Workout Reviews & Ratings

MAKE SWEAT SEXY @305fitness NYC

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You should know by now that I’m a sucker for being INSPIRED.  Anytime I discover a new fitness format or fitness leader who makes me want to work harder, be healthier or simply have more fun, I’m eager to share ASAP.  Well this is certainly the case with Sadie Kurzban (@SadieKurzban) – a girl after my own heart.  Just graduating from Brown University, she took the plunge and started her own fitness company in NYC – 305 Fitness.  This girl has some serious passion, drive and focus.  At the ripe age of 23 she is doing it BIG!  When I was 23…hmmm, let’s not go there 😉

Sadie strives to bring some “Miami Heat” to NYC through her hot, sweaty, sexy 305 fitness workout.  She invited me to attend a class last week, so I wanted to share my experience first hand.

 (above) Sadie on the right & @DJBourgeois strikin’ a pose after our sweaty workout

So let me start off by saying that I’m NOT a great dancer.  My little sister is essentially a professional dancer and always teases me about how “stiff” I am.  Going into the 305ftiness workout I was a little self-conscious, not gonna lie.  Fortunately most of the people in the class were girls around my age and all very cool and friendly.  I was able to loosen up pretty quickly because everyone else was so easy going and Sadie did great job of setting a fun and welcoming atmosphere.  Also, the dim lighting and glow sticks let me “escape” to a “Miami” dance club where I had a free reign to bust a move 😉

Here are my hot facts about 305fitness…

  • Duration: about 1 hour
  • Format: Cardio dance workout – Hip Hop, Latin dance & little kick boxing, no resistance training
  • Intensity: Moderate – High; you can control how hard you push but def expect to sweat a lot!
  • Cool Stuff: Dark room with disco ball, glow sticks and live DJ on the 1’s and 2’s – yeah buddy!
  • Venue: Various dance studios and venues around NYC – totally a “pop up” fitness class
  • Price: High – you have to pay $20-30 per class. There’s a Living Social deal running to buy a package of classes.  305 was also featured in Daily Candy so keep your eyes peeled for more deals!
  • Website: http://www.305fitness.com/

Overall, I had a great workout, great time and met some great people.  I highly recommend checking out a class if you’re in NYC and wanna get your sexy, sweaty swag on!

(above) Me at my first 305fitness class – it was a blast!

Get to know Sadie!

305 fitness founder and your workout leader

What does GRIT mean to you?

For me, GRIT is all about the fiery commitment towards becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. It’s not about being better than the person next to you on the treadmill or on the sidewalk. GRIT is about pushing your own limits to become the very best you.

What made you pursue a career in fitness?

The best part about my job is that I get to help others reach their goals. I’ve always been fascinated by the magic in connecting with others and coaching them through a challenge. If I weren’t doing this, I think I would be a middle school teacher – it’s such an awkward age and those kids are like play-dough: dying for someone to come in and leave a big impression.

When someone tells me that she lost 40 pounds and kept it off or another person tells me my classes were the only thing that helped them get through a painful breakup, I feel like I’m living my life’s purpose. Being able to stay in shape is an added bonus to my job but what I love most about my work is helping others.

What song always gets you going?

“Heart of a Lion” by Kid Cudi

What exercise makes you feel sexiest and why?

Pushups. I know that sounds ridiculous. But there is something so sexy about a woman doing military style push-ups.

What do you say to motivated when you’re completely exhausted?

I don’t let the debate start because once I do, I know which voice in my head will win (the lazy one!). There are so many reasons to not work out or to not eat right. I try not to give myself a choice by planning ahead. Before going to bed, I lay my sneakers and gym clothes right next to my bed so I don’t give myself an opportunity to have an inner debate. Like Nike says, “Just do it.” Once I go to the gym, I always end up feeling better and it usually gives me a second wind of energy.

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Workout Reviews & Ratings

SoulCycle: Join the cult…or maybe not?

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(above) Me and my girl @marissagibbons after a ‘Sick Sunday Soul Sweat’

This past Sunday I tried out  SoulCycle  at NYC – Tribeca.  The NYC studios held  a special “Soul Service” contributing all proceeds to Hurricane Sandy relief efforts.  A good sweat and a good deed made an attractive combo for Sunday Fun-day. I’m gonna get straight to the point and give you guys the “hot facts” about the “Soul Movement”…

What’s all the hype about?

  • All the COOL KIDS are doing it – Move over CrossFit!  SoulCycle is the hottest AND most expensive fitness class on the street right now!   Studios are only in New York and LA and the Soul Movement is so strong that Soul Cycle was recently acquired by Equinox.  Several “A” list celebrities have joined the “cult” including but not limited to Lady Gaga and Kelly Rippa.  Being a part of the Soul Cycle cult is definitely a status symbol in NYC and LA.
  • Spin Class + FULL BODY workout – About 30 minutes into the ride, we used light hand weights conveniently placed under our saddles and started a hardcore upper body toning circuit.  SHOULDERS ON FIRE!  Also throughout the class, the instructor led several moves to engage our core. 

Why is it so expensive?

Not just expensive, but REALLY expensive!  The classes are $32 per 45 minute session making them the most expensive group fitness classes in the United States!  Here a few reason I can justify the price (in moderation):

  • Immaculate facility – Awesome brand with the SOUL CYCLE theme AND motivations slogans consistently portrayed.
  • Unique culture and fitness experience – The bikes are really close to each other and the room is pitch black lit only by candle light.  They keep the music thumpin’ so you can truly “escape” during your workout.
  • Boring instructors are NONEXISTENT – All of the instructors are highly energetic and bring a personal enthusiasm that isn’t annoying.  Very motivating leadership.
  • Supper friendly and knowledgeable staff – The front desk staff was super helpful especially since it was my first time.  They got me a pair of spinning sneakers, set up my bike and walked me around the facility

Pros?

  • INSANE ENERGY!  Many of the instructors have backgrounds in acting and music so they know how to pump up a crowd and stay on beat with the music – so necessary.
  • COMMUNITY VIBE.  During the class all students moved side to side and up in down in the same direction so we look like a synchronized music video – I loved it!    Even better, I got a sweet welcome tweet before the class.  I can appreciate any club that shows GRIT by Brit some love – ya heard?

Cons?

  • As a single method gym, Soul Cycle could get boring over time.  However, if you’re already a regular spin class goer, this could be a suitable alternative.
  • With the steep price, you may be likely to skip classes when money is tight.  Consistent fitness habits are crucial!
  • As a certified indoor cycling instructor I noticed that the class does NOT uphold true cycle principles and form.  If you are a hardcore cycling enthusiast, this workout will seem very superficial.
  • Cycle shoes are required.  So you either have to bring your own or pay an additional $2 to rent a pair (whoa, couldn’t they include that in the $32?)

Ultimate verdict?

I had an awesome time at my Sunday Soul Session!  I could see myself attending a class here and there when I need to change it up – maybe once every other week.  I definitely think Soul Cycle is something you should test for yourself.  If you’re a group fitness junkie, like me, you could easily be tempted to join the cult.  Even if you aren’t, at least you’ll FIT IN with the “cool kids” and maybe snag a celebrity sighting 😉

(above) My boy @caseygib after our ‘Sunday Soul Session’

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