F45 Fitness: Embracing the Workout

Functional. That's the 'F word' I'm talking about. 

Although, if a different set of syllables came to mind, it was likely the word I muttered under my breath during a set of burpees in my first class.

Like most worthwhile transformative experiences, it was a trial by fire—and I loved it.

But before we get ahead of ourselves, let's introduce you to F45 Training, the cult fitness brand from Down Under, with Chief Brand Officer Mark Wahlberg leading the charge.

Each F45 class is 45 minutes long, combining HIIT, functional training, resistance workouts, and cardio circuits.

Designed to burn fat, build muscle, improve functional form, and torch up to 1,000 calories, these classes are as effective as they are intense.

There are now thousands of boutique F45 studios worldwide, including several in the UAE (Marina, Motor City, Meydan, Town Square, Mirdif, and Downtown).

I'd heard independent claims about their impressive results over short periods.

Though I know there are no shortcuts in fitness, there are crash courses—so I downloaded the app and took advantage of their one-week trial for Dhs199 at the Palm Jumeirah branch.

The next day, I stood outside the glass-fronted studio for the 7am class, nervously nursing a can of pre-workout.

Ashley, the warm and professional studio manager, welcomed me. New recruits have to get on a futuristic-looking set of scales, a rite of passage that analyzes your BMI, weight, and other sobering metrics.

Then came the warm-up—stretches and some light cardio. "This is fine," I thought, "I can do this."

Looking back, that was more proactive gaslighting than a reaffirming mantra.

Today's session was 'Titans,' a series of resistance-focused circuits targeting both the lower and upper body.

With 45 seconds on and a 20-second break in between, I had envisioned 70s drill sergeants.

But the trainers were incredibly encouraging, knowledgeable, and generous with their time. I've been running a bit over the past year and consider myself reasonably cardio fit.

What F45 showed me instantly is how few of my muscles I'd actually been testing until now.

After the session, it took a few days before I could walk downstairs without looking like a meme.

It was brutal, humbling, intense, and challenging. But as I said in the opening paragraph, "I love it." Several weeks in, and I still loved it from the very first class.

The real 'F word' here turns out to be Forever.

Join F45 Training at Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah

Membership packages start from Dhs1,100 (special offers available). Currently, the Palm Jumeirah branch offers a Dhs199 trial package (up to seven sessions free) and a special summer deal of six weeks unlimited classes for Dhs1,399.

Valid for use at Dubai Marina, Motor City, Meydan, Town Square, Mirdif, and Downtown.

For more information or to book your first class, WhatsApp (058) 527 0045.

Meet the Trainer: Ashley Gayle, Studio Manager

Why is F45 so effective?

F45 workouts are dynamic and challenging, often incorporating a variety of exercises such as cardio, strength training, and plyometrics.

The program emphasizes full-body workouts using equipment like dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises.

One of the key aspects of F45 on the Palm is its focus on group training and a sense of community.

Members work out together in a supportive environment led by certified coaches who guide them through the workouts.

The program's structure and variety of exercises make it appealing to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, from beginners to experienced athletes.

Each workout is a carefully crafted blend of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), circuit training, and functional exercises, designed to boost metabolism, sculpt your physique, and elevate endurance.

From cardio circuits to strength training and everything in between, every movement is purposeful, and every sweat bead is a testament to your dedication.

A Day in the Life of an F45 Palm Jumeirah Member

5am: Wake up with a lemon water.

6am: F45 Marathon Class at Palm Studio.

8am: Breakfast – Scrambled eggs with spinach and tomatoes on wholegrain toast.

10:30am: Morning Snack – Greek yogurt with honey and almonds.

1pm: Lunch – Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, avocado, and a light vinaigrette dressing, paired with a glass of water with lemon or lime.

4pm: Afternoon Snack – Hummus with vegetable sticks for dipping.

6pm: After-work walk around the beautiful sights of the palm to increase steps.

7:30pm: Dinner – Baked salmon with lemon, garlic, and herbs. Quinoa pilaf cooked with diced vegetables and steamed broccoli. Beverage options include herbal tea or water.

Optional evening snack – Sliced apple with almond butter.

Join F45 Training at Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah

Membership packages start from Dhs1,100 (special offers available).

Source: whatson

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.