How Orangetheory Fitness combines technology and fitness
Combining fitness and technology, Orangethreory Fitness has been rapidly growing in Canada after opening its first location back in 2012. With 84 studios now open and counting, Orangetheory has attracted quite the loyal following. I recently got the chance to check them out for myself to see what all the hype is about. This was one of my first stops on my journey to finding the best workout classes in Toronto, so I have to admit I was a little scared. So let’s see how they ranked as I take you through the VIBE of Orangetheory Fitness at Yonge n Egs.
The Prep
Checking In
Checking in was simple and the staff were very warm, friendly and took the time to educate me on the whole process, what to expect and how to maximize my workout. It was a lot to take in at first, but all made sense during the workout. I did appreciate how welcoming they were.
The Change Rooms
They have a small locker area and washroom, but the gym is not really intended for people to stick around. It’s predominantly people the local area who come in, do the workout and get out. No showers and no elaborate change rooms here.
Dress in your workout gear ready to roll. They will provide you with a heart rate monitor to strap on before heading into the workout.
The Workout
The Instructor(s)
The trainer was very friendly and as a newbie, he took the time to educate me and go through the process and what I should be focused on during my workout. He continued to check on me throughout the workout as well to keep me on track.
The Intensity, Quality + Difficulty
I would say the intensity is about a medium and is good for a beginner to an average gym go-er who works out 3-4 times per week. The great thing about Orangetheory is that you aren’t comparing yourself or competing with the people next to you. You’re competing with yourself and raising the intensity of the workout to your heart rate. I worked up a good sweat and was a bit out of shape when I started, but never felt like I was over-doing it or anything was too much to handle.
They use a combination of heart rate-based interval training and real-time fitness tracking so you can literally look at the screen and monitor yourself to raise or reduce the intensity. After which you’re actually sent the data so you can compare to your peers, friends or someone across the world if you’d like. You’ll never do the same workout twice here and the program is designed that you can comfortably come 5-6 days a week without over-doing any one muscle group.
Orangetheory Fitness workout incorporates endurance, strength and power elements through a variety of equipment including treadmills, rowing machines, TRX® suspension training and free weights. The end result is supposed to be more energy, visible toning and the ‘Orange Effect’ – where participants keep burning calories for up to 36 hours post-workout.
The VIBE
The Amenities
Here you won’t find much for amenities. They don’t offer towel service, protein shakes, showers or any other added frills. It’s purely about the workout and geared towards people who live close by. The gym is well kept and the staff do a good job at maintaining this.
The Crowd + Community
A very community based feel here with mostly regulars. Everyone was really nice and eager to help the new guy. All ages, shapes and sizes here with no judgement. When asked, most people said their favourite thing about Orangetheory is the variety of workouts.
Very much a local neighborhood joint with very friendly regulars always willing to help. Located at Yonge & Eglinton which has become a major midtown hub making it a perfect place for a fitness studio like this. People who attend, generally stick around and become regular attendees here at Orangetheory Fitness.
The Aftermath
Yes, my whole shirt is soaked and it was a really great workout overall. I was a little sore (the good kind) the next day after having not worked out for a while, but not so tight that I couldn’t move or function. All in all, it was a solid workout and great for someone who likes a lot of variety and tracking results.
Location: 97 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, ON
Contact: 416.441.1326
Neighbourhood: Yonge & Eglinton
Type of Workout: HIIT
Have you been? Let me know what you think on Instagram or tag me in your photos, use #TorontoVIBE, or slip into our DMs @ViewtheVIBE for a chance to be featured online and on social.
Credits:
Contributing VIBE Reviewer: Anastasiya Romanska
Review Scorecard
- Atmosphere (Space, Lighting, Temperature, Smell)
- Cleanliness
- Amenities
- Service
- Workout (Variety, Difficulty, Quality)
- Instructor
- Crowd
Overall VIBE
I’ve been working out for 15+ years off and on and having not been to the gym in a while, this workout really opened up my appetite for it. It was challenging, but not difficult. A good burn, but not too intense. Great for beginners all the way to advanced. A unique feature I have not seen anywhere before using the heart rate monitoring and real-time tracking. It really helps keep you in check.
