Orange Theory

Where: 425 I Street, NW is the new studio opening up in the coming months, but there are plenty of locations just outside the district in Arlington and Alexandria.
Why: According to their website, “The idea of Orangetheory is this: a 60-minute workout designed to push you into the Orange Zone.” They use science and fine-tuned workouts to push you to your optimal level of exertion and burn the most calories possible. On average, they claim to help you burn anywhere from 500-1000 calories per workout. These guys mean business.
How much: It’s class based, so it depends on how often you plan to go. 4 classes a month will cost you roughly $60/month, 8 is around $100, and unlimited is $150.

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Zengo

Where: 4 studios in the DMV area.
Why it’s worth it: It’s a high energy, high calorie burning, highly trendy exercise. And it’s fun! It’s not just sitting on a bike for an hour; it’s core training, weight training, and cardio all wrapped up in one neat little 50-minute package.
How much: One class is $22, but if you plan on trying out more than that you should go for one of their multi-class packages. Photo courtesy of @zengocycle

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LA Fitness

Where: 1101 Connecticut Ave NW
Why: It meets all your basic gym needs for a reasonable price. No cap on attendance and no required classes to take so you can go at your own pace.
How much: Their website advertises a $25 initiation fee and $30/month after that, but that could potentially vary a bit by location.

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Planet Fitness

Where: 1406 Okie St NE
Why: Again – all your basic membership needs.
How much: If $30 per month is too pricey, how does $10 sound? If you bump it up another $9 a month to the premium membership, you also get a free t-shirt, 1/2 price sports drinks, and some other cool perks.

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Crossfit

Where: Everywhere. And if you can’t find it, just keep your ear to the ground. The first rule of Crossfit is you do not stop talking about Crossfit.
Why you should try it: It’s a great workout, plain and simple. You push yourself to the limit and then push yourself even more, before you know it you can dead lift twice your weight no problem. But be careful if this is the route you take – it’s easy to get hurt going so hard so fast.
How much: Depends what gym you join. Crossfit DC offers memberships starting at $189.

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Soul Cycle

Where: 4 studios in the district
Why: It’s trendy, fun, and it’s hard work that works. If you’re a cardio lover, this is definitely the place to go. Bonus: you get to listen to good music while you work out to keep you going.
How much: First ride is only $20, and classes after that start at $30 per session. If you plan ahead, though, you can buy multiple class passes starting with 5 for $145.

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Nike Clubs

Where: Training and running clubs have been popping up all over DC, but the Nike ones we’re featuring here all end up at Nike Georgetown, so you can reward yourself with some sweet workout swag when you’re done.
Why: Running can get boring by yourself. Run with a friend or 20 and now you’ve got something to be excited about. You also have a built-in support system you don’t get from working out by yourself. With this group, they’ll all help keep you going when you want to give up.
How much: Free! Just reserve a spot online when they open up.

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Beta Martial Arts Academy

Where: 1353 Florida Ave NW
Why you should try it: I can get in shape AND learn how to kick some ass? Count me in. This is probably the coolest option on the list. Not only do you learn the discipline of your choice, but if you get good enough you can go up against other martial artists in competitions. Talk about a great new hobby.
How much: Prices vary based on what you want to try. They offer a wide range of training sessions and instruction options and are willing to work with you in order to bring out your best, so the right move is just to contact them for details.

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