Workout Reviews & Ratings

New York City, Workout Reviews & Ratings

NYC Fitness Tour: Best Fitness Studios in New York City

October 24, 2016 No Comments

Hey gang! Last weekend I traveled to NYC to catch up on the latest happenings in the fitness studio world. I took 9 classes in 3 days (thank God for Class Pass) and had an absolute blast. I saved all of my snaps from the weekend so you can watch my story below! Be sure to follow me on Snapchat @gritbybrit

Also below is a quick recap of my experience at each studio (in order of my preference) :

Tone House – (Boot Camp / High Intensity Interval Training) Hands down my FAVORITE class of my trip. I legitimately took a time warp back to my college basketball days and endured the most challenging “preseason condition workout” ever. It was exhilarating! I did things I didn’t think my body could still do: shuttle runs, sprints, walking lunges carrying sandbags over my head, football drills, burps, etc. BUT the best part is that we did EVERYTHING as a TEAM and the coaches and my “teammates” were so positive encouraging during this 60-minute total body workout.
NW Method by Nicole Winhoffer – (Dance Cardio / Total Body Toning) Only one word can describe how I felt during and after this class… LIBERATED! There’s something about the sexy, hip opening moves that Nicole Winhoffer creates that allowed me to express my emotions. The room was warm and the toning moves were very challenging, but we did everything to the bet of the music and I felt left I was just “letting go” the entire class. Ia so liked that her dance choreography was very easy to follow (even for me who had never been there before). At the end we learned some Hip Hop choreography and performed it a in groups. The atmosphere was very safe, and very sexy. I just felt so free.
Dance Body – (Dance Cardio / Total Body Toning). This was the most cardio intense dance workout I’ve ever taken! We did burpees, leaps, ballerina hops and more. I was so sweaty and my heart rate was sky-high. I loved it. Unlike most Zumba or Cardio Hip Hop classes I’ve taken, Dance Body seemed to incorporate more Ballet which I was though was super interesting and unique. Between dances, we’d drop down into a plank and do core work or gab our mats and do some booty work. This is a new concept and they don’t have a studio yet, so we just had class in a Dance Studio that I assume they rent by the hour. even without all of the fancy studio decor, the was an amazing experience that I highly recommend. They also stream classes online and I’m thinking about buying the online program so I can stay connected now that I’m back in Dallas.
305 Fitness – (Dance Cardio / Leg Toning) One of my all time favorites! I haven’t taken a 305 class in 2 years, and let me tell you, this class is like a fin wine…better with time. My instructor, Latoya just had so much swagger – I had a total girl crush on her. I just wanna be cool like her. The new Midtown studio is absolutely flawless with neon sign, crazy cool graffiti art, live DJ, self station and bright colors everywhere I loved the flashing club lights during the class and how everyone stayed in sync like a music video. At the end of class, we grabbed dumbbells and did some leg strengthening WERK. Overall = amazing!
Swerve Fitness – (Indoor Cycling) – Yay for team games! This was my first time to take a class at Swerve and it was so positive and fun. They put us in teams at the beginning of class and throughout the ride we were competing based on our watts and on how well we could “serve to the beat.” I like the camaraderie, the music was on point and the studio decor was super-sleek with cool lighting and excellent amenities. If I lived in NYC, Swerve would def be on my list of regularly frequented studios.
Peloton – (Indoor Cycling) – The coolest cycling studio ever. Can I just say that the Peloton bike is the BOMB-DOT-COM. Aside from the fact that my class was being live streamed to hundreds of viewers riding in their own homes, this is the smoothest bike I’ve ever ridden. I got a killer workout and seeing all of the precise metrics in real-time made me push myself. If I get rich anytime soon, I’m definitely buying a Peloton bike for my house 🙂
AKT In Motion – (Dance Cardio / Leg Toning) – So I took an AKT class about 3 years ago and I was NOT impressed. Back then, they didn’t have a downtown studio so the class was held inside a small dance studio inside of a daycare (yes…a daycare). The instructor looked like she was wearing her PJ’s, there were 3 people in the class and the dances where very corny. This time = different story! I went to the original Upper East Side studio, which is super cute (especially the disco ball that hangs in the middle of the studio). The instructor was super friendly, fit and energetic. Again, the class was small (only 5 of us). But the dancers were awesome – we learned 2 long sequences and by the end of class I had them down. The room was heated, so I worked up a good sweat, and nd at the end we did lots of total body toning work. I really loved the ab work we did using a foam roller – very unique. AKT has definitely been redeemed in my book.
Uplift Studios – (Total Body Strength + Cardio) This was a total girl power sweat sesh! I love that it’s a women’s only gym and that we lifted heavy weights – yeah! We did a lot of partner exercises and athletics drills. We also moved to the beat of the music at times, which I love. The studio is very small and can only hold about 10 girls, so the class was intimate and safe. During our class, some other ladies were having personal training sessions outside of the studio. Overall, I got a good workout and I like that you can cater the exercises to your own fitness level. There were a variety of beginners and super fit athletes in the class and together, we all enjoyed a fun sweat session! #girlpower
Model Fit – (Total Body Toning) I tried to have an open mind with this class, but I just wasn’t feeling it. So the Model Fit method is based on very slow, controlled movements with light weights. The room was warm to help us break a sweat (although I didn’t). And some of the moves were pretty unique and very original. I just didn’t feel like a got a good workout in the class. We didn’t move to the beat of the music and the energy level was very low. I think this class is better for a beginners who are just starting their fitness journey or maybe someone who wants to do something active but doesn’t want work too hard.
Cyc Fitness – (Indoor Cycling) Unfortunately, I got stuck in Midtown traffic after my AKT class on the UES and I arrived to Cyc like 10 minutes late and couldn’t get in. I was so bummed. BUT, I’m headed to Austin this weekend for a wedding and I plan to take a class at the Cyc studio there to make up for. Let’s see if Cyc can bump up on my list after this weekend 🙂

