Member Reviews

I received an advance copy via NetGalley.

I've been using the Peloton App since 2019, and Cody Rigsby is one my favorite instructors. I've probably done most of his rides. He's so charismatic and personal, he makes a ride fly by. I have that weird sense of knowing him like a friend even though he hasn't a clue I even exist. Therefore, I was excited to get an advance copy of this book.

From the very start, I had to laugh because I recognized just about every reference from various rides over the years. Cody's voice rings through, even in polished, edited format. In his rides, he has talked often about his mom Cindy and that he had a hard childhood, but he goes into much deeper detail here about his dad's early death and his mom's drug addiction and mental illness. Those chapters, along with one about his grief over a dear friend's death to addiction, are dark and would be trigger-inducing for some readers. The way he discusses his journey toward coming out is incredibly personal, and I think his words will be enormously helpful for other young LGBTQ people who are struggling with major choices. Other chapters are light and airy in contrast, such as ones that follow his XOXO segments wherein he gives frank relationship advice and others where he dishes on his strong pop culture opinions. He goes into a lot of behind-the-scenes detail on his Dancing with the Stars stint; I have zero interest in the show and have never willingly watched it, but even so, his insights on the process were fascinating.

I think anyone who is a regular on Cody's rides or his other Peloton content will enjoy this book, and I think it'll also be affirming for a broader audience who can appreciate and learn from an out-and-proud successful gay man.

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XOXO Cody is the latest book from Peloton instructor, DWTS contestant and opinionated homosexual Cody Rigsby. I have been a Cody fan for years, even taking a live class in 2019 in the NY studio, so his brand of petty mixed with tough love advice worked for me.

If you have ever taken a Cody Peloton class you understand his love of all things Britney, his advice to always be a hoe and ability to motivate you while dropping pop culture references. His book is very much his brand. Sprinkled with stories of his humble upbringing with his less than stable mom, questions from readers and his hot takes, XOXO Cody is more fun read than self help. Definitely a fun and flirty read for anyone that loves his personality.

Thank you to the publisher (Ballantine Books -Random House)
and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts are my own. XOXO Cody has a pub date of September 12, 2023.

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Cody is my favorite Peloton instructor so I had to request this book and was so happy when I got approved. He's hilarious and will automatically put you in a good mood even if you don't feel like working out.

Cody is a open book and delves into his traumatic childhood and his mother being an addict and how he eventually became a Peloton instructor. This was a very quick read and his personality and humor jump right off the page. I enjoyed it and would recommend if you are a fan of him.

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4.5 - “We shouldn’t take ourselves or our lives too seriously. And that we shouldn’t let the fear of looking stupid or messing up or being judged hold us back from loving the lives we deserve. It’s not that deep, boo.”

I talk a lot about how Peloton has completely changed how I work out and I’m more active than I’ve ever been. I credit it to the fact that it’s all from my house, but it’s also the instructors that really help me stay motivated. I adore classes with Cody Rigsby. I laugh a lot, don’t take it too seriously, and I often forget I’m working out.

Learning about his upbringing was really insightful and heart-wrenching. He doesn’t shy away from what his childhood was like and the difficulties he faced. It’s really vulnerable and brave, and hearing it is so inspiring. It’s hard to be so open in a memoir that strangers will read, and I appreciated that about this book. It pivots really well from serious to funny, all while offering great advice, like knowing what you’re worth. He offers advice that comes from his heart and experience, making it easily relatable.

He also talks about his experiences with Peloton and he is incredibly honest. He doesn’t perpetuate the idea that all of the instructors are best friends, explaining that there are of course instructors he would be closer with than others. I like that he just exudes honesty throughout the book. He also chronicles his time on Dancing With the Stars and doesn’t sugarcoat the experience for a second. He is honest about his relationship with Cheryl Burke and that it wasn’t an immediate friendship. I also appreciated that, while he is open about everything, it doesn’t come across as tawdry gossip. He does a great job balancing this throughout.

It’s just such a great read, offering funny and heartfelt moments. I truly enjoyed reading this.

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I loved it! Once I started it I couldn’t stop it was perfect. I didn’t want it to end. I laughed, cried and all around felt inspired. Thanks NetGallery!

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"XOXO, Cody" by Cody Rigsby is a refreshing and candid memoir that takes readers on a journey from small-town beginnings to becoming a beloved Peloton instructor in New York City. Rigsby's storytelling style is as dynamic and engaging as his on-screen presence, making this memoir a delightful and inspiring read.

Rigsby's memoir is not just about his rise to fitness stardom, but also about his personal growth and self-acceptance. He openly shares his experiences growing up as a gay individual in the South, navigating his way through challenges and triumphs. His journey from a struggling dancer to a successful fitness icon is both inspiring and relatable, reminding readers that life's path is often filled with unexpected twists and turns.

