By Christine Graf
Less than 10 years after opening their first Orangetheory Fitness (OTF) franchise in Niskayuna, Paola and Jim Horvath are preparing to open their 13th location. Situated in the Wilton Mall, the 3,100-square-foot fitness studio is on schedule to open its doors in March. For the Horvaths’ franchise partner, Mike Altieri, the Wilton Mall will be his eighth location.
With more than 1,500 studios in 25 countries, OTF is one of the most well-known fitness franchises in the world. OTF group workouts are specifically designed to boost metabolism and burn fat. The workouts are based on the five heart rate training zones, and all participants wear OTF-provided heart rate monitors while exercising.
“We offer hands down one of the best full-body, one-hour workouts that you are going to get anywhere,” said Jackie Orr, Wilton Mall OTF head trainer. “It’s a one-stop shop. You are getting cardio and strength training under the guidance of extremely qualified, experienced personal trainers and coaches. And, because it’s in a group fitness atmosphere, the energy is through the roof. It’s a lot of fun.”
During the majority of classes offered at OTF, participants rotate between treadmills, water rowers, and strength training stations. Throughout the workout, each participant goes at their own pace based on their individual heart rate response and fitness level. The classes last 60 minutes, and members are able to track their progress through the OTF mobile app. A 50-minute strength class that does not incorporate use of the treadmill or water rower is also available, and all OTF classes are designed for people of all ages and all fitness levels.
“Everybody is coming in at different fitness levels, at different ages, and with different mobility limitations. Everyone has their own station, and no one is paying attention to what somebody else is doing,” said Orr.
“I think it’s incredibly important to be empathetic and compassionate to everyone who comes through that front door. Everyone is on their own journey, and you never know what they are going through. I want to make the hour that you are with me the best part of your day. Because as soon as that session is over, you have real life stress waiting for you on the other side,” Orr noted.
The Wilton Mall OTF will offer more than 50 classes each week. The first class will begin at 5 a.m., and the last class will typically start at 6:30 p.m.
“With your OTF membership, you also have access to live, virtual classes,” said Orr. “You also get access to all of our studios worldwide. You can go anywhere if you are on vacation or traveling for work.”
According to Orr, OTF is unique in that they offer month-to-month memberships.
“If people want to upgrade or downgrade at any time, they have the flexibility to do so. We do not lock you into a year-long contract. We also offer a quit-free guarantee, so if you aren’t getting results, you get your money back.”
“We’re up front and honest, and we don’t have gimmicks. We’re looking to add years to your life, not to cause stress to your life.”
As head trainer at the Wilton Mall OTF, Orr said she will be committed to building a supportive community where all are welcome. She understands how intimidating it can be to come to a fitness studio for the first time and is open when it comes to sharing her own personal fitness journey.
After a 2004 accident claimed the life of her brother, her only sibling, Orr turned to alcohol and food for comfort. Almost a decade later, she stepped foot inside a gym for the first time.
“When I started going into the classes, I stayed in the back. Everyone was incredibly encouraging and supportive, and I ended up becoming more confident,” she said. “I discovered that movement healed me, and that is what led me to wanting to become a personal trainer. I have an incredible need and drive to pay it forward.”
OTF is currently offering pre-sale specials for those who join the Wilton studio before it opens. For more information, call 518-245-6141 or visit orangetheory.com.