Healthy competition is the name of the game when it comes to workout studios these days … there is far from a shortage, especially in NYC. We frequently see questions around classes that fall into similar categories – what’s the same, what’s different, what do we like better, etc. So, we’re going to start a Showdown Series where we compare popular workouts & give you our overall verdict. Let’s get to it!
SLT VS. SOLIDCORE.
Similarities:
- Let’s be real: both studios are pilates on CRACK. They’re slow & controlled resistance workouts on the megaformer machine (a very intense version of the Pilates reformer). Classes are based on extremely high rep moves with quick transitions. This leads to intense muscle fatigue, giving you an intense burn (and guaranteed soreness the next day!)
- Both studios do not have showers.
- Spots in class are limited (usually kept to under 15 people ) as megaformer’s are an expensive (and large) piece of equipment.
- They are advanced. Although beginners are welcome and encouraged, it does take a few classes to get the hang of it.
- Available on ClassPass.
- Classes are 50 minutes.
- Classes are $40.
Differences:
- While SLT is definitely tough, we think Solidcore is even more intense and core-focused (hence the name). Think: blood-vessel-popping type of burn!
- Solidcore has a more Soul Cycle-esque style, with motivational instructors, dim lights and loud beats. Instructors have a ton of enthusiasm.
- SLT is less of a ‘vibe’: music isn’t a focus, no fancy light show, and the instructors aren’t as enthusiastic (which is not necessarily a bad thing, it’s just different).
- SLT is more of an independent workout, whereas Solidcore embraces more of a community/group feel.
SWEAT’S VERDICT: While we love both studios + workouts, when when we’re craving a more intense sweat, we’ll head to Solidcore. SLT is better for days we’re looking for intensity, but don’t want to kill ourselves.
P.VOLVE VS. MODELFIT.
Similarities:
- Both workouts are made up of low impact, isometric moves to sculpt long, lean muscles.
- Focused on joint protection and hip opening.
- Use of props for targeting specific muscles – such as gliders, light weights, ankle bands, and an inner thigh ball with leg straps.
- Both on ClassPass and can be found for #10andUnder credits.
- Streaming offered.
- Studios in LA and NYC.
- ModelFit has showers, P.Volve does not.
- Low sweat factor.
Differences:
- Although they have lots of overlapping equipment, there are some pieces that do not overlap, like the P3.
- ModelFit offers more cardio classes – like dance cardio and cardio sculpt.
- ModelFit is slightly higher rep and leans more toward a traditional sculpt class.
- P.Volve tends to have more of the physical therapy influence/vibe.
SWEATS VERDICT: We have to say, the new SoHo P.Volve studio stole our hearts! We find the instructors at P.Volve to be more consistent, too. ModelFit is highly instructor dependent (we do love Abby and Javi).
BARRYS VS. ORANGE THEORY.
Similarities:
- High impact, boot camp style workouts
- Incorporation of floor work & treadmill intervals.
- Very high sweat factor.
- Hour long classes.
- Both have fully stocked amenities, including showers.
Differences:
- While both have weights and bands at the floor station, Orange Theory also offers a rowers and TRX in addition.
- Heart rate is tracked with monitors at Orange Theory (optional), which monitor performance and rankings – with specific details given. Barry’s is not tracked.
- In NYC, Barry’s is $36 per class & Orange Theory is $34.
- Barry’s is on ClassPass, OTF is not.
- Barry’s switches up the classes throughout the week according to body part: Butt + Legs, Arms + Abs, Full Body, etc. OTF separates the classes based on training type: i.e. power, endurance, or strength.
- OTF offers more of welcoming, team-based atmosphere. People who come here tend to be at varying levels of fitness. Barry’s has more of a cult vibe and intense crowd.
- OTF has a screen that allows you to follow along during floor work so you don’t get lost. At Barry’s, the instructor dictates the moves, which can sometimes be harder to follow (it’s better for those who are more advanced/don’t need as much demonstration).
- Barry’s has an amazing smoothie bar for post-class, OTF doesn’t.
- In terms of aesthetic, Barry’s is more luxurious.
SWEAT’S VERDICT: Full honesty – we don’t love either workout. But our overall preference would be OTF. This is due to the higher level of instruction and clear demonstrations on the screen. Barry’s can be a little chaotic, and OTF is better for all levels. However, when it comes to the studio vibe, Barry’s takes the cake.