The author's candidness in discussing his family dynamics, including his relationship with his mother and the loss of his father and best friend to addiction, adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative. Rigsby's reflections on these experiences are heartfelt and offer insights into his personal growth and resilience.

One of the highlights of the memoir is Rigsby's sense of humor and his ability to laugh at himself. He encourages readers to embrace life with a lighthearted attitude and not take things too seriously. Through his anecdotes and witty observations, he conveys the message that it's okay to be imperfect and that finding joy in the little things is essential.

The memoir also provides a glimpse into Rigsby's journey with Peloton, shedding light on his decision to audition for the role and his experiences on and off-screen. His determination and passion for his work shine through, and readers will appreciate the behind-the-scenes insights into his journey to becoming a Peloton instructor.

"XOXO, Cody" is a testament to the power of authenticity, self-love, and embracing life with a sense of humor. Cody Rigsby's storytelling is engaging and relatable, making this memoir a heartwarming and motivational read for anyone seeking inspiration to pursue their dreams and live life to the fullest.

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Ugh I love Cody and this book is so him. The sassy gay friend I always wanted. I loved hearing his story and was entertained throughout. A quick, fun read. See you on the leaderboard, Cody! #GlenCoCo

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Even if you don't spin, you've probably know of Cody Rigsby. Cody is everyone's favorite peloton instructor. He's known for being upfront and honest and giving you the best/most creative motivational speeches on the bike. He is unapologetically himself and that is what everyone loves about him! This felt like a very up close and person look at Cody. You get a peek behind the curtain of who Cody really is. His upbringing was far from perfect. Being raised by a mother with substance abuse and mental health issues was far from ideal but Cody really made the best out of every situation he was in. He is the true definition of grind til you make it, and Cody has truly soared.

I really enjoyed learning about his life. All these peloton instructors have these larger than life perfect esq personalities and it was nice to see that it wasn't always like that for him. His hilarity and voice are so ingrained in this book, He is such a natural storyteller. I loved the little breaks between chapters where he did more Q&A's like from his podcast XOXO Cody. His personality really shines through there.

Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review. This book releases 9/12!

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Thank you for allowing me to read this book as an ARC.
I absolutely loved this book. While Cody has been my favorite Peloton instructor from the start, his book made me love him even more. He is downright down to earth and tells it like it is. He has come a long way and had some rough parts in his life, yet, he appreciates what he has now and does not flaunt it and rub in anyone's face. He understands what it's like to have absolutely nothing and worked his way up also from nothing.
It was an absolute joy to read his book and understand a lott of his jokes now even better.
I have read several of the other instructors books and none comes even close to this one! Well detailed and organized and not all over the place like some others. It's well thought out!
It's been a fun read as well as gain a great understanding of his life and thoughts!

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Title: XOXO, Cody
Author: Cody Rigsby
Pub Date: September 12, 2023

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cody Rigsby brings just as much energy to this book as he does to his Peloton classes! I found myself laughing out loud so much, but also highlighting some amazing advice from Cody throughout the entire book. If you are looking for a memoir that is a blend of advice and storytelling, this is your book!

XOXO Cody provides the reader with a raw and honest look at Cody’s life. While Cody’s childhood was anything but easy, he shows the how his hard work and hustle has lead him to where he is today. I enjoyed reading more about his relationship with his mom, Cindy, his experience living in the south, and his journey with Peloton and Dancing With the Stars.

While I think this book will resonate most with those familiar with Cody and Peloton, I think anyone can feel a connection with this book and appreciate the advice and humor that Cody provides to the reader.

Posted on Instagram on August 19, 2023 (Currently Reading): http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
Posted on Goodreads on August 20, 2023: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/144922955?ref=nav_profile_l
**Posted on Instagram - Full Review- September 12, 2023: http://www.instagram.com/nobookmark_noproblem
**Posted on Amazon on September 12, 2023
**-will post on designated date

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Be Like Elsa and let that *stuff* go.

XOXO, Cody is like being on an extended bike ride with Peloton Instructor, Cody Rigsby. I admit, I am biased because his anecdotes and energy are why I ultimately purchased my Peloton Bike. If I am going to ride to nowhere, I am going to want to laugh the whole time. Cody always delivers.

This book is a genuine and honest look deeper into the person we see on the bike. His stories are funny, sad, poignant, and inspiring.

Cody is exactly who he says he is, so if profanity and real talk about sexuality is not your jam, this isn't your book.

While this is a book by Cody and about his experiences, it is also a strong message to the reader about the importance of caring for and knowing yourself. It is about growing from your mistakes and truly living the life you have, whatever that looks like for you.

