Hi Everyone! I am restarting my blogging because in my #yuppie #dink life I am trying to focus on what makes me happy and making time for it. On December, 1, 2018 #thehubs and I started working out and tried our first Orange Theory Fitness class (basically, I forced him try it with me #happywifehappylife). Firstly, because we had talked about wanting to be more consistent about working out and being healthy and more active to have the energy to travel and have fun as well as have more room on plane seats. Secondly, the first class was free so if we didn’t like it there was no loss. Thirdly, because we had a few friends and family that joined Orange Theory (OTF) and had great things to say about their experience. Fourthly, because there was a gym conveniently about 5 mins away from our home.
- Happy to get my t-shirt. Featuring the amazing Coach Shay! FYI, I ran the length of a marathon over the month.
- Personal BEST of 100 meters row in 14.5 sec. Featured with Coach Shay!
- OTF Workout Summary
Lets start with answers to your burning questions:
What is it?
- High Intensity Interval Training
- Focused on various heart rate zones (targeting 12 mins in the orange)
- Base, Push, All Out!
- Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption = Orange Zone
- 60 minute workout class with about 20-30 other people
- One dedicated coach offering support, education, and always ensuring you are safe and listening to your body
- Treadmill/biker/strider/water rower/weight floor (+TRX straps+Bosuballs+abdollys+benches)-lots of options
- Amazing positivity, accountability, good music, stretching at the end, and fabulous staff
What is the cost?
- Memberships are based on a monthly….you really do get what you pay for.
- You do have to purchase a heart monitor from them…which you need for your workouts. If you forget yours, you can always rent one on the spot.
- Membership cost depends on the area that you live in.
- A Premier plan offers unlimited classes and is likely comparable to the better rated gyms in town. Sorry–can’t tell you the cost because then you would know exactly how much we can afford to spend on this.
How did you hear about it? Do you go everyday? How is the culture?
- Several friends and a close family member raved about it constantly.
- #thehubs and I started going about 2x week and gradually increased to about 4-5x a week. It is important to take a rest day.
- We generally go at 5 am (most of the time) because it works best for our schedule and helps give me that good feeling. Yes, it is hard getting up early but #totesworthit.
- Culture is positive. There is a dress code–so no “hoochie mama” or shirtless men. Staff from our home studio knows our name. Coaches are always concerned about safety first. We have OTF friends! Everyone is supportive of everyone and exercising with modifications is encouraged if needed. A truly inspiring environment.
- Also, the owner, head coaches, and managers are dedicated as can be! I was struggling and having a difficult time with the mindset finishing a 5k months ago and they ran back to finish the race with me!
SIX MONTHS LATER WE ARE STILL WORKING OUT AND GETTING STRONGER! It is an investment but it is one of the BEST decisions we have made for our health and well-being. I am NOT ashamed to be that person that is into fitness.
Also some cool links I have discovered:
- OFFICIAL OTF website: https://www.orangetheoryfitness.com
- One of the coaches started this awesome blog with mouthwatering healthy recipes…check her blog out! https://fithappensally.wordpress.com
- Videos about his Orange Theory Fitness Journey and life to become more fit. Funny commentary. Disclaimer to talk with an expert before following any nutritional advice (aka juice cleanse): https://www.youtube.com/user/AndrewColeSmith/


