Orangetheory Fitness, a group training fitness studio franchise, has combined strength and cardio interval training with the science of heart monitoring into a 60-minutes session.
Physiologist Ellen Latham inspired the unique concept of Orangtheory. It has relied heavily on the science of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption. Orangetheory suggested that members who exercised in the zone, designated between 84 to 92 percent of their maximum heart rate, or the “Orange Zone,” achieved the greatest fitness results and produced the highest metabolic increase and calorie burn. Members wear heart-rate monitors in order to ensure they exercise in the Orange Zone, and view their heart rate on flat-screen monitors throughout the club.
“The ability to monitor their heart rate is appealing to members,” said Terry Blachek, a partner of Orangetheory Fitness. “It’s the quickest way to burn calories and have an increase in metabolic rate.” The concept has drawn members to Orangetheory Fitness, said Blachek. Wearing a heart-rate monitor has been the only way to execute the program.
Orangetheory Fitness uses the Polar® Cardio GX software to track its members’ heart rates, allowing 24 participants per class.
“We have people of all different ages that participate — and they’re only working out at their own fitness level and age,” said Blachek. According to Orangetheory Fitness, participants can expect to see increased energy after one month, and amazing results after three months. The program uses an assortment of equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, TRX suspension training™ and free weights.
The leading franchise expanded from one location in Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. to 20 since 2010, with plans to continue that expansion in 2012.
By Rachel Zabonick
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
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