And that’s a wrap gang! Are there any studios that didn’t make my list that you love? If so, let me know so I can check ’em out next time! xoxo, Brit

I loved that Nicole Winhoffer email us a group pic post class! ya for sweaty hair…don’t care!

Dallas, TX, Workout Reviews & Ratings

Flexin’ Flow™ : The Hottest New Yoga-Pilates-Bootcamp Hybrid Workout

March 16, 2015 No Comments

Hello friends! I hope your week is off to an amazing start! I just finished teaching my 6am Flexin’ Flow™ class and I feel very accomplished! Flexin’ Flow™ is a new total body strength, stretching and intensity interval class that I designed and launched last month. If you like the idea of Vinyasa Power Yoga, but have a really short attention span and a deep love for hip hop music, this is the class for you! Here’s the official class description:

If yoga, pilates and boot camp had a baby, it would be Flexin’ Flow™! Our signature, total body workout is designed to build strength, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance. Enjoy the unique combination of vinyasa power yoga sequences, core stability exercises, leg toning circuits and intensity intervals all while jammin’ to upbeat music! Prepare to tone your entire body and leave class super sweaty. Bring your yoga mat! Bare feet; 55 minutes

So here’s a quick overview of how the 55 minute class is structured…

We start off by connecting to our breath and generating heat in the body with a series of arm circles, squats, lunges and chair twists. Keep in mind that the beats are bumpin’ right from the start so we move at a fast pace and stay on beat with the music.

After warming up, we complete a series of Sun A salutations and plank variations to begin generating heat in the core. The goal of this section is to ensure everybody has worked up a sweat – wink wink!

Brit Teaching Flexin’ Flow at Lorna Jane Dallas Active Living Room – Warm Up

Then we REALLY get the party started with an intense, energetic set of leg toning sequences. Think pile’ squats, heel raises and every kind of lunge you can possible imagine. YEAH – sexy legs please!

Brit Teaching Flexin’ Flow at Lorna Jane Dallas Active Living Room – Leg Sequence

The leg series is following by an active recovery of vinyasa flows to stretch and tone the body. I like to include lots of Warrior 1, 2 and 3 variations, push ups, side angles, Goddess poses and more.

Brit Teaching Flexin’ Flow at Lorna Jane Dallas Active Living Room – Vinyasa Flow

After we’ve caught our breath and stretched our bodies, it’s time to increase the intensity again with our calorie blasting “power series.” This is when we knock out some old school burpees, mountain climbers, plyo lunges and other “boot camp style” drills.

We wrap up the workout with hardcore glute exercises, core stability sequences and lower back strengthening moves.

Brit Teaching Flexin’ Flow at Lorna Jane Dallas Active Living Room – Booty Work

Once we’ve reached our max, we enjoy a nice cool down with deep stretches and then take it home. WARNING: If you’re looking for an amazing shavasana, you’ve come to the WRONG place. There’s no time to chill in Flexin Flow – just keepin’ it real. After class expect to feel energized, sweaty and accomplished!

