When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Orangetheory Fitness
Why Orangetheory Fitness is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Orangetheory Fitness offers a unique and scientifically designed approach to group personal training, making it a fantastic place for friends to meet and work out together. Established in 2010, this fitness brand focuses on heart-rate monitored intervals combining cardiovascular and strength training to maximize metabolism and energy through the science of excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). The workouts are led by highly skilled coaches who use a variety of equipment including treadmills, rowing machines, and free weights, ensuring each session is dynamic and engaging. With a welcoming, community-focused environment and flexible membership options, Orangetheory accommodates all fitness levels, providing a social yet results-driven experience. The studio's use of innovative technology tracks participant performance in real time, which motivates members and personalizes their fitness journey. With a strong focus on endurance, strength, and power training, Orangetheory is ideal for groups seeking an invigorating atmosphere for fitness, camaraderie, and wellness.
Here's what people think of Orangetheory Fitness
As of recent, Orangetheory Fitness holds a 4.7-star rating based on 304 reviews.
User reviews of Orangetheory Fitness highlight both positive and negative experiences. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable and motivating coaches, the effectiveness of the workouts, and the supportive community atmosphere that fosters consistent results. Positive feedback often emphasizes the scientifically backed heart-rate training model and the variety in class structure that keeps members engaged and challenged. However, negative reviews frequently focus on issues with customer service, such as difficulties in managing cancellations, communication lapses, and frustrations with corporate policies. Some users reported experiences where customer support felt unresponsive during urgent situations. Despite these concerns, the majority of feedback reflects satisfaction with the fitness programming and coaching quality. Overall, Orangetheory Fitness is well-regarded for its innovative, technology-driven workouts and strong fitness community, though potential members should be mindful of the customer service experiences described in some reviews when considering membership.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Phils projects
Started at this studio during “Pride”. The Studio was decorated extensively and while in class we were being told about what colors we should wear to class to celebrate. I asked the manager if every holiday gets celebrated in such a manor & she got instantly offended & said she had something planned for the Juneteenth, that she didn’t think I aligned with orange theory values and that I shouldn’t come into the studio anymore. I was told my last day for classes was the 28th & was still charged on the same day hence I told her I wanted to stay for the 30 trial. I asked to speak to the owner and she told me she was the only point of contact. I’ve added the pictures of pride decorations and the last two are Juneteenth where someone had drawn with marker on the glass.
Glenn Schwitter
While living in Salt Lake City this past winter traveling, I regularly worked out at the Trolly Square location. As it was right up the street from our place, I was able to get there several days per week. The people, staff, etc. were all wonderful. I do, however, want to single out one instructor in particular. Jeff was amazingly attentive to us as his students. He was obsessed with form and regularly shared insights that helped our workouts be both more effective and safer. Lots of high fives and a great attitude were the icing on the cake. We will see you all next winter!
Elise D
Not a great experience at this OTF location. I'm a current Orangetheory member visiting from Connecticut, and I was in town to help move my daughter -- a medical student at the U and Division 1 athlete -- into her summer semester housing. While here, I wanted to share something I enjoy with her and thought it would be a great opportunity to introduce her to an OTF class. She has never been to OTF before, so this was supposed to be her one free class. As a note, I have never been to this particular location. When I called to reserve the class, I specifically asked that we be placed on treadmills next to each other at the START, as I always begin my workout there and find it significantly more effective for me. I clearly communicated this request to the person I spoke with by phone. Many years of counting calories in this class (for me) have shown the best workouts start on the treadmill. Unfortunately, when we arrived -- after getting up early and making the trip over on my day off -- we were told my daughter had instead been assigned to start on a rower. There were plenty of available treadmills, but the staff refused to accommodate the simple request to start us together. My daughter is a highly capable and athletic individual, and there was no practical reason for the refusal. As a result, we ended up leaving without taking the class. If it is their policy to start "new" people on the rowers then that should have been communicated to me when I asked us to start on the treadmills, together. To be candid, this was a very frustrating experience--particularly because it felt so easily avoidable. The front desk staff came across as dismissive, repeatedly saying, "I'm just doing my job," instead of making any real effort to resolve the issue. A simple question from the coach to my daughter, such as "Do you know how to row?" would have clarified everything and allowed us to move on with our day. Unfortunately, the interaction felt more like a power struggle than a customer service moment. When I asked if the studio manager was available, I was told, "She's out, I'm here today," by the front desk girl, which only added to the dismissiveness. To make matters worse, I was charged a late cancellation fee for the class to my account--adding insult to injury. I emailed the studio manager and (no surprise) have not received a response. What could have been a welcoming and positive first impression turned into a missed opportunity. As a result, she will not be joining, and I won't be recommending OTF to others anytime soon.
