch with my salad and half at dinner with my salad. The dressing is 80 calories per 2 tsp.

        Thanks for your response in advance!

      2. Hi Michelle,

        1. Pack in those greens, you can fill them, but you do not want to mush your food in.
        2. No flavored yogurt is full of added sugar, you want plain greek yogurt. You can add in your own berries to the greek.
        3. Malt o meal cinnamon granola sounds like it contains added sugar, you want to avoid foods with added sugar.
        4. It would be better to make your own dressings, the Fix Eating Plan has a bunch to try. This way you know what is in the dressing. Just because a dressing is low in calories does not mean it is healthy, often these dressings have added sugar and are made from unhealthy oils.

        Hope that helps. Bethany

  212. I just finished the Super Shred diet. I lost weight on the program. Have you tried Shred? If so, how would you compare the 21 Day fix to Shred?

  213. I regularly go to the gym and I have hired a personal trainer. I need to lose about 70lbs to be at a healthy weight. This past weekend I pulled a hamstring and calf muscle (not related to working out at the gym). Here’s my question. Even though I can’t workout now until my leg has healed, would you still recommend I purchase the program. I definitely have food issues and struggle with portion control and stress eating.

    1. Hi Bonnie, yes, the program price is worth the nutritional part alone. SOunds like it will help with your eating habits. Hope you get back to the wrokouts soon, but don’t rush back. -Bethany

  214. Hi Bethany,

    Great review of the program but I’m still on the fence. I’m 30lbs over weight, I’ve lost 10lbs already but seemed to hit a plateau. I do watch what I eat and exercise 5 days a week but I’m still struggling. I think my biggest problem is the diet. Any thoughts?

    1. Hi Gina, you may need to reduce your calories now that you have lost 10 pounds. Not by mch, I would consider lowering them by a hundred and see how it goes. Diet is almost always the hardest part, especially with all of the conflicting views of on the subject. All I can say is the fix is a whole foods diet that will teach you the correct portions to of different food groups. -Bethany

  215. Hi Bethany,

    I have been working with a trainer for the last 4 months. I have lost 20lbs working with him and going to the gym working out at least one hour 5-6 days a week. I absolutely love working out but I’m having problems with my diet. I have hit a plateau and have not lost or gained any weight in the last 2 months. I am so frustrated! I saw the commercial for 21 Day Fix and I’m not sure I should try it or not. I love food, love to eat but I’m kind of confused about how you measure the food in the containers. Do you put the food in before you cook it? Like if I want a chicken how do I go about measuring that? Do you only have to follow the set recipes or can I get creative? My goal is to lose 35lbs.

    1. Hi Avery, yes if you are going to have a food that is cooked, it should be measured in the container after it is cooked. Ckicken would be a red container, the guide goes into detail anout how to measure everything. You can definitely get creative and make your own recipes or use your own recipes. -Bethany

  216. I am thinking about going for this. I’ve stayed PiYo and love it but I have 50 pounds to loose. Could this assist me with this goal?

    I’ve gotten Shakeology, love it, and used PB2 in it with water and 1/2 a banana. Can I use this recipe, accounting for foods?

    Thanks for your honest review!

    1. Hi Alissa, while i think the 21 df program can help you with your goal, I also think PiYo is not a bad way to start either. If you love PiYo I would stick with it for the 60 days, and see where you are at. If you think you want to change it up then, go for it. My bf has dropped almost 15 pounds with PiYo/diet alone in 42 days, so you can lose weight with PiYo for sure.

      And, yes your Shakeology recipe sounds great, count the ingredients!

  217. Hey Bethany,

    Great write up on the program–I agree with you on just about every point (especially your note on the gratuitous use of “YEH”). I’m the only guy I know who completed the 21 Day Fix, and I’ve yet to see much chatter from other fellas online either. I had great results with the program (you can see my before and afters in my linked write-up), but one thing I struggled with was general hunger…not cravings, but literally being hungry all the time.

    My wife and a few of her friends all completed it, and they said that the hunger went away after a couple days for them…I’m wondering, do you think it’s a guy thing–more specifically a big guy thing? ~2200 calories for a 250 pound dude (actually 242 since the program :) ) seems to be pushing it a little. Just curious to see if you’ve gotten any similar feedback from other guys.

    Thanks!

    Rob

    1. Hi Rob, yeh, 2200 calories seems a bit low for someone your size. But, you did drop 8 pounds, wtg. You could add in 200-300 calories and see how the hunger pains are.

      I’ve had one gentleman who has lost about thirty pounds through three rounds of the fix starting at 260. He follows the program for the first 21 days of the month strictly, then takes the rest of the month off from the workouts while ocntinuing to watch what he eats. He did not mention anything about being hungry while on the diet.

      -Bethany

    2. Rob, I just started the program this week, and I have been positively FAMISHED!!!! I’m struggling through these first couple of weeks though, on the promise that it gets easier as time goes on. I’m positive that the results will be worth the hunger.

    3. You have to remember to drink lots of water also, especially between meals, Drinking 64 oz of water a day will help you stay full and shed fat quickly.

  218. I dont see rutabagas or pickles on the food list – are they ok to eat? If you have to have a glass of tea is it better to use artificial sweetener or sugar?

    1. Hi Faye, you don’t see pickles on the food list is because it’s not allowed. Pickles are very high in sodium and have little nutritional value. Rutabagas would be classified as a veggie (green container). I’m not sure why it’s not on the list – I’m going to guess it was an oversight. As for tea, black is best – you shouldn’t be having refined sugar or artifical sweeteners, because neither is healthy for you. If you must use something sweet, try stevia. I hope this helps – good luck!

  219. I’m deciding if this is right for my family. We eat out a lot, so how could I portion control that. When I do cook, many dishes are asian dishes. Do I measure each ingredient first? And what about the seasonings or sauces that I add to the dish? How do I measure that? I also cook stews, pot roast, and dishes like that?

