Episode 24 - Get Fit For Your Wedding!
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Episode Summary
"Wedding shred" culture is everywhere — but what does getting fit for your wedding actually look like when it's done properly? On this episode of The Secret Society of Brides, the UK wedding podcast lifting the veil on wedding planning, Georgie is joined by Hollie of Hol Health Fitness, a qualified personal trainer and recent bride, for the honest wedding fitness conversation nobody else is having.
Hollie covers when to realistically start training before your wedding, why you can't get "toned" without lifting weights, and how to make progress even if you don't have a gym membership or a personal trainer. She and Georgie also get into the practical bits brides actually worry about — including what to eat the night before and on the morning of your wedding so you feel comfortable, confident and energised all day.
Whether you want to feel stronger in your dress, build habits that last beyond the big day, or just avoid the pressure of crash diets and unrealistic timelines, this episode is packed with balanced, sustainable wedding fitness advice from someone who's been both the expert and the bride.
Key Takeaways
Start earlier than you think — sustainable change takes months, not a panic sprint before the dress fitting
"Toned" is built through strength training; lifting weights is the route, not endless cardio
You don't need a gym or a PT to make real progress — consistency beats equipment
Crash diets before the wedding backfire; balance will get you to the day feeling better and happier
What you eat the night before and the morning of your wedding genuinely affects how you feel — plan it like any other detail
The goal is feeling confident and energised on the day, not hitting an arbitrary number
Episode FAQs
When should I start training for my wedding?
Start wedding fitness training 6–12 months before your wedding if you can, and at least 12 weeks out as a minimum. Sustainable strength and fitness changes take months of consistency, and starting early removes the pressure of last-minute crash approaches.
How do brides get "toned" for their wedding?
The look most people call "toned" comes from strength training — lifting weights 2–4 times a week builds the muscle that creates shape and definition, which cardio alone cannot do. Pair consistent resistance training with adequate protein and enough sleep.
Can I get wedding-fit without a gym or personal trainer?
Yes — bodyweight exercises, resistance bands and a simple pair of dumbbells at home can deliver real results. Consistency matters far more than equipment: three short, regular sessions a week beat occasional intense gym visits.
What should I eat the night before my wedding?
Eat a familiar, balanced meal you know sits well with you — lean protein, slow-release carbs and vegetables — and stay hydrated. The night before your wedding is not the time to try new foods, skip dinner or drink heavily.
Should I eat on the morning of my wedding?
Yes — a proper breakfast with protein and slow-release carbohydrates keeps your energy and mood steady through a long day that often includes champagne on an empty stomach. Skipping breakfast is one of the most common wedding-morning mistakes.