ConBody

ConBody has an incredible concept. The studio was founded by a former convict who ended up losing over 70 lbs while he was behind bars. The founder also hires former inmates as trainers at the studio. While the studio is a no frills atmosphere you can still expect all the bells and whistles when it comes to the outcome of your workout. You will be pushed to the max by the intense trainers in this class and possibly get a tiny glimpse into what life is like behind bars….if you’re up for it! Overall you will get a tough full body workout and leave feeling a mutual benefit as this space is also giving former convicts a new start to their life.

RUNDOWN

WORKOUT

The workout at ConBody is no joke. Derek ran us through a quick warmup and then moved right into the main part of class. All the exercises in the class are done with just your own bodyweight as this is suppose to emulate a prison style workout in which you don’t have any fancy equipment or weights. The workout was organized into chunks of exercises that we did in a Tabata style. We did a lot of burpees, lunges, push ups, pull ups and planks. There was also a good mix of cardio in between the body weight exercises such as jumping jacks and mountain climbers. You will sweat but it will be one of the best full body workouts you may try since the intensity and energy in the room is so high! Another interesting aspect of class is that it is done without sneakers so make sure you bring socks although some went barefoot.

INSTRUCTOR

Derek was extremely motivating and energetic. His music was mostly a mix of hip hop and rap which perfectly fits the vibe of the studio. Derek demonstrated every exercise and did most of them with us during the workout. He made the atmosphere in the room have a inclusive and team centric vibe which demanded accountability to the other members in the class. Derek expected a high level of intensity from all in the room and ran the class in a bootcamp style which was intense but made the time fly!

SPACE

ConBody is a no frills studio. When you arrive in the lower east side studio you immediately feel the vibe that the founder is trying to set as you walk through the faux cell doors. The studio space itself is not very large but is on par with many NYC studios. There are lockers at the front of the studio but you need to bring your own lock. There are also towels for client use but you must purchase water if you don’t have a bottle handy. There is one shower but it is first come, first serve basis and clients are held to a strict 5 minute shower policy.