Les Mills Rpm 56 !full! May 2026

Les Mills RPM 56 is a classic release in the indoor cycling program, notable for its high-energy music selection and a specific focus on balancing the experience for both newcomers and veteran riders. Released in late 2012, this installment is often remembered for its standout Track 6 and the intense peak starting in Track 5 that continues through the end of the class. Release Overview and Philosophy

Program Directors Glen Ostergaard, Sarah Ostergaard, and Lily Rose Ostergaard led this release, which was dedicated to their daughter, Lily Rose. The primary coaching objective for RPM 56 was inclusivity; instructors were encouraged to provide clear bike setups and solid introductions for beginners while maintaining high-intensity options to challenge regulars. The workout follows the standard RPM format, a journey of hill climbs, sprints, and flat riding designed to burn up to 675 calories per 45-minute session. Official Tracklist and Workout Structure

The release features a mix of pop, rock, and trance music carefully synchronized with specific cycling terrains: Song Title Original Artist 1 Pack Ride "Drive By" 2 Pace "Breathing" Jason Derulo 3 Hills "LaserLight" (Hard Club Remix) Jessie J feat. David Guetta 4 Mixed Terrain "Charlie Brown" 5 Intervals "Crush On You" 6 Speed Work "Ya Mama (Push The Tempo)" Fatboy Slim (Moguai Remix) 7 Mountain Climb "Apollo Road" ATB & Dash Berlin 8 Ride Home "You Are The Best Thing" Ray LaMontagne 9 Stretch "93 Million Miles" Jason Mraz Performance Highlights

The Intensity Peak: The workout’s "super-high intensity" begins at Track 5 and remains relentless through Track 7. This block is designed to push participants to their physical limits.

Standout Track 6: Program Director Glen Ostergaard identified Track 6, "Ya Mama (Push The Tempo)", as the musical highlight of the release. This speed work track is praised for its high energy, encouraging riders to leave everything on the floor.

The Mountain Climb: Track 7, "Apollo Road", is a fan favorite in the RPM community, cited by long-time instructors and participants for its powerful, transporting feel during the final heavy climb.

Cool Down: The release concludes with an uplifting ride home to "You Are The Best Thing", followed by a stretch to "93 Million Miles", providing a contrasting mellow finish to the high-intensity work. Instructor Resources Cycle - Les Mills RPM - Purdue RecWell

Les Mills RPM 56 is a classic release from the fourth quarter of 2012, known for its high-energy music and challenging "mountain-style" intensity. Workout Overview

This release follows the standard 45-minute RPM format, simulating a variety of terrains: Intensity Peak:

The intensity builds significantly in Track 5 and stays high through Track 7. Catering to All:

The choreography is designed to be accessible for beginners (with helpful options in Tracks 5–7) while still providing a grueling workout for regulars. Standout Moment:

Track 6 is often cited as the musical highlight of the release. Tracklist & Music

The playlist features a mix of early 2010s hits and intense club tracks: Song Title Jason Derulo LaserLight Jessie J ft. David Guetta Mixed Terrain Charlie Brown Crush On You Speed Work Ya Mama (Push The Tempo) Fatboy Slim (Moguai Remix) Mountain Climb Apollo Road ATB & Dash Berlin You Are The Best Thing Ray LaMontagne 93 Million Miles Jason Mraz Key Training Tips Resistance:

Track 7 (Apollo Road) is the "big mountain" finish; ensure you have enough gear on to feel the heavy climb while maintaining the rhythm.

For newcomers, instructors often suggest completing the first four tracks and gradually adding more each week to build stamina.

Title: The Perfect Storm: Analyzing the Athleticism and Energy of Les Mills RPM 56

Introduction In the world of boutique fitness, few programs have maintained the longevity and global appeal of Les Mills RPM. A staple of the spinning community, RPM is known for its "ride to the rhythm" philosophy, combining high-intensity interval training with a motivating soundtrack. While every quarterly release brings new choreography and music, certain iterations stand out as defining moments in the program’s evolution. Les Mills RPM 56 is one such release. Released as part of the quarterly update cycle, RPM 56 is widely regarded by instructors and enthusiasts alike as a masterclass in athletic programming. It represents a harmonious blend of driving musicality, rigorous cardiovascular demand, and the distinct "team sport" atmosphere that defines the best indoor cycling experiences. This essay explores the structure, musicality, and enduring legacy of RPM 56, illustrating why it remains a benchmark for the franchise.

