If you’re a fan of word puzzles, today’s Strands challenge by the New York Times is the perfect way to kickstart your year! January 1, 2025, brings an exciting fitness-themed puzzle, testing your vocabulary and problem-solving skills. Below, you will find hints, answers, and strategies to handle this brain-teasing game. Be warned—spoilers are included, so scroll carefully!

What Is Today’s Strands Hint?
The official hint for today’s puzzle is:
“What a workout.”
Still stuck? Here’s an additional nudge:
“New Year, new you?”
This theme is fitting for January 1, as many embrace fitness resolutions. The puzzle features eight theme words, all related to exercises or workouts, making it both fun and motivating. One of these words is the spangram, which uses every letter in the puzzle at least once.
Hints for Today’s NYT Strands Puzzle
If you need a gentle push before diving into the answers, here are the first two letters of each theme word in the puzzle. They’re listed in the order they appear on the grid:
DE
BU
SQ
EX
CR
LU
SI
PL
These clues are great starting points to identify the exercise-related words.
Spoiler Alert: Today’s Strands Answers
If you’re ready to check your work—or just need a solution—here are the answers to the January 1, 2025, Strands puzzle:
- DEADLIFT
- BURPEE
- SQUAT
- EXERCISE (spangram)
- CRUNCH
- LUNGE
- SITUP
- PLANK

These words collectively form a comprehensive workout routine, making the puzzle as much about physical fitness as mental sharpness.
The Completed Grid
To see how these words fit together, you can view the finished grid on the official NYT Strands page. Each word contributes to a cohesive theme that celebrates New Year’s fitness goals.
Why Is the today NYT Strands Puzzle So Engaging?
Today NYT Strands puzzle has gained immense popularity for its unique blend of creativity and challenge. Players are tasked with finding words that align with a daily theme, keeping the game fresh and stimulating.
Today’s fitness theme is particularly engaging, as it reminds us of the importance of staying active and setting new goals. Here’s why the puzzle continues to captivate players:
- Daily Themes: Each puzzle revolves around a unique concept, adding variety and excitement.
- Mental Exercise: It sharpens vocabulary and pattern recognition skills.
- Accessibility: Whether you’re a casual player or a word game enthusiast, Strands offers something for everyone.
Fun Facts About Today’s Theme
“EXERCISE” as the Spangram: The word symbolizes health and self-improvement—key goals for many at the start of the year.
Diverse Workouts: The theme words represent exercises that target various muscle groups, from core-strengthening crunches to full-body movements like burpees.
Motivational Connection: The puzzle not only entertains but inspires players to think about their own fitness routines.
Tips for Solving the Strands Puzzle
If you’re looking to improve your Strands solving skills, here are a few tips:
- Start Small: Focus on shorter words before tackling longer ones.
- Leverage the Theme: Use the day’s hint to guide your guesses.
- Look for Patterns: Pay attention to common prefixes or suffixes that might appear in the puzzle.
- Use the Spangram: Identifying the spangram can help unlock other words on the grid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a spangram in the Strands puzzle?
A spangram is a word that contains every letter available in the puzzle at least once. In today’s challenge, the spangram is EXERCISE.
Where can I play the Today NYT Strands puzzle?
The Strands puzzle is available on the New York Times website and app. Simply navigate to the Games section to access it.
Are there strategies to improve my performance?
Absolutely! Practice regularly, focus on shorter words first, and use the day’s theme to narrow down possibilities.
Why is today’s theme fitness-related?
January 1 often marks the start of fitness resolutions. The theme ties into this tradition, offering a fun and motivational start to the year.
Closing Thoughts
Today NYT Strands puzzle for January 1, 2025, provides a fun way to celebrate the New Year while staying mentally sharp. With a fitness-inspired theme, it encourages players to think about their goals for the year ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned solver or new to the game, today’s puzzle is both engaging and inspiring.
Keep an eye out for tomorrow’s challenge, and happy puzzling!