This Buzzy Fitness Class Kicked My Ass in the Best Way — Here's What Got Me Through

First and foremost, you can't even begin to work out without the right attire. I'm talking moisture-wicking, supportive, easy to move in, and breathable. My uniform of choice is typically a full-coverage sports bra with medium-to-high support teamed with a no-fuss pair of matching performance tights. This allows instructors to clearly see and evaluate my form while keeping me cool and unbothered, so all I have to worry about is my next move.

While comfortable clothing is important, comfortable shoes are arguably more important — hence their own category. Every person in class, including the instructors, sported HOKA fitness shoes. The women had on the Tivra sneaker ($110), while the men rocked the Mach 2 ($140). I was beyond impressed with what the Tivra had to offer — especially considering how dynamic our workout was. Throughout the hour-long sweat sesh, I sprinted on the treadmill, walked on the StairMaster, lifted weights, rode a stationary bike, did mountain climbers, and more, and I never missed a beat. Not only did rubberized foam cushion my foot for lasting comfort, but the traction I experienced was impeccable.

What makes the Tivra so unique is that it boasts an innovative forefoot design that improves balance and helps support the foot for true 360-degree movement. While other training sneakers are strictly either for cardio or for weightlifting, the Tivra can handle it all, meaning it's a total game-changer. There's no question these shoes made my workout more enjoyable.

The soundtrack you sweat to can make or break your entire workout. At Switch, a live DJ accompanies every class to ensure the beats put you in beast mode. DJ Olivia was bringing the tunes during my class, and it helped fuel my workout in an unexpectedly powerful way. Not only was I amped up and in the zone, I was having fun! Dance breaks are encouraged and it was hard to resist singing along.

Intense focus is important for me when I'm working out, so I typically prefer to go at it alone. But at Switch, I learned the value of teaming up with someone else. While everyone is paired up for the workout, you're not working with your partner per se, you're just working side-by-side as you move station to station, which I personally loved.

Your partner's not there to hold you back or distract you, but they are there for encouragement and the occasional high-five if that's what you need. I brought my boyfriend along for the ride, and it felt really great having him work out beside me. We'd exchange smiles here and there, and his presence even sparked a bit of competitiveness in me. Having someone with me in the trenches did wonders for my morale and helped the class go by that much faster.

When I found myself getting tired, it helped to think about what was waiting for me after class. Once fitness time was over, it was snack time, and we were served delicious kombucha, chia pudding, and jar salads from Ancolie. Whether you've got brunch to look forward to or a coffee date, looking ahead can definitely provide major motivation for giving it your all on the floor.

While other workout classes I've taken have one, maybe two, trainers per class, Switch Playground had at least five. Someone was there to help at every station to correct your form, show you the next move, and answer any questions you may have had. These instructors were positive, high-energy, and were key to creating a relaxed, welcoming environment. There's nothing worse than feeling lost during a workout, especially when you're new, and these instructors only made things easier — ensuring no one slipped through the cracks.