Why I Decided to Leave Orangetheory Fitness: A Personal Journey
Orangetheory Fitness has gained a lot of attention for its unique approach to high-intensity workouts. Many people flock to these sessions hoping to shed pounds, get fit, and tone their bodies. However, my personal experience led me to a different conclusion. While I initially believed that Orangetheory would help me achieve my fitness goals, my journey took an unexpected turn. This article dives into my experience, the physical symptoms I encountered, and why I ultimately decided that Orangetheory was not the right fit for me.
From the moment I stepped into an Orangetheory class, I was captivated by the energy and intensity of the workout. The combination of cardio and strength training, along with the motivating atmosphere, made it feel like an exhilarating experience. In those initial weeks, the endorphins flooded my system, leaving me on a high after each session. However, as I continued attending classes three to five times a week for about two to three months, I noticed some concerning changes in my body and overall well-being.
One of the most surprising developments was the unexpected weight gain. Initially, I watched the numbers on the scale trend downwards, which reinforced my belief that I was on the right track. However, after a few weeks, the scale started to creep up, and a significant portion of that weight settled around my midsection. This was disheartening, especially since I was dedicating so much time and effort to my workouts. Gaining weight in my belly area felt like a clear sign that something was not aligning with my body’s needs.
In addition to the weight gain, I started experiencing sleep disturbances. Prior to my Orangetheory experience, I was generally a sound sleeper. However, I began waking up multiple times during the night, often between one and three in the morning. The tossing and turning left me feeling groggy and unrested. I found myself struggling to maintain energy throughout the day, which was particularly challenging during work hours. Later, I learned that these sleep interruptions could be attributed to fluctuating blood sugar levels, likely a result of how I was fueling my body around these high-intensity workouts.
The workouts at Orangetheory are designed to push participants to their limits. While this can be beneficial for some, I realized that my body was not responding positively to this level of exertion. My glucose levels were dipping too low, leading to those frustrating nighttime awakenings. When blood sugar levels drop, the body releases cortisol, a stress hormone, to compensate. This physiological response was likely why I found myself waking up feeling anxious and unable to drift back into slumber.
Moreover, I encountered significant post-workout fatigue. After finishing a session, I would initially feel a rush of energy and accomplishment. However, within 30 to 60 minutes, I would crash hard, often feeling the urge to take a nap. This was particularly frustrating on busy weekdays when I needed to be alert and productive. Despite consuming copious amounts of coffee, I still felt depleted rather than invigorated. Exercise should ideally leave you feeling revitalized, not drained, and this contrast made me question the suitability of Orangetheory for my fitness journey.
Another symptom that became increasingly evident was my insatiable hunger between workouts. I found myself craving sugary and carbohydrate-rich foods, which are often quick sources of energy. While carbohydrates can be beneficial in moderation, my cravings were excessive and unmanageable. This overwhelming desire for quick fuel was counterproductive to my goals of improved body composition and overall health. I recognized that my blood sugar fluctuations were leading to these cravings, creating a cycle that was difficult to break.
Through all these experiences, I learned a great deal about my body and its responses to different types of exercise. Ignoring the signs my body was sending me was a mistake I eventually could not afford to make. I felt like I was in a constant battle with my health, gaining weight, suffering from sleep issues, and experiencing uncontrollable cravings. It became clear that the high-intensity workouts were not aligning with my body’s needs at that time.
Today, I have adopted a different approach to fitness. My current routine focuses more on strength training, which allows me to build lean muscle without the stress that high-intensity workouts brought me. I even created an at-home program called StrongMadeSimple, which emphasizes building strength and losing fat without overwhelming the body. This shift has resulted in a healthier and more balanced approach to fitness that aligns with my individual needs.
It’s important to note that my experience with Orangetheory does not reflect a disdain for the program itself. Many people thrive on high-intensity workouts and find them to be a perfect match for their fitness journeys. My personal experience was that it was simply too strenuous for me at that phase of my life. If you enjoy Orangetheory and find it beneficial, I encourage you to continue. However, if you resonate with my story and feel that something is off in your own fitness routine, it may be time to reconsider your approach.
In conclusion, my journey with Orangetheory Fitness was filled with ups and downs. While I initially found excitement and motivation in the classes, I ultimately learned that my body required a different style of workout. Listening to your body is crucial, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It’s essential to tailor your fitness approach to your unique needs and goals, ensuring that you cultivate a sustainable and enjoyable fitness routine.
