Reach New Heights with Vessel Run

Following a dynamic warm-up, we dove into the workout, which entailed running up and down the Vessel’s steps — twice. In between those running blocks, we’d complete AMRAP circuits (in which you complete as many reps as you can in a period of time) of resistance band exercises like squats, chest presses, and biceps curls. Running up the steps humbled me, but I held in for a final push consisting of push-ups, squat jumps, and burpees. By the time we started a cool-down stretch session, my legs were shaking.

It was my first introduction to Equinox’s proprietary Precision Run methodology, precisely programmed to maximize running performance. Vessel Run, in particular, was designed to challenge both endurance and muscular agility, all while improving functional fitness with running, climbing, balancing, and core conditioning.

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Prior to trying Vessel Run, I hadn’t run stairs since hitting the bleachers during high-school track practices more than a decade ago. It felt trying but rewarding to reignite my former athlete, and I was inspired to read up on the benefits of scaling stairs — and there are many.

In a 2023 review of studies, stair climbing was found to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, metabolic fitness markers (e.g., insulin sensitivity), and vascular function. The review included studies where people climbed the steps at various paces, so you don’t necessarily need to run to glean the benefits. I was not at all surprised to learn that stair climbing improves your cardio fitness to the same degree as flat-surface walking in a shorter period of time, based on how my lungs felt during class.

I hope to make it back to the class, which will run every Thursday morning at 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., weather permitting, now through September. Tickets are available on the Vessel site, and an additional 7 a.m. option on Tuesdays is open to Equinox Destination members, bookable through the Equinox+ app. Can’t make it to the Vessel? Replicate the experience in your own Club with Precision Run + Strength and Precision Walk: Elevate.

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Vessel Run was unique from any class I’ve tried, and I savored the opportunity to start my day with a tough workout amid views of my favorite city. And yes, we had the chance to take photos after the cool-down, so I still got the conventional Vessel experience in the end.