    1. Hi Lia, this is a tough one, since the 21 Day Fix is assuming you’re going to be doing most of your cooking and shopping yourself. It was designed to get you out of the habit of eating out and get you into the habit of eating healthy foods at home. That being said, you could always bring the containers with you to measure out your servings of foods at a restaurant. Just remember that the diet is aimed at getting you eating healthy, which is going to mean you being very careful about what you’re ordering – grilled or baked lean protein, no dressing, veggies without butter, plain baked potato, no salt etc. It’s not that it’s impossible to do, but it will be tough. You just have to be extra careful to hold the dressing, ask for no bread, hold the butter, and so on. And if you have younger children, think of it more as them getting the vitamins and nutrients they need from their food, because they shouldn’t be eating reduced calorie diets.

      And just to warn you, many of the sauces you’re using are most likely not going to be allowed on the 21 Day Fix diet. The workout program comes with a list of foods that you can eat – how you interpret the ingredients is up to you. All I can say is that there are a lot of seasonings the Fix recommends, which should replace the ones you’re currently using. You will be able to eat pot roast, but most likely with some of their recommended seasonings – not the prepackaged sodium and chemical-rich ones you can buy at the grocery store.

      I hope this helps some. My advice would be to think of the diet as a way to get you eating healthier, so you and your family can live a longer, happier and healthier life together. It’s not only about adjusting what you’re currently eating into correct portions, it’s about eating whole foods to get you on the path to health. Good luck!

  220. I am 53 this year and have lost and gained the same 42lb about ten times. Having done so many diets i am basically confused over what to eat as there seems to be so many different idea’s out there. I feel like this might just help me get my mind back on what to eat and how much of it to eat. I don’t drink alcohol and need to exercise as i know that this is probably the think that lets me down the most.
    Do you think getting this and the coloured boxes will help get me back on track! Confused in the UK.
    Thanks

    1. Hi Kerry – the healthiest diet is one that is well-balanced and rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, fresh veggies & fruits, and whole grains. This means nothing out of a box that is processed or full of refined sugars, which is exactly what the 21 Day Fix helps you with – that and recognizing proper food portions to get you recognizing how much you should be eating, not by how much gets put on your plate. It is designed to help you figure out healthy eating, including proper portions of healthy foods to give you the energy to do the workouts and the know-how in good foods to live a long, healthy life. I really do think it could help you not only with your eating, but also is a great starting point for anyone new to working out and finally gaining control of your yo-yo weight loss and weight gain. I hope this helps, but if you do have any questions, please feel free to ask. Good luck!

  221. I am planning on purchasing the program. I doesn’t mention anything about beverages. Are you restricted to what you can drink? I know when trying to lose weight you should cut back on juice, pop and alcohol but I don’t drink alcohol and can stay away from juice but I my only vice is having a coke a day. I don’t drink diet. Can I have one or two a week or will it ruin the program. I’m trying to cut this addiction out but it hard.
    Thanks
    Rose

    1. Hi Rose, good point I’ll add that to my review. The Fix eating plan includes The Water Bar and The Tea and Coffee Bar. While a can of coke once a week won’t ruin the program you will have to count it as a container or two for the day. -Bethany

  222. Hi, I loved your honest review. I have turbo fire and really didn’t like it. It was super fast and hard to keep up. The moves were crazy lol. Now that being said. I’m going on a cruise in September 6th. I would like to tone up my legs and thighs. Would T25 be better or the fix? I don’t have much time to decide. I’m already into healthy eating. Any advice would be much appreciated.

    1. Hi Sarah. either program would tone up your thighs. Really, just getting started with either would be the biggest benefit, the sooner you start the more results you’ll see. -Bethany

  223. I am considering buying the 21 day fix. I have used a gym and trainers off and on for the last 4 years and I just go back to the same weight. I feel like I am wasting my money at the gym. How will the 21 day fix spark my interest to stay with it? My husband and I are going on a vacation in about 5 weeks and would like to shed some pounds before going. I am a stress eater, so portion control for me is key.
    Thanks.

    1. Hi Marcia, how will the 21 day fix spark your interest? It will definitely help you lose some weight in time for you vacation. For me, the 21 df is a lot more than just losing a some weight in a few weeks. It teaches you eating skills that you can use for a lifetime. -Bethany

  224. I am a very picky eater with very poor eating habits so I am hoping the portion control will help me but I take medicine of which weight gain is a side effect therefore I am overweight. Do you think this is a realistic plan for me?

    1. Hi Carolyn, the 21 df would be a way great to correct poor eating habits. It teaches you how much of different foods you should be eating for a well balnced diet. As long as you commit to the program you will learn a lot. -Bethany

    1. Hi Heather – it really depends on you. You can always bring a laptop with you and work out in your room when you have the time. And, you could also food prep on those days you are not on the road to ensure you have healthy food to eat during the days you’re traveling. If you want it bad enough, I do think it’s realistic. Just get yourself a set of resistance bands required by some of the workouts, and you should be good to go! I hope this helps. :)

  225. I love your reviews! Quick question: how long are the workout DVDs? Can you do a walk/jog program with the 21 day fix? Is there a way to do the diet without the workout DVDs? I did insanity back when I was in much better shape and I love Shaun T.

    1. Hi Marissa, the 21 day fix workouts are all 30 minutes long. Yes, you could do a walk/jog program while using the 21 df portion control diet approach. -Bethany

  226. I just started today. I’m very excited. My only real gripe is that I wish they had marked the containers, what each represent. I marked them with nail polish, I’m a chick, I need visuals. LOL

    Thank you for you review. I made my purchase based off your review. I’ve been on and off the weight loss boat. I’m hoping the effort I put in this time around. Pays off.

  227. I’ve been debating on getting this program, your review and comments may have just made up my mind. I think (a couple of weeks ago maybe) there was a link to buy the program and shakeology together. I believe it was a 30 day supply with the program. Do you still have that link or info?

