2024 is the year to test out new things!
And in Orangetheory’s case, they trotted out a new Tread 50 option that piggybacks the unused treadmills in Strength 50 classes.
To be frank, I was not excited about the new Tread 50 class when I first heard about it. In fact, I had no intention on taking the class for two main reasons: 1) I didn’t like the idea of being on a treadmill for 50 minutes; and 2) I joined Orangetheory (a leader in heart-rate based interval training) for structured, challenging workouts that include strength training.
In traditional Orangetheory classes (tread, row, lift) , the running usually lasts about 23 minutes. This Tread 50 class is literally all treadmill.
In general, I’d rather do extended runs outside to avoid boredom. I also advise my clients to use treadmills as a last resort if they are training for a race, as outdoor training is more realistic to race conditions and gives runners an authentic feel for different paces.
But I’ve been having a hard time getting into any Orangetheory class this month, as all the New Year’s resolution people (I’m guessing/hating on lol) are taking up all the spots.
Last Friday was no exception. When I signed up for the Strength 50 class, all the spots were taken, and I was the first person on the waitlist. Since the class is only 50 minutes, I didn’t want to waste time waiting for the 5-minute waitlist window to close, so I chose to start out on the treadmill, hoping a strength spot would open up.
It didn’t.
So, I was committed and determined to still get in a good workout…just in a different way…
There were 5 of us on the treadmills. One guy had taken the class 3 times before and the rest of us were newbies. Our workout included a series of 5-minute push paces and 1-minute all-outs with short walk breaks in between. It was definitely challenging, and didn’t seem as long as I feared. The fast-paced music and high energy from the other runners kept things interesting and dare I say…fun?!
In total, I ran almost 4 miles (which is longer than I usually run). 🙌
I recommend this class to anyone who would feel safer running inside than outside, wants to run in a high energy environment, or would benefit from structured, interval training.
But for me, I really need the weights (and probably the rowing) more than I need the treadmill running. And since I am not on an unlimited plan, I will reserve all of my future Orangetheory sessions for classes that include strength training.
What about you?
Have you taken the new Tread 50 class?
What are your thoughts about it?
Tell me in the comments below or contact me directly.
-Martise : )