Orangetheory Fitness is a popular fitness studio that offers a combination of strength, cardio, and HIIT workouts. It is known for its unique workout structure and heart rate monitoring system that helps individuals track their progress and performance.
However, with the rising popularity of group fitness classes, it's natural to wonder if Orangetheory is worth the investment.
In this honest review, we will take a closer look at the pros and cons of Orangetheory, its membership plans, equipment, policies, and alternatives. While Orangetheory may be a great fit for those who prefer group training and a combination of strength, cardio, and HIIT, it may not be ideal for those who prefer traditional strength training or weightlifting.
We'll also hear from the author, who shares her positive experience with Orangetheory but prefers powerlifting and CrossFit workouts.
This article aims to provide an objective and analytical perspective on whether Orangetheory is worth the investment.
What is Orangetheory?
Orangetheory is a group fitness studio that offers one-hour workouts combining strength, cardio, and HIIT. It is designed for those who prefer group training, variety in their workouts, and a fun, competitive atmosphere.
Orangetheory offers varying membership plans, including Orange Premier, Orange Elite, and Orange Basic, with different numbers of classes per month and prices. The studio also provides heart rate monitors that can be rented or purchased for use during classes.
One of the benefits of group fitness is the sense of community it provides. Orangetheory is no exception, as it offers a fun and competitive environment that motivates members to push themselves to their limits.
Orangetheory is often compared to other group fitness programs such as F45, but it stands out for its unique combination of strength, cardio, and HIIT workouts. While it may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional strength training or weightlifting, Orangetheory offers a well-rounded workout that appeals to many fitness enthusiasts.
Workout Structure
The workout structure at Orangetheory is designed to provide a combination of cardio and strength training exercises during one-hour classes.
The first half of the class is focused on cardio and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), using equipment such as treadmills, bikes, and rowers.
The second half of the class is focused on strength training, using dumbbells and other equipment to target different muscle groups.
Some may prefer the group fitness approach of Orangetheory, which offers a supportive community and a challenging, structured workout.
However, others may prefer a more personalized approach to fitness, such as one-on-one personal training.
Additionally, the HIIT vs. strength training focus may not be ideal for those who have specific fitness goals or prefer a different type of workout.
Ultimately, the workout structure at Orangetheory can provide a varied and challenging workout for those who enjoy group fitness and want to improve their overall fitness level.
- One-hour classes split between cardio/HIIT and strength training
- Equipment includes treadmills, bikes, rowers, and dumbbells
- Group fitness approach may not be preferred by everyone and HIIT vs. strength training focus may not align with specific fitness goals.
Membership Options
Membership options at Orangetheory include Orange Premier, Orange Elite, and Orange Basic, each with varying numbers of classes per month and prices.
Orange Premier is the most expensive plan, offering unlimited classes per month and access to exclusive workouts.
Orange Elite offers 8 classes per month, while Orange Basic offers 4 classes per month. The cost of each plan varies by location, but on average, Orange Premier costs around $200 per month, Orange Elite around $120 per month, and Orange Basic around $60 per month.
The benefits of each membership plan depend on the individual's fitness goals and budget. Orange Premier is ideal for those who want to attend classes frequently and have access to exclusive workouts, while Orange Elite and Orange Basic are better suited for those who want to attend classes less frequently or have a tighter budget.
However, it is important to note that Orangetheory's membership plans are more expensive compared to other gym memberships. Cost comparison with other gyms and fitness programs should be considered before committing to a membership plan.
Heart Rate Monitoring
Heart rate monitoring is an integral part of tracking and optimizing one's fitness level, allowing individuals to gauge their exertion levels and ensure they are working at an appropriate intensity. Orangetheory has made heart rate monitoring a central component of its workout program, with members required to wear heart rate monitors during each class. The heart rate monitors track the amount of time spent in each heart rate zone, and the data is displayed on screens throughout the studio.