Taylor Moody
This is an excellent location. I’m officially an Orangetheory enthusiast, and I highly recommend this location to anyone in the area who is looking for a really strenuous and challenging workout that grows with you (you can follow the workout and adjust it to your level, and see yourself progress as you grow stronger). The coaches are kind, encouraging, fun to work with. The workouts are varied and the music is good. The equipment is in great condition. The facility is clean. Highly recommend! I’ve been going here for over a year and I love it.
Andrew Johnson
When I began Orangetheory two months ago, I couldn’t walk on the treadmill for more than 30 minutes. Now, after two months, I can run effortlessly. I've lost 20 pounds and about 2 inches off my waist. I've visited several Orangetheory locations, but the one in Salt Lake City is definitely my favorite! Jeff is an incredible instructor, and I truly believe I wouldn’t have made this progress without his support.
How to reach Orangetheory Fitness
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Why Orangetheory Fitness may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Orangetheory Fitness with your friends?
Rallying with friends at Orangetheory Fitness is an excellent way to combine social connection with effective, invigorating workouts. Unlike typical gyms where workouts can feel isolating, Orangetheory’s group-based fitness experience fosters community, motivation, and accountability among participants. When friends work out together in this stimulating environment, they encourage each other continuously, pushing themselves harder than they might alone. The structured classes blend cardio, strength, and endurance exercises, designed to be adaptable for any fitness level, so everyone feels included and challenged. Beyond burning significant calories, rallying at Orangetheory promotes a collective sense of achievement as you and your friends track your progress together via real-time heart rate monitoring. Moreover, the coach-led sessions offer expert guidance and modifications as needed, creating a safe space where friends can support each other’s goals without judgment. This combination of communal energy, expert-led training, and personalized adaptations makes Orangetheory an ideal venue to strengthen bonds physically and socially, turning workouts into memorable shared experiences.
What activities can you do at Orangetheory Fitness?
Orangetheory Fitness offers a unique workout format structured around heart rate-based interval training combining cardiovascular and strength exercises in a 60-minute class. The activities involve three primary physiological zones measured via heart monitors to ensure participants reach optimal intensity levels. The class typically rotates between treadmill walking or running, indoor rowing, and weight training using free weights and resistance bands. The treadmill segments focus on improving endurance and cardiovascular health, while rowing engages multiple muscle groups for a total-body workout. Weight training portions target strength development, muscle tone, and metabolic boost. Each session is designed to earn “splat points” — minutes spent in the optimal orange and red heart rate zones — which promotes a heightened metabolism lasting up to 36 hours post-workout. Coaches lead the group through exercises demonstrating proper technique and offering scalable modifications, making the activities suitable for all fitness levels and physical abilities. The mix of cardio bursts and strength training, continuously varied and motivated by real-time data displayed on screens, ensures no two sessions are exactly the same, keeping members engaged, excited, and challenged.
Why is Orangetheory Fitness perfect for group meetups?
Orangetheory Fitness is tailored to maximize the benefits of exercising in a group setting, making it perfect for social meetups with friends or family. First, the shared commitment to a scheduled class cultivates accountability; knowing your friends expect you to join encourages regular attendance and sustained motivation. The atmosphere is highly energetic, fueled by collective determination and a competitive yet supportive dynamic that propels everyone to do their best. With certified coaches providing personalized attention and adjustments, each member’s safety and effectiveness are prioritized regardless of individual fitness levels. The use of heart rate monitors creates visible, real-time feedback that members can compare and celebrate together, strengthening camaraderie. After class, many locations have communal areas where participants can socialize, share their fitness journeys, or celebrate milestones. Additionally, the inclusive nature of Orangetheory means that even beginners or those with physical limitations can participate with their group, strengthening friendships through shared achievement and encouragement rather than exclusion.
How do Orangetheory’s expert coaches enhance the group fitness experience?
Certified expert coaches at Orangetheory are fundamental to the high-quality group workout experience. They are trained not only in fitness and physiology but also in adapting each workout to individual needs within the group setting. The coaches monitor everyone’s heart rate data live, enabling them to offer targeted modifications or progressions to ensure each person trains safely and effectively. Their professional certifications from top organizations guarantee their expertise in exercise science and injury prevention. Coaches actively engage with participants, motivating them through personalized encouragement while maintaining group energy and cohesion. This attentiveness assures that even newcomers receive the guidance necessary to perform exercises correctly and gain confidence. The coaches’ ability to cater exercises for varied fitness levels within the same session creates a supportive environment where all attendees feel challenged but not overwhelmed. This skilled instruction and real-time support transform the group workout from a generic class into a tailored, dynamic experience that maximizes results and enjoyment.
What are the mental and physical health benefits of working out at Orangetheory?
