5 Tips for Taking Your First Orangetheory Workout Class

Interested in attending your first FREE Orangetheory workout class, but you have no idea what to expect? That is totally normal so I put together some Orangetheory workout class tips to help you prepare to have a successful first class and beyond!

This is some information about taking an Orangetheory workout class that you will not find on Orangetheory’s website or over the phone before you sign up for your first class. I want you to feel prepared and confident going into your first class to get the most out of your workout and have the best experience possible.

This post is all about Orangetheory workout class first time tips.

Scroll to the end to find links to all of my Orangetheory workout essentials. That includes the best leggings that don’t fall, hair ties that don’t slide, and hygiene products for a sweaty workout class.

1. Be prepared to sweat

Orangetheory is a high intensity interval training class AKA HIIT. Your heart rate will rise and you will sweat, that is not up for debate, unless you do not try of course. For super sweaty, high intensity workouts, I like to dress in clothes that are black or do not show sweat stains, a bra that can withstand jumping around, and leggings that will stay up when I run. I do not like my hair to get soaked in sweat and my hair typically falls out of a bun when I run, plus there are fans on the treadmill, that I highly recommend taking advantage of, so I bring an extra hair tie and put your hair up in a bun for the floor exercises. If you are especially sweaty it is an also a great idea to being a sweat towel. Also, do not forget a water bottle!

2. Pay attention to your heart rate zones

The OT Connect board will show you your heart rate at all times during class, the coach will also let you know which color of heart rate zone you should be aiming to hit. It is so important you try to hit these zones to get the most out of your workout, and money $. Your neighbor may seem to be working harder or easier than you to hit the same heart rate zone color and THAT IS OKAY. That is the cool part of this Orangetheory fitness workout, is that it is customizable to each participant’s fitness level.

3. Be aware of spacing and those around you

I hate that I have to mention this part, but it needs to be said. Nothing is worse than pushing as hard as you can on the treadmill to smell somebody else’s BO and have your neighbors sweat hitting your arms. Or trying to do a burpee only to realize your neighbor has snuck into your space and will hit their face if you kick your feet back. Or rowing and suddenly have an elbow hit your arm. Unfortunately these are real experiences I have encountered. As already mentioned, Orangetheory is a sweaty workout, so if you tend to sweat, stink, or any combo please wear deodorant, and bring a sweat towel. When in close spaces with others, be aware of your section of the floor and if your elbows are sticking out like wings, they shouldn’t by the way. Make class a good experience for your neighbors and don’t make a fool of yourself.

4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions

If there is ever a time you are unsure of a move, what speed you should be on, how to work equipment, etc, just raise your hand and ASK! The coach will always be happy to point you in the correct direction. It is better to ask as soon as you have a question instead of feeling confused and lost for a period of class, or worse injure yourself.

5. Fuel and hydrate

Since Orangetheory is such an intense class, it is vital to be hydrated and fueled properly prior to class. An orange, oatmeal, granola bar, or even a candy bar will do the job. I would recommend eating a larger meal no less than two hours prior to class if near mealtime. Running with a full belly is not fun, trust me. While working hard on an empty stomach can leave you feeling lightheaded. Last thing you want is a mid class pass out, or trip to the toilette. Hydrating will keep your muscles from cramping and allow you to perform your best.

Let me know if you love this post, or would like to hear tips from a fitness instructor for any other workout class!

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