The benefits of heart rate monitoring during exercise are numerous. It allows individuals to better understand their fitness level and track their progress over time. It also ensures that they are working at the appropriate level of intensity to achieve their fitness goals. The accuracy of the heart rate monitors used at Orangetheory has been praised by many members, who appreciate the real-time feedback provided during their workouts. Overall, heart rate monitoring is a valuable tool for those looking to optimize their fitness level and Orangetheory has made it a central part of their workout program.
| Benefits | Accuracy | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tracks heart rate zones | Provides real-time feedback | |||
| Allows for progress tracking | Accurate data displayed on screens | |||
| Ensures appropriate intensity | Praised by many members | Helps improve cardiovascular fitness | Increases motivation and accountability |
Policies and Amenities
One aspect to consider when evaluating Orangetheory as a fitness studio is its policies and amenities.
One advantage of Orangetheory is its cancellation policy, which allows members to cancel their membership at any time with 30 days notice. Although there is no cancellation fee, members must make one last payment before terminating their membership. Additionally, Orangetheory offers the option to put a membership on hold for medical reasons, up to 2 times per year for a fee.
Another important aspect of Orangetheory is its equipment selection. The studio is equipped with treadmills, bikes, rowers, and dumbbells to provide a full-body workout. However, Orangetheory does not offer personal training services. Instead, coaches are qualified and knowledgeable, having completed Orangetheory's training program and holding personal training certifications from accredited organizations.
While Orangetheory lacks some amenities, such as pools and tennis courts, it offers a unique group fitness experience that combines cardio, strength, and HIIT training.
Alternatives to Orangetheory
When considering fitness options, individuals may want to explore alternatives to group fitness studios like Orangetheory, such as traditional gyms or other fitness programs with different structures and amenities.
For those who prefer a more affordable alternative, Crunch Fitness is a traditional gym with group classes, lifting platforms, and cardio equipment. Crunch Fitness offers more amenities than Orangetheory for a more affordable price.
Another alternative is F45, which is a similar fitness program to Orangetheory. However, F45 offers a different workout structure that focuses on functional movements and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
Alternatively, Life Time Fitness is a premium gym with pools, basketball courts, rock climbing walls, spas, tennis courts, and hundreds of classes to choose from each week. While Life Time Fitness membership costs at least $100 per month, it offers a more comprehensive fitness and wellness experience than Orangetheory.
Ultimately, individuals should consider their fitness goals, budget, and personal preferences when choosing a fitness program or gym.
Author and Other Topics
Moving on from discussing the alternatives to Orangetheory, it is important to note the background of the author who provided an honest review of the fitness program.
Amanda, the author, is a writer and editor in the fitness and nutrition industries who started CrossFit in 2015. She is passionate about helping women overcome their fear of lifting weights and runs a blog called Powerlifting Technique, which focuses on powerlifting technique. The blog also participates in affiliate advertising programs, where third parties like Facebook may use cookies and web beacons to collect information from the website.
As a powerlifting enthusiast, Amanda's perspective on Orangetheory may be slightly different from those who prefer traditional strength training or weightlifting. Her experience with the program was positive, but she still prefers powerlifting and CrossFit workouts.
However, her expertise in the fitness industry allows her to provide a comprehensive review of the program's features, including the equipment provided, the workout structure, and the membership plans offered.
It is important to note that her review is unbiased and informative, allowing readers to make an informed decision about whether Orangetheory is worth it for them.
Final Considerations
To make an informed decision about joining a fitness program, it is important to consider the cost and benefits of membership plans, as the average cost of a gym membership in the United States is $58 per month, according to a survey conducted by Statista in 2021. Orangetheory offers three membership plans with varying numbers of classes per month and prices. While the cost may be considered expensive compared to other gyms, the group fitness studio provides a unique experience with planned workouts, competition, and the opportunity to earn Splat points.
