With the launch of its OTconnect Beat wearable, Orangetheory is turning heart rate data into a retention and engagement engine.
Today’s consumers want connected, personalized workouts, and the numbers prove it. Wearable technology is the No. 1 fitness trend for 2026 according to ACSM, and 73% of consumers say digital fitness tools motivate them to exercise more often.
Orangetheory Fitness is on top of the wearable trend with its new OTconnect Beat. Recently launched, it syncs with Orangetheory’s in-studio ecosystem and app to deliver real-time heart rate and performance data — giving members the personalized experience they crave and helping franchisees boost retention and growth.
“Wearables have shifted from nice-to-have to must-have; members expect tools that deliver personalization, accountability and progress tracking,” said Scott Brown, the VP of fitness for Orangetheory Fitness. “Orangetheory members have always gravitated toward performance data; it’s part of why they fell in love with our classes. Now they want that data to extend beyond the studio, seamlessly connecting their in-class performance with daily activity and insights they can access anytime.”
According to Brown, the new OTconnect Beat is all about driving accountability. To improve accountability, members need to trust the device and Orangetheory’s ecosystem to deliver accurate measurements consistently.
“This is our most accurate performance monitor yet, and in our testing and validation processes the heart rate accuracy outperformed popular wrist worn devices,” said Brown. “We also upgraded with real-time LED zones visible at a glance, USB-C charging that works anywhere, seamless connectivity and improved sweat resistance. We’ve removed every barrier so members can focus on what matters, which is elevating every workout both in-studio and out.”
The proprietary monitor improves retention through better member engagement and accountability. Brown explained that when members can track progress and see results, they’re more likely to stay committed. “Because the monitor data is integrated with our app, members realize more value from their Orangetheory membership,” he said. “They can look at their data anytime and use it in their lives outside the studio.”
Conversely, the data also helps Orangetheory franchisees understand member behavior and optimize class offerings.
“Because we see the studio data, we can ensure our technology offerings integrate across platforms and create stickiness,” explained Brown. “Members become invested in the OTF data ecosystem, making them less likely to switch to competitors and benefiting franchisees.”
Overall, technology is integral to Orangetheory’s member experience, and according to Brown the technology ecosystem acts as the “assistant coach.”
The assistant coach is there to support member experience and the coach who is there to personalize the workout for members. Orangetheory’s innovation focus is amplifying what already works for them — unlocking new capabilities and complements classes — making the member experience more accessible, measurable and motivating by working in tandem with technology.
“The features we’ve added to our proprietary wearable plus in-studio technology deepen member engagement versus diluting the brand identity,” said Brown. “I have often said we’re not chasing trends for a trend’s sake. We pursue what our members need to maximize their fitness journey.”
