Orange Theory Review: My Experience After 200 Classes

Introduction

For a long time, I struggled to find a workout routine I could stick to. I tried many different exercise routines before discovering Orange Theory, which became the first workout I could stay consistent with. I started attending Orange Theory classes in January 2022, and haven’t stopped since. In this blog post, I want to share my experience with Orange Theory and how it has helped me stick to my fitness goals. Keep reading to see my full Orange Theory review!

What is Orange Theory?

Orange Theory is a group fitness class that includes time on the treadmill, rower, and weight floor. The class is based on heart rate zones, aiming for at least 12 minutes in the “orange” zone per class to boost calorie burn even after the session. The classes are challenging, but you can go at your own pace, so you’ll never feel left behind.

Class Formats

Orange Theory Fitness offers three class formats: 3G, 2G, and Lift 45. 3G and 2G are the common formats, with 3G divided into three groups and 2G into two. In 3G, you split your time equally between the treadmill, rower, and weight floor. Whereas in 2G, half the class is on the treadmill and the other half on the rower and weight floor. In Lift 45, it’s all about strength training, excluding the treadmill and rower. The weight floor sections in 2G/3G are cardio-based, but Lift 45 lets you focus on lifting heavier and building strength.

Equipment & Gear

Treadmill

Orange Theory treadmills follow Base, Push, and All Out patterns, with options for power walkers, joggers, and runners. You can also adjust incline levels.

Rower

The rower follows Base, Push, and All Out patterns, focusing on watts and stroke rate per minute.

Weight Floor

The weight floor features dumbbells ranging from 5-80+ lbs, TRX straps, benches, resistance bands, and Bosu balls.

Heart Rate Monitor

Since Orange Theory is based on heart rate zones, you wear a heart rate monitor during class. This device, also called an OTBeat, connects to a TV in the studio and shows your heart rate zone. It’s usually $140, and sometimes studios offer promotions where you get a free heart rate monitor. While not required, they are highly recommended by staff.

Attire

Since you spend time running and on the weight floor, it is important to wear a good cross-training shoe. Here are a few of my current favorites:

Membership Costs

The cost of an Orange Theory Fitness membership varies by location. You can choose 4 classes a month, 8 classes a month, or unlimited classes. Class packs that don’t expire are also available for use whenever you like. Memberships range from around $70 for 4 classes a month to $180 for unlimited classes. I have the “founders-rate” unlimited membership at $140 because I joined when the studio first opened. Check with your local studio for ongoing promotions, like discounts on membership, free heart rate monitors, or reduced class packs.

My Orange Theory Review

I attend Orange Theory Fitness 3-4 times a week and have been adding more Lift 45 classes to my routine recently. I usually aim for 1-2 lift classes and 2 cardio classes per week, which provides me with enough recovery time. After over 200 classes in the past year and a half, I’ve gathered some pros and cons of Orange Theory:

Pros

• Group-style fitness with accountability from a larger group.
• Fun class atmosphere with upbeat music and positive energy.
• Workouts are planned for you, so you don’t have to think about it.
• Fitness tracking in the app helps track progress over time.

Cons

• I don’t always like having stats displayed for everyone to see. If I’m not feeling it, I skip wearing my OTBeat during class. Sometimes, it’s nice to work out without tracking. I used to think if I didn’t track on my OTBeat or Apple Watch, it didn’t count. Now, I enjoy working out just to move.
• It’s pricey. Like most workout class memberships, Orange Theory is expensive. I find it worth it since I can stick with it and enjoy it. But if you’re on a tight budget, it might not be the best option.

Conclusion

Overall, Orange Theory has changed how I work out. The lively atmosphere, knowledgeable instructors, and tough workouts keep me going consistently. Despite the cost, I find it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a fun, effective workout routine, give Orange Theory a try. Share your Orange Theory review in the comments!

Next up: I’ll be trying out Barry’s Bootcamp. Stay tuned for a post comparing these two popular workout classes.