Flexin’ Flow class participants flash sweaty smile post class!

Everyone enjoyed their Flexin’ Flow workout – way to FLEX for the camera!

If you live in Dallas, come take a Flexin’ Flow™ class at my studio, GRIT Fitness – CLICK HERE to view our schedule and register! In only one month, Flexin’ Flow received several raving reviews including this awesome write-up from D Town Sweat, check it out! AND starting May 2, my team an I will teach FREE weekly Flexin’ Flow classes on the W Dallas Hotel Wetdeck – SO FUN! Mark your calendars because it’s GDFR (goin’ down for real) 🙂

Have an amazing week! xoxo, Brit

Dallas, TX, Workout Reviews & Ratings

Precision Running at Equinox: Finally a Fun Treadmill Workout

November 5, 2014 No Comments

Happy Hump Day Gang! A few weeks ago I met Maggie, the General Manager of Equinox Preston Hollow, at a Girl’s Night Out event hosted by Trunk Club Dallas. Her energy immediately drew me in and next thing I knew I was making plans to come try out one of Equinox’s hottest new group fitness classes. I had a such a great experience, I wanted to share all the details…

The Class: Precision Running is the newest group fitness class at Equinox. It’s a 45-minute treadmill workout with “precisely designed intervals to hit every muscle in your body.” I’ve read several positive reviews, but I wanted try to the class for myself. So I grabbed my friend Nena and headed to Equinox!

The Method: The class is built on the Balanced Interval Training Experience (BITE) method, which strikes a middle ground between High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and aerobic endurance training (e.g. long distance jogging). There are varieties of interval routines so you can expect a different 45-minute treadmill workout each class.

The Space: Unlike most group fitness classes, Precision Running doesn’t take place inside the group fitness classroom. We were actually on the treadmills in the open gym floor.

The Crowd: Approximately 15 women and men between the ages of 30-50. Nena and I attended a 9:30 AM class, which may explain the more mature crowd. Everyone was dressed in trendy activewear and seemed happy to be there.

The Experience: First off, I have to admit that I hate running on the treadmill. Though I was excited about trying a new class, I was secretly dreading being on the treadmill for 45 minutes. Fortunately, I got a pleasant surprise with Precision Running and here’s why…

Warm up – As class was bout to start, we hopped onto our treadmills making one long line of class participants. Our instructor paced back and forth in front of us as we kicked off a slow jog to warm up. During this time, she coached our running form, breathing and proper foot contact with the treadmill. The warm up lasted about 3 minutes and then we moved on to the first interval series.
Interval Series 1 – For 20 minutes, we jogged, ran and sprinted through a variety of 30 second and 1-minute speed intervals on very low incline. My endorphins flowed and my heart rate elevated!
Interval Series 2 – We got about 3 minutes of transition/recovery time until we started the next interval series. It also 20 minutes but had more of a “strength” focus. We continuously increased the treadmill incline but maintained a moderate, steady pace. I could feel my quads, calves and hamstrings very much engaged as the incline got steeper and steeper.
Cool Down – Following the 2^nd series, the instructor led us through short cool down jog/walk and then ended the class. I was impressed with her ability to keep the class lively by simultaneously motivating, coaching and changing up the intervals.

Loved: The number of calories I blasted – 469 at the 43-minute mark. Woo Hoo!

Hated: I forgot to bring my own headphones so I didn’t have any music to energize my stride.

Intensity Level: Moderate-High intensity. Fortunately, if you’re still building your fitness, you can run at a slower pace and not feel like a slacker nor stand out from the class.

Afterwards: Can we say drenched in sweat? About 3 minutes after the class ended, I cooled down and could feel the after burn. While my leg muscles were tight, surprisingly I didn’t feel knee pain. I guess running with proper form pays off!

Our instructor taught a 30-minute Dynamic Strength class directly after Precision Running so Nena and I hit that up for some body sculpting action. It was the perfect compliment to our treadmill workout. Nena and I were completely exhausted and ready to inhale a yummy lunch.

Final Verdict: Simply put, if you looking for cardio conditioning, look no further. I give Precision Running the official “gritty two thumbs up.” Dallas crew, be sure to check out a class for yourself – hit up Equinox Preston Hollow and ask for Gabby. ENJOY!