The Musical Landscape The success of any Les Mills release hinges on its soundtrack, and RPM 56 delivers a tracklist that is both eclectic and relentlessly energetic. Unlike releases that rely heavily on pop anthems, RPM 56 leans into a grittier, more athletic soundscape. The mix features a blend of high-octane rock and remixes that drive the heart rate up not just through volume, but through tempo and intensity. A standout element of the release is how the music dictates the terrain. In the "Mixed Terrain" track, the playlist shifts dynamically, requiring riders to adjust their body position and cadence rapidly. This connection between audio and physical output creates a state of flow; the riders are not merely exercising to music, they are moving with the music. The soundtrack avoids the trap of being background noise, instead acting as the primary engine that pulls the class through the grueling 45-minute journey.

Structural Choreography and Athletic Challenge Structurally, RPM 56 is celebrated for its athletic rigor. The release follows the classic RPM blueprint: a warm-up, pace setting, hill climbs, mixed terrain, interval training, and a final push. However, RPM 56 distinguishes itself through the intensity of its peak moments. The "Hill Climb" track in this release is particularly notorious. It demands significant resistance, forcing riders to engage their glutes and hamstrings in a way that simulates a steep, outdoor ascent. The choreography here is simple but punishing—riders are encouraged to find a "heavy" gear and sustain it, testing their mental fortitude as much as their muscular endurance.

Furthermore, the Interval track serves as the cardiovascular centerpiece. The structure of RPM 56’s intervals is designed to spike the heart rate and force a recovery in short windows. This reflects the latest in sports science regarding High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), maximizing calorie burn and improving metabolic conditioning. The release does not pander to the "party on a bike" vibe that some cycling classes adopt; instead, it demands focus. The cues focus on breathing, core stability, and power output, reinforcing the idea that this is a serious athletic endeavor.

The "Team" Dynamic and Emotional Connection Perhaps the most defining characteristic of RPM 56 is the emotional arc constructed by its creators, particularly within the "Free Spin" and final "Peak" tracks. Les Mills programming often emphasizes the collective energy of the room, but RPM 56 elevates this concept. The choreography in the later tracks frequently involves "attacks"—hovering out of the saddle—which require the collective synchronization of the entire class. When executed correctly, the visual of thirty riders moving in unison creates a powerful sense of community. les mills rpm 56

The "Peak" track provides a euphoric release following the exhaustion of the intervals. The music swells, and the choreography allows for a final sprint that feels triumphant rather than punishing. This emotional payoff is crucial to the RPM formula. It ensures that participants leave the studio with a sense of accomplishment that transcends the physical metrics of watts or heart rate. In RPM 56, this journey is plotted perfectly; the valley of fatigue is deep, but the summit of the final track is high enough to make the struggle worthwhile.

Conclusion In conclusion, Les Mills RPM 56 stands as a testament to the power of well-crafted fitness programming. By balancing a gritty, motivating soundtrack with scientifically backed interval structures, it achieves the difficult balance of being accessible to newcomers while challenging for elite athletes. It strips away unnecessary complexity in favor of pure, athletic riding, fostering a communal atmosphere where the collective energy of the group drives individual performance. While new releases continue to roll out quarterly, RPM 56 remains a fan favorite and a "go-to" for instructors looking to deliver a tough, cohesive, and emotionally satisfying ride. It is not merely a workout; it is a perfect storm of rhythm and resistance.

Les Mills Go to product viewer dialog for this item. is widely regarded as a high-intensity release that focuses on catering to both newcomers and seasoned regulars. The workout follows a specific intensity curve that builds significantly from Track 5 and maintains a super-high intensity until the end of Track 7. Tracklist & Musical Highlights

The release is noted for its strong musical selection, particularly in the later tracks.

Track 1: Pack RideDrive By by Train. An easy start to introduce the body to the workout. Track 2: PaceBreathing by Jason Derulo.

Track 3: HillsLaserLight (Hard Club Remix Radio Edit) by Jessie J ft. David Guetta. A highlight of the first half of the release.

Track 4: Mixed TerrainCharlie Brown by Coldplay. Described as an uplifting and favorite track for many riders.

Track 5: IntervalsCrush On You by NERO. This is where the release's peak intensity begins.

