I was an Orange Theory believer prior to joining F45. My two complaints with OT are that it doesn't necessarily promote a community environment given how the stations work...moreover, it's great for running, but it can be repetitive and the studios can get crowded on heavy switch days. Prior to OT, I used to CrossFit but found the workouts too destructive on my body. I was hurting myself and while I enjoyed the community aspect, sometimes there was too much focus on Rx'ing a workout...it's a one size fits all approach that doesn't necessarily work for everyone.
F45 combines the BEST of both worlds. The workouts change every day, they are challenging, and most importantly, FUN!! The focus with F45 is doing the exercise correctly while constantly staying in motion, not increasing your weight and not beating your fellow athletes/teammates. The Lionheart analytics (heart rate monitor) are thorough and give you specific feedback related to the day's theme. The analytics track if you have a personal best in avg heart rate, calories, and points (~1 point per minute over 70%max heart rate). There are always, at least, 2 coaches roaming the room providing feedback on your movements and also providing timely motivation. The music is totally awesome and ranges from Heartache (80s retro) to house and hip hop, all expertly mixed by F45 DJ's in Australia.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, the staff at F45 Training Five Points Raleigh is exceptional. Ben and Katie care about the members and building a supportive environment for anyone that wants to improve their fitness...from beginner to Spartan Elites. I've trained with all their coaches and each one brings a unique perspective and approach to fitness and more importantly, they all make working out fun. This is by far the most professional studio I've encountered in my 42 years and the service they provide is a bargain compared to what you would pay for personal trainers. Do yourself a favor and come by and see for yourself, it just doesn't get any...
Read moreAm so impressed with F45 at Five Points, the ever changing variety of workouts (upper and lower body strength, core, and cardio), the professionalism and enthusiasm of the coaches, and the dedication and work ethic all the members bring to every single class! It is so inspiring. The positivity vibes every time you step in the studio is off the charts. And members end every class with fist bumps and/or congrats.
Kudos to the owners, Katie and Ben (also active coaches) for setting such a high standard of excellence. The boutique gym market is a competitive one, and I have tried many, Orangetheory, Club Pilates, RowHouse, TreadHAPPY, MEGAformer, but this F45 outshines all other gyms. And it does so by offering sequenced workouts that together are comprehensive, providing a full body workout. For a time I would be going to two gyms in an effort to balance strength, core, and cardio. No more! F45 is my one stop gym!
And although this is a group workout, there are always two coaches present. While you complete the 45 minute circuit these coaches are providing continual encouragement, modifications, and corrections for every individual. Seriously, it feels like you have a personal coach throughout the entire workout. Their close supervision means you get a safe and demanding workout EVERY SINGLE TIME, one that keeps you coming back for more. The workouts are tightly choreographed, fast paced, and as challenging as you want to make them as you choose weights and modifications at each station in the circuit. Makes it so easy to gauge your progress.
Best value gym for the money, period. I went unlimited immediately after my 3-day trial the first week in July and love the positive changes in my body and mental health (thank you endorphins!:)
Thank you to Katie, Ben, and to all the cheerful and talented coaches. You folks totally rock! Keep up all...
Read moreThrough the pandemic, F45’s main goal has been keeping their members healthy and safe. They follow all the suggested mandates and go above and beyond with cleaning. When gyms were closed they offered online classes, outdoor classes, and pre-recorded classes.
The owners, Ben and Katie know their members and honor our goals by pushing us, encouraging us, and checking on us. I cannot say enough good things about them. As owners, they hire trainers who embody their mission - Ingrid, Jay, Kenzie, Nick, and Hannah are all supportive, helpful, and friendly. The trainers and owners are great people who cultivate an open and welcoming atmosphere for their clients.
F45 is a positive force in my life. Not only is the workout challenging and effective, I feel mentally strong. This year has been difficult for many small business owners but the constant attitude of looking to the future has held true for this place. We know this too shall pass and we will be back to using the battle ropes and high fiving each other soon.
Definitely check them out if you’re looking for a high intensity interval training style work out with a friendly atmosphere and genuinely...
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