Fitness trainer Isaac Boots already had a loyal following, but since the start of the pandemic, he’s gained the attention of workout aficionados and novices nationwide by streaming his signature Torch’d workouts for free on Instagram – raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for No Kid Hungry along the way.
Now, you can take one of Isaac’s incredible Torch’d classes in person at Topping Rose House’s Clubhouse, a new outdoor socially distant fitness collective led by some of the country’s most popular trainers.
We recently caught up with Isaac about the celeb-approved workout, the Hamptons, the No Kid Hungry fundraiser and much more.
Vanessa Hudgens, Kelly Ripa, and Lisa Rinna are among Torch’d fans. Could you speak to the genesis of the beloved workout?
IB: (And fellow Hamptonites, Jessica Chastain, Naomi Watts, Aerin Lauder & Christy Turlington!) Torch’d was born on the Broadway stage. I created it for myself when I was dancing in the Broadway production of West Side Story. I didn’t have time to go to the gym because West Side Story was such a demanding, visceral show. So, I created a 45 minute to an hour flow of targeted reps, body resistance and dance conditioning that I could do anywhere. Every night before the show I would set up my little boombox blasting Madonna and do Torch’d alone on the Palace Theatre stage, and slowly but surely the rest of the cast started joining in. So, I would have the Jets and the Sharks and Maria and Bernardo lifting their legs and working their core as I shouted out orders. I caught the bug and passion for it on that stage.
Torch’d has officially arrived in the Hamptons. You’ll be teaching classes at the Clubhouse at the Topping Rose House in Bridgehampton. What can class-goers expect?
IB: Torch’d at the Clubhouse is a fabulous mixture of festive, generous and excited people getting Torch’d on the gorgeous lawn with phenomenal beats by DJ extraordinaire Callie Reiff. A perfect way to start your weekend morning, especially because my poodle, Davis, plays my assistant.
During the pandemic, you’ve raised more than $500,000 for No Kid Hungry through classes streamed on Instagram. Why was that a cause you wanted to support and what does it mean to you to be able to raise such a substantial amount of money at a time when food insecurity has skyrocketed across the nation?
IB: We’re actually almost at $600,000!!! How amazing is that?! Supporting No Kid Hungry was a no brainer for me. The thought of a child not knowing where their next meal is coming from is a pretty frightening and abysmal notion to me. I come from extremely humble means, so I recognize myself in these kids. I am very blessed to have experienced so many wonderful things in my career, so I feel motivated to give back and make sure I continue to do my part.
For those struggling to stay motivated, or looking to get back into the swing of things, what advice would you offer?
IB: Join into my Instagram Live @isaacboots every day at 11AM EST (11:30AM EST on the weekends). Do a little bit every day, take as many breaks as you need, but SHOW UP. Consistency, even if it’s just a few minutes a day, is where the change happens.
Do you have a favorite post sweat session treat?
IB: Ruinart Rosé and a bucket of ice.
What are a few songs that you have to have on your workout playlist?
IB: Madonna Miles Away, Lady Gaga Fun Tonight, George Michael I Want Your Sex, Kim Petras Meet the Parents, The Weeknd Blinding Lights.
What does an ideal day and evening in the Hamptons look like?
IB: I work non-stop during the week, so I’ve recently taken Saturday and Sunday afternoons off. I love going pon de boat and having a day on the water with my best friends. Stop off at Duryea’s for a sensible Lobster Cobb Salad, watch the sunset and head back to Bianca Jebbia’s house for a splash of champagne.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
IB: Come get Torch’d with us at the Clubhouse at Topping Rose! It’s such a beautiful experience meeting everyone (social distanced, of course) who got Torch’d with me during the quarantine and also meeting those who never tried Torch’d before. Lifting our booties and spirits through the end of summer!
Torch’d at the Clubhouse will be held on weekends throughout the rest of the summer.
Topping Rose House is located at 1 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike in Bridgehampton. To book a class, visit www.theclubhouselife.com.