Track 6: Speed WorkPressure (Alesso Remix) by Nadia Ali, Starkillers & Alex Kenji. Considered the musical standout and a major highlight of the entire release.

Track 7: Mountain ClimbApollo Road (Club Version) by ATB with Dash Berlin. It is designed to push participants to their absolute limits with appropriate resistance.

Track 8: Ride HomeYou Are The Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne. Track 9: Stretch93 Million Miles by Jason Mraz. Key Workout Features

Intensity Peak: The "super-high intensity" phase is concentrated in Tracks 5, 6, and 7.

Catering to All Levels: The release emphasizes providing options for new participants, especially in the high-intensity tracks, while still challenging regulars.

Heart Rate Goals: The workout is structured to spike heart rates into the 80%+ zone starting early in the ride, particularly by Track 3.

Performance Focus: Track 7 is explicitly mentioned as a place to "leave everything on the floor".

Confessions of an RPM Addict | the story of my les mills journey

Les Mills RPM 56 is a high-energy indoor cycling workout released in the fourth quarter of 2012. Designed by Program Directors Glen and Sarah Ostergaard, this release is celebrated for its uplifting musical journey and a challenging structure that caters to both beginners and seasoned riders. The RPM 56 Experience

Like all RPM releases, version 56 is built on the science of Cardio Peak Training, which maintains the heart rate at an aerobic base (60–80% of maximum) with interspersed peaks of high intensity (85–90%). This specific release is noted for its "intensity peak" that begins at Track 5 and does not let up until the end of Track 7. Complete Tracklist and Workout Structure

The choreography in RPM 56 is tightly synced to a 2012-era soundtrack featuring hits from Train, Coldplay, and Jason Derulo. Song Title Key Features 1 Drive By Warm-up to find the rhythm and set up the bike. 2 Breathing Jason Derulo Introduction of speed and increasing the heart rate. 3 Laserlight (Remix) Jessie J ft. David Guetta First major resistance challenge with simulated climbs. 4 Mixed Terrain Charlie Brown

A mix of flats and small hills for active recovery and agility. 5 Crush On You High-intensity efforts designed to spike the heart rate. 6 Mountain Climb Apollo Road ATB & Dash Berlin Les Mills RPM 56 is a classic release

The musical standout; heavy resistance for strength building. 7 You Are The Best Thing Ray LaMontagne Flush the legs and begin the cooldown process. 8 93 Million Miles Jason Mraz Final stretch and recovery off the bike. Les Mills RPM Class & Workout - Exercise & Fitness

The release of Les Mills RPM 56 in late 2012 marked a high-energy chapter in the indoor cycling program, characterized by a mix of indie-pop, electronic beats, and classic rock. This release focused on building cardiovascular endurance through a structured "journey" of terrain-based tracks. 🎵 Tracklist Highlights

The music of RPM 56 was designed to drive specific riding phases, from the initial warm-up to the final recovery. Song Title LaserLight Jessie J ft. David Guetta Charlie Brown Mixed Terrain Crush On You Everybody Talks Neon Trees Speed Work Ya Mama (Push The Tempo) Fatboy Slim (Moguai Remix) Mountain Climb Apollo Road ATB & Dash Berlin You Are The Best Thing Ray LaMontagne 93 Million Miles Jason Mraz 🚴 The Ride Experience

The "story" of RPM 56 follows the standard 45-minute Les Mills format, but with specific emotional peaks tied to its iconic tracks: The Warm-up (Tracks 1-2):

A lighthearted start with Train's "Drive By" to find the rhythm, followed by the electronic pulse of "LaserLight" to build the first layer of intensity. The Emotional Climb (Track 3):

Coldplay's "Charlie Brown" serves as the first major hill, using soaring melodies to help riders push through the initial resistance. The High-Energy Peak (Track 6):

The remix of "Ya Mama (Push The Tempo)" is the technical "speed work" highlight, pushing riders to their maximum cadence. The Final Peak (Track 7):

The "Mountain Climb" to "Apollo Road" is designed as the ultimate endurance test before the cool-down begins. 💡 Key Workouts Stats ~45 minutes. Calories Burned: 675 calories per session. Low-impact, high-intensity rhythmic cardio.

