Orangetheory Fitness

I am brand new to OTF, I signed up at the Arcadia location since I intend to work out after work. This morning, I went to the Paradise Valley location since it was closer to my home… I will not be returning. I didn’t even make it to the workout. The front desk staff was beyond incompetent and completely unprofessional.
After signing up for a 10 pack, I rang the Arcadia location to see if my sessions could be used at any location. I was advised that they could be used at any location nationwide. What I was not advised of, however, was that certain locations no longer lend heart monitors and that I would have to pay an additional $ 50 – 80 for a heart monitor if I used a session elsewhere. That, I’ll admit, is the fault of the staff at the Arcadia location. The manner in which this information was relayed to me at the Paradise Valley location, unfortunately, is the reason I will never return to the location on Tatum. The front desk staff was unprofessional in their delivery and we talked in circles for 10 minute before I left frustrated, unmotivated and embarrassed from the manner in which I was spoken to. The man literally laughed at me.
I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised at their professional ineptitude, these two grown men didn’t even know the difference between the usage of «you’re» and «your».
Never again.

I have been involved in Orange Theory for over two years now and it has been a life changer for myself. As far as the «concept» of OT… I can only express my thoughts with the results shown by weight loss and, more importantly, a huge drop in my cholesterol levels (this while disengaging from the «lifelong» consumption of statins recommended by my physician). Finally, the fact that you can almost set your clock to the 1 hour workout time frame makes «no time» excuses non-​existent.
As far as the PV studio… personally, I’ve had nothing but great experiences. One of the things I truly enjoy about the studio is having trainers that are all very unique. I actually love being able to choose a trainer for a particular day based on what I know will make my experience as positive as possible. I have my favorites that have been around since I began training here, Kim, Chris, Lisa, and Dan… miss a few that have left (Jesse and Darren), and have enjoyed getting to know new trainers that have been added over time including Kristen and Blue. Most importantly… they are all different… which is what I believe makes this workout so great. Treadmills, rowers, and weights, wherever or however you use them… can get boring. When you add positive, enthusiastic, genuine, and unique trainers to the mix… that’s what keeps a workout from becoming a routine.

I have been a member of OTF PV for 2 years now and plan on continuing for years to come. As a fitness and exercise science professional who has been in the industry for 20 years I am relatively picky with fitness training programs. With OTF I’m very happy to see a program that follows current scientific principles of exercise and fitness while presenting it in a non-​intimidating and welcoming manner for all participants. There is always variety but plenty of modifications for injuries and fitness level. I love that I can be on the treadmill with a marathoner on my right and an elderly new exerciser on my left all working towards the same goal. There aren’t a lot of training programs that accommodate so many levels so well in one session. I love using OTF as an example for my students as a current training program that is exceptionally well done. Great job!

These guys are amazing! Awesome staff! Awesome workout! Awesome trainers! I have so much fun and work harder than any other workout in town. Well worth the money. Great schedule with several options each day. Try it out!

I have been going to OTF-​PV for about a year and a half, and I love it! This is an amazing community of people. I have not only formed special and lasting friendships here, but over time have created the healthiest version of me, and am continually challenged to push myself even further.
The trainers are all amazing and go above and beyond; they will go over food logs with you, discuss general nutrition, provide tips for getting the most out of your workout and preventing injury, and even share community events and recipes. It’s marketed as the best one-​hour workout, which I agree with, but all of the trainers here are committed to helping support you with the other 23 hours of your day as well. With that said, I am a little surprised by some of the other comments. In the year and a half I’ve been going, I can’t recall a class where modifications weren’t discussed or where a trainer or the staff seemed uncaring, unfriendly, or even unknowledgeable. I would say check it out for yourself, especially if you’re curious to know what Orange Theory Fitness is all about, looking to try out other locations, or are in need of a challenge. In short, I highly recommend OTF-​PV. While all of the trainers are good, if you’re looking for recommendations, I would say try Dan’s, Chris’s, or Kim’s class. Good luck!

I’ve worked out at Orange Theory Fitness Paradise Valley for over two years now and am addicted! My past has not been known to have a regular and consistent work out regimen until now. Love every minute of the hour I am there!
All of the trainers I have had — Dan, Kim, Chris, David, Keisha, Joe and Kristen — are fantastic. They have high energy and keep me motivated to push myself.
I feel it is my responsibility to know my body and let the trainers know of any injuries I may have — after all, it is the only body I’ve got. Each trainer is more than willing to show me modifications so I do not injure myself further.
So grateful for the friendships I have made here as well as my lean and healthy body.

