Photo Credit: Jordin Althaus/FOX

In an attempt to get in shape before a weekend away with Cliff (guest star Glenn Howerton), Mindy (Mindy Kaling) convinces Danny (Chris Messina) to be her personal trainer. Meanwhile at the office, Peter (Adam Pally) finds himself in over his head when he has to act as managing partner while Jeremy (Ed Weeks) is out sick

I admit, there were a few episodes of The Mindy Project that were mediocre compared to the level of awesomeness that the show has delivered before. So while I was excited for the show’s return, I was really hoping for an episode that would enable me to continue recommending the show like crazy. This episode did the trick! I think The Mindy Project is finding its groove again. We could talk about new characters on this show and how it’s affecting our enjoyment all day but that’s not what this episode is about. Thankfully.

“So you like it…lush?” – Mindy

I don’t know what was more hysterical, watching Danny act like he was the most hardcore personal fitness coach ever or watching Mindy react to his worst case celebrity scenario tactics to get her to work out. I am painfully aware that not everyone cares about Hollywood and celebrities but for those who do, like me, you’ll really appreciate this episode – more than most of past episodes that showcased Mindy’s love for celebrities because it’s just that good. I can only imagine the scenarios came up in the writer’s room that didn’t make it in.

The big laugh of the night however came when Mindy and Danny had an altercation in the steam room and that’s all I’ll say about that. You will probably not be able to stop laughing until the commercials come back and even then it might be difficult to settle down. Needless to say, I really enjoyed what Mindy and Danny were up to, both outside and in the office.

Back at the office before the two return, there are a couple of conflicts happening, yes, but really, it’s all a distraction compared to what Mindy and Danny are up to. Forget the b story, Danny and Mindy steal the show and rightfully so. I loved how Mindy and the writers tackled this issue that so many people struggle with, myself included, and really, the star of the show included first and foremost.

If you’re looking to hear more from Mindy Kaling about her struggle with weight, check out her book, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?. The book is not all about this topic, so don’t roll your eyes or anything. There’s so much packed in this book, I wouldn’t know where to start talking about my favorite parts of it. It’s a fantastic read and a great memoir to start off the new year with so I highly suggest checking it out.

Anyway, “Danny Castellano is my Personal Trainer” was a highly entertaining episode with just the right amount of time spent at the office and as many laughs as you’d expect from Mindy Lahiri and Danny Castellano. Something tells me this is one of those episodes that gets even funnier the more you watch it. Lots of one liners. I enjoyed it and hope you will too!

The Mindy Project returns with all new episodes TONIGHT at 9:30/8:30c on FOX.