Dallas, TX, Workout Reviews & Ratings

Fitness Studio Review: BEYOND Pedaling – Dallas, TX

January 28, 2014 No Comments

Over the Winter Break I enjoyed some time away from my full-time Management Consulting job and spent a couple of weeks at home chilling with family, shopping and visiting new fitness studios in Dallas. While we have several fitness gems in the Big D, my favorite discovery is Beyond Pedaling Studio.

Beyond Studios - Snider Dallas, TX — Beyond Studios – Snider Dallas, TX

You guys already know that I’m an indoor cycling fan. I teach indoor cycling at 24 Hour Fitness in Dallas and enjoying reviewing the hottest cycling studios – SoulCycle, FlyWheel, Crank and The Handle Bar to name a few. Unfortunately, most of these studios are not located in Dallas (my hometown). So they are great to visit while I’m traveling, but I hate not having an indoor cycling studio to call “home.” This is no longer the case. BEYOND Pedaling has one my heart and here’s why…..

So first, the studio is located in the adorable Snider Plaza of Dallas’s upscale Highland Park neighborhood. I was expecting the BEYOND staff to be a little “snooty.” But to my surprise, I received a warm welcome (by name) from these two bright shining faces – talk about “knowing your customer.”

Studio Director Kelsey (left) and Instructor Elissa (left) — Studio Director Kelsey (left) and Instructor Elissa (right)

Then I bask in the studio’s inspiring atmosphere and vibrant decor – love the bold yellow color scheme (although strikingly similar to Soul Cycle). I especially love this quote posted above the lockers – totally inspired!

Beyond Pedaling Studios - Dallas #inspired — Beyond Pedaling Studios – Dallas #inspired

There’s also local fitness apparel designers being featured each week so I can get my shopping on before or after class. Most importantly, they sell really cool headbands – YES!

Chillin' in the Beyond Studio lobby before our workout — Chillin’ in the Beyond Studio lobby before our workout

During the actual class, we rode on high-quality Keiser spin bikes that have a digital displays to track time, calories, average power and RPM (revolutions per minute). Flywheel has the awesome “Torque” board which is similar in functionality, but most of the other music-driven cycling studios don’t have these displays. I appreciate the ability to keep track of my effort and exertion.

Keiser bikes at Beyond Pedaling Studio - Dallas, TX — Keiser bikes at Beyond Pedaling Studio – Dallas, TX

Several of the instructors regularly take classes as well as instruct. This helps pump up the energy level and keep the class motivated and in sync. Also, the studio was packed! Empty fitness classes totally depress me. Fortunately class attendance is nothing worry about at BEYOND (especially in Elissa’s classes). Most importantly, the sound system is amazing and the music clearly blasts through the speakers. I felt the beat – the beat was good!

The class itself is a standard, 45 minute indoor cycling ride which includes resistance and speed intervals. Like most of the newer cycling studios, there’s a ~5 minute arm circuit at the end of the ride that utilizes light dumbbells. Overall, there’s nothing revolutionary about the actual workout, but it’s a great sweat nonetheless. A little on the pricier side, $30 per class, Beyond is the most expensive cycling studio in Dallas. However, I think it’s worth the money if you’re looking for a fun, hip, music-driven cycling workout. You’re only other option is FlyWheel on Oak Lawn, but it’s a little more competitive and the music isn’t as good – definitely depends on your personal preference. At the end of the day, BEYOND gets the Grit by Brit “2 thumbs up” – hope see some of the Dallas crew in a class!

Go BEYOND! xoxo, Brit

Workout Reviews & Ratings

Fitness Studio Review: The Handle Bar Indoor Cycling – South Boston

December 22, 2013 1 Comment

Chillin' w/my mom in Beantown a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving — Chillin’ w/my mom in Beantown a couple of weeks before Thanksgiving

A few weeks again I traveled to Boston, MA for a weekend of shopping and quality time with my mom (pictured right). While, I was there I took class at the The Handle Bar Indoor Cycling Studio in South Boston. I heard about the studio from one of my colleagues who has incorporated regular Handle Bar cycling classes into her pre-wedding, shape up regimen. She is in LOVE with the format. After personally experiencing the class, I must stay, I like it too…

Before I get started, let me temper this review by confessing that Soul Cycle and Fly Wheel have completely raised the bar in terms of my expectations for indoor cycling classes. So while I try to review classes with an unbiased mind, I inevitably make comparisons to these two indoor cycling front-runners.

