OrangeTheory Fitness - Manhattan Plaza-District

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OrangeTheory Fitness - Manhattan Plaza-District

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 Manhattan Plaza-District Score Overall?

The full client experience at Orangetheory Manhattan Plaza-District was outstanding, achieving our highest The Fit Guide 5-Star Award.

The class was also very impressive, winning our prestigious and highest 5-Star Class Experience Award.

Orangetheory Fitness Manhattan Plaza-District is featured in our articles The Best HIIT And Strength Studios In New York and The Top Fitness Studios In New York

The Highlights

Our coach was a highlight of the visit; she delivered an engaging experience that truly impressed. This isn't to take away from the rest of the team, as the reception services were also warm and friendly.

OTF's heart rate technology was another standout positive in a fantastic overall experience.

What Our Evaluator Had To Say

“All members of staff made an effort to bring me into the community.”

“The class experience was very slickly delivered from start to finish.”

“The heart rate technology was very engaging and fun to use. The team explained how it worked very well.”

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

Upon arrival, we were promptly greeted and recognized as first-timers, making for a smooth and welcoming start. Registration was quick, with clear directions to lockers and a brief but effective orientation that left us feeling prepared for class.

While the departure experience could have been more personalized, the reception team made a strong first impression with their friendly and efficient service.

The Class Experience

Orangetheory Manhattan Plaza-District has achieved The Fit Guide 5-Star Class Experience Award for an exceptional class, putting it amongst the very best in New York and the industry.

We were thoroughly impressed with the class experience, guided by a coach that delivered a well-executed, engaging, and supportive experience from start to finish. Their preparation, attentiveness, and ability to create a welcoming environment were clear, making both regulars and us as first-timers feel comfortable and motivated. From learning names to providing a thorough induction on form and technique, they ensured we felt ready to take on the session and knew what to do.

The workout was well-structured, with seamless transitions between treadmill and floor exercises, clear instructions, and visible timing on the monitors. Tailored guidance and encouragement kept us pushing at the right level, while an upbeat playlist and energetic coaching made the session both fun and challenging. Post-class, the coach remained engaged, checking in with participants and fostering a strong sense of community—a rounding off an experience that was truly one of the best we've ever enjoyed.

The Equipment And Studio

The studio provided a top-tier workout environment, featuring high-quality equipment from premium brands like TRX, Freemotion, and WaterRower. Everything was in excellent condition, and the well-organized setup, branded mats and weights, and designated workout stations created a professional and seamless training space.

The room was spotless and visually aligned with the brand, with signature orange lighting and motivational slogans adding energy and identity. Real-time health data displayed on TVs elevated the experience, making the space feel modern, dynamic, and built for performance.

The Facilities And Public Areas

The public areas felt fresh and inviting, with the studio’s signature branding creating a sleek and professional atmosphere. A spacious layout added to the comfort, while thoughtful details—like red and green shower lights—showcased the club’s focus on convenience.

Changing and grooming areas were well-stocked with essentials like lotion, deodorant, and Q-tips, though the open design seemed geared toward quick exits rather than extended prep. Showers were plentiful with consistent water pressure, and towels were clean and neatly presented. Complimentary water refills and paid energy drinks rounded out the amenities nicely.

Digital And Technology

We were really impressed by the integration of heart rate technology and health data tracking. The app provided comprehensive health metrics, including calories, distance, and heart rate, displayed in real-time during class and updated for post-class review. This could have been confusing, but our coach did an excellent job of explaining the functionality of all this tech and their benefits. The InBody scan machine further added value to the overall experience.

The website and online brand were very strong, creating a powerful sense of brand and enough information to get us excited to visit the club.

Pricing

Orangetheory Manhattan Plaza District offers a complimentary introductory class for local residents upon sign-up.

If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, monthly memberships are available from $119 for four classes per month up to $239 for unlimited sessions.

Drop-in sessions are not available but packages are available starting at $320 for a 10-class package.

Top Scoring Categories

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

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