Why did OrangeTheory close in Santa Barbara?

 

OrangeTheory closes April 27th

The Orangetheory Fitness studio at Paseo Nuevo Mall in downtown Santa Barbara is closing its doors on April 27th, 2025. Located at 651 Paseo Nuevo, this studio has been a staple for local fitness enthusiasts.

Since we’ve been in business in Santa Barbara, we’ve seen many fitness places come and go including Mayweather Boxing, Trinity Dojo, Killer Bee in Santa Barbara, the Camp Transformational Center and many others.

Since 2002, we’ve weathered many of the same storms and understand how hard it is to keep a fitness space alive—especially downtown! We’re so sad to see a place with such a great reputation close its doors.

Luckily, some members will go train in their Goleta location.

WHY DID THEY CLOSE?

While the official reason hasn’t been shared for Orangetheory’s closure, several suspected (but unconfirmed) factors may have played a role:

  • High Rent at Paseo Nuevo – Malls are expensive. Lease renewals or rising costs might’ve made it unsustainable.

  • Post-Pandemic Shift – Many gyms have struggled to rebuild membership and attendance.

  • Franchise Challenges – Some franchisees nationwide have faced financial strain, including unpaid rent and consolidations.

  • Corporate Restructuring – Orangetheory’s 2024 merger with Self Esteem Brands may have led to location reviews.

Discover KUT: A New Era of Heart-Rate-Based Training

For those that prefer to stay local, luckily there is an alternative fitness programs that offer similar benefits in downtown Santa Barbara. Our KUT Program (Kickboxers Ultimate Training) at SB Dojo provides a dynamic, heart-rate-monitored group workout experience.

KUT is a self-paced, beginner friendly workout that combines cardio, strength, and endurance training, and utilizes wearable heart rate monitors to ensure you stay within your optimal training zones for maximum results.​

A few advantages that the KUT program offers:
- Learn the skill of Kickboxing while getting in shape!
- Come and train without needing to reserve your spot
- No confusing equipment to learn about.
- Choose between cardio kickboxing classes and power bands resistance classess

We are conveniently located at 122 E. Gutierrez St., Santa Barbara, CA 9310 - just a few blocks from Paseo Nuevo Mall.​

 

Special Offer for Former Orangetheory Members

To support those affected by the Orangetheory closures, we're offering a special promotion.

Try KUT for 2 Weeks for Only $40

Experience the KUT difference with unlimited classes for two weeks at a discounted rate. This offer is available for a limited time and exclusively for new members. Satisfaction is guaranteed so you have nothing to lose.

Click Here to sign up and start your fitness journey with KUT today.

 
 
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