The Handle Bar Basics

Price: $20 for a 45 minute class; not bad considering many boutique studios are in $30-$35 range.
Ambiance: Very modern and hip. Positive affirmations are posted throughout. It has somewhat of an outdoor, beachy feel with lots of yellow, white and orange. The studio is very small, but very clean. The cycling room itself is dark lit only by small red lights. (Red doesn’t really go with the overall brand/color scheme, so I was a little thrown off by it – see pic below). Also, the bikes are really close together and positioned in a “U” shape around the instructor. Overall, the studio has a cool vibe.
Format: The entire workout is on the bike. You start out with a ~5 minute warm up ride, then do several speed intervals and climbs all choreographed to the beat of the music . The last 10 minutes has a short arm circuit during which you use light dumbbells (identical to Soul Cycle). Finally, you bring it home with a 5 minute cool down and stretch.

handle bar cycling insiide — Inside the cycling room at the The Handle Bar South Boston

Likes

Great customer service. The girls at the front desk were super friendly. Also, they gave out free towels and the cycling shoe rental was cheap, like $2.
Technically Sound. Some cycling studios get so caught up in the music and being cool that they forget to preach about safety and good form. I appreciated that the instructor and staff spent time ensuring the our bikes were properly set up and consistently gave feedback during the class on our riding technique.
Lots of Base. The music was super loud and there’s was lots of Eminem on the playlist – me likey.

Dislikes

Nothing distinctive. Overall, I found The Handle Bar to be a smaller, Soul Cycle. It provides exactly the same workout, exactly the same branding (even the colors), just a different name.
Class lacked energy (i.e. no cheering, excitement from the riders). However, it was 6am so that may have had something to do with it.
Now before I make these statement, let me first say that since I became a fitness instructor 2 years ago, I am WAY LESS harsh on fitness instructors – it’s not an easy job. However, my Handle Bar instructor could have done more in the way of choreography. Pretty sure we did tap backs for 75% of the class. (Tap Backs are movement done while riding when you shift booty back over the saddle and then raise back up to a climbing position – “tapping” back and forth)

Overall Rating (scale of 1-10)

7.0 – I give the Handle Bar a pretty solid score because it was good bang for my buck. The staff was friendly, the ride was sweaty, the music was loud and it was only $20. Boston crew, you officially have my “go ahead” to book a class: http://www.handlebarcycling.com/

Happy Cycling! xoxo, Brit

Workout Reviews & Ratings

VixenWorkout Review #VixenArmy #Twerk Society

September 1, 2013 1 Comment

Me and the #VixenArmy after class in Miami last week! — #VixenArmy after class in Miami last week! (I’m on the right in the sports bra – hehe)

Last week I traveled to Miami for work and while I was there I had the awesome opportunity to check out Vixen Workout. I’ve been hearing about this sexy sweat session that’s selling out classes of over 100 women every night, Obviously, I had to check it out.

First off, the class is held in a Miami dance studio. When I walked through the door, the instructor greeted me wearing a tank top with “Twerk Society” written across her chest (see below). Then I walked into the back studio and the girls were wearing platform heels and spandex pants – lookin’ like true “Video Vixens.” I was like…alright then. The studio was dark lit only by colored lights and a disco ball. I’m not gonna lie, at this point I was little intimidated.

Fortunately, the music started blasting, the lights got even lower and then it was ON! The instructor was a ball of energy shouting commands like “Pop” “Shake” “Grind.” I was caught a little off guard as that was totally different from what I shout during my kickboxing and spinning classes. Overall, the vibe was very fun and I loved that every girl in the class seemed to get “lost” for 1 hour and exude an abundance of self-assurance. There was one point when I was truly convinced, I was in a Beyonce video. As a woman, I must say, it was quite empowering. I could go on and on about this class, but here are a few facts in case your wanna check it out for your self…

Some iPhone pics I snapped during my 1st Vixen Workout in Miami!

