Orangetheory Fitness — Local services in San Francisco

Took my first OTF class today (after MANY group fitness classes at Barry's and Soul Cycle) and just getting back to working out after an injury. I debated btw 3 and 4 stars and decided to give them credit for being welcoming and enthusiastic. The truth will be in a longer term relationship with them. THE WORKOUT: It's same basic format of other grp fitness classes, with more of a "work at your own pace" vibe. For me, it was a little less external pressure to compete, and maybe a little more internal pressure to challenge myself through the tech monitoring and reporting tools (heart rate and endurance tracked during class and saved in personal profile in the app) which the geek in me thought was cool. One class means only one experience, but the coach (Camilo) was friendly, helpful, motivating without being overbearing and seemed qualified. THE MEMBERSHIP: The "sales" pressure from the front desk/office may be more than other places but, ultimately, you just have to give them a direct answer to their questions about getting a membership or just paying for classes a la carte. I got a 10 class pack bc they wouldn't expire as quickly as the monthly (use it or lose it) memberships at only a slightly higher cost. Their job is to sell classes, yours is to make a decision that makes sense to you. Another muscle you can train is your BACK BONE when getting sold things! Otherwise, the desk staff was very personable and helpful. THE FACILITY: Same basic setup as Barry's and Soul for public spaces and workout room. New facility so clean and shiny (for now, at least). Five all-gender private shower rooms, a couple of public restrooms and dozens of small & medium public lockers with programmable locks. You can sign up on shower doors to "reserve" a space in line but it relies on common courtesy and honor system to work. NOTES: The heart rate monitor that plugs into the app and tracks everything is an additional $80 for one version and $120 for the better version. Also, even though their website has "FREE FIRST CLASS" all over it, this property only gives DISCOUNTED first class. If that's a deal breaker for you, investigate which properties honor the FFC policy before booking. I shared with the on-duty manager that I think that's shady but it doesn't seem to be her fault. It's a website integration that should warn you that you're choosing a property that doesn't honor the free thing. They must assume that they get enough business without it to bother giving away free classes. Shortsighted, but not...

I’ve been to several different OTF studios and this is by far one of my favorite experiences for a few reasons.

For starters it’s the only one I’ve been to that provides towels for the showers - I’ve had friends be forced to buy towels or use a few sweat rags at other studios. It’s a small luxury but it makes a huge difference.

It’s fairly easy to get into classes. I’ve only had to waitlist for a class once and was able to get in. Because it isn’t super busy they also run mostly 2gs which I prefer.

The 3pm class!! This is really nice since I work east coast hours. It’s perfect timing since I’m not able to go to the morning classes and it lets you get a workout in before the post work rush . When you’re getting up so early sometimes its hard to commit to those night classes too. Because of the weird time there’s always a lot of familiar faces.

Only bummer is there isn’t a water fountain inside the studio - you have to leave the room to refill.

Edit: I’m updating my review because I just found out that their cancellation policy is stricter than any other studio I’ve been to. Life happens and meetings get scheduled last minute. At every other studio I have been a member at they would happily bump you to later class. If you’re offering a boutique experience where your primary clientele are employees downtown there needs to be a better understanding of last minute conflicts because it can be pretty...

I've been to many Orangetheory studios all across the country, and nothing ever compares to the Mid Market. If I move to another apartment in SF I will keep coming back to Mid Market because the coaches and front desk staff make it feel like home. The positive, welcoming environment sets it apart from other more intense studios and the people are so genuine and supportive.

I've been working with Coach Marquise now for 2+ years; he is truly the most supportive and fun coach, while also encouraging and pushing me to be better. I genuinely look forward to classes with him every day, and didn't know it was possible to laugh while also physically dying! When I had a surgery, he gave me alternative floor exercises and checked in often to see how I was healing.

I've only started attending Coach Cheyenne's classes in 2023, and after one class with her I felt like I had a new best friend. Her positive spirit and energy (and awesome playlists!) makes me leave the class feeling so happy and energized. I'm so happy she joined Mid Market, as she is such a powerhouse and role model to look up to!

Once you go Orangetheory, you...