    1. Hi Chalea, the link should be at the bottom of the post, above the sharing options. I can also send you an email if that would help, just let me know. -Bethany

    1. Hi Amie, it depends if your “normal” lifestyle put the weight on or not. If it did, then you likely put the weight back on over time. The fix is really meant for a lifetime of change, I do not mean you have to follow for your life, but after a couple weeks of following the fix you’ll start to look at food differently. -Bethany

  228. I am wondering about the workouts. How rigorous are they? I have been working out for a little bit and want to find some videos that will challenge me, but are also realistic. Are these ideal for someone who is overweight but has been working out or would something else work better?

    1. Hi Kim, the workouts can be modified for any fitness level. There is one person doing heavily modified versions of each exercise for the beginner and then there is someone doing advanced moves. There are six people in videos and everyone seems to be going at their own pace, so you get lots of different variations of the exercises. -Bethany

  229. During the past year I have worked out with a trainer and with the help of weight watchers, was able to lose 15lbs. However, once my kids were out of school, getting in the gym hasn’t been easy and I have gained back about 5-6lbs. I am much more comfortable with myself at about 5-6lbs lighter, but my ultimate goal would be to lose about 10-12lbs. I do still feel that I am in better shape, and I enjoy exercising, but for me, the food is the issue. I did have success with ww, but I just don’t want to do it again and I’m intrigued by the 21 Day Fix program. Do you think this is a good program for someone who doesn’t have a lot of weight to lose and also wants to be super fit, not just smaller? I’m also considering doing the 3 day refresh before possibly starting 21 df. Thanks!

    1. Hi Candace, I do not have any experience with the refresh, so I can’t really help with that one. And yes, it is good for people with lots of weight to lose or a little. The workouts are challenging enough for the ost experienced and the modifiers allow beginner’s to also get a great workout. -Bethany

  230. I have tried numerous workouts for years. i lost the most weight on slim n six 30 pounds 5 years ago. im on day 28 of 21df and i have only lost inches thus far. i love the program and will continue but beieve a beginner benefits the most with quicker results. the containers have helped me a lot and i do not eat pass 6:00

    1. Way to go Mary, losing inches and staying the same weight likely means you are gaining muscle while losing fat! That extra muscle wil burn more caloires and you lose more wight in the long run. -Bethany

  231. I have been wanting to try this but had a question as to if the plan would be possible to do with planning meals ahead of time to take with you or is it just more to use the containers just at home?

    1. Hi Kym, what you can do is, prep your meals at home with the containters and then bring them with you. I usually do my food prep on Sundays. -Bethany

    1. Hi Judy, water is best, the eating guide contains “The Water Bar” to help dress your water up. No sugar for sure, try a natural sweetener. Instead of half and half, a teaspoon of coconut oil would be a much healther option in your coffee. -Bethany

      1. I was wondering can I use organic coconut sugar (pure and unrefined) in my coffee? Also, can we have salted nuts like sunflower seeds? Or should we avoid salt completely? And can we buy frozen vegetables? Thanks for your help.

      2. Hi Kim, In my opinion coconut sugar is not a good alternative to table sugar, it is very similar. It contains about the same amount of fructose gram for gram. Nuts and seeds should be unsalted, avoid salt whenever possible. Frozen vegetables are fine. Bethany

    2. No sugar in your coffee….or in pretty much anything else on the 21 Day Fix.. I loved half-and-half but switched to a small splash of 1% milk. Currently on rotation 4, down 33 lbs so it .

      My wife uses a “Stevia” sweetener in her coffee which is actually ~half glucose. Box says zero calories per serving, although I figure there are couple calories per packet. 1 packet a cup works for her. I sometimes use a packet in a morning shake.

  232. Hi, I’m really overweight, 5’5 1/2 268lbs with no major health problems, my knees and back hurt from time to time (i recon that because of the extra weight im carrying) I can exercise but sometimes get winded after about 10-15 minutes, i have lost up to 35lbs in the past on other diets, but seemed to have gained it allllll Back. Is this Ideal for someone like me? my problem is that i like Wine and Margaritas and an occasional shot of tequila when I’m out with the girls. on this program, must i eliminate all forms of adult beverages? Im really thinking about buying this…I want to work hard at this weight loss lifestyle change and get lasting results.

    Thanks in Advance!

    1. Hi Yvonne – I’m glad you commented. On the 21 Day Fix, you should eliminate all alcoholic beverages, since there are about 450-700 calories in a single margarita…totally not worth it when you’re cutting your calories down. That being said, one drink per week won’t kill you – in fact, the Fix actually allows you a glass of wine, but you have to give up other foods for the day. You can do it, but don’t make it a habit.

      Doing a program to get results is a big commitment – I’m not going to lie. You do have to want to make that move in the healthy direction, so that you keep your cupboards and fridge packed with healthy stuff and eliminate the bad stuff completely. Always remember that 80% of your results will come from your diet. If you’re eating less than healthy, you won’t get the results you want.

      As for this particular program, I think it would be a GREAT place for you to begin your weight loss journey. It will get you eating healthier and exercising daily. Plus, there is always a modifier showing less intense versions of the exercises they’re doing, which will be helpful for you while you build your endurance. Never be afraid to pause the DVDs or walk it out when you’re feeling out of breath.

      The good news is that you will get stronger week to week, and you will begin to not crave junk food the longer you eat healthier. Your back and knees will begin to feel better as you lose weight and strengthen your body. It takes a little bit of time, but it will happen.