GRIT by Brit Vixen Workout Review

Workout Type: Sexy Dance Cardio, for women only ages 18+
Duration: 60 Minutes
Calorie Burn: 350-500
Price: Very affordable, only $12 per class
Location: Miami and a few classes have started in NYC
Intensity: Moderate (like an intermediate/advanced Zumba class)
Choreography: Moderately complex. Not too difficult. Lots of “adult” moves (i.e. twerkin’, booty poppin’, droppin’ it low). There are only 5-6 moves per song, so it’s easy to pick up the combinations. Each class consists of a warm up, about 8 working tracks and then a “booty-shakin’ finale.”
Music: Mostly dirty south hip hop and lots of Beyonce! Think Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, Drake, Rihanna, etc.
Vibe: CRUNK. This class reminds me a lot of my friend Sadie’s 305 Fitness in NYC. The difference is that Vixen Workout has more hip hop music and the moves are much sexier. I actually felt very sexy during the workout – it was a super confidence booster!
Fun Factor: Through the roof! This is honestly the most fun I’ve had while working out in a very long time. As you guys know, I do NOT consider myself a dancer. I have a very athletic build and often feel out of my element in dance classes. But, the low lights and club-like atmosphere made it easy for me to let loose.

Check out this awesome video to learn a little more about Vixen Workout. Vixen Workout by Janet Jones from Vixen Workout on Vimeo. I really loved the class – I think you will too. It get’s the “GRIT by Brit” stamp of approval.

At the end of the day, sexiness is all about CONFIDENCE! Release your inner vixen. Lots of luv, Brit

vixen workout 2 — The #VixenArmy having a blast during class!

New York City, Workout Reviews & Ratings

CRANK it up with Nick Oram: NYC’s Hottest Cycling Studio and Hottest Instructor

July 8, 2013 5 Comments

Just when I thought I’d discovered them all, I found another NYC Fitness GEM! Ladies and gentlemen I HIGHLY recommend you check out CRANK Cycling Studio on the Upper East Side. You guys know that I always keep it real and very seldom do I give raving reviews of fitness studios. But CRANK has some serious GRIT. So, I decided to put together a top 10 list of what I love about it!

Here’s why I LOVE IT…

Insane Intensity. The workout is a 45 minute studio cycling ride. As a spin instructor, I’m super critical of other spin instructors, but I have to say that the instructors at Crank are legit. All of them incorporate a solid amount of variety, intervals and resistance training into the workout to ensure the class is pushed.
Reasonably priced. Only $23 per ride – woo hoo! Those are Texas prices right there y’all. Soul Cycle is $34 per 45 minute class (to give you a relative comparison). You guys know that I’m all about accessibility. We don’t have to be wealthy to be healthy.
Cardio + Choreography. I think having rhythm is a prerequisite for all of the instructors (as it should be). I love that the class is set to music, we move to the beat of the music and the BASS had me bumpin’ the whole ride. This workout incorporates the most dance and movement that I’ve ever experienced. We were out of the saddle for about 80% of the classes and bobbin’ to the left, to right, to the front to the back – heyyy!
Cool Vibe and Decor. The studio is completely dark and lit only by small red lights. Red and black are the official studio colors. I love red because it’s strong and intense. During the class, we ride very close to each other generating lots of HEAT! By the end of the class, all of the mirrors are completely covered with sweaty fog (sounds gross, but it’s really awesome!)
Excellent Equipment. The bikes are comfortable and ride well. Each one has a magnetic charge in the wheel that helps ease each pedal stroke and ensure a smooth ride. I can tell the bikes they are well maintained. There is nothing worse than cycling on a rickety old bike. Not to mention, poor equipment increases injury risk.
Straight to the point, No fluff – Unlike some high-end fitness studios, all of the students in the class seemed like athletes. They came to work out. Not to see and be seen.
Chill Culture. On that same note, the students I interacted with were also very cool and welcoming. No snobs allowed.
New and Different. CRANK hit NYC only a few months ago, so it’s a nice fitness routine change-up. With so many fitness boutiques in Manhattan, it can be hard to keep up. But rest assured, Crank is new and it’s legit.
Super Sweet Staff. The staffed is incredibly knowledgeable about both fitness and about cycling. The manager spent some time telling me why he chose the specific bikes in the studio and about how Crank got started and continues to the grow.
HOT instructors (Exhibit A: My Ultimate Fitness Crush – Nick Oram). If you recall, we became obsessed with Nick when we discovered him at Soul Cycle a few months ago. He even topped out charts when we put out the “Official NYC Soul Cycle Instructor Ranking.” I’ve gotten to know Nick pretty well over the past few months and not only is he smokin’ hot and the fiercest fitness instructor in NYC, he’s also a very genuine accountability partner and sincerely cares about every person in his class (I’m taking regular text messages to check on his students – awe). So, while I wrote this blog post to spread my love for CRANK, I also want spread my love for NICK! You can follow Nick on Twitter @OramNick or check out his website http://nick-oram.com/

And now that I’ve told you all about Crank Cycling Studio and about my awesome instructor, Nick Oram, it’s time for you to hear from the man himself. I asked Nick a few key questions, and here’s what he had to say…

Why did you become a fitness instructor?

