Friendly Fitness

Aussie-fueled fitness studio opens first Austin location

Training Mate's founder Luke Milton (center) emphasizes the importance of fun and friendship in these high-intensity workouts.

Photo courtesy of Training Mate

Just in time for Austin’s fall fitness season, Training Mate, the Australian-born HIIT studio famous for its high-energy, community-first workouts, is making its Central Texas debut. Opening Saturday, October 25, at 4341 S. Congress Ave., the new studio promises to blend sweat with smiles — all wrapped in that signature Aussie charm.

Founded by former Australian rugby star and celebrity trainer Luke Milton, Training Mate was “born on the shores of Australia, tested on the rugby field, and refined in Los Angeles,” according to its website. The concept is "49 percent workout and 51 percent social," and it's built on the Australian philosophy of "mateship."

Each 45-minute “mate-style” circuit is designed to keep energy high and boredom low. Those taking classes should expect a mix of very short 45-second strength and cardio intervals, using a variety of equipment to target every muscle group.

Some examples of classes on the schedule include: "Bondi Burn," for upper body; "Thunder Down Under," for lower body; "Might Mate" a full-body workout; and "MelBum," a glutes-focused class. The website also describes the classes as low-impact and high-reward, so participants should get the benefits of High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) with less risk of injury.

Training Mate offers flexible membership options including single-class drop-ins, class packs, and an unlimited monthly membership. For a limited time, Austinites can get an unlimited membership for $160, and a seven-day trial for $7.

The new Austin studio joins a growing list of Training Mate locations across the U.S., including two in Dallas, one in Houston, and a new Plano outpost opening November 1. The brand has also built a strong following in California, where its cheeky humor and heart-pumping workouts first caught fire.

For Austinites ready to trade intimidation for inspiration, founder Luke Milton will lead the first class on opening day. The class schedule is now live.

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OPENING ALERT

Topgolf tees up first New Braunfels location for December opening

Topgolf/Facebook

Topgolf will make its New Braunfels debut on December 5.

Rapidly growing New Braunfels is taking another big swing. Topgolf will open its newest golf venue at 427 Creekside Way on December 5, adding to a growing list of national chains settling in the once-sleepy Hill Country town.

The two-level complex marks a milestone 100th U.S. opening for the brand and the 112th worldwide. The 38,000 square foot location is a bit smaller than its big city counterparts, but will still offer the chain's signature blend of sports and entertainment.

The centerpiece is 62 outdoor, climate-controlled hitting bays across two levels. Golfers of all skill levels can play virtual courses or interactive games that test their swing or aim. To amp up the competitive spirit, each bay is outfitted with Toptracer technology, which traces each golf ball's flight path, distance, and other metrics guests can lord over their friends.

Less accomplished linksters can join Topgolf's exclusive golf club, The Sure Thing. The company says the program "is designed to make golf less hard for beginners or those whose game just isn't that great."

Those who don't know the difference between a birdie and an eagle can trash-talk their friends from lounge seating or high-tops scattered across the bays. Topgolf also offers a full-service bar and restaurant, fire pit areas, a nine-hole mini golf course, and 40 HDTVs — although the latter are more likely to be tuned into the latest Spurs game than a Vanderpump Rules reunion.

"Opening our 100th U.S. venue in New Braunfels is more than a milestone; it's a celebration of the fun, energy, and innovation that makes Topgolf unlike any other entertainment experience out there," boasted Erin Chamberlin, Topgolf Chief Operating Officer and Interim President, in a release.

The new Topgolf facility will be a centerpiece of the massive The Town Center at Creekside development, which will also bring a new outpost of budget-minded gym Eōs Fitness, Texas Roadhouse, Jeremiah's Ice, and a Chick-fil-A drive-thru.

"The grand opening of Topgolf is a significant milestone that we have eagerly anticipated for many years," said Austin Alvis, President & Chief Development Officer of developer NewQuest. "With this addition, Creekside's development is reaching its final development stages, and we are confident that it will greatly benefit our community for years to come."

Topgolf New Braunfels will be open from 9 am to midnight Sundays through Fridays, and 9 am to 1 am Saturdays. From December 5–19, any player who books and completes a one- or two-bay reservation will be automatically entered to win one year of free game play.

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