If you are looking for this specific release, you can find user-curated playlists on Spotify (Playlist 1) Spotify (Playlist 2) to relive the workout. If you'd like, I can help you: the intensity of RPM 56 to newer releases like choreography tips for specific tracks like the "Mountain Climb." Explain the difference between RPM and other cycling programs like Les Mills - RPM 56 - playlist by remco.eissing - Spotify

Les Mills RPM 56 is a classic release from the indoor cycling program, first debuting in late 2012. It is widely remembered for its high-energy electronic and rock soundtrack that guides riders through a 45-minute journey of climbs, sprints, and interval training. Tracklist & Musical Highlights

The music in RPM 56 is celebrated for its mix of rhythmic house and high-intensity rock, designed to synchronize with specific cycling terrains: Track 1 (Pack Ride):

– Train. A light-resistance warm-up to find your rhythm and prep the legs. Track 2 (Pace): – Jason Derulo. A faster pace to build aerobic capacity. Track 3 (Hills): LaserLight

– Jessie J feat. David Guetta. The first major climb, focusing on building leg strength with heavy resistance. Track 4 (Mixed Terrain): Charlie Brown

– Coldplay. A mix of standing and seated positions to tackle varied road conditions. Track 5 (Intervals): Crush On You

– NERO. A "cardio scorcher" featuring high-intensity efforts followed by short recoveries. Track 6 (Speed Work): Ya Mama (Push The Tempo)

– Fatboy Slim (Moguai Remix). High-RPM sprints to test endurance and top speed. Track 7 (Mountain Climb): Apollo Road

– ATB & Dash Berlin. A lyrical, transporting peak climb that pushes riders to their maximum power. Track 8 (Ride Home): You Are The Best Thing

– Ray LaMontagne. A celebratory recovery to lower the heart rate. Track 9 (Stretch): 93 Million Miles

– Jason Mraz. Full-body stretches to improve flexibility and aid recovery. Workout Structure RPM format

is built on the principle of "riding to the beat." In Release 56, the workout follows a standard peak-and-trough intensity profile: Increases blood flow and lubricates joints. Intensity Building: Tracks 2 through 4 steadily raise the heart rate. Maximum Effort: Track 5: Speed – The Release of Pressure

Tracks 5 and 7 are the "peaks," where you burn the most calories (up to 675 per session). Flats & Sprints: Track 6 focuses on leg speed rather than heavy resistance. Cool-down: Essential for heart rate recovery and muscle health. Where to Find It

While older releases like RPM 56 are sometimes rotated back into live classes as "throwbacks," they are most easily accessed digitally: LES MILLS+: The official Les Mills+ platform

often features a "Classics" section where older releases are available for home streaming. Spotify Playlists: You can listen to the original soundtrack on

to recreate the vibe during your own solo training sessions. breakdown of the choreography for a specific track, or are you looking for similar releases with this style of music?

Pedal to the Metal: A Deep Dive into Les Mills RPM 56 If you’re looking for a ride that combines high-energy hits with a serious cardio burn, Les Mills RPM 56 delivers exactly that. Released in late 2012, this indoor cycling session remains a classic for its powerful soundtrack and its ability to push riders through a journey of hill climbs, sprints, and flat riding. The RPM 56 Experience

is built on the science of Cardio Peak Training, designed to keep your heart rate between 60% and 80% of your maximum with interspersed peaks of 85–90%. This blend builds massive endurance while driving significant fat-burning effects. Tracklist Breakdown

The music is the engine of any Les Mills class. Here’s the lineup that powers this 56-minute journey: Track 1 (Pack Ride): Drive By – Train Track 2 (Pace): Breathing – Jason Derulo Track 3 (Hills): Laserlight – Jessie J ft. David Guetta Track 4 (Mixed Terrain): Charlie Brown – Coldplay Track 5 (Intervals): Crush On You – Nero Track 6 (Speed Work): Apollo Road – ATB & Dash Berlin

Track 7 (Mountain Climb): Ya Mama (Push The Tempo) – Fatboy Slim

Track 8 (Ride Home): You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne Track 9 (Stretch): 93 Million Miles – Jason Mraz Why We Love This Release

RPM 56 is celebrated for its dynamic variety. You aren't just pedaling aimlessly; you're simulating real-world terrain. Les Mills RPM Class & Workout - Exercise & Fitness

This guide covers the tracklist, the coaching "nuggets," the specific technical challenges of this release, and the energy profile for each track.