Before coming to Orangetheory Fitness Paradise Valley, my self confidence was at a level 0. I WAS a middle aged and overweight woman. My doctor said I was at my last leg. Literally. I have only one leg due to an infection I caught in a hot tub in Orlando fifteen minutes away from Disney World. One promising Tuesday morning, I strapped on my prosthetic leg and put on my long yoga pants so no one could see my leg. I was feeling insecure as I stepped into the fluorescent orange fitness studio but something in the wind and the smell of determination made me realize that this fitness class at Orangetheory Fitness Paradise Valley would change my life. And oh, was I right.
This was the best workout of my life. I am by no means an athlete but this workout challenged me to a whole new level. I am now on an unlimited membership now and WOW I couldn’t be happier. I lost weight and overall am happier and healthier!!!

I have been a member at OTF PV for 8 months now. I have been to other locations and I can truly say this one is top of the list. The training staff (Chris, Dan, Kim, Kristen, David) is highly knowledgable, friendly and make it a priority to help you reach your fitness goals. The front desk welcomes me by name and is always willing to listen to my questions.
My favorite trainer, Dan, does an exceptional job welcoming clients and getting to know them. He pushes you out of your comfort zone, all well making you feel completely comfortable. I can truly say his support and guidance has helped me improve my physical fitness exponentially. His knowledge about nutrition exceeds all my expectations. He is always willing to help answer my million questions and wants to make it a great workout for each person. Not to mention his killer playlist.
OTF PV is honestly the best. I have and would recommend it to everyone.

I really enjoy OT and specifically this location. I was a little worried from the reviews but have never had an issue and have been going for six months now. I usually take Dan, David, Kim, Blue or Lisa. Lisa is on leave right now but they are all good. They push you to succeed and I haven’t felt this strong or confident in a long time. If you are consistent, you’ll see results. Don’t be worried about not being fit enough to join because you can work at your own pace. Thanks OT!!!

This was my first time going to OT at PV. I normally go to arrowhead where the trainers and management are a lot more friendly, and more accommodating to guests.
We had a class with the head trainer Dan who I think meant well, but didn’t come across as a caring trainer. His energy and positivity were great and when he said he was open to constructive criticism, I thought I could chat with him.
I said that at the Arrowhead location they ask before class if anyone has any injuries so they can accommodate. But he didn’t, which left my girlfriend and I to figure out the best way to adapt the work outs for some pretty brutal college sports injuries. It wasn’t too big of deal and were able to do so since we are both medical school and have moderate amount of background.
His response is what turned me off. He kept making excuses, talking about his «credentials» and never letting me get a word in to respond. If I’m paying for someone to push me, I don’t want a «kinesiology major» know it all talking down to me when he has no idea who his guests are and not willing to genuinely listen and learn from friendly constructive criticism.
My advice is go to another location, especially if you don’t like cramped places and unfriendly people.

Just hit one year as a member of Orange Theory PV and it truly has been life-​changing. My issues with working out are quite common — I’m a professional with very little time, repetitive workouts bore me to death, I HATE gyms filled with meatheads, and only scheduled classes provide the discipline and accountability I need. So I tried OT after many, many failed attempts and finally found a home. Every workout is different, and they all have a common theme — they are incredibly challenging and I burn at least 800 calories in 60 minutes. I’m 39 and in the best shape of my life and I only have to invest 3 hours per week. I love the small-​format classes — they play great music and you get personal interaction with the instructors (unlike Crossfit, they aren’t a bunch of firemen and Olympic shotputters trying to make you throw up). The instructors are highly-​competent professionals who are fully engaged in their work, and they each have a unique training style. The PV team is led by Daren Parks, whose credentials are extraordinary — over 25 years of experience in some of the country’s top fitness facilities. He will push you to your limits and relentlessly inspire you at the same time.
Obviously any membership-​based fitness program will have detractors, usually over some trivial contract issue. OT makes it as easy as possible by offering month-​to-​month memberships if you want them. Try it, then stick with it, and you’ll see amazing results. I’m not an employee or an investor, just a really, really satisfied member.

This place has TWO Unilocal pages. Be sure to check out the other one that isn’t filtering out the bad ratings!!!