      You can definitely do this – there is no doubt in my mind. Good luck, and please let me know if you have any questions along the way :)

  233. Hi there…
    I am thinking about trying the 21dayfix. I need help with portion control in a simple way and like the variety of the workouts. I am wondering what you do when you go out to eat at restaurants or friends bbqs,dinners,etc. Say there are enchiladas for dinner-how do you account for that.sort of thing as you can really only use those containers at home.
    Also, what happens after 21 days? Do you stop for a week and start again the next month, or just keep starting over? I tried a diet plan years ago that went 5 work days then weekends off, and it actually worked pretty well, so wondered if this was the same thing with 21 days on ,then take a break, then start again?
    ‘thanks so much, I appreciate your comments and help!
    Barbara

    1. Hi Barbara, the 21 df eating plan comes with a list of different restaurant foods and the portions that they would account for. After a couple of weeks of following the fix you will become very good at knowing how much of different foods you should be eating by sight.
      After 21 days of following the program what you do next is up to you. I have seen people go both ways. Some people just pick right back up on day 1 while I have seen others take a complete break for 7 days and then start again. I know someone who has lost close to forty pounds doing the latter, he likes the break and says it rally helps him focus during the 21 days. -Bethany

  234. Hi! I really enjoyed reading your review. I ordered the 21 day fix earlier today and I’m super excited for it to arrive. I have a question I’m not sure if you’ll be able to help me with in regards to a good meal schedule. I work night shift (7pm-7am) on the nights I work my meal schedule tends to change. Although I would like to believe I could eat dinner before I came to work and not eat again until breakfast I’m not sure if thats very realistic- at least right now. Any tips/suggestions on a good schedule for the nights I work?

    1. Hi Amanda, prepping your meals in advance should go a long with helping you stick on schedule. What I like to do is take one or two days a week and cook up a bunch of chicken breast and vegetables, then I portion them out in individual servings. This way I do not have to worry about cooking when things become hectic. -Bethany

    2. Hi amanda! When i saw your review, it totally resembles my current situation. I work night’s 7-7 as well. Just started this week with the program. Just wondering how its going for you. I know how hard it can be to get in a meal on time or eat celery sticks at 3am when hunger pain sets in. Any advice would help! Thanks!

  235. Hi Bethany – I decided to start juicing fresh veggies (mainly) and fruits 5 mos ago for breakfast and lunch while eating clean for dinner. I lost 30lbs within 3 months without exercise. I want to lose another 20 lbs but I seem to have plateaued as I haven’t lost or gained any weight since then. Do you think that the 21day fix will help me lose those last 20 lbs? Would I be able to incorporate fresh juice in this diet?

    1. Hi Mia, first congratulations on the weight loss. And, yes the 21 day fix will help with the last 20 pounds(you may need to do more than 1 round). The introduction of the workouts will really help you break through the plateau. And again yes, you can do the fresh fruit juice, you will just need to track it. -Bethany

  236. Hi I to am thinking about trying the 21 day fix still haven’t made up my mind but I read about veggie burgers which breads have you found to be the better ones?

    1. Hi Maria – I don’t really have a favorite brand or type, I just look for whole ingredient whole grain breads with a minimal list of ingredients. This way, you know it has not been overly processed. And if there’s something you can’t pronounce in the ingredient list, or if it reads like a novel, choose another bread. Good luck!

      1. Hi Tosa, Just follow the low-intensity modifier and if you need to take a break either pause the workout DVD until you catch your breath or walk it out until you can continue. Everyone goes at their own pace, so you should be fine. Bethany

      2. Hi Tosa,

        I weight a little over 320 pounds and I’m on my first round of the 21 DF. There are times that I need to modify the modifier but I absolutely LOVE the workouts. Just a note…if you do this program, there is a workout move called ‘Surrenders’ on the Total Body Cardio (which is the Monday workout). I have to hold on to the sides of the chair cushion while doing this move but even WITH the chair…it’s a bit hard. For me, the first week I gave it all I had and couldn’t walk for three days after. Lesson learned. Be kind to your body and don’t do more than you can do. It gets easier, I already feel better, and I actually look forward to going home and pushing ‘play’.

        Good luck,
        Susanne

      3. How is this program for vegans?

        I am vegan. Obviously none of my protein comes from animals, but usually soy. Also beans are a large source of protein, but they are also carbohydrates. And nuts are protein, but also fats. My “dairy” products are not dairy based, but soy or nut based.

        I just wanted to state that because sometimes people try and tell you that you have to eat animal products to use their program, and I am not willing to do that, but I do need to lose the 30 lbs that I put on in the last few years.

        So is it possible with this program to do that? I consulted a weight trainer at my gym and she just looked at me with dazed eyes and had no solution, even given her education in nutrition.

        Thanks so much!
        Jen

      4. Hi Jen, You can do this program as a vegan no problem. The difference is you would count beans, lentils, and quinoa as red containers instead of yellows. Bethany

      5. Hi Bethany, I’m looking into maybe buying the 21 day fix.. I’ve seen that you should eat only whole grain wheat bread.. I have to stay away from wheat and whole grain.. I aslo have stomach issues, and my doctor told me to stay away from whole grain wheat breads white bread only(better on your stomach). Is this a problem? KarenK

      6. Hi Karen, I would advise against eating the store bought, pre-sliced white bread. It is a highly refined and processed food. The Fix wants you eating foods that have not been overly processed. Ezekiel bread might also be an option, it contains no flour which could have been causing your problem.

  237. Hi Bethany! I just wanted to thank you for the review. I lost just under 7 pounds with the 21 day fix! I wanted to know if I moved onto another program, could I continue to follow the fix diet plan?

  238. Hi,
    I go to the gym 5 days a week and strength train. I’m having issues with my diet however. I can’t seem to get off the habits if eating a little here, little there, and before you know it I’ve completely ruined all my work in the gym! I’ve list 17 pounds in 10 weeks this way, do you think the 21 day fix will help me at all?

