Anonymous wrote:I tried a class. Felt it’s not for me. Didn’t like the dark gym - the location closest to me had no windows. Didn’t also like this watching of the zone. So try a class or a few to see if you like it.

OP here, yes, definitely plan to try the free class first. Good to hear a different perspective.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP again, thank you all, this is getting me excited to start!

I see you have to sign up/reserve a class. How far in advance do you generally need to do this to secure a spot? I imagine it depends on the studio, but I'm looking at either 8:15am or 12pm classes. And is there a point where it's too late to sign up even if spots are available?

I find the weekday noon classes you don't need to sign up before. You can just walk in, you don't have to sign up prior (assuming they have space). Jan starts the rush, so you may find you need to sign up for some classes. Weekend mornings can fill up quickly. Depends on the studio, but if you don't want the early, early classes, most seem to be open.

OP here, thank you, this is great to know. I likely won't have to worry about getting a spot and it won't be as crowded. Win-win.

I tried a class. Felt it’s not for me. Didn’t like the dark gym - the location closest to me had no windows. Didn’t also like this watching of the zone. So try a class or a few to see if you like it.

Anonymous wrote:OP again, thank you all, this is getting me excited to start!

I see you have to sign up/reserve a class. How far in advance do you generally need to do this to secure a spot? I imagine it depends on the studio, but I'm looking at either 8:15am or 12pm classes. And is there a point where it's too late to sign up even if spots are available?

I find the weekday noon classes you don't need to sign up before. You can just walk in, you don't have to sign up prior (assuming they have space). Jan starts the rush, so you may find you need to sign up for some classes. Weekend mornings can fill up quickly. Depends on the studio, but if you don't want the early, early classes, most seem to be open.

Love it! Been a member for about 4 months, age 60. I’m stronger, more fit looking and feel anywhere from terrific to super tired after a workout. Don’t know why, but it’s motivating and I love being told what to do, because without it I’d be a spud.

OP again, thank you all, this is getting me excited to start!

I see you have to sign up/reserve a class. How far in advance do you generally need to do this to secure a spot? I imagine it depends on the studio, but I'm looking at either 8:15am or 12pm classes. And is there a point where it's too late to sign up even if spots are available?

I really like it and find the hour goes by quickly. I signed up for 2/week but recently upped to unlimited. I like that i can sign up for a class and then feel like i can't change my mind bc if you cancel within 8 hours you pay a fee. If you sign up before the 1st you get a lower rate - that's how they got me.

I’ve been at Orangetheory for 4 years and here is how I’d approach it.

Start with a 3G class. You spend about 14 min on the treadmill, rower and floor. On the treadmill you can run or walk. Either is 100% acceptable and you’ll see a combination of both. The rower can be the hardest to get a hang of so ask for help. Once you have the correct mechanics, it’ll be easier.

A 2G class means you spend more time on the treadmill. Almost 24 minutes on the tread and then 24 minutes on the floor (sometimes with rowing interspersed).

Also, check out the strength 50 classes. It’s a smaller class and just the floor. You will get a lot of help with form. It’s also a good choice for low impact/ recovery workout.

I’d start with 2 classes (2 or 3G) and one strength class a week.

Have fun!!

Anonymous wrote:How does it work?

Otf focuses on treadmill, rowing machine and floor. It’s an instructor lead class that rotates the different areas. Wear a heart rate monitor that shows your output, calories, etc. it’s loud, somewhat fast paced workout

Otf is great but definitely ease into it. It’s hard on the body if you haven’t been working out that much. I would very rarely go 2 days in a row.

How does it work?

OP here, this is good to read!

I love it! Super motivational and super effective approach, at least for me.

I did it for years and got into great shape. If you aren't already fit, ease into it with 2x per week and get up to as many as your schedule will tolerate, with one day per week off.

I plan on starting orangetheory fitness. I have really let my fitness go over the past several years, and I'm ready to reclaim it. Looking around for what's offered and convenient to me (and therefore most likely for me to go), OTF seems to be the winner. If I had a gym nearby that offered free range equipment as well as classes I'd consider that, but there isn't so I need to start with something I'll actually do.

If you've done (or do) OTF, how did/do you like it? How many classes do you take a week? How many would you suggest starting out with?