My experience with Orangetheory Fitness
Two months ago, I lamented on this blog that I was bored with my go-to exercise routines and wanted to mix things up. Three weeks later, I still hadn’t done anything about it, so I put “Try a new workout” on my Fall Bucket List. It would be another six weeks before I accomplished that goal, but I finally did it! Today I share with you my experience with Orangetheory Fitness.
First, let me say, going in I was nervous. It’s been so long since I’ve participated in a group fitness class, I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to keep up and that I would look foolish (oh vanity!). I was also concerned that there would be a hard sell after my complimentary first class. I’m quite sure I wouldn’t have followed through with this goal except that one of my coworkers had seen “Try a new workout” on my goal board and invited me to come along with her. I had accepted, and now I was committed. (The psychology of making your goals public works.)
The day of my class, I showed up 30 minutes early to complete some paperwork and receive a brief orientation to the studio and the program. The friendly, informative front-desk staff went a long way toward putting me at ease, and I liked the feel of the clean, spacious studio, which was complete with restrooms, a shower, and plenty of lockers. Still, peeking in the gym was a bit intimidating. (By the way, once the lights went up for the workout, the gym was bright.)
When the coach arrived, he asked about my fitness goals and my past experience with physical activity and then he walked me through the upcoming class and demonstrated the equipment. He assured me there was no need to be nervous, that I would be fine. I was given a heart rate monitor, and by the time the rest of the class participants began to arrive, I was ready to go.
Orangetheory is a high-intensity, heart-rate-based interval workout, featuring treadmills, rowing machines, and weight stations (suspension bands, free weights, a bench, and a Bosu ball). The group is split in groups of two or three (depending on the number in attendance). My class was a group of two; half started on the treadmills and the other half on the rowing machines. I started with the rowing group. Participants’ heart rates are projected on a screen, so you know what range you are working in, when to push it and when to back off a little. That way everyone is working at an individually appropriate pace.
From the rowing machine, my group went to the weight stations, where the routine for the day was projected on a screen with videos demonstrating correct form. The coach also walked around the room offering encouragement and tips on form, as well as answering questions.
My group finished up on the treadmills, transitioning between base, push, and all-out pace according to instructions posted on the treadmill and called out by the coach. Don’t worry if you are not a runner, power walkers control heart rate by adjusting the incline on the treadmill. While I do run, I’m not particularly comfortable with running on a treadmill, so I chose to follow the power walking routine and had no problem getting my heart rate in the “orange” range.
By the time the one-hour class ended, I was exhausted and exhilarated all at the same time. I loved the energy of the group and the upbeat music, accompanied by the professional coaching. After the class, the coach went over my heart-rate results with me, answered my questions about the workout, and then turned me over to the front-desk staff. I needn’t have worried about a hardcore sale either. For one thing, I was so excited about the class, I wanted to sign up for more. They walked me through the options, and when I opted to start with the basic package (eight classes in one month for $99), they did not try to up-sell me.
By the time I got home, I had received an email summarizing the results of my workout (splat points are minutes spent in the orange or red zone):
Orangetheory Fitness was just what I needed to get excited about exercise again and nudged me out of my comfort zone (physically and mentally) in a way that still felt safe. On the downside, it’s more expensive than my city rec center membership, and it’s not on my direct route home from work (as the rec center is). I’ll complete the eight classes I’ve paid for and then decide how to proceed, but I’m definitely glad I tried it.
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Your turn
- Have you tried Orangetheory Fitness? If so, what did you think?
- What is your favorite exercise routine or physical activity?
I wish we had a gym close by, right now my go to workout is online! Not nearly as fun.
I’ve done many a workout to DVDs in my home. There are some real benefits, but you’re right, not as fun.
I have not tried Orangetheory fitness but if it gets you going, that’s a fantastic thing
That it did, for sure. Do you have a workout you love, Mardene?
My friend told me about orange theory, and I’ve been really curious. I’m glad to know a little more about it. Thanks for posting! Oh, and good job crossing another item off your fall bucket list!
I was curious too. Now I’m in the know. 🙂 If you ever want to try a free class, let me know. I’d love to have your company. I know it’s hard to leave the little one any more than you have to.
Wow. That sounds intense! You did great. I hope you continue to like it.
🙂 gwingal
Thanks Nikki!
I love a free class to check things out! I did that with Zumba & got hooked. Also very welcoming at that class, which I know is dependent on instructor. I tried Zumba when in Florida and it was not a welcoming experience!
