So, in my bio I mentioned that on top of many things that I am, a band wagon gal is definitely one of those. If there is a popular trend going on, I like to jump right in and try it (after of course, thoroughly researching it and discussing it with anyone who may listen). Since 2015 I have been on a losing/maintaining weight train that has really strong highs of intense workouts and clean eating, and lows of too many summer cocktails on patios while sampling the best cheese bread I can find. So basically, I consider myself “fittish” with a long way to go still.
Anyway, during my time with Title Boxing Club last year which I will review at some other time, I did a drop in class at the new Orange theory fitness studio that opened in Grand Rapids, MI. Safe to say, I had never been more out of breath or sweaty in my life, so this year when I was considering a change up, they are the first place I went.
I have been an unlimited member there now since April, and I can honestly say if you put in the work in the studio and in the kitchen, you will see results. The first two months there I really worked to clean up my diet as much as I could and attend 3-4 sessions per week and was rewarded with losing most of my pre-wedding stress/all inclusive honeymoon fluff. Not only that, the girl who hates running more than anything was sprinting at an 8.0 pace and completing miles under 9 minutes. However, the minute life got super busy and my eating habits started slipping, I instantly stopped seeing results even with killing myself there 3-4 times per week.
So what is it? It is an hour long class that is HIIT based. (high intensity interval training) most classes are about 25-30 minutes of treadmill jogs/runs/sprints and then another 25-30 minutes of full body water rowing as well as floor exercises that use body weight as well as weights/trx bands/bosu balls. The orange part of the name comes from being hooked up to a heart rate monitor that is posted up on a tv screen so you can make sure you are exerting the right amount of effort to get your heart rate up to that ideal zone to continue burning calories for 36 hours after class is done.
The Pros?
- Burn 400-500 calories in one hour
- Schedule classes with a convenient app, as well as see previous attendance, calories burned, etc.
- Tough cancellation policy that charges you when you cancel a class within 8 hours forces accountability
- good music/atmosphere
- full body workout, really no need to supplement with anything else besides maybe some stretching/yoga
- not too invasive or social for those weary of group class settings, it is pretty independent
- classes are built for you to be able to feel your body improving over time
- you can go to any studio once you have a membership (although sometimes a premium charge does apply)
The Cons?
- The price is outrageous (to me) since 1 month of unlimited classes can be $150-250 depending on your metropolitan city
- The steep cancellation price of $12-20 added on when you are in a bind and have to work late or cancel is tough to swallow
- The classes, while they do their best to make each one different, can start to get repetitive after a month or two
- Might be too intense or hard for someone not looking to go 100% for a full hour
Overall, I will probably continue this workout for another few months then drop back to something less intense such as boxing or les mills. While I enjoy feeling the results, the price point and the strain from the treadmill on your hips and body are a little too much for me at this point of my journey.
❤ Sarah
Freiburger on the Fly 