OrangeTheory Fitness - Soho

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OrangeTheory Fitness - Soho

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 Soho Score Overall?

The full client experience at Orangetheory Soho was excellent, achieving The Fit Guide Award Of Excellence.

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

The Highlights

A real highlight was the onboarding process for first-timers. It was very thorough and unrushed, leaving us completely ready to make the most of the class.

All team members from the reception staff to the coach acted with the utmost professionalism whilst personalizing the service.

What Our Evaluator Had To Say

“The coach was very present and attentive during the class, giving meaningful words of encouragement on an individual level.”

“The custom built cardio machines with the proprietary technology were an impressive feature.”

“We were each given a heart rate monitor, which was coached and used effectively as an integral element of the workout.”

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. Strength training 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 receptionist handled our phone inquiry professionally, confidently answering questions about pricing, class sizes, and membership options. They also provided details on amenities like lockers, showers, and massage guns, while their enthusiasm and genuine interest—asking about our fitness goals and training background—left us feeling excited for our visit.

On arrival, we were greeted with a warm smile, and check-in was smooth despite the receptionist juggling multiple tasks. A health questionnaire was completed, and we received a brief but helpful orientation. After class, the receptionist confidently discussed membership options, tailoring suggestions to our needs and offering flexible commitment levels. Although there were minor delays due to high client volume, their composed and non-pushy approach made for a positive experience.

The Class Experience

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

The class experience was highly impressive, starting with a well-structured pre-class induction that set a welcoming and positive tone. Our coach was attentive and enthusiastic, offering encouragement and personalizing interactions by using clients’ names throughout the session.

The heart rate monitor technology added an engaging, interactive element, and the workout flowed smoothly with well-timed breaks. A thorough post-class follow-up reinforced the coach’s professionalism and care, leaving us with a strong impression of the overall experience.

The Equipment And Studio

The studio provided a clean, comfortable, and well-designed training environment with high-quality, well-maintained equipment thoughtfully arranged for all ability levels. The custom-built cardio machines with heart rate technology really stood out, reflecting Orangetheory's innovation and commitment to a strong tech-supported experience.

Branding was seamlessly woven into the space, with orange lighting, walls, and equipment reinforcing the studio’s identity. Water rowers and cardio technology further highlighted the studio’s attention to detail. A spacious layout, high-quality sound system, and dynamic lighting effects elevated the experience, leaving a lasting impression of professionalism that was very on-brand.

The Facilities And Public Areas

The studio’s public areas showcased strong branding, with its signature orange color throughout, inspirational quotes, and well-designed elements like a nice mural and branded signage. The industrial aesthetic, featuring glass and brick, added a modern, professional feel.

The changing and bathroom areas were clean and stocked with essentials like hand wash, body lotion, and hair care products. The showers featured unlabeled product pumps, so we weren’t sure about their contents. Lockers were a good size and in excellent condition, though they didn’t include hangers.

Overall, the public areas provided a polished and comfortable environment.

Digital And Technology

The website and social media presence were strong, with a professional design and clear information about class offerings. The brand’s values were well-communicated across platforms, and technology, like heart rate monitors and integrated screens, made the in-class experience exceptional from a technology perspective.

The booking system was user-friendly, but we didn’t receive a confirmation email, and late cancellation policies weren’t clearly outlined. Social media was visually appealing and on-brand.

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 up to $239 for unlimited 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
four
Class Experience
five
Equipment & Studio
five
Public Areas
four

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