And recently, restarted yoga same way…first class free and then a % off as newbie! Another yoga studio was not first class free, nor did it have a pass to purchase. Another thing that keeps me going is buying the class passes….I won’t waste money so have to use it!
You’ve hit on 2 great tips to get something started – public declaration and paying upfront for class pass. Another is a buddy …I have a Monday walking buddy, so I get a good long cardio power walk once a week. I’m still looking to boost exercise, but not sure I’m a gym person.
Yes, Pat, a workout buddy is another great way to stay committed and make the process more enjoyable. So far, the coworker that got me started on Orangetheory has gone to the classes with me, and it’s great!
I love to do cycling but for some reason a couple of months ago I got bored with it and stopped going. My daughter does Orange theory and has encouraged me to go but I worry I am a little old for the class.
I can tell you I’ve been to two different classes now, and in both there was a mix of ages. There were probably more younger people than older, but I did not feel at all out of place. And I was not the oldest one in either class. Give it a try! If you do, let me know what you think.
I love the variety of group X workouts at my gym (24-Hour). This looks great, though, quite a variety! Keep up the good work, Christie!
Thanks Terri. I may have to get more adventurous now and try other classes as well.
Sounds like an amazing workout, Christie. I’m glad that you met your goal. I look forward to reading your thoughts after your eighth session.
Thanks Donna!
Hi Christie,
I’d never heard of Orange Theory before and found your post about it really interesting. I’ve been working one-on-one with a personal trainer for a dozen years now, and have a gym in my home. I’m not a group person or gym person at all.
It was all great until about six months ago when I told my trainer, in tears, that I was bored out of my mind and wasn’t sure I wanted to continue our weekly sessions. Fortunately, she has switched me to work on the Pilates Reformer and I’m re-energized and happy again.
Good for you for seeking out a new workout… and for taking on and crushing an intense one. I’m still at the stage of forgetting to breathe properly when I’m working out so would collapse trying to do what you have so capably achieved.
Sometimes you really just need to switch things up. I’m glad your trainer found something that worked for you. I have a Pilates for Beginners video that I keep at our cabin. I can do in a confined space and with no equipment. I actually really like it.
I hadn’t heard about Orangetheory but just now looked on line and saw three locations not too far from me. I like the idea of HIT and really like the look of your gym. I think I’ll check it out… thanks!
I definitely recommend you give it a try–with a free first class, you can’t lose. If you do, I’d love to hear what you think.
Fitness clubs really make me ill! It’s a long story, but I have trouble entering them without feeling completely ill at ease.
They’re certainly not for everyone, Olivia. I’m not particularly comfortable in weight rooms, so I’ve always done my strength training at home, except when I was working with a personal trainer who worked out of a gym. Anyway, I hope you have found a form of physical activity that suits you. Have a wonderful weekend!
I’m obsessed with Orange Theory! I joined a brand new one at the end of June and I was extremely apprehensive, scared because I am overweight and do not work out, and now I can’t imagine not going. I also just do 8 a month, but I feel like it has completely changed my life. You never do the same workout twice, I’ve never been bored, and I absolutely love the coaching. You basically get a personal trainer for an hour. Along with eating better, I’ve lost a little over 20 lbs since I started going, and I can honestly say it was Orange Theory that gave me my kick-start into a healthier lifestyle. I would not have changed my diet without the motivation to be better at the gym. I’m constantly trying to beat my own personal records (wattage on the rower, time for different distances on the rower, all-out speed – because I’ve moved past power walking most days and can jog for pushes and run for all-outs, etc). Love this place!
Wow! Congratulations Alex on making these healthy changes in your life. I am quickly becoming obsessed with Orangetheory as well. I just got back from a class this morning and am feeling energized and ready to take on the rest of the day. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment.
Actually one of my son’s close buddies is an instructor there. He very much enjoyed the classes and the friend loves working there.
That’s great. The employees where I go seem to genuinely enjoy it.
I’ve never heard of Orangetheory, but it sounds like you thoroughly enjoyed it! I will be anxious to hear your thoughts after the eight sessions. As for me, I’m afraid a brisk walk is what I enjoy!
So far, I’m still loving it, Teresa. I do like a brisk walk too.
Thanks for this post. I really enjoy hearing of new things relating to fitness. Being from Australia, I hadn’t heard of Orange Theory. Good luck with it. Great post. Have followed your blog to hear more about your adventures in fitness
Thanks for stopping by Jennifer. I just checked out your post on Maxine’s Challenge. It will be fun to watch each other’s progress. I’m pleased to meet a fellow fitness fan!