    1. Hi Jennifer, the 21 df sounds like it would be the perfect way for you to gain control over your snacking habit. With the fix you really do get a new understanding of how much food and what kind you should be eating for your body. -Bethany

  239. Would you say it’s a low-fat or low-carb or low-calorie eating plan? Or a high-carb or high-protein? Thanks.

    1. Hi Donna, I would say it is a balanced diet approach, definitly not low calorie If anything I would say it is a low complex carbohydrate diet. It focuses on real foods and wants you to avoid processed, sugar/man made foods. -Bethany

  240. Hi there,
    I am too wanting to try the 21 day fix. I have found it very difficult to follow weight watchers because of the counting, measuring and the points. My question is… do you have to follow these recipes? Or can I cook what I want and put them in the containers???

    1. Hi Lindsey, the recipes included are not a must follow. They are there to help you along the way and I would suggest following the guide book for the first few days before going out on your own. And, yes you put ingredients into the containers and then cook how you please. -Bethany

  241. I just bought the 21 day fix program but I have a question. Do I have to do the Shakeology too or can I do my own shakes?

    1. Hi Erika, Shakeology is not a requirement for the 21 Day Fix. With that said, your own shake may not count the same as Shakeology would in the nutrition plan. -Bethany

  242. Hi! I was thinking about doing this program…possibly along with shakeology. My concern is that im already pretty conscious of what I eat and educated in healthy eating. I also work out pretty regularly on the elliptical and lift weights. Will I be bored with this program? Should I turn to turbo fire or insanity? I just want the right results for my body. It’s about getting healthy! But I definitely could shed some fat and about 30 lbs. Whatever I’m doing isn’t working, and WW is too time-consuming (I’m always on the go!). Please let me what you think! I’m looking to lose these thirty pounds!!!

    1. Hi Amanda, it is really hard for me to answer if you will be bored with the program. If you consider yourself a beginner to intermediate I think you will enjoy it. The nutrition part of the program really is an eye-opener and I think anyone would learn from the portion control system. And, as you are always on the go Shakeolog is a great way to keep your nutrition on track as a quick and easy meal replacement. – Bethany

  243. I finished the 21 DF. Lost 3 lbs and 4.5 inches. Loved it. I have used some of the insanity workouts and t25 before and didn’t know if I would like the change from Shaun T but I loved it. Having a hard time going back to T25 workouts now bc of how much I love her moves.

      1. Hi, I’ve been doing 21 day fix for 9 days now and I’ve only lost 2 lbs… Was wondering if I should be losing more… But from your post of a 3 lb loss I guess it’s not too bad at this point… Was thinking I should have lost more by this time… For the most part I follow the container eating, have to guesstimate some things but try to stay true…definitely do the workouts every day… Should I be doing more excercise outside of autums workouts? Or are they enough?
        Lisa

      2. Hi Lisa, I would stick with the program as is, losing more than 2 pounds a week is not always a good thing as the human body can’t really lose more fat than this at a time. When people are losing more weight it is usually water and/or some muscle tissue. I have an article about weight fluctuations under the health and fitness category if you wanted to learn more about it. Bethany

    1. Hi Lauren, you get two of the orange containers. You use the orange mostly for liquids so it is great you get two. A good rinse is really all you need to keep the others clean during the day. Then I would put them in the dishwasher overnight. –Bethany

      1. Hi there,

        I just bought the 21 day fix and I was wondering….Even though it comes with 2 Orange containers, do I still only use 1 orange container per day because it only says 1 in the chart? Thanks for clarifying.

    2. Lauren, I found this to be a little inconvenient as well, especially if you want to prep your meals before hand. I have done two things- you can simply use those containers as a measuring device as sorts, meaning, you measure out say 2 servings of fruit, then dump them into your own tupperware. That’s easier instead of measuring one, then waiting until after you eat that serving to measure the next. Planning is very important when it comes to nutrition and fitness, so preparing and planning ahead of time makes a big difference. Alternatively, you can use the containers to create a DIY “container” of sorts- simply measure whatever it is, then dump that into another container, drawing a line to mark where it comes up to. Then you have a second container with the right amount. This is, in my opinion, a little “riskier” than the first method, and can possibly lead to inaccuracies, but it’s an alternative that works for some people.

  244. I had a question about the containers. When you fill those up, is that for one whole meal or three meals? I’m just a bit confused. Thank you, Jennifer

    1. Hi Jennifer – depending on your weight, you will be able to eat a set number of each color container per day (ranging from 1-6 times per day). This means that when you fill one up, it is just one serving of that particular food. I hope that helps, but please let me know if you have any other questions :)

  245. Hi I have fiber myalgia and at this time my doctors suggest only swimming for exercise. I am 62 years old 5’6″ and weigh 270 lbs. my knees are bone on bone and I have back problems. Have you had anyone able to do your program of exercise in my condition? Thank You

    1. Hi Judy – with your condition, I might suggest a workout like Tai Cheng. It is super gentle on your body, but still gets the blood flowing and gets you eating healthy foods, which all leads to weight loss. It not only would be great for your knees (because it’s so gentle and addresses limited mobility issues), it will also be very good for your back as it teaches you proper posture – which is amazing once you discover how you should actually be standing.

      I’m worried any other program is going to be too much for you. I really feel like Tai Cheng would be a good investment for you and your health. I know when I did the program, it helps address my flat foot issue, so now I am walking and wearing whatever kind of shoe I want to wear without pain! You can read more about Tai Cheng here. I hope this helps, but please let me know if you have any other questions.

  246. As a vegetarian, I find it extremely difficult to get protein. I occasionally eat fish/shellfish to get additional protein. How does 21 Day Fix classify beans, carbs or protein? Veggie burgers are processed junk in most cases and I try not to eat too much soy. I am probably going to go for 21 Day Fix anyway, but still evaluating…
    Thanks a bunch!
    Dana

    1. Hi Dana – I know how tough getting in the right amount of protein can be when you don’t eat meat. While you can eat fish, beans are counted as a carb. That being said, some other options you have for protein are protein powder, Shakeology meal replacement shake, eggs, plain Greek yogurt, canned tuna, ricotta cheese, and cottage cheese. Sometimes, you can find a healthier veggie burger at health food stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s that are tasty without all the added gunk. I even was able to find some tasty natural veggie burgers in the health food section at Stop & Shop. I hope this helps, but please let me know if you have any other questions.