Participating regularly in Orangetheory Fitness classes yields significant mental and physical health benefits beyond just calorie burn. Physically, the combination of high-intensity interval training with strength work improves cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, and metabolic rate, which helps manage weight and increases overall endurance and strength. The sustained afterburn effect—calories continuing to burn for up to 36 hours—amplifies the workout’s value and supports long-term fat loss. Mentally, the group fitness environment contributes positively to mood, energy, and focus, reducing stress and anxiety levels. Exercise science research suggests that the type of heart rate-based interval training at Orangetheory can be as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy for alleviating symptoms of chronic depression and anxiety, making it a potent tool for mental health management. Additionally, the social interaction inherent in group classes fosters a sense of community and belonging, which boosts motivation and combats feelings of isolation. This dual physical and mental health advantage creates a holistic approach to wellness that energizes both body and mind.
How can groups track progress and celebrate milestones together at Orangetheory?
Orangetheory Fitness offers a comprehensive progress tracking system that enhances group motivation and satisfaction. Each participant wears a heart rate monitor that connects to overhead screens displaying real-time workout metrics such as heart rate zones, calorie burn, and splat points. This transparent feedback allows group members to see both their personal effort and how they compare to their friends during class, sparking friendly competition and accountability. Outside of class, members have access to individualized reports and performance history through mobile apps or member dashboards, enabling them to track fitness improvements over time. Groups can set collective goals, such as improving endurance or achieving a certain number of splat points, and celebrate when they meet them, reinforcing camaraderie and shared success. Trainers often recognize individual and group achievements during sessions, further encouraging participants. This consistent measurement and celebration of progress turn fitness from a solitary endeavor into a collective and rewarding journey.
Why is Orangetheory Fitness accessible for all fitness levels and ages?
Orangetheory Fitness is designed with inclusivity at its core, making it accessible for people of various fitness levels, ages, and physical conditions. The workouts are highly customizable, with trainers providing modifications or alternative exercises tailored to individual needs, such as substituting treadmill running with power walking, cycling, or rowing for those with joint issues. The heart rate monitoring system allows each member to exert effort according to their own maximum capacity rather than a fixed pace, ensuring they train safely within their fitness zone. This personalized approach reduces the risk of injury or discouragement often experienced in other fitness settings. The supportive atmosphere fosters confidence among beginners while still offering sufficient challenges for seasoned athletes. Additionally, the group dynamic encourages members of different abilities to encourage one another, emphasizing progress over perfection. Age is not a barrier, with many older adults benefiting from Orangetheory’s blend of cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility training that promotes longevity and functional fitness.
What makes the Orangetheory environment motivating and fun for groups?
Orangetheory creates an environment charged with energy and encouragement that naturally motivates groups. The combination of upbeat music, synchronized group movements, and visual progress tracking engages all senses and keeps participants immersed in the workout. The friendly competition generated by splat points and heart rate zones adds a playful edge that makes pushing personal limits enjoyable rather than daunting. Coaches facilitate a positive culture by celebrating milestones and challenging participants in equal measure. The variety in exercises prevents boredom, as no two classes are alike, giving groups new challenges to tackle together every time they meet. Social elements such as pre- or post-class chats and the shared experience of completing demanding workouts build friendships and deepen emotional ties. Ultimately, the atmosphere transforms exercise from a chore into a fun, addictive activity that groups look forward to returning to regularly.
How does Orangetheory address safety and injury prevention for group workouts?
Safety is a paramount concern at Orangetheory Fitness, especially in a group workout setting with varied fitness levels. Certified coaches continuously observe participants, ensuring exercises are executed with correct form to minimize injury risk. They provide clear, frequent instructions and modifications for those with injuries or physical limitations, allowing safe participation without compromising workout effectiveness. Heart rate monitors act as a physiological safety check, preventing members from exceeding safe intensity thresholds. Warm-ups and cooldowns are structured into each session to prepare the body and facilitate recovery. The facility layout and equipment maintenance are designed to promote safe use and minimize hazards. This comprehensive approach to safety allows participants to concentrate on their performance and group interaction, confident that risk management is in place.
Why choose Orangetheory Fitness over other group fitness options?
Orangetheory Fitness distinguishes itself from other group fitness options through its evidence-based, technology-driven workout model and emphasis on measurable results. The heart rate zone training system provides objective real-time data unmatched by typical fitness classes, enabling personalized intensity adjustments during each session. This scientific approach maximizes calorie burn and fitness improvements efficiently. The combination of cardiovascular, rowing, and strength training creates balanced fitness that enhances endurance, power, and metabolic health. The highly trained coaches, sourced globally and certified rigorously, offer expert guidance uncommon in many group settings. The welcoming, adaptable nature makes the workouts accessible for all, contrasting with more specialized classes that may exclude beginners. The active use of progress tracking and community building fosters accountability and long-term engagement, key to sustained fitness success. Overall, Orangetheory delivers a compelling, motivating group fitness experience grounded in results and participation, ideal for friends or families seeking an effective workout and social connection.