Orange Theory Fitness is the new “Science of Fitness.” Orange Theory provides 60 minute classes that include a combination of cardiovascular and strength training. Participants burn calories not only during the workout, but after the workout as well. The equipment in the studio includes treadmills, rowing machines, and a weight room. This heart-rate based workout was designed by physiologist Ellen Latham, one of the founders and partners of Orange Theory Fitness.
From personal experience, I can say that their system does work! After my first trial class, I signed up to be a member and I have been going twice per week ever since. Being a full-time student at the University of Florida is something that keeps me busy. However, Orange Theory has motivated me to find the time to actually want to go to the gym again and I have confidence that I will get something out of it when I am there. Say goodbye to the struggles of going to a regular gym and switch over to Orange Theory Fitness today.
1. Group Setting
There is an energy that comes from working out in a group that is hard to maintain when working out alone. In a regular gym, there is no accountability. It can also be intimidating to not know what to do when you are there. At Orange Theory, there is an extrinsic motivation to push yourself that comes from the people beside you who are doing the same work out as well.
2. All Fitness Levels Welcome
All Orange 60 sessions are open to adults aged 16 and older. Each class is designed so that people of all fitness levels can participate, whether they are a power walker, jogger, or runner. This is the place for you if you are looking to find somewhere to help you lose weight. This also is the place for you if you are already in great shape and are looking for performance training. Don’t be intimidated by the fast pace of the class if you are new, the trainers show you the ropes 30 minutes before your first class and give step by step instructions throughout each class as well.
3. Motivating Trainers
The trainer is always fully engaged with the group during the whole session. Each trainer welcomes the group with a smile or a high five and keeps the group on task to complete the workout within the hour. Half of the group starts on the treadmills and the other half starts on the rowing machines. The trainer tells the treadmill group the speed or incline that they should be at, based on their fitness level for a certain time interval, and encourages the group to push harder until the time is up. If you are in the weight room, the trainer demonstrates each exercise before the group participates. If you are struggling or doing the exercise wrong, the trainer will come and help you adjust your form.
4. Heart-rate Monitors
Each member wears either a wristband with a monitor or chest strap with a monitor during the workout. The monitor tracks your heart rate and uses Bluetooth technology to show your heart rate progression and percentage on the television screens in the studio. The monitor can also pair with their “OTBeat” app, which allows you to track your progress as well. I've found myself able to push harder when I see my progress on the screen.
5. Color Theory & Interval Training
So, you may be wondering why it is called “Orange Theory.” As your workout progresses and your heart rate increases, your profile will change colors and your heart rate percentage will increase on the television screen in the studio. There are 5 color “zones” that you can be at: grey, blue, green, orange, and red. Grey and blue will most likely appear as you are warming up, but you want to try and get your heart rate to the green zone for the majority of the workout. During your workout on the treadmills, you will either be in a “base,” “push,” or “all out” pace.” If your trainer tells you to be at a “base” pace on the treadmill, you should be working to elevate your heart rate to the green zone. A “push” or “all out” pace should allow you to achieve a heart rate level in the orange “zone.” The way to get to this zone is different for each individual. If you are a power walker, your trainer might tell you to up your incline. If you are a jogger or runner, your trainer might tell you to up your speed to one or two notches above your base pace. This orange "zone" is where you can achieve what Orange Theory calls the “Orange Effect.” This effect results in more energy, visible toning, and extra calorie burning for up to 36 hours post-workout. If you are in the red zone, it just means that you are working extra hard and that you might want to slow down your pace a little.
6. "After-burn" Effect
Orange Theory calls “excess post-exercise oxygen consumption” (EPOC) the science behind the program. Your body needs oxygen after a workout. If you spend around 12-20 minutes of your workout in your orange “zone,” then your body will continue to use oxygen and burn more calories even after your workout. Orange Theory claims that if you do two to four workouts per week at their studio, you will see amazing results in only a few weeks!
7. Modern Studio Equipment
Orange Theory uses new and well-maintained equipment and they keep their environment clean! There is a locker room for both men and women for post-workout showers and there is enough equipment for every person in the group class! You don’t have to worry about getting the last treadmill or the last 15 pound weights, there is a treadmill, rower, and weight station designated to you during your session.
8. Up-beat Music
Those countless times that you spend on your phone during a workout, trying to find the right song and not actually working out are over. Your trainer manages the music as well as the workout, so they make sure that there are always motivating tunes that are loud enough to keep you energized. The music is anything from pop to rock, even including remixes that are upbeat and fast-paced to keep you motivated.
"I love the environment of Orange Theory. The trainers are always encouraging and the music is great." - University of Florida student Emma Hovey
9. Only One Hour
Fitting these workouts into your daily schedule is easy! Each class is a maximum of one hour and you are guaranteed to be done by then. You are also guaranteed to have a different workout each time you come in.
“I like that Orange Theory classes work every part of your body and you get in both weights and cardio. You are burning a lot more calories than you would just going to a normal gym for an hour.” - University of Florida student Lindsey Strube
10. Easy Class Booking
Orange Theory offers monthly memberships that include different numbers of classes per month based on your availability. This is convenient because you can pay for what you know that you will be able to go to. You can also get the Orange Theory app and easily book classes with the touch of a button. The schedule for each studio location is available to view in the app or online as well.
No, this is not a paid advertisement for Orange Theory. I am just a member who is happy with her results, and would like to share with others that it is worth giving it a try. The science behind Orange Theory actually works. Go sign up for your free trial today and see for yourself!