I loved spinning in college and it was through the love of it that I became an instructor.

What’s your favorite “get hype” line to yell to your class?

My favorite thing is to say is “Are you READY!!?” I get a big rise out of my class when I say that.

What you do recommend as the right mix of weekly cardio and resistance training/toning workouts?

I believe in keeping the body guessing, alternating days and doing intense intervals with your training

What song always get you going?

Can’t Hold US (Kaskade Remix) – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

What do you tell yourself to stay motivated when your completely exhausted?

Mediocrity is never OK. Alway’s excellence!

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to work out?

Be patient Be present and Be open to CHANGE

What does GRIT mean to you?

Grrrrrrr 😉

Workout Reviews & Ratings

Aqua Studio NYC: Spinning in a swimming pool!

April 29, 2013 3 Comments

Aqua Cycling...how cool does that sound? I was super pumped up to hear that Aqua Studio opened earlier this month in NYC, so some friends and I checked it out. It was definitely the “Most Interesting Workout” I’ve ever done. Long story short – try it out to say you did it, but overall it’s not worth the money. I’m sad to confess that after my first Aqua Cycling workout, I walked right across the street to CrossFit 212 for a “real workout.” Now let me temper my sentiments by making clear that I crave intense workouts. If I’m not drenched in sweat by the end, I feel like I wasted my time. If you’re like me in this regard, save your money and hit up a higher intensity class.

On a side note, word on the street is that Beyonce did Aqua Cycling to lose her baby weight. But, let’s be real. Did you see the way she was sweating and working it out during the Super Bowl half time? There’s NO WAY she got into that shape by casually pedaling a bicycle in a swimming pool. I’m 100% confident that she worked her butt off to the point of complete exhaustion to get that body and those moves. I’m just sayin…

Now that I’ve shared my colorful commentary, here’s the real deal with Aqua Cycling:

Workout Details

Aqua Studio opened in NYC on April 15^{th – it’s}located in Tribeca in a really chic, high end, boutique studio
45 minute cycling workout with the bike completely submerged in water
No resistance on the bike, so resistance is based on how fast you pedal (the faster you pedal, the more natural resistance you feel from the water)
Lots of core and isometric toning exercising are incorporated throughout the workout session. The moves are similar to water aerobics (i.e. arm strokes in the water, float on your back and do crunches)

Pros

Low impact, so a good work out option if you have knee problems
Being in water naturally is therapeutic 😉
Instructors are really nice (not mean or too intense)
Music is good. We gotta a like Drake “Started from the Bottom” jamz during my class
Studio is impeccable, like being at high end spa, really nice!
Nice change up to your usual workout routine

Cons

Very expensive ($40 for single drop in class)
Lacking intensity – I’d estimate you only burn 300 calories in 45 minutes
The class choreography could use some help. Simply doing more sprints on the bike would make the the workout more effective. Also, we did a body weight arm circuit above the water that was super easy…kind of felt like a waste of time.

Sorry Aqua Studio NY, had a good time, but not “GRITTY” enough for me 🙁

Workout Reviews & Ratings

Studio Review: Uplift Studios NYC – Get UPLIFTED!

April 2, 2013 6 Comments

Last weekend I discovered yet another NYC fitness gem, Uplift Studios! It’s a women’s only gym that provides personal training and group fitness classes (no standard gym equipment to workout on your own). Long story short, it’s a smaller, higher-end version of Lucille Roberts or Lady of America. While scoping out the scene, I took a Cardio group fitness class. Overall, I was VERY pleased with my experience. Here’s the low down…

The vibe of the studio is VERY welcoming and peaceful. Boutique fitness studios in NYC can often be snobby, which makes me feel super uncomfortable. This certainly was not the case at Uplift. I was greeted with a HUGE smile from the front desk staff and received several compliments on my Nike Pro leggings 😉 Also, the group fitness class instructor, Steph, went out of her way to introduce herself to me and push me individually during the class.