I had been a member of OTF PV for just 11 months. But, I intended to be a life long member. Why? Because I loved working out there. I paid $ 89.00 a month and every Wed. and Fri at 5:30 I would attend Jesse Ochoa’s class. His class was the best fit for me; it wasn’t serious, stuffy or boring. In fact, it was the opposite. His class was exciting, electric and entertaining. He danced, he sang and he instructed his students to ensure we got the best work out we could. He motivated us. He inspired us. And, above all, he was like family to the 5:30 crew two days a week.
Why did I just go two days then? Well, many times I thought about upgrading my account in order to go at least three days a week but when I looked at the other instructors that were in time slots that worked best for me, I opted to just stay with Jesse. I’ve taken Kim’s class and she’s very, very nice. I don’t have a bad thing to say about her; she’s a great instructor. I just prefer Jesse because of his upbeat, energentic style — he made an hour seem like 10 minutes! I’ve also taken a class with Chris. He’s great to look at (!) but the atmosphere is too boring for me. And, lastly, I’ve taken a few classes with Darren. His condenscending, egotistical attitude is a bit much for me at 5:30 in the morning — or at any time of the day to be honest. He’s insulting, he’s rude and not at all inspiring. Why he’s held in such high regard at this location baffles me. I think someone told me he went to school back in the day with the owners. Dear Owners: Wake up. Darren is an asshole. Period. You have staff there that don’t even like him but they keep their heads down and tolerate him so they don’t find themselves out of a job.
Speaking of being out of a job — let’s get back to Jesse and the reason I’m writing this review. He got fired. I wrote the owners to express my disappointment in this decision and they wrote back an email saying «please understand we’ve exhausted all other options…» I guess I thought OTF was in business for their customers. Clearly, that’s not the case. To date, I know of at least 4 of us who have quit OTF due to Jesse being let go.
OTF requires a 30 day cancellation notice — but I quit the same day I learned Jesse wouldn’t be teaching there any more. The 30 day notice is their way of getting at least one more month out of people who simply don’t want to return, yet they boast that you can still use your sessions for that remaining month. I told them to charge me and that I’d eat the sessions. I’m not training there unless Jesse is running the class. Thankfully he is still employed with Chandler OTF. To Chandler OTF, you have a true asset on your hands at your studio. Don’t let him go!!!

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Paradise Valley OTF! I am one of the originals I started 8÷31÷12 and have loved this workout every time and I go 4 times a week, at least…
I adore the trainers, all of them, but my schedule does not allow me to take all the trainers classes. So, I primarily take Dan and Daren’s classes. Both of their classes are great although Daren’s classes are faster paced, higher cardio. With that said, every workout is what you make of it as an individual and for me, being more of a runner like the higher cardio and Daren always pushes, motivates and empowers me!

I am one of the orginal members at OTF PV. The instructors are great, the facility is clean, and online scheduling system is really easy, and you feel like you want to die everytime you leave (in a good way!). There is a nice combination of all different kinds of people of different age, gender, and weight so I feel really comfortable.
It took about 6 months for my cholesterol to drop about 100 points; something I couldnt do by just changing my diet.
Please take note… their 30-​day cancellation policy is tricky. It is more like a 60 day policy because they will absolutely not pro-​rate the month for you if you cancel between billing cycles.
Also note… the classes fill up about a week in advance. Plan your classes ahead of time online to secure the days/​times/​instructors you want. And, make sure you cancel if you cant attend because they will ding your credit card with a $ 10 fee if you dont show up!
One more last thing… take Darren’s class once, with caution. Dont get me wrong, its a tough class and you will work hard. I couldnt stand his approach to teaching, and his classes always start and run really late (I think this is really inconsiderate of people’s time). Chris, Dan, and Kim are great and have plenty of classes to fill my week without having to listen to Darren scream for an hour :)
I would highly reccomend this workout… if you can commit to going 3 – 4 times a week. You will absolutely see results.

Where do I begin with this review… I just truly love this place and the trainers. Class times are convenient and results are reliable! The facility is clean and well maintained. I get my hour workout in with nothing less then 600 calories burned! The tools are given to me, be it a heart rate monitor or a free weights plan, to then put into motion a productive, yet «catered to my needs» workout. I’d say you can’t beat that with any other facility!!!
Check out orange theory fitness for a free class, you won’t be disappointed!

I was going to the Mayo location and then, when the PV location opened up, I was a member there for a short while. The owner of this location, Darren I think, was extremely pushy when I tried to cancel. I had to go get a doctor’s note because he wouldn’t terminate the contract for the real reason I left.
Over the two years prior to joining, I’d lost about 100 lbs that I’d gained when I had had Cushings Disease. I was seeking to lose about 50 more, tone up a little and build up my lung capacity. My diet had been working well thus far. However, the front desk girl started trying to sell me on an all-​fruit, raw, vegan diet.
Now, despite the well-​documented dangers of this (check out what happened to Ashton Kusher), I’m not going to go into that part here. What was highly inappropriate was to treat me, as a client, like someone who was just starting out on a path of wellness and a total moron. Being overweight doesn’t make someone unintelligent. I felt invalidated and degraded.
I returned to the Mayo location and find it to be a much nicer, welcoming, non-​judgemental, enlightened environment. If anyone else here had a problem at the PV location, check out the Mayo one before you call it quits.

