Why I love PLATEFIT
PLATEFIT is my new favorite workout in LA. Why? The moves are fun, the community is electric, and the burn is intense.
PLATEFIT is a high energy workout class on a vibrating plate. The Power Plate shakes up to 40 times per second, which tones your muscles, increases endurance, reduces cellulite, creates a lymphatic flush, and improves balance and flexibility.
There are about a dozen different class types offered at the Los Angeles studios. They range from their original classic PLATEFIT class, to AbFIT, BarreFIT, and TRX.
The workout itself is only 27 minutes long, but don’t be fooled, you will leave sweaty, toned, and craving more. Do note, PLATEFIT has a steep learning curve. My first class was challenging, awkward, and uncomfortable. Squat jumps, jumping jacks, and mountain climbers on a vibrating plate feel 10x harder than on a mat. I felt dizzy and nauseous during my first class. Yet after I burned 400 calories in just 27 minutes, I was hooked and determined to master the plate.
One of my favorite aspects of PLATEFIT is the community. The front desk associates are cheerful and inclusive, unlike the down-to-business front desk employees at larger chains like SoulCycle. They take the time to learn new client’s names and greet regulars. The studios are smaller than most boutique classes, so the instructors are able to spend more time with each client. This makes for an almost private feel to the class. Customers religiously attend classes and are often pros at the moves. Even so, the studios do not have a culty vibe and offer a very welcoming community.
There are four current locations of PLATEFIT: West Hollywood, Brentwood, Studio City, and Sycamore (Hollywood). I regularly go to the West Hollywood location, but had the opportunity to try out the brand new Sycamore studio. I heard they are looking to open a new studio in Venice in January.
Check out my review of the new Sycamore Hollywood location below
SYCAMORE STUDIO REVIEW:
Class Type: PLATEFIT - This is the studio’s original and most popular class. It is a combination of cardio and toning, using HIIT exercises and weights to build lean muscle.
Location: Sycamore (aka Hollywood). This is PLATEFIT’s newest location. It opened at the beginning of October and has been growing a steady following, for good reason - the studio is gorgeous! The large lobby is bright and cheerful with cute branded swag. There are 14 Power Plates in the studio, with plenty of space in between. Make note - there are only 3 minutes between classes, so setting up can feel rushed and confusing, especially for first timers.
Parking: Free, validated parking is located in the structure right next to the studio - score! Even better, it is above ground on the second floor of the building (low sketch factor).
Equipment: Mixed weights, bands, mini pilates balls, and weighted balls are used in variation for each class. TRX bands are also used in the regular PLATEFIT class at this location, which was a game changer. This added a level of challenge and complexity that made it way more fun.
Sweat Level: 6/10 - this class will get your heart beating! Will definitely need a rinse after, but hair washing optional.
Challenge Level: 8/10 - especially hard for first timers. The 27 minute class does not include any breaks. The vibrating plate and fast pace of the class make for a challenging and satisfying workout.
Extras: Book on ClassPass for 7 to10 credits. Make sure to bring sticky socks, which are required for the class. The studio sells them for $16 a pair, but you can get them for cheap on Amazon at about $4 a pair. These are my go to! Towels are offered in the studio along with earplugs and mints. Showers and bathrooms are in the back of the studio.
Verdict: PLATEFIT is a great workout and the new Sycamore location is stunning. I love the 27 minute workout because it is easy to fit in my schedule. I always feel toned and strong after the class, and never drained like other intense cardio classes. I will definitely go back to Sycamore PLATEFIT!
