10 Reasons Nike’s N+TC Tour LA Wowed Me

1. The space was AMAZING.
It was like a dream for any fitness-minded female. A brick warehouse district bordering downtown Los Angeles and Skid Row was transformed into a giant fitness mecca. It felt like a world-class training facility! Complete with #betterforit motivational messaging and photo op structures, the most memorable features were tucked into separate buildings, which housed the unforgettable N+TC workouts.

2. Nikechella rocked.
Walking into the N+TC event space felt reminiscent of walking into a high-energy concert: flashing lights, DJ’s spinning and thousands of screaming, sweaty women. As the sun went down, the skyline of downtown LA glistened and provided quite a nice backdrop.

3. The workouts left me in awe—and in a puddle of sweat.
I was prepared for a long night of tough workouts, but these workouts were insane—very clever, crazy difficult and left me wanting more (seriously!). In addition, high-profile female athletes and LA’s best trainers led them. Here are a few of my favorites:

• PREVAIL: Boxing. Yes, there was an actual boxing ring set up to help perfect your jab.
• FLYWHEEL: An edgy, pop-up spin studio.
• POUND: One of the most fun workouts I have ever done. Loud music and a choreographed routine allowed me to make some noise with my own set of drum sticks.
• NRC Speed & Run: Nike built an actual track under the historic Sixth Street Bridge. We learned speed drills from Olympic female runners and the Nike Running Club. This was my personal favorite—are you surprised?

There was also a room filled with foam rollers and yoga mats so you could stretch those muscles for the next workout at any time.

Related: Nike’s #BetterForIt Campaign

4. The shopping spoiled me.
Nike created a pop-up store for participants to shop their clothes and catch a sneak peek at soon-to-be released items. I had no problem spending time and money here. Whole Foods gave us quinoa bowls, and Suja provided some delicious juices to help fuel through the night.

5. Beyond the Bell benefited from the night.
Nike donated $10,000 to Beyond the Bell, LAUSD’s after-school program dedicated to keeping kids active after school.

6. Girl power was strong.
The Nike Training Club event was about celebrating health, fitness and getting your butt kicked(!) with one another. I was shocked at how comfortable and empowered I felt working out with women I had never met before. I didn’t feel odd dishing out high-fives or sharing hugs after a workout. (Trust me, I am not a hugger.)

Related: Photos From 2014 Nike Women’s Half Marathon

7. There was an encore, all-weekend option.
By signing up for the N+TC City Pass, participants were able to get access to Nike Training Club events all weekend, including Nike Training Club group runs or a morning yoga session in Santa Monica.

8. The tights were so hip.
As part of the Tight of the Moment campaign, Nike designed specialty tights for the event, as well as the other cities on their tour. They are awesome, comfortable and by far the most hip thing I own. You can check them out here.

9. Fire, fireworks and dancers rocked my world.
If a choreographed dance routine, fire and fireworks erupted in front of me after a hard workout, I might hit the gym a bit more. Unfortunately, that only happens at the grand finale of the N+TC event.

10. The experience left me sore—but hungry for more.
As I woke up the following morning sore and stumbling, I found myself smiling at what I had accomplished just a few hours ago. I also found myself online, browsing for a new Nike outfit. Beyond their trendy workout clothes, the brand offers experiences that empower me to better myself through fitness. I am ready for next year!

Pictures are worth a thousand words—take a peek at our 15 Badass Photos from the N+TC event!