So feel free to grab this book, put on some Britney, and *mess* *stuff* up with this wonderful book .

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4.5 stars

I'm a big Cody Rigsby fan, and always turn to his Peloton rides when I don't feel like working out or want a mood boost. He always makes me laugh and has the best playlists. I was excited to pick up XOXO, Cody because I knew I'd be entertained. However, this book surprised me with its depth and introspection, and I was captivated by Cody's openness to share hard parts of his childhood and adulthood. It was a really candid memoir that was balanced with the jokes you expect from Mr. Rigsby. I highly recommend this to any Cody Rigsby fans! Honest, deep and hilarious all at once! If you like his commentary during Peloton rides, you will definitely enjoy this book.

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4.5 stars

Everything about this book is so perfectly Cody. I enjoyed learning a bit more about his life, as well as hearing his pearls of wisdom. It had a nice balance of serious and light-hearted content. I was particularly impressed with how he pulled himself out of a challenging childhood to become such a success. I have newfound respect for him, especially after learning that "Boo" was a childhood nickname (just like me!).

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Cody is absolutely hysterical and this was such a fast fun read for me! If Cody were a therapist, he’d be thriving (he’s clearly thriving me not as a therapist… just making a point), but basically that’s what he is for us all during his classes. That upper we all need to slay and make it through the class, day, whatever. He’s our hype man and this book lives up to the hype!
I’ll admit that there were moments, (although very few) where I would have been lost if I didn’t take his classes. Regardless, I think this book is for everyone. Anyone who needs a laugh, needs relationship advice, wants some powerful words for coming out, etc.
He has a way with words and despite all the turmoil in his childhood, this book really is fantastic. That being said, my heart breaks for how strong he had to be as a child and the courage he had to support his mom when she needed help.
Back in 2018, Cody warned me never to wear kitten heels (promise I haven’t), but I laughed so hard when that was a “don’t” in the book! Moments like that made me happy to be a BooCrew/Peloton OG.
When I tell you that this boo went for his dreams and never stopped, I say it loud and proud. Congratulations, Cody, yet another amazing achievement in your life! I can’t wait to listen to the audiobook!
Thank you to Random House and Netgallery for this ARC!

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“There's only two types of people in the world:
The ones that entertain, and the ones that observe…”
Well baby, Cody is a put on a show kind of guy.. 😉

It’s no secret that Cody is one of my absolute favorite peloton instructors. The energy, humor, and hits that he brings to his classes make him a fan favorite. I couldn’t wait to get my hands and ears on this one. I already felt like I knew him from taking his classes but now I feel like I KNOW him.

Cody is always giving great advice and love lessons during workouts and this book gives a glimpse of how he grew up, all he endured and overcome, and how he got to where he is now.

Whether you’re a peloton user or not I think his story is one everyone can appreciate and honestly if you don’t walk away from this with a special love in your heart for Cody, then it’s you boo. 😘

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I found this book entertaining enough, but didn’t love it. I enjoy Cody’s rides, especially after a long day at work. They are fun and he is funny in a way that distracts me from the workout. If you like his ride banter, this book is more of the same.

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This was the workout I’ve been looking for…

CODY! Seriously he makes me laugh in his classes and makes working out/my self care half hour enjoyable and he just gave us a book of his humor, heart and wit to devour without the pedal strokes!

I cannot recommend this one enough paired with the ecopy I also received and the audio and it was PURE PERFECTION! I love that he shares his journey being a little more vulnerable than his day to day classes which I’m so glad he keeps them positive and full of joy not only for himself but for the riders. I think if you’re wanting more of a peek into Cody’s story this is 💯 for you! He’s a bad bitch! I just enjoyed this one so much… also can we get an XOXO, Cody podcast!

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I finished! And I freaking loved it. Cody Rigsby has been one of my favorites since starting Peloton in 2020, this book just solidifies my love for him. Do I agree with everything he said? No. Did I laugh my ass off regardless? Yes. I appreciate where he was coming from, and I appreciate how open he was. Definitely a must read!

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Thank you for this read. It was so wonderful reading candid, brutal honesty. I was unaware of Cody’s upbringing and I have more respect for him!

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I received a copy of this book as an eARC from NetGalley for an honest review.

Cody Rigsby is funny, silly, lighthearted, opinionated, and stupid (in a loving way). I have taken some of his Peloton classes, and they always make me giggle and get through the workout with a smile on my face. This book is like a long ride with him. He spills some tea, shares his opinions and advice, and it's entertaining. There are moments where he talks about some difficult things (poverty, addiction, mental illnesses, losing friends), but it all feels breezy.

This book is fine. I enjoyed reading it but it also wasn't overly profound at all. If you like Cody Rigsby, you'll enjoy this book. If you don't, you won't.

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