      1. Sorry, I have to respectfully disagree with Dana. Even as a vegan getting enough protein isn’t hard. As a vegetarian, it’s even easier and there’s never a need to include non-vegetarian substitutes like seafood.

        Beans/legumes (and there are just so many kinds and they are all different in taste and texture) are both a protein and a carbohydrate. It’s typically recommended that they count as a protein until you meet your protein requirements and then they count as a carbohydrate.

        However there are other sources of protein that includes all of the soy bean family from edamame to tofu and tempeh and tofu-based products, nuts, hemp, seeds and even peas.

        I did watch the infomercial for this program and the 20 seconds they spent on this issue seemed to indicate that they recommend the bean/legume and other non-animal proteins to be measured in the protein container.

  247. Hi,
    I am in the fence on whether or not to try this. I have been doing T25 and eating healthy and have lost weight but..really, I went from absolutely NO fitness plan do doing T25…and since this seems to be honest review inspired I may as well confess that I figured I would do the “something” workout so I could eat the food I like…I HATE diets…I see the infomercial touting about eating all the stuff you usually eat…however, where do recipes come into this plan? What if I want to make lentil soup or potato salad or any recipe that involves multiple ingredients? I can see how “easy” it would be if you are eating raw whole foods but I am Italian, I cook.

    1. Hi Anita, I think we all hate diets :). I have not seen the 21 Day Fix commercial yet. The recipes included in the 21 Day Fix diet book are pretty boring, but you can get creative with them if you are imaginative enough.

      For me, it took a few days using the containers to really get used to them, the first few days it was kinda maddening, but now I have better overall understanding of my nutrition needs and am happy I stuck with it.

      For making your own recipe 21 Day fixable you would probably need to use different containers and fill them with the ingrefients and take notes of how many servings of each conainer. You could also break down the container size to halves and quarters if that helps. -Bethany

  248. So…I’ve been doing weights and cardio since I was 25. I’m now 44. I’m a big fan of Caths Friedrich workouts. Have gained a little spare tire just because of emotional/bored eating and the fact that I need low impact due to back issues. Are the cardio workouts low impact ?

    1. Hi Sharon, yes there is always a low impact modifier move on screen for you to follow during all the workous, which is great!

  249. I was directed to your site because of the shakeology recipes (thank you by the way!) and I kept scrolling down. I literally laughed out loud when reading about the 21 day fix and you commenting on her “yah’s.” It’s so annoying!!! I listened to all the instructions one time each and then had to turn the tv volume down and crank up my own workout mix. Lol. I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one that annoyed. I was actually a little surprised that they didn’t edit it out or tell her to stop saying that.

    1. Thanks for the comment, Stephanie! It really is surprising they didn’t edit at least one or two per workout, lol :)

  250. Thank you for your honest opinion – very hard to find. I have been searching so much for one. Most are coaches saying nothing but positive things and nothing negative. I eat clean and really don’t need to drop anymore weight, but looking for another workout program. Have done most of BB workout programs and doing a hybrid right now of LMP and T25 so I wanted something to change up my routine.

    1. Hi Candice, how long of a workout do you want to do each day, because that really will help cut out a few workout options? If you’re looking for something shorter, then 21 Day Fix is an option. That being said, if you already know proper portions and how to eat healthy plus you’ve been exercising frequently, then the Fix may bore you. I found it less-than-exciting, but that really may have something to do with the sort of lackluster trainer.

      Have you ever done Turbo Fire or Turbo Jam. I only ask because people really love Chalene. You could also try Insanity if you’re looking for something even more challenging, but I’m not sure if you’ve already done that. I know this hasn’t been very helpful, but I hope it has helped some. Keep up the good work with your healthy living, and if you do have any other questions, please ask!

      1. Hi, One, I did not like Turbofire, I was all excited to start and ordered it, but the moves are far too confusing to grasp for me. I like simple moves anyone can understand..maybe it’s my A.D.D., but is this 21 day fix easier to understand? I have Turbofire still, need to sell it, started to watch 1 video, and it was NOT going to happen..sad really. Also, are you saying we can only use the containers ONCE a day, which would mean only 6 grams of protein per day? Or..do we use them at each meal? I’m confused on that too.lol Please just send me a message on facebook. I’m Holly (Taylor) Vick…I don’t find anything in my email. If you email me, please put anything in all caps and put 21 day fix, so I notice it. :) Thanks so much!

      2. Hi Holly, The amount of containers you use depends upon your calorie range, higher calorie target equals more containers and vice versa. Bethany

      3. Hi Bethany,
        I really love the containers to assist in your dietary needs/amounts of food to take daily (if I am understanding this correctly). I tried Weight Watchers and was horrible at counting points so it didn’t work for me. This sounds perfect. A question I have is that I live with chronic pain daily. Do you know of anybody in this program that has pain issues chronically as well that does this workout plan? If so, do they still do the program or was it too difficult for them to do for the 21 days? I just don’t want to buy this awesome sounding program only to find out it would be way too intense for me. Or are there programs out there that you know of that may be easier for me? Thanks so much for your time.

      4. Hi Trish, It is really difficult for me to say, everyone is different. I really would not want to compare you to someone else as everyone is different. There is also the Tai Cheng program and PiYo, these are both low impact. PiYo does have a couple pretty intense workouts though. I have a review for the 50 plus fitness tips category. There is always the money back guarantee to fall back on if the program turns out not to be not right for you.

      5. Christina Bensche

        Hi, I have chronic pain in my back, right shoulder, feet, neck and thumbs(arthritis). Since I started the 21 day Fix, modifying where my body feels limited, my pain levels have been reduced and I have increased range of motion especially in my feet/toes and shoulders. When I miss a workout, I feel more pain.

