We Tried It: FS8 LoHi Combines Pilates, Yoga and Strength Training

If you love F45 and pilates classes and have never thought to look for a fitness studio that combines the two, you’re in luck. FS8 LoHi is a full body pilates workout, where you’re bound to sweat while also feeling the rehabilitation movements typical of a pilates reformer class. 

Founded by Scott Katzenstein and his partner, FS8 sessions “incorporate a yoga-inspired warm-up and cooldown, pilates on the reformer or mat and strength movements through spring resistance, dumbbells, chi balls or ring to challenge your core, stability, strength and much more,” he shared.

The couple runs F45 studios and was looking to bring the experience of TV visual aids, instructor-led classes and strength training to Denver in a pilates format. Now expanding to open another location in Colorado (on Parker Road in Centennial) and Arizona (Tempe), FS8 is quickly becoming a popular way to get your sweat on. 

Class types vary, from FS8 Original, FS8 Blast, FS8 Remix, FS8 Flex, Reformx and FS8 Restore. Each focus on a different way to workout, whether it’s active recovery in Restore or honing in on resistance in Flex. 

The Curio Cabinet tried FS8 Blast, a workout that focuses on increasing your heart rate while targeting specific muscle groups. We were on and off the reformer, utilizing our mat and weights and were feeling the workout in every part of our bodies. 

I am a yoga sculpt lover, taking 2-3 classes per week and hitting the gym for weight training throughout the week as well. I love classes that take my mind off of life and push my body hard. Typically, I don’t find this feeling in a pilates class and although I like the movements that leave your muscles shaking, I look for a workout class that is fast paced and where I’ll break a sweat. 

I was pleased to find that FS8 Blast did just that. While it incorporated the reformer, the moves were a combination of strength and cardio and I left feeling like I truly got a workout in, and boy did I feel it the next day. 

FS8 Lohi recently added several 30 minute express classes throughout the week and will be adding an extra challenging class to the schedule weekly, making the studio a place for everyone at any fitness level.

Grab your grippy socks and look out for upcoming FS8 events including hot girl walks, outdoor workouts, hikes and more. Get started with the intro offer and try 5 classes for $59.