Very hip group of trainers. I was hooked after my first class with Chris. Throughout your classes, and at the end, they tell you very specifically how many calories you burned. This is done via a heart rate monitor that you actually wear near your heart, so I think it is pretty accurate.
So with Chris, during my first session I burned 1000 CALORIES! Wow! I didn’t know that was possible in an hour! I think he was just trying to be nice, but he said that was the first time that had happened in one of his classes. I have now gone to two of Daren’s classes also. I don’t think I have ever been in the same room with someone who is as *pro-​fitness* as Daren. He is bursting with energy and positive vibes. At the end of the session he gives a great motivational speech. This is the kind of coach you want. Orange Theory is a great happy medium between a self-​guiding your workout and hiring a trainer. Perfect for me.
I’ve since been back three times and had the pleasure of working with Jesse and Kim. Both of them are *phenomenal* as well and the club lets them put together their own playlists. So many times I have totally gotten into their cool music tastes and caught myself wishing I had enough breath to use Shazam. LOL! To me this is really an important part of being able to hit minus 700‑1000 calories … without being able to zone out to great music, it wouldn’t be possible.
I’ve met a couple staff members too — *super* nice and inviting. Overall, I’m sure you can gather that this is a STRONG five stars, in fact I will even offer that if you send me a message with questions I would be happy to give you an unbiased opinion. I am doing this to pay it forward only — no sales pitch. I just signed up for a 6 month commitment today, and I trust this will change my life for the better. I think the price point is great for the total package of what they offer.

I injured my rotator cuff at orange theory. They pressured me into using a weight that was far too heavy for an isolated rotator cuff exercise (7.5 lb, how does that sound to you?!) The icing on the cake was when I went to cancel my membership, they asked why I was canceling, and then aggressively argued my feedback and refused to accept that they had been unsafe. Daren, the studio manager, badgered and verbally attacked me for choosing personal training instead: «How much is THAT costing you?! You obviously quit everything you start.» Yea, you read that right.
Steer clear if you value customer service and/​or your muscles and tendons. They will also charge you for your last month when you cancel (which they conveniently do not mention when you sign up). When I went to cancel, he was actually on the phone with another injured client, telling them to ice the injury, etc. Obviously injuries and poor customer service are commonplace here. Unfortunately nobody took my review seriously when I posted it in August and now there are reviews from two other people who had similar experiences. PLEASE heed the advice here and avoid the disaster that awaits you.
I ended up going to Peak Performance Personal Training, where decent human beings who are actually qualified to do their jobs were able to fully REHAB the painful and debilitating injury that OTF caused me.
— — — — — — — — — —
NOTE: I feel COMPELLED to respond to the person who felt «impelled», whatever the hell that means, to reply to the people with injuries.
I picked up the lightest weight on the rack and I was told «you can do better than that!» I indicated that I was in pain DURING the workout, and I got a «but doesn’t it hurt so good?» When a client expresses hesitation, discomfort, and pain, you don’t encourage them to keep going. I may have been the one to hurt myself but they cheered me along as I did it!
Finally, It doesn’t matter whether someone is «familiar with the fitness world.» We all started somewhere, even you. The point is that they were not forthcoming about their policies. You know what I am familiar with? Good business practice. Which is why I don’t waste my time or my money on this place.

Love love love OTF!
1 hour workout, worth every penny if you are serious about challenging yourself and getting in better shape.
I have gone to 5 different teachers– Kathy, Daren, Chris, Jesse, and Dan. I liked all of their classes. Each was a little bit different from the treadmill routine to how many sets on the rowing machine to what exercises you did with hand weights or TRX or bosu ball, etc.
Prior to OTF, I had never used a heart rate monitor, so I was very intrigued by this blinky thing you wear around your chest. I liked that my heart rate was displayed for me to see easily so I could push harder if I needed to. That’s the best part– pushing yourself to the limits. It’s much easier in this format with a personal trainer leading the class, getting you pumped and excited to run faster and harder. I already run on my own, but I am rarely excited to keep going unless there are cheerleaders. I doubt I am the only one who feels this struggle.
The other thing I like is there is always a great mix of people. People to be inspired by for many reasons!
What are you waiting for? Get ready to fit in your skinny shorts!
Also, 2 tips– they have a shower in the bathroom if you need to go straight to work after, and Whole Foods is right around the corner if you want a fresh protein shake from their café!