OrangeTheory Fitness - Chelsea

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OrangeTheory Fitness - Chelsea

New York City, USA

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The OrangeTheory Fitness Story

The first Orangetheory Fitness (“OTF”) studio was founded in 2010 by Ellen Latham, Jerome Kern, and David Long in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. These were early days in the boutique fitness revolution and OTF has since seen massive expansion across the States and into other markets worldwide, with over 1,500 locations opened and many more due to open. The chain has hit some big milestones over the last few years, surpassing $1 billion in sales in 2018 and hitting 1 million members in 2020. Today, OTF operates as a franchise model in over 25 countries.

Known for its focus on heart rate training and technology, the ‘orange’ in their name is a nod to the orange heart rate zone which their members are coached to stay within during the class. 

The Orangetheory experience is so much more than a workout - it’s just as much about community, inclusivity and connection, highlighted by their ethos of “Our Coaches Are More than Just Coaches”.

How Did Orangetheory Chelsea Score Overall?

The full client experience at Orangetheory Chelsea was very good, achieving TheFit Guide Award Of Excellence.

The class was exceptional, winning our 5-Star Class Experience Award.

The Highlights

The staff was a highlight as they were exceptional in terms of personalization and attentiveness.

Another standout was the class, which was professionally led and made use of smart technology.

What Our Evaluators Had To Say

“I was really impressed by the warm welcome and the interest taken in my training goals.”

“I liked how the coach offered personal adjustments during the floor workout.”

“The reception team were really confident and comfortable when discussing the various packages and the rates."

What To Expect From An Orangetheory Session

An Orangetheory Fitness class is a 60-minute session that incorporates running, rowing, and strength training.

The running component typically includes high and low-intensity intervals, with some inclines periodically thrown in. For the rowing section, you’ll use OTF’s trademark orange water rowers, which mimic the sensation and drag of real rowing. The strength training element uses dumbbells and TRXs, amongst other tools, to work and fatigue your muscles.

Technology plays a big part in the experience, with each participant being offered an arm strap that accurately monitors your heart rate throughout the session, displaying your stats on screens throughout the studio which the coach will use to educate and motivate. Their stated goal is for you to spend 12 minutes or more with your heart rate in “The Orange Zone”, which they report boosts your metabolism, burns fat, and burns more calories, even after the workout.

The motivating and supportive coaches and community round off an experience that can be tough and challenging if you want it to be but is also suitable and scalable for all levels.

The Reception Service

The phone inquiry was professional, with the receptionist providing a clear overview of the club’s heart rate training approach and how their certified coaches tailor the experience. Directions to the club were well explained, and their upbeat, knowledgeable tone made us feel excited for the visit.

On arrival, we were warmly greeted, and check-in was quick and efficient. A brief orientation covered key areas like lockers and changing rooms, along with a tour of the workout space. Overall, the staff’s friendly engagement and interest in our training goals created a welcoming atmosphere. After class, the receptionist checked in about our experience and walked us through membership options, asking questions to recommend suitable plans without pressuring us to sign up.

The Class Experience

Orangetheory Chelsea received The Fit Guide’s prestigious and highest 5-Star Class Experience Award and had one of the highest-rated class experiences in New York.

The class was well-structured and flowed smoothly, with clear instructions on their technology. Our coach greeted everyone warmly, used our names throughout the workout, and provided personalized attention to keep us feeling included. Well-timed breaks and an energetic atmosphere kept the session enjoyable, while community efforts like notice boards and member event mentions added to the welcoming vibe.

While the class included a warmup, it blended into the main workout rather than standing out as a distinct section. Some complex movements, like lunge jumps, lacked regressions for those that struggle with these movements. The post-workout cooldown was brief.

The Equipment And Studio

The studio provided a clean and well-maintained workout area with high-quality equipment. The Freemotion treadmills featured customized screens and the brand’s signature color, while professional water rowers and strength equipment added to the premium experience. The space was well-organized, with enough room for safe and effective movement.

Branding was consistently incorporated throughout the studio, with logos, colors, and design elements that reinforced the brand identity. The dim lighting and high-quality sound system further enhanced the atmosphere, creating an engaging workout environment. The only minor gripe was that not all stations had consistent weights, with some lacking the required dumbbells.

Overall, the studio delivered an impressive and branded workout setting.

The Facilities And Public Areas

The public areas were functional and clean, with an industrial design featuring exposed piping and metal accents. Branding was subtly present through the use of the studio's signature orange color, visible upon entry. However, the reception area was somewhat sparse, offering limited seating options that were not particularly comfortable.

The changing area provided sufficient amenities, including hand wash, lotion, and deodorant, as well as well-maintained showers with complimentary towels. Despite this, the lockers were notably small and lacked hangers, which reduced convenience. Minor issues such as rust on the towel bins and mold in the showers detracted from the otherwise clean facilities.

Digital And Technology

The online booking process was intuitive and user-friendly. However, the lack of a confirmation email and clear late cancellation policy left some uncertainty on our first visit. The club’s website was professionally designed with strong branding and easy navigation, though it lacked detailed coach bios, a visible class schedule, and insights into the club’s values and mission.

Email communications were well-branded and included an unsubscribe option but were quite generic. Text messages were professional and on-brand, and quick responses were given to social media inquiries. The social media presence was strong, frequently updated, and accurately reflected the client experience.

The in-studio technology was outstanding and played a big role in enhancing the workout, with heart rate monitors providing real-time feedback and data accessible via the app. The club also offered on-demand and online training options, adding extra flexibility.

Pricing

Orangetheory offers a ‘first class free’ promo on their website, for first time clients, although you have to be a local resident to qualify.

If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, memberships are available for $119 for four classes per month or $199 for eight classes.

It was unclear if drop-in classes were available. More flexible packages are also available, starting from a 10-pack for $320 to a 30-pack for $850.

Top Scoring Categories

Reception Services
five
Class Experience
five
Equipment & Studio
five
Public Areas
four
Digital & Technology
four

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