Track 5: Speed – The Release of Pressure

After the brutality of the mountain, you need a "spin to win." Enter the Alesso Remix of Swedish House Mafia's Save the World. This is euphoric trance at its finest. The resistance drops to a 3 or 4 out of 10. The RPM jumps to 110-120. For six minutes, riders are flying. The crowd sings the vocoded chorus. In the RPM 56 release notes, this was called the "Joy Track." It works. You forget the mountain.

Why Coaches Love (and Fear) RPM 56

From an instructor’s perspective, RPM 56 is a double-edged sword.

The Good: It is technically robust. There is no "fluff." The music drives the ride perfectly. For a coach who wants to work on form—keeping hips back, shoulders down, core engaged—this release is a textbook.

The Bad: The intensity is linear. It gets harder and harder and never lets up. Modern releases have "recovery bubbles." Release 56 does not. If you have a class of new riders, they will cry. If you have a class of veterans, they will thank you.

The Legend: Many gyms that still run "Retro RPM" nights specifically request release 56. It is often used as a "Challenge" ride (e.g., "Can you survive the RPM 56 Mountain?").


Quick cue reminders for class

  • "Find your resistance" — set challenge but allow smooth pedaling.
  • "Stay tall" — maintain posture, avoid hunching.
  • "Control the descent" — smooth recovery between sprints.
  • "Tap into the music" — use beats for cadence and motivation.

The Context: Where Was Les Mills in 2010?

To understand RPM 56, you have to look at the era. In 2010, Les Mills was globalizing rapidly. BodyPump was king, but RPM was the quiet contender. Unlike the high-intensity, choreography-heavy "Trip" (which would come later), classic RPM was raw.

The previous few releases (52, 53, 54) had experimented with longer Speed Work tracks and more complex climbs. Release 56 stripped it all back. The production team, led by Program Directors Glen Ostergaard (co-creator of RPM) and a young Diana Archer Mills, decided to focus on three things: Resistance, Cadence, and Attitude.

The result? A tracklist that flows like a perfectly built pyramid of pain, culminating in one of the most infamous final climbs in RPM history.


Track-by-Track Breakdown

  • Track 1: Warm-Up
    • The Setup: The ride starts with a smile. The track sets an energetic tone, waking up the legs and preparing the body for the intensity to come. It’s about finding your base pace and getting the heart rate up gently.
  • Track 2: Pace
    • The Focus: Speed and agility. This track introduces the first proper challenge of the class. It features fast, flats where riders are encouraged to drop their heels and pick up the pace. It gets the sweat dripping early and establishes the rhythm for the rest of the hour.
  • Track 3: Hill Climb
    • The Challenge: This is the first major test of mental and physical strength. The resistance is loaded on heavy. The coaching focuses on staying in the saddle, maintaining a strong upright posture, and breathing through the lactic acid buildup. It’s a grinder of a track that demands resilience.
  • Track 4: Mixed Terrain
    • The Strategy: Often the most complex track, Mixed Terrain requires riders to transition between seated flats and standing climbs. The music usually drives these transitions. In RPM 56, this track is dynamic and requires focus, as the terrain shifts rapidly, testing the rider's ability to recover quickly and re-engage power.
  • Track 5: Intervals
    • The High: This is usually the fan favorite. The Interval track in Release 56 is high-energy and infectious. It features bursts of high-intensity sprinting or heavy power efforts followed by short recovery windows. The music peaks here, creating a party atmosphere on the bike where everyone is pushing together. It is pure adrenaline.
  • Track 6: Mountain Climb
    • The Epic Finale: If there is one track that defines RPM 56, it is the Mountain Climb. This is the emotional peak of the class. It starts steady and builds into a massive, progressive resistance climb. The track is long and demands everything you have left. It creates a powerful "summit" moment where riders are encouraged to empty the tank. The musical crescendo is designed to give you gooseb

Here’s a complete guide to Les Mills RPM™ 56 — a landmark release in the RPM program, known for its powerful mix of climbing tracks, speed work, and race-inspired intervals.


The Music and Vibe

The soundtrack for Release 56 is exceptional. It moves away from pure Top 40 pop and leans heavily into driving rock, remixes, and anthemic tracks. The playlist is cohesive, building a narrative that feels like a journey rather than just a workout. The vibe is gritty, determined, and uplifting, pushing participants to find a "flow state" during the endurance tracks and explosive power in the peaks.