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Shimmy Is a Workout Advent Calendar App (Yes, Those Exist) That’s Fun, Free & Philanthropic

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Once upon a time, we made the bold statement that there’s “an advent calendar for everyone.” We thought we’d seen it all, from candles and whiskey to our lord and savior Dolly Parton. But we were distracted. Distracted by the glitz and glam of this season’s booze and baubles, we didn’t realize our list was missing something a bit more physical. For those that love to break a sweat, this one’s for you. Meet Shimmy, an advent calendar-inspired workout app that’s both charitable and free to use.

shimmy workout app review
Chris Escamilla/Getty Images

Kicking off on December 1 through December 25, this non-profit app will offer a new mystery workout every day of the month, led by certified trainers in multiple modalities including boxing, dance and so much more. For each user that completes all 25 workouts, Shimmy will donate $25 on their behalf to charities across America. (And if you’re feeling particularly generous, go ahead and donate yourself.)

Hoping to support a specific cause? Baby2Baby ambassador Jessica Alba will be kicking off the challenge to provide kids living in poverty with diapers, clothes and other basic necessities. You could also join NBA star Chris Paul and his charity, the Chris Paul Family Foundation, which strives to level the playing field for all communities in education, sports and life.

Now, if the sheer thought of working out during the busy holiday season already has you breaking a sweat, we understand. When there are cocktails to be made and cookies to be had, squeezing into a sports bra is the absolute last thing on anyone’s mind. But get this: Shimmy’s workouts are just seven minutes long. (Seven! Minutes!) Do your body some good and carve out the time—jam-packed schedule be damned.

Happy Shimmy-days, see you on the app!



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Executive Managing Editor

Catrina oversees content production across all PureWow verticals. When she's not managing editorial schedules, digital issues or newsletter production, you can find her...