Joe Wicks: Why I Never Work Out on Christmas Day & My 2026 Plans
Joe Wicks reveals why he skips Christmas Day exercise

Fitness phenomenon Joe Wicks has revealed he gives himself full permission to skip his workout on Christmas Day, urging others to enjoy the festive break without guilt.

A Festive Break from Fitness

The 40-year-old coach, widely known as the nation's favourite PE teacher, confirmed he "100 per cent" does not exercise on December 25th. He believes the holiday should be a time for relaxation and indulgence, free from fitness worries.

In an interview with Bella magazine, Wicks stated his routine takes a deliberate pause when Father Christmas visits. "I never exercise on Christmas Day," he said. "But for me, I don't think you should worry about the food and then come New Year's Day, you can get back to your routine."

He does, however, plan to return with energy on Boxing Day, often streaming a workout live on YouTube for his followers.

Kicking Off 2026 with an ITV Special

After the Christmas break, Wicks will launch 2026 by leading the country in a major televised workout. He is set to front 'Joe Wicks New Year's Day' on ITV, a special programme designed to motivate viewers into action.

"It was a lot of fun and it's a positive hour of TV to kick-start the new year," he shared about the show. "I'm used to being on social media, so this was out of my comfort zone!"

The special will feature singer and presenter Olly Murs, whom Wicks enthusiastically described as his "celebrity crush." The pair first met during Soccer Aid a few years ago. "We did a funny workout together and he went out all guns blazing, 100 miles per hour and he burnt out!" Wicks recalled with amusement.

The show will also include other special guests offering compassionate advice, with Wicks hoping it will inspire people to "get off the sofa and take part."

New Year's Resolution: Less Screen Time

Looking ahead to 2026, Wicks disclosed a personal goal to reduce his daily phone usage. His New Year's resolution is to spend less time on his device, which he admits currently totals around seven hours a day.

"I create a lot of content, and I am on it a lot. It wastes time and stresses me out," he explained. His target is to cut this down to a more manageable five hours daily.

Despite his own screen-time concerns, Wicks expressed heartfelt appreciation for his public interactions. He emphasised he always has time for fans seeking exercise advice and would be devastated if anyone thought he was being rude. "It would break my heart," he stated.