A New Workout OutFit

This OutFit is 0 percent spandex and 0 percent lycra, but it still stretches. 

And if you have reservations about gyms or gym memberships, you'll definitely want to try it on. OutFit is a revolutionary new all-outdoor workout system that brings the gym to you — equipment, instructor, and all — via a fleet of modified Ford Transit vans and 20-foot-long "pods" (shipping containers). Using a mobile app, OutFitters will be able to track or flag down (similar to Uber) the nearest open-air workout station — which might even be their own driveway upon request (personal trainer included). The cost? About $10 a month for eight workouts, with no penalties for cancelling. 

Outfit was developed by local entrepreneurs Anthony and Matthew Pribonic (Level Red Boxing, Iron Oxygen Fitness) in partnership with the creators of San Francisco-based TRX (Total Resistance Exercise) and is undergoing beta testing in the Erie market the week of Thanksgiving before rolling out (literally) nationwide in the months to come. Interested parties need only state their intent to participate at Iron Oxygen Fitness (2147 W. 12th St.), find the pod in the back of the parking lot, and prepare for action. 

The solar-powered, climate-controlled pod's retractable door opens to reveal a variety of genuine TRX equipment, including medicine balls, kettlebells, kevlar bags, and their patented suspension (i.e. dangling cables) and rip trainers (a sort of baton attached to a high-tension cable tied to an anchor). Instruction is given either live or remotely (through a built-in monitor), with music and prompts delivered through wireless earbuds, minimizing the potential for public disturbance complaints — especially once the more nimble vans (which are set up the same way) are in circulation. 

After a cardio warmup, OutFitters progress through a series of resistance training supersets (i.e. back-to-back exercises) using the TRX equipment, with the option of resting once they hit the "green zone," "yellow zone," or "red zone" as indicated by a timer. This way, one can tailor their workout to their fitness level or give themselves more of a break after movements they find especially challenging. Another cardio blast to close things out means you might hesitate before dialing up the heat when you return to your vehicle. 

OutFit workouts will be conducted on the following days and times Thanksgiving Week.

• Monday 11/23: 4 p.m.
• Tuesday 11/24: 3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday 11/25: 4 p.m.
• Thursday 11/26: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
• Friday 11/27: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
• Saturday 11/28: 9:30 a.m.

Stay tuned for the full launch coming this winter. 

Not expecting a workout, Matt Swanseger (mswanseger@eriereader.com) showed up to the first-ever OutFit trial session wearing jeans — yet another sobering reminder to never leave the house without his jeggings.