Uptown has so many activities to do. It has beautiful parks, adorable shops, and delicious restaurants. However, one thing that many may not realize is the number of workout studios it has. In the areas surrounding the campus, there is a large variety of workout classes. When I arrived in New Orleans, it took a second before I found one that I stuck to, so I’m going to break down different needs you may have for a studio, and what studio meets those needs. All of these studios are walkable, and within two miles from Tulane’s campus.
For someone who wants variety: Romney Studios
Out of all the workout studios listed below, Romney is for sure my go-to! I work out at Romney around four times every week, at least. The reason I love it is that they offer ten different workout class types: spin, pilates, lagree, bounce, Bosu, heated pulse (their unique, intense sculpt method), hot yoga, HIIT, and boxing. They also offer variety within the class types. For example, they offer three different types of yoga, reformer, and mat pilates. If you don’t like doing your yoga or pulse in a hot room, they have outdoor classes. Also, every instructor pays close attention to form and integrates modifications for those who want them. Another benefit about Romney is that it is right next to District Donuts so you can easily grab a coffee after. The studio is also across from Whole Foods making it super easy to get in some grocery shopping after a class. Another thing I love is that the classes vary in intensity so you can go to the same studio for the hardest workout of your life or a relaxing recovery class. Overall, Romney is the best pick if you get sick of the same workout over and over and don’t want to pay to go to multiple workout studios.
For someone who works out to release stress: Yes Yoga
While the other studios offer more intense classes, Yes Yoga is the perfect studio for a fulfilling workout but with a bit of a calmer environment. Every class is hot and takes place in a dimly lit room. The class sizes are large, but the yoga room is huge, so it feels like you have your own space. Something else that sets Yes Yoga apart is its environment. It’s a chill and calm atmosphere, but the studio feels like a community and everyone is warm and welcoming. The studio is located on Oak Street and near a bunch of cute coffee shops and bookstores that go perfectly with the quiet vibe of the studio. Overall, if you want something less intense while getting a good workout or want to boost your mood, Yes Yoga is a perfect go-to!
For the high-energy cardio lover: Body Shoppe
The closest in proximity to Tulane out of everything on this list, Body Shoppe is perfect for someone who is looking for a good cardio workout. As an ex-competitive dancer, I was so used to regular cardio workouts so I was super excited to try it out. Even before my first class there started, I felt the energy from the studio lobby. Body Shoppe is full of vibrant decor and friendly staff. Even their website says the studio is founded on “sweat, smiles, and fun”. They offer five class types: flex and flow, HIIT and flow, dance cardio, hard core, and HIIT. Every single one of those workouts involves cardio in some way, shape, or form, so if you love cardio workouts but don’t just want to do the same one, Body Shoppe has you covered. They also have theme classes on certain weeks where they play music from a certain artist, genre, movie, etc. Besides a super energetic workout, they also offer an infrared sauna. Sometimes, I use the sauna on a rest day to heal my sore muscles, but there are many other benefits. The different infrared light settings target problems such as illness, fatigue, and even anxiety. They also offer $40 off their unlimited class membership if you are a student! Overall, Body Shoppe is a great option for anyone who wants high-energy, fun workouts without traveling too far from campus.
For someone who wants a personal trainer, but doesn’t want to spend as much money: Orangetheory Fitness
You may be familiar with Orangetheory because they have over 1,300 studios nationwide! Unlike the other studios on this list, classes at Orangetheory are more like personal training sessions rather than classes where everyone is doing the same thing at once. During a class, you will be guided through circuits by your instructor or “coach.” You and the other class members take turns doing different exercises on different equipment. By the end of class, your whole body will be put through the wringer. Instead of having multiple workout class types like Romney, the studio offers different workout classes based on what you want to improve. Their three class types are strength, power, and endurance. Once you leave Orangetheory, you feel the burn right away. The studio’s atmosphere is just as intense as the workout itself, making it even easier to work hard. Another plus of Orangetheory is the membership works at all locations so if you become a member here and have a studio in your hometown, you can use it year-round. Overall, Orangetheory is the perfect place for you if you love the vibe of a gym but need more guidance and motivation.
For someone who wants to work out independently but not alone: Hotworx
Just like Romney, Hotworx has tons of class options, and just like Orangetheory, the studio is a chain. They offer mat pilates, yoga, spin, HIIT, and barre, as well as several other focused workouts focusing on certain body parts such as arms, core, and glutes. However, what makes Hotworx different from other Uptown workout studios is the fact that there is no instructor present. An instructor teaches via video while the in-person studio provides all the proper equipment to complete the workout. It’s the perfect option for someone who wants more than a workout video but also doesn’t love having an instructor present in class. What’s also unique about this studio is that the class sizes are no more than three people each. This gives this studio a class feel without being packed with 10+ people. Also, every class at Hotworx is heated (hence the name), so if that isn’t for you then I wouldn’t recommend going here. Finally, a membership at Hotworx is the cheapest out of all the places on this list. An unlimited membership only costs $60 monthly, giving you 24-hour access to the studio. Sounds like a great deal to me!
Even though I only listed five workout studios, the options in Uptown are endless! Every studio is great for different reasons. It can take time to find your perfect fit but this guide is somewhere to start!
