I Survived Orangetheory’s Hell Week
For months I have been wanting to reignite my fitness journey. I canceled my previous gym membership due to a busier work schedule. While I have still been hitting the pavement for the occasional run, there has been a lack of structure to my usual fitness routine. To resolve this, I decided it was time for me to renew my membership at Orangetheory Fitness. I was a member prior to the pandemic and after going for a few years, I decided I needed a change and wanted to explore other options.
So, after a three-year hiatus, I decided it was time to lace up my running shoes and head back to the treadmill.
I called and rejoined on the worst/best week to join… Hell Week. Each October, the studio promotes an intense week of classes leading up to Halloween rightfully named Hell Week. During this period, workouts are more intense, and members challenge themselves to attend more classes in a week than they typically would all for the glorious bragging rights of a free t-shirt. I’d never earned my Hell Week shirt, but determined, I met my goal and finally got my shirt!
Members of Orangetheory Fitness are encouraged to use a heart rate monitor that keeps track of your heart rate throughout the duration of the class. There are different color zones that depend on your heart rate and the perceived work rate based on your current fitness level. The “theory” is to challenge your heart rate to stay within a certain zone, the orange zone. The more you stay in this zone, the more efficient and effective your calorie burn is and increases your metabolism. The class is set up so that you do this using a treadmill, rowing machine, and weights. Typically, you will have a cardio block and a weight training/row block. No two workouts are the same which keeps the classes engaging. The classes are energizing, the coaches are motivating, and the playlists are great!
There are always great promotions and an endless number of opportunities to set personal goals for yourself!
Such as running a certain distance, increasing speed, rowing a certain number of meters, and/or climbing to the highest inclines. The class is made for everyone, from beginners to seasoned athletes. There are walkers, joggers, and runners and no matter what level you are on, you feel supported. I know it can be intimidating to start a new fitness routine, but if you are looking for something fun consider trying out a class. Did I mention your first class is free? For more information, check out their website!