Now, this studio is NOT for you if you like to workout on your own with no guidance or if you want to engage in some hard-core competition. On the other hand, the studio is GREAT for ladies who are new to working out. There’s no anxiety about being the “worst person in the class” or men watching you exercise. As you can see in the pictures above, the studio tries to generate a very “uplifting” group atmosphere. Cardio dance parties and encouraging, intimate group fitness classes are the core of the studio. The fitness classroom is very small and can only hold about 15 people. Also, the personal training is great if you’re getting ready for a big event, like a wedding! Training sessions are private and the trainers seem really patient.

Last but not least, the studio itself is very nice, clean, modern and well-kept. GREEN is key color and luckily that day I had green nail polish, so I fit right in 😉 Showers, hair dryers and free lockers are also available. In regards to cost, Uplift classes are on the high-end (market rate for boutique fitness studios in NYC). Expect to pay $32 per 1-hour class.

Ultimate Verdict: I personally, won’t be going back because I’m very value conscious. For $32 dollars I would rather go to SoulCycle, CrossFit or Barry’s Boot Camp because the atmosphere and culture are more intense. However, I’m a really competitive person and realize that many people don’t share my fitness preferences. Nonetheless, I highly recommend my GRIT Girls to try out Uplift, especially if you typically only do Pilates/Yoga workouts and want to explore new cardio and strength training classes. Get “Uplifted” – enjoy!

Lots of luv,

Brit

Workout Reviews & Ratings

Les Mills GRIT Series – Inside Scoop!

March 25, 2013 4 Comments

Many of you have been asking me my thoughts about the new Les Mills GRIT Series. Well, I finally got the inside scoop! Last weekend I passed the official 2-day, super high intensity GRIT module training and will soon become certified Les Mills GRIT coach – holler!

(above – me & the 1^st GRIT coaches of Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, USA)

What is it?

Long story short, it’s a small group “CrossFit-like” workout inside of big box gyms…

The GRIT series are 30 minutes HIIT training workouts. There are 3 types of workouts: 1) Cardio 2) Strength 3) Plyo. GRIT workout sessions will be offered at select clubs in the United States this year, but have been offered in other countries for a few years now. (see pic below of me getting critiqued while teaching the Plyo workout)

Now, this isn’t just another group fitness format, this a is fierce, scientifically proven , athletic training workout targeted to people with lots of mental GRIT or to those want to develop more GRIT – a workout after my own heart 🙂 The sessions are capped to about 15-20 participants and they are done in private sections of fitness clubs. It’s more like group personal training rather than group fitness.

Why is it so special?

Besides the special combination of strength, plyo and cardio training, what makes the workout unique is the choreography, super fit GRIT coaches (like me – wink wink) and the music – the base in the music tracks will PUMP you up – dubstep anyone?

What benefits can I expect to get?

The workout it designed to really challenge you and improve your athletic abilities (i.e. speed, strength, agility, power). During our training class, we spent several hours learning the science behind the GRIT method and how the workout increases our anaerobic threshold (below – see pic of us studying hard). Because the workout is so hard, it just flat out makes you tough. The small team environment is also really encouraging and uplifting.

How many calories will I burn?

Assuming you give your max effort and really push yourself, I estimate that the average person will burn ~500 calories in a 30 min GRIT class. Pretty darn efficient. In fact, the workout is so intense that only 2 GRIT workouts per week are recommended.

How much is it going to cost me?

Because this is a special workout there is an additional fee, on top of your monthly club fee. You get what you pay for!

So what’s the real deal, Brit – YAY or NAY?

To keep things 100% honest, I’m not a huge Les Mills fan. I think the music is usually outdated and the moves are super corny. I mean have you done that “super man” side skip in Body Attack? I seriously left the class when we started doing that. Different strokes for different folks – but just not my style.

HOWEVER! GRIT is much different. For 1 the music is MUCH MUCH MUCH better. Primarily because there’s no 2010 top 40 tracks. Instead, it’s mostly hard core hip hop and electronic beats that make you feel fierce and strong! Also, there’s no corny choreography. All of the moves are athletic drills and power lifting moves set to the strong base beat of the music. Last but not least, the workout is freaking hard! You guys know I’m always up for a challenge. Well this workout actually kicked my butt and took me back to my old college basketball days. Also, MEN will enjoy this workout because of the sports conditioning, athletic coaches and the tenacity engrained in the workout.

GRIT by Brit verdict = YAY! Get involved with Les Mills GRIT!

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