Once the threat of bikinis and crop tops disappears and the warmth of sweaters and leggings returns, it can be hard to keep hitting the gym. In Columbia, we are lucky enough to have both Orange Theory Fitness and 9Round Kickboxing for when Strom just isn’t making the cut anymore. Both of these gyms can offer you amazing workouts to keep you fit all year long! But which one is the right choice for your lifestyle?
9Round Kickboxing
9Round Kickboxing is a 30-minute workout class where you hit 9 different stations for three minutes each, with a 30 second transition time between stations. The first two stations focus on strength, stations three through eight develop your kickboxing skills, and station nine is a killer core exercise. The workout changes every single day, and there are always several trainers in the gym ensuring you know exactly what to do at each station. The most unique thing about 9Round is that there are no start times. You just show up whenever it is convenient to your schedule! A new round starts every three minutes, so you can just hop in the rotation as soon as there is an opening.
They offer several different membership options. The first two require a one-time registration fee up front, and then you have the choice of a yearlong option where you will pay a flat rate each month for 12 months or a month-to-month option where you pay a flat rate each month and can cancel anytime with a 30 day notice. However, if you pay for four, eight or 12 months up front you receive huge discounts! All of the membership options include your own pairs of gloves and wraps. There are several 9Round locations in Columbia, but the closest to USC’s campus is located at 650 Lincoln right by the business school. You can even get a free trial workout!
Orange Theory Fitness
Orange Theory is an hour-long workout that involves cardio and strength training. Each day you will experience a new and challenging workout using weights, TRX bands, rowers and treadmills. Classes generally focus on endurance, strength or power. The class is broken up into two groups. One group starts on the treadmills, and the other group starts on the floor working with weights. You will usually spend 28 minutes on the treadmills and 28 minutes on the floor. The trainers will instruct you the whole time so you know exactly what to do!
Orange Theory memberships are all month-to-month. Your options are four classes a month with the Basic Membership, eight classes a month with the Elite Membership or unlimited classes with the Premier Membership. You do have the option to pay for individual classes if you want to keep going after you hit your maximum attendance for that month. Orange Theory is located a little further from USC’s campus on Forest Drive, but if this workout sounds right for you, it is worth the drive! Don’t miss the chance to try it out with a free trial workout.
What’s your favorite place to workout? Let us know in the comments!