    1. Hi Sherri, the idea of the program is to get you away from measuring and more into getting you to recognize proper portions without thinking about cup sizing and ounces.

      However, here is an estimated breakdown of container sizes – they’re not all exact, so this may not be entirely accurate:
      Orange: About 2oz
      Blue: About 2.7oz
      Yellow: About 5.3oz
      Red: About 6oz
      Green: About 8oz
      Purple: About 8oz

      Hope that helps. :)

      1. Hi Nora, you would have to purchase the program with the workouts. I do not believe there are any plans to sell the containers on there own. You use the different color containers in different amounts, some you use more than three times a day, while some you use less. -Bethany

      2. It sounds like a lot to eat. Could I put some of my fruits and veggies in my vitamix and drink them to save time?

  251. Thank you for your honest opinion. I am out of shape and do need help with my eating habits as well as motivation to excercise. I just purchased the program and already found I have a lot of what I need, just bad portions. The containers have already made it easy to realize I did not need to starve. Actually, it offers plenty of food. It just provides better guidance for people like me because I barely have to weigh or measure. I am glad there are those like yourself that will give the pro’s and con’s to allow us to figure where we fit in with different programs.

    1. Thanks for commenting – glad to hear the program’s really helping you out. It’s amazing what those containers can do for you and how easy eating healthy can really be :)

  252. I have a question; I’ve been doing WW for years and seem to have a very firm grasp on eating healthy and portion control. Would it be ok for me to follow WW but do the workouts? Will I see similar results? When doing a side-by-side comparison, the WW points seem to be the same as what I’m eating per day, and I find that system so much easier to follow. Thoughts?

    1. Hi Jen, although I think WW is great, I would recommend following the 21 Day Fix’s diet plan to get the best results possible from the workout program. Honestly, the Fix’s diet is even easier than WW. It’s literally eating as many whole foods that will fit into the containers…no calorie or point counting – you can’t get much easier than that!

      I know sometimes it’s hard to get away from the points system when you’re really used to it, but I think you’d like the simplicity of the workout program’s diet, since really, it’s the highlight of the program. You can decide if you want to go back to the WW’s point system after the three weeks, but I would give it a try first, see how much you lose in those 21 days and go from there.

      I hope this helps, but if you do have any other questions about this or any other program, please feel free to ask. Good luck!

      1. Just wondering. Are you not allowed to have anything junk? Like no chocolate? Popcorn? Actual milk? Not this silk milk or Almond milk…but like 2% milk? Just wonderin cause that would suck. I could do it but I have this wicked chocolate craving and I treat myself to a fiber 1 granola bar a day cause I want to eat something somewhat healthy for me but want to have chocolate. So I couldn’t have that or chocolate milk or anything like that?

      2. 1% cow’s milk is allowed. There is a treat section, that includes chocolate treats, a popcorn mix, a couple cookie recipes and the such. Remember the Fix diet is intended to teach you to eat the right portions, you can have treats but in moderation and they must fit in your diet. Bethany

      3. I really don’t care for any fruit. Would this diet work for me,and so I have to eat all the amount of fruit each day… Thanks

      4. Hi Delma, This program wants you eating a well-rounded balanced diet. Fruit is a part of the program there is a very wide selection of fruit and berries. Maybe try preparing your fruit different. Bethany

      5. I’m not huge on a lot of fruits either but it’s rather easy. Salsa counts as fruit too which helps me out. I use fruit in my Shakeology drinks (frozen strawberries + 1/2 banana + chocolate shakeology = best chocolate milkshake ever)

      6. Tomatoes are a fruit, not a vegetable as so many people mistake it for. Salsa goes under fruit like she thought.

      7. Tomatoes are botanically a fruit, that is true. But Green beans, zucchini, pumpkin squash, and eggplant are actually botanically a fruit as well. What makes something a fruit verses a vegetable depends on how it reproduces. Because these are less sweet “fruits” and have adeed nutritional benefits when broken down and processed by the body than traditional fruits they are preferably listed by most World Health Bodies under the nutritional and daily serving guidelines of “Vegetables.” example a large tomato will have around 4.75 grams of sugar, 7 grams of Carbs, and 2.2 grams of fiber which not only helps level out your blood sugar and keep it from skyrocketing and plummeting but also helps waste move through your system. An apple while it has around 2x’s the amount of fiber 5.5 grams, it has over quadruple the amount of carbs at 31-32 grams and triple the sugar at close to 24 grams. So NUTRITIONALLY the tomato is closer to say a serving of cauliflower.

      8. I have to be honest — the WW diet plan was a lot easier to follow. I love the fact that 21 Day Fix gives you containers to make portion control easier, but it still takes me hours to figure out an entire day’s meal plan to be sure I balance the containers throughout the day. The point system for WW was easier, especially because by increasing my workouts, I could build up extra points and add in an extra treat — which is how I avoided giving up. But where WW fails is the workouts. 21 Day Fix works all of the muscles. The first few days were brutal, which was proof that my WW workouts were not doing enough. My suggestion is to use the containers for portion control but go ahead and continue with the WW points system. Just be sure to follow the 21 Day Fix workouts so you still see big results.

      9. I see a lot of people wanting to stick with WW and perhaps believe the fix plan to be more difficult than WW. My opinion is that with this system you’re not only training portions but it’s A diet of whole foods and not the processed CRAP that WW allows. You’ll be healthier in the end.

      10. Totally agree! I was very turned off by WW’s approach since they promote sugar free treats and other processed garbage. There is a lot of science that suggests that artificial sweeteners help you keep weight ON and also lead to cancer.

        Being on the 21 day fix I am finding that the portions are keeping me plenty full during the day (sometimes it’s hard to finish everything!) and I’m not craving junk food (and believe me, I have a major sweet tooth!!). I’m able to satisfy that sweet tooth with a piece of 70% cacao chocolate or one of the “clean” dessert recipes I’ve found, or even a piece of fruit, believe it or not.

