We Tried It: Heated

This new Kaka‘ako fitness studio offers infrared sweat seshes that work the whole body.

April 30, 2025

Katelyn Pabila,

What: Build class and Strength x Tone class
Where: 522 Keawe St. in Kaka‘ako
When: Various classes throughout the week.
Cost: $35 for single class. Class packs ($35–$270) and monthly memberships ($190–$290) also available.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

Great music. Amazing instructors. A hot, full-body burn. Everything you want from a workout—and what you’ll find at Heated, Honolulu’s newest infrared fitness studio offering a variety of group classes.

After opening its first location in Hale‘iwa in July 2024, Heated recently launched its second studio in Kaka‘ako, with a third location coming soon to Kāhala. It soon will be taking over the Kāhala Mall space now occupied by the Burn Collective, which will be rebranded as Heated.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

If you’ve been to Burn, a heated, mat-based fitness studio, you might recognize a few familiar faces at Heated. It was founded by two former Burn instructors—Chien Jardine-Winter and Moani Hara—who partnered to create a fresh fitness experience with its own identity. I used to take their classes at Burn and loved the music they played and high energy they brought. I couldn’t wait to try their new workouts.

Heated offers six types of classes: Strength, Tone, Strength x Tone, Build, Stretch and Recover. I tried two: Build and Strength x Tone.

Build Class (45 minutes)—Friday at 9:45 a.m.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

I arrived about 15 minutes before classes started. As soon as I walked in, one of the instructors greeted me and checked me in. Equipment needs vary by class and are listed on a nearby mirror, usually along with suggested barbell weights. For Build, I needed two sets of heavy weights (one for arms, one for legs), a resistance band and a Step platform with four risers. The instructor, Chien, used 12-pound weights for her heavy arm sets and 20-pound weights for legs. I opted for 8 pounds for arms and 12 pounds for legs.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

The class, heated to 100 degrees with loud, upbeat music, began with a quick stretch, before starting on arm exercises, which included hammer curls, rear delt flys and more. Legs came next with squats, lunges and deadlifts, followed by hip thrusts for the glutes—all with weights. After a short abs session, we did a final stretch.

We did three sets of each exercise, with about 8–12 reps each and short rests in between. It was slower-paced with a focus on strength and proper form. We were encouraged to select weights heavy enough to challenge us without compromising technique. My arms were shaking (in a good way) during the “around-the-world” shoulder workout, but I probably should have gone with heavier weights for my legs. I normally sweat a lot more in classes, but because there was no cardio, it wasn’t as intense.

It was different from what I was used to. I was expecting a faster-paced class, but I love how the Build class made strength training approachable, structured and supportive. I would do it again on days when I want to focus on building muscle.

Strength X Tone Class (60 minutes)—Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

Curious to try another class, I came back the next morning for Strength x Tone. For this, we needed heavy weights (recommended 7–8 pounds for arms, 10–12 pounds for legs), mid weights (4–5 pounds), light weights (1–2 pounds), ankle weights and a resistance band.

The focus was on combination sequences like lunges → pulsing lunges→ lunge holds, and single-leg deadlifts → toe taps with leg lifts on the same supporting leg. We wore ankle weights for the entirety of class, adding an extra layer of challenge.

What stood out was how the instructor, Moani, did the entire workout with us, while cueing, correcting and motivating us to push through. It not only made the workout easier to follow, but also encouraged us to give it our all. The class was full, with great energy and a good playlist.

Compared to Build, it was faster-paced, with bursts of cardio that got my heart racing. I felt the burn during the whole class, and I left sweaty and invigorated. I’ve taken a lot of Burn classes (208 to be exact), and I would rate this Heated session a 9 (out of 10) in terms of intensity.

I love heated classes because they leave me feeling detoxed. Plus, the infrared heat has added benefits like pain relief, improved circulation, stress reduction, weight management, healthier skin and a stronger immune system. I appreciate that Heated offers a wide variety of classes depending on what your body needs. And the fact that it’s owned and operated by local women is a bonus. I ended up buying a class pack, eager to try the other classes, and as Heated’s hashtag says, I’m #addictedtotheheat.

Photo: Katelyn Pabila

Tips:

Park in the Keauhou public parking garage. It’s located within Keauhou Lane. To get validation, scan the QR code at Heated’s front desk to download the Metropolis app and create an account.
Arrive early. While the studio website states to get there at least 5 minutes prior to class, I recommend getting there 10–15 minutes before to set up the parking app, grab equipment and settle in without feeling rushed.
What to bring: Water, a towel to cover your mat and a smaller towel to wipe off sweat (trust me—you’ll need it).
Personalize your weights. Don’t be afraid to go lighter or modify exercises as needed. It’s better to prioritize good form. If you’re new, start lighter—you can always go heavier next time.
Hydrate! The room does get hot, and you will sweat. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after class.