The new year is a time for a change. We make resolutions and goals for the year ahead and we reflect on the previous year and where we could make self-improvements. If fitness and wellness are a priority on your resolution list this year — look no further than Club Sweat in Riverside/ Old Greenwich. This hidden gem offers a total wellness experience and is a one-stop shop for all your fitness needs. From infrared saunas to fitness classes, a wellness boutique including a local CBD company, and even a kids room for busy parents. You can find everything you need in a new year’s resolution at Club Sweat.
We sat down with the owners (who are also Greenwich newlyweds!) to get the inside scoop on why they started the business and their vision for 2020. Spoiler alert — new class offerings and products coming this month!
GL: How did the concept of Club Sweat come about? And what is Club Sweat?
CS: Club Sweat is the first group fitness class utilizing a cross-trainer! We were originally Elliptica Studios but realized (once we had clients utilizing the studio) that the name pigeon-holed us and we really wanted to create a total wellness experience. The idea of adding an infrared sauna for restoration and rest days was something were really drawn to and inspired us to expand our class offerings. Currently, we offer a strength and stretch format in addition to our standard cardio class. We recently collaborated with LEVEN CBD to carry their muscle rubs, bath bombs, and serums.
GL: Can you tell me more about your class formats?
CS: Of course! A few times a week we offer an intro class. It's 30 minutes instead of 45 and goes through all the positions and breakdown of class. It's designed specifically for new clients so that we can talk about fitness goals and make sure we are providing the best experience that is tailored to them and their goals. Then there is our traditional 45-minute class which combines running, sprinting, climbing and light weights on the cross-trainer. Stretch 50 and Strength 50 are both 30 minutes of cardio and 20 minutes of strength training or stretching. In January, we will be launching our mobility class which will be another great recovery component to our fitness program.
All classes are instructor-led, to motivating upbeat music and our instructors love to do theme classes. We did Madonna vs Britney Spears and it was a total hit.
GL: What are the benefits of infrared saunas?
CS: Infrared saunas are an effective tool for natural healing and prevention. Infrared light has the ability to penetrate human tissue which in turn produces a host of health benefits making infrared saunas one of the “hottest” therapies for overall healthier living. Our Sunlighten sauna offers chromotherapy which is the science of using colors to adjust body vibrations to frequencies that result in health and harmony.
GL: CBD is also a hot topic right now. What can you tell us about LEVEN?
CS: We are so excited to partner with LEVEN. Leven is the Dutch word for “life,” and their mission is that the goodness of cannabidiol offers the perfect natural solution to delivering a well-balanced and holistic lifestyle. Studies have shown that consistent CBD use can help with pain relief, anxiety, and sleep. We find that we have similar consumer values which makes it a great fit!
GL: How sweaty will someone get in the sauna?
CS: Sweating is good for you. It is the body’s safe and natural way to heal and stay healthy. Infrared saunas heat the body directly, causing a rise in core temperature. This results in a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level, where toxins reside. Unlike traditional saunas which operate at extremely harsh temperatures, ours is a gentle, therapeutic heat that promotes relaxation and improved sleep. Sunlighten infrared saunas help you receive an invigorating deep-tissue sweat, leaving you fully refreshed after each session.