(My fitness class was sponsored by Orangetheory but all opinions are my own.)

What is your fitness story?

We all have one. If you're like me, your journey may be a roller coaster ride. You're going strong, life happens, & then you can't remember the last time you worked out. Sound familiar? The struggle is real & I'm sharing as someone who worked out 5-6 times per week.

Although a regular exercise schedule is most beneficial, don't allow an unintentional sabbatical to discourage you. Anytime is the right time to recommit to fitness & summer is no exception! I found my mojo (again) & I’m working hard to get back to a consistent routine.

I was recently introduced to Orangetheory fitness & offered an opportunity to experience it. I jumped at the chance because you know.... health, beach, swimsuits, summer heat?! I visited the SW Durham location.

As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with smiles & good vibes. Staff members immediately made me feel comfortable & I needed that! I hadn’t taken a group class in ages & felt a tad self-conscious. I was nervous about not being able to keep up considering my own unintentional break.

Registration was simple & only took a few minutes. I filled out paperwork then was asked about my fitness goals, history, & routine. I was given a tour of the facility (lockers & showers y'all!) & introduced to the heart monitor that would become my BFF during class.

Surprisingly, I enjoyed wearing the heart monitor. You know those things are often annoying! The monitor can be worn on your arm or chest & wasn't at all uncomfortable. It tracked my heart rate throughout the class & kept me tuned in to what my body was doing on a different level. 

Orangetheory classes last an hour but no class is the same. Workouts are always varied so you can be sure to hit a variety of muscle groups each time. There is a screen showing the names of all class participants & the information being recorded by your heart monitor. This allows you to keep up with the zones you are functioning in.

Staff members thoroughly explain what each color means on the aforementioned screen. They will then break down your scores at the end of class if you have questions. I pushed hard on the treadmill, row machines, strength training, & floor exercises so I was happy to feel & see my efforts. The best part is, you continue to burn calories for 36 hours after your workout! It's called the after-burn effect!

There is another screen showing every strength training & floor exercise. If you miss the instructions or are going at a slower pace, each exercise is on the screen for your reference. Orangetheory seems to have thought of & covered bases for all fitness levels. Awesome!

I also have to mention the equipment. As someone who once played sports, has exercised throughout the years, hikes, & likes to run, my knees have had their share of use. They sometimes give me problems but will hurt for sure on outdated equipment. Not once did I have knee pain during my class!

The treadmill has a flexible material that absorbs shock & makes running easier on your joints. If you have similar issues/pains, you are free to power walk, get on a bike, etc. Orangetheory gives you options my friend!  

Check out the Orangetheory website, find your nearest location to set up a visit, & give it a go. It doesn’t matter if you work out daily or only get cardio on grocery store aisles. ALL LEVELS ARE WELCOME & you go at your own pace.

My class instructor was amazing & motivated without being pushy. I appreciated that! Thanks Shelley!

Everyone in the facility was very encouraging, knowledgeable, & happy to address any questions/concerns. I give it a definite thumb’s up based on my experience & would return without a doubt. I am still considering membership options & hope to settle on one that fits my budget in the future. 

To see more photos from my visit & meet staff members, head to my Instagram account by clicking here.

Have you tried Orangetheory? How was your experience? 

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