By: Sierra Byrne
Even when I am utterly exhausted from a full day of classes, I will never miss an Orange theory class. It may have a little to do with the no show or cancellation fee of $12 on a college budget… So, I put on workout clothes, grab my water bottle and my heart rate monitor, and change my mentality from being tired to L.F.G..
As I step foot into the studio, I am immediately greeted by the person at the front desk and asked “Where do you want to start?” Just after the short question, my mindset changes from tired to I am here to work out and I can dictate how hard I try.
For those who do not know what Orange Theory is, it is a High Intensity Interval Training workout (HIIT) designed to get you the most of a workout in 60 minutes. This is accomplished through cardio on the treadmill and rower, as well as strength on the floor.
I know a 60 minute workout class seems daunting, but the class is broken up in a way where you are not overly exerting yourself in the beginning and then dragging at the end. You decide how hard you are going to work. You decide how fast you will run, or what incline you will power walk on, or how heavy your weights will be. Yes, the coaches guide you through the workout, but at the end of the day, all the decisions are up to you.
There have been numerous times where I walked into the studio and told myself “Today is going to be a light day.” Then, before I knew it, I would find myself sprinting on the treadmill or rowing at an ungodly speed, addicted to the buzz of everyone around me. In my opinion, one of the most uplifting aspects of Orange Theory is that the whole studio is surrounded by mirrors. As I work out, I am constantly staring at myself. Yes, that sounds like I am so self-obsessed but looking at myself as I run or lift weights boosts my confidence and also makes me push myself harder.
I understand Orange Theory might not be for everyone, maybe because of the way the classes are designed or the steep cost of a membership, but they offer a free first class (sometimes even student discounts). So, before you shut my proposal down, try a class! As of 2019, Orange Theory has over 1,225 locations around the world. One of them is conveniently located right in South Burlington, less than a 10 minute drive away.
I strongly encourage everyone to give these workouts a chance! These workouts are meant to get “more” out of your life. As www.orangetheory.com puts it, “MORE caloric afterburn, MORE results, and MORE confidence, all to deliver you MORE LIFE,” according to.
Since my first class in July of 2021, I can attest this statement and say that I have felt the most drastic change in my mental and physical health ever since I started. I am one who incorporates working out in my life, not only for the physique but for the adrenaline rush, stress-relieving effects, and serotonin boost that I feel when I walk out of the studio.
The aesthetic of the class is equally as motivating. The blaring music and coaches hype you up for the whole time you are there :) The orange lights and black walls make you feel like you aren’t in an ordinary gym, but you are somewhere that is, dare I say it, fun.
And finally, nothing is better than hearing “Shut it down” from a coach’s voice and fully knowing that you just conquered a workout to either start or complete your day.
Best, Sierra
**Edited By: Emma Accardi