        When you’re not eating sugar your cravings really do go away. It’s hard at first to get through those cravings, but I promise they go away. I don’t doubt that WW has helped many people hit goals and change their lives, but I do feel that the BeachBody diet promotes an overall healthier lifestyle. I was at first overwhelmed by the containers and keeping track of what I’ve eaten, and my coach assured me it gets easier and it absolutely does. I have an app on my phone that helps me track, just as I had the WW app when I was doing that. Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy!

      11. I was doing WW for MONTHS with no success. With WW you can eat processed food as long as you count the points for it. As soon as I switched over to 21 day fix I began to lose weight immediately. Also, another problem with WW is that I was only allowed 26 points per day. Calculating that a point is about 45 calories I was only consuming 1,125 calories per day on top of spending 1-11/2 in the gym each day. That is NOT ENOUGH calories for my metabolism to function. For anyone’s to function. I went into a plateau and couldn’t lose a pound. Again, switching to clean eating with the 21 day fix program as well as increasing my caloric intake is what it took to lose weight.

      12. So if I may ask have u lost a significant amount of weight using ww with just work out videos

      13. I lost around 100 lbs with weight watchers. It’s a great program, but the downside of the point system is that you can eat whatever you want, as long as you don’t go over. I have only been doing 21 day fix for 4 days, but am using the cize dvds instead because I won’t exercise if I don’t enjoy what I am doing. I am down 4.2 lbs. I started at 169. As a diabetic, it’s nice not to have to count calories or points. I have to deal with carbs/sugars/proteins enough so it’s one less thing I have to worry about. I like the visual aspect of using the containers.

      14. Hello, I actually use WW and this system. I just use the containers and the. Record whatever I eat as points in my tracker. It comes out close or sometimes less than, my daily points for the day. I did 2 cycles because I was trying to jump start my WW loss. I also got off track one of the weeks and don’t really know what went wrong, but I love the exercises, the modifier when needed, because Kat is a real person and not some person modifying because that’s their job for the day. I thought the containers, esp. The green, were small, but after filling them, I usually end up with too much. There are many days I do not get in my 4 vegetable servings or I will do 2 vegetable instead of a starch or carb side, which has really helped me. Point is, you can use WW with this, they can and do, work together.

      15. I am doing 21 Day Fix and WW together… I think they work really well and basically switched to the Simply Filling version of WW and portion control with the containers. The Simply Filling food list is just about the same as the 21 Day Fix approved foods anyways :) You should find that the two programs work very well together.

      16. Hi
        I can’t eat the nuts and can’t have dairy if I did this diet can u suggest other ideas. I have ibs and very sensitive This diet looks like something I’d be interesting in. I tried another one that watched carbs and sugar with shakes and bars list 30lbs and then gained it back a year later
        Thanks

      17. Hi Nancy, There are other foods in those food groups, I have a sample meal plan and a list in previous posts. The Fix is really good for sustaining weight loss because it teaches you healthy eating habits that you can live with and follow for a lifetime, not just dieting for weight loss for a period of time to just gain the weight back.

      18. I have been a vegetarian for 30+ years.. is there a way I would be able to follow this program? I do not eat meat at all: beef, chicken, fish, etc. I only need to lose about 12 pounds but would like to be more “fit”

      19. Hi Pam, Yes, you can follow as a vegetarian. Vegetarians can count lentils, beans, quinoa as red containers instead of yellow containers.

      20. Have been wanting to try this but due to medical issues I cannot have any nuts or seeds at all. No fruit or veggies with seeds. At all. Could I still follow the meal plan

      21. Hi Sarah, You would of course want to contact a medical professional, but I can say there are alternatives to those foods in the eating plan.

      22. tam castellanos

        Hi, isn’t the Dirty 30 a day six workout and not a bonus as you described above?

      23. Hi Tam, It is the bonus workout for the program and yes it is included in the schedule.

      24. Hi, I have started the 21 day fix again, but I had a question about the diet. I have been 5 days into the diet plan however I was wondering if the container intake is necessary for the diet to be successful. I am doing the exercises and all but I am not using the containers. Nevertheless I hardly eat a lot: shake for breakfast, salad or pb and j sandwich for lunch, carrot juice for snack. and something light for dinner. So can I be successful without the use of the containers and through the continuation of the plan of mine? Thank you.

      25. Hi Priya, You’ll probably get best results if you follow the program how it is laid out. Sometimes people do not eat enough and while this can cause quick weight loss it is not always best for the long term weight loss. With that said, you can be successful without using the containers but they sure can help. Bethany

    2. Jen, did you try the 21 day fix or just the workouts? I ask because I am also on WW (on and off for 7 years – off only because I had two kids), and now I am Lifetime and feel like sometimes I know the WW system so well that I cheat myself. I’d be curious to hear your thoughts if you ended up trying it.

      1. I have a question, do you have to follow the meal plan and do these work outs or can I follow this meal plan and do my own work outs for the 21 day fix ?

      2. Hi Lauren, Yes, you can follow the diet but not the workouts. But, remember the diet is designed to go with the workouts, so you might need to tweak it a little depending upon your exeercise. Bethany

      3. I belong to a guym , I spin 4 days a week and do weights 3 days a week . I can incorporate some of your work outs .. is that still effective

      4. Hi Lisa, That would be a lot of working out. I would focus more on diet than adding a greater workload.

    3. There are bread items listed as acceptable for the carb container- how would you measure that to fit into the container?

      1. I noticed on the spices that cayenne or crushed red pepper wasn’t listed can you not use either of these spices

      2. Hi Rhonda, I think those would be fine, you just really want to avoid the processed stuff. Bethany

      1. Hi Julia, You can use pulses with the 21 Day Fix diet, they would just fall under color container depending. Bethany

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