5 /5 Marilyn MC: 2/15 and 2/16—-F45 Pompano Beach: A Post-Cruise Reality Check
After nine days of indulgence on the Explora 1 MSC—think gourmet meals, endless buffets, and fancy desserts—I finally disembarked, feeling both satisfied and slightly guilty. Sure, I managed to stay active with all the walking and hiking across different countries and islands, but deep down, I missed the torture of a proper 45-minute high-intensity workout.
The moment I got back to Pompano Beach, I started hunting for a gym. F45 was by far the easiest to book, and I liked that. No complicated sign-up process—just download the app, send a message, and register before showing up. Simple. This location was a bit of a drive from my hotel, but I was committed. After all, once you sign up in advance, you’re less likely to back out—especially when youre on vacation and the temptation to just “relax” is strong.
Saturday: Sweat Like You Mean It
I dropped in for $25, arrived at the gym, signed in on their iPad, stretched, and mentally prepared for the suffering ahead. And oh, did it deliver! The Florida heat combined with the workout intensity had me sweating out all nine nights of cruise luxury—no exaggeration. At that moment, I truly missed the cold Boston weather. Pro tip: bring a towel; I was smart enough to grab mine from the hotel.
Coach Kelley was fantastic—she explained every movement clearly, kept the motivation sky-high, and made sure everyone stayed engaged. The playlist? A solid mix of reggaeton beats that kept my mind distracted from wondering, "When is this over?" I may or may not have been singing along between gasps for air.
Sunday: A Different Kind of Struggle
Sunday’s workout was equally intense but in a whole new way. I woke up sore—thighs screaming at me—but I remembered a wise saying: “Pain is just weakness leaving the body.” So I dragged myself back. Another brutal session. Another round of questioning my life choices. But hey, thats why we do it, right?
Before leaving, I bought a T-shirt because I love collecting gym shirts from places I train. This one? Lightweight, breathable—perfect for Florida’s heat.
The New England Connection
One funny moment: I noticed Coach Kelley’s accent right away. That classic East Coast R—sometimes pronounced, sometimes mysteriously missing. I asked, “where are you from?” She said “Massachusetts “ and I was like “I knew it “ She laughed and said, “Yeah, you could tell?” I nodded. “Of course! That accent is unmistakable.” We had a good laugh because, as someone with a Spanish accent, I know how accents stick with you.
Final Verdict
I loved this place. The coaches were supportive, the people were down-to-earth, and unlike the F45 in Miami Beach—where everyone looks like they walked straight out of a TV show—I felt completely comfortable. Great vibes, great workout, 100% recommended.
If youre ever in Pompano Beach and need a reality check after too much vacation indulgence, F45 is the place to be. Just be ready to sweat. A lot.
I try not to take too many pics with people in it no one wants to be in a picture only drenched in sweat lol !
