Orange Theory fitness making moves in Calgary
Florida-based fitness company offers unique training program
Kari Pedersen
Arts Editor
New fitness craze out of Florida, Orange Theory Fitness (OTF) brings a new high-intensity interval training program to Calgary. The OTF program is comprised of two 30 minute sessions that raise your heart rate to an optimal level.
Photo courtesy: Facebook
Originating in Florida and created in 2010, Orange Theory Fitness (OTF) brings High Intensity interval training to the masses. With two locations already, Calgary is quickly getting hooked to OTF and the amazing affects it can have on their bodies.
Before the workout begins all of the participants are strapped with a heart rate monitor that is displayed on a large screen at the front of the class. This screen displays heart rates and vital statistics throughout the workout.
The workout is broken into two parts, each 30 minutes long. The first 30 minutes you can expect a high-intensity cardio workout, using treadmills, rowers and spin bikes. In the second 30 minutes you can expect some strength training, where participants will use anything from barbells and medicine balls, to TRX suspension trainers.
The trainers make each class unique and stay within the idea of Orange Theory, by focusing on heart rate, but give their twists to keep the workouts interesting so participants keep coming back.
The goal of the sessions is for participants to reach a certain heart rate, so that they are burning the most calories and fat to see physical and cardiovascular results.
The outstanding part of Orange Theory is the after burn that participants experience. When you complete this workout you keep burning for 24 to 36 hours. Which is a pretty great way to kick those extra calories. This works by burning such a high amount of calories throughout the workout using the high intensity method.
Participants in Calgary are already getting hooked on this new workout craze. Current Orange Theory enthusiast, Stefanie Diduch, says that although the workout is incredibly hard, she feels the results throughout: “I am so tired during the workout sometimes, but the high I feel after makes it worth it.”
The classes can seem like a marathon to some, but cater to beginners and seasoned athletes alike, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of Orange Theory. If you can keep it up, it won’t be long before you are one of the athletes in the class.
Calgary currently has one location in Creekside N.W. and one in Royal Oak. For more information visit the website at orangetheoryfitness.com.
