I Tried The Viral Workout Class With An Open Bar—And Lived To Tell The Tale
I was scrolling on social media the other day when I came across a video that stopped me in my tracks. I've seen my fair share of content advertising unique and exciting experiences in New York City. But I can safely say I'd never heard of a boozy workout class until now.
GRIT BXNG describes their studio as having "an atmosphere to make you feel invincible, sexy and confident." The class itself combines treadmill-based cardio, boxing, and strength training with weights for a 50-minute, high-intensity workout. With remixes of popular songs blasting on the speakers and dim, colorful lights, the class is reminiscent of a nightclub.
The real fun, however, begins once the class is over. At the front of the studio sits a full-service bar with a variety of cocktails and mocktails to enjoy after your workout. The online reactions to the video ranged from excitement to concern. In the spirit of honesty, my initial thoughts leaned closer to the latter. Do I need a drink after a workout?
I decided to put it to the test. I stopped by GRIT BXNG for a 7:30 p.m. workout, which was followed by an après ski-themed party. It's important to note that I wouldn't necessarily call myself physically fit—I was the kind of person in P.E. class to walk the mile. Vigorous exercise isn't exactly my idea of a fun time. I've also never taken a boxing class before, but I went into the studio with an open mind.
Shockingly, the time passed quicker than I anticipated. The constant rotation between different stations kept me from losing steam at the treadmill. After 50 minutes of strobe lights, Sam Smith club mixes, and high-energy instruction, I finished the class feeling invigorated rather than exhausted.
And to keep the energy going, we exited the studio only to be greeted by a bartender holding a tray of shots. At the bar was an array of ski-themed cocktails: hot toddies, spiked hot chocolate, and boozy snow cones. On an average night at GRIT you can also order electrolyte margaritas, kale martinis, and even beer and cold brew on tap.
I started off with a snow cone, and the initial taste of liquor was a shock to my system after the workout. But the more I sipped, the more I was inclined to try another drink. Their house margarita tasted kind of like a combo of lemon-lime Gatorade and tequila. If I were anywhere else, I'd compare it to a college-era chaser. But after 50 minutes of sweating it felt appropriate.
As the post-workout party progressed, guests started using shotskis and pouring prosecco directly into their mouths. But beyond the alcohol, the GRIT studio became a prime spot for making new friends. The crowd was a blend of first timers and GRIT regulars who all happily mingled at the bar.
I met my fair share of people as well, and before I knew it, I checked my phone and I had been hanging out at the bar for nearly two hours! Time flies when you're having fun—and when you're constantly being offered mezcal shots.
I woke up the night morning just the slightest bit hungover. The soreness from the workout took a few hours to come into effect. Even after several days my legs still hurt. But it was worth it.
If you struggle to find motivation to work out, like I do, a class at GRIT may be what you need. It turns the somewhat daunting idea of a workout class into an excuse to be social. And let's be real: an open bar never hurts.
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