When comparing Orangetheory to other fitness programs, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option. The table below compares the cost and amenities of Orangetheory, F45, Crunch Fitness, and Life Time Fitness. It is important to note that while Orangetheory may not offer as many amenities as Life Time Fitness, it provides a focused and intense workout experience that may be more appealing to those who prefer a combination of strength, cardio, and HIIT. Ultimately, whether Orangetheory is worth the cost depends on individual preferences and fitness goals.
| Fitness Program | Monthly Cost | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Orangetheory | $59-$159 | Treadmills, bikes, rowers, dumbbells, planned workouts, heart rate monitors |
| F45 | $50-$65 | Circuit-based workouts, no heart rate monitors |
| Crunch Fitness | $9.95-$29.95 | Lifting platforms, cardio equipment, group classes, sauna, pool |
| Life Time Fitness | $100+ | Pools, basketball courts, rock climbing walls, spas, tennis courts, hundreds of classes |
Summary and Conclusion
Orangetheory is a group fitness studio that promises to deliver results with workouts that take just one hour. The author tried a class at the Wayne, NJ studio to determine the prices and see if the current Orangetheory testimonials are accurate. In this article, the author shares their experience and provides an honest review of Orangetheory, including its pros and cons, membership costs, policies, equipment, available classes, coaches, amenities, and tips for new members.
Orangetheory is worth it if you prefer group training over working out alone and want to take classes combining strength, cardio, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). However, if you prefer traditional strength training, powerlifting, or weightlifting, the author does not recommend Orangetheory. The studio is primarily for women, and its clientele is mostly middle-aged adults.
Orangetheory has several pros, including its focus on group fitness, limited amenities, heart rate zone training, and supportive community. However, it also has cons, such as limited equipment, high membership costs, aggressive sales tactics, and difficulty recovering from its high-intensity classes.
Orangetheory's membership prices come in the form of three different membership plans, and the author recommends checking with your local studio for their specific rates. The studio offers group classes that are one hour long, half focused on cardio and HIIT, and the other half focused on strength.
Orangetheory policies include a re-opening policy, a policy on dropping weights, grunting, and chalk, a cancellation policy, and a guest policy. Orangetheory also has tips for new members, such as eating enough, wearing the right shoes, and being aware that heart rate monitors are not free.
The author concludes that Orangetheory is worth it for those who prefer group fitness and HIIT workouts but not for those looking for personal training or traditional strength training. They also offer alternatives to Orangetheory, such as F45, Crunch Fitness, and Life Time Fitness.
In summary, Orangetheory is a group fitness studio that offers HIIT workouts and heart rate zone training. It has both pros and cons, and the author recommends it for those who prefer group fitness over traditional strength training. Orangetheory has different membership plans and policies, and the author provides tips for new members. The author also offers alternatives to Orangetheory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age requirement to attend Orangetheory classes?
The minimum age requirement to attend Orangetheory classes varies by location, but typically ranges from 14 to 18 years old. Safety concerns include proper form and use of equipment, as well as monitoring heart rate during workouts.
Can you sign up for a trial membership without renting or purchasing a heart rate monitor?
Orangetheory offers trial memberships that do not require renting or purchasing a heart rate monitor. However, using a heart rate monitor during classes is recommended to track progress and earn splat points.
Is there a limit to how many times you can attend classes per week with each membership plan?
Orangetheory offers different membership plans with varying frequency options for attending classes. Each membership has a limit on the number of classes per month, but there is no limit to how many times per week a member can attend.
Does Orangetheory offer nutritional guidance or meal planning services?
Orangetheory does offer nutritional guidance and meal planning services, although these services are not included in membership plans and may come at an additional cost. Trained coaches can provide personalized advice and recommendations to help members achieve their fitness and nutrition goals.
Are there any discounts available for students or military members?
Orangetheory offers student and military discounts, as well as promotions for new members. These discounts vary by location and may require proof of eligibility. Contact your local studio for more information.