Mint

Where: 2 DC locations: Downtown and DuPont
Why: It’s not just a gym, but also a studio and day spa. Get sweaty then get pampered.
When: Open weekdays from 5am-10/11pm, weekends 7/8am-8/9pm.
How much: Basic Training membership is upwards of $138 a month, but you get everything from unlimited classes to spa access and free passes for friends. If you want to downsize a little because you spent all your money at Seacrets this Summer, they have a $98 All-Access membership that’s still pretty inclusive. The spa, however, does not require membership. But it does cost to be pampered, so check ahead. Photo courtesy of @mintwellnessdc

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Balance

Where: 5 DC locations so there’s bound to be one at least semi-convenient to you (but the one in Thomas circle looks the coolest). Each location offers slightly different workout options, including but not limited to: cross fit, personal training, whatever Piloxing is, and “total body wellness”.
Why: They have everything and they have it for a reasonable price (see below).
When: Each location varies their hours of operation, but you can check out a full schedule online of everything they offer and where.
How much: $64 a month can get you passes to just about every class and huge discounts on personal training and other options. Don’t want to commit just yet? They also offer free trial classes – just fill out an online registration form.  Photo courtesy of yelp.com

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Yoga in the Park with Lululemon

Where: DuPont and Logan Circles
Why: It’s FREE. It’s also run by the pros at Logan Circle’s Lululemon, so not only is it awesome that you don’t have to pay, but you get an expertly directed all-levels class plus the bonus of the great outdoors.
When: Every Wednesday at 6pm
How much: Again, totally free. All you have to do is bring your own mat (and wear workout clothes), so if you’re already a yoga person you’ll have no problem with this one. No? Still okay. A decent yoga mat will only run you 5 bucks.

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Capital Bikeshare

Where: EVERYWHERE. There are over 3,000 bicycles at your disposal with hundreds of drop-off/pick-up locations. Get where you want to go, and leave it there.
Why: Because driving in DC is the worst and walking takes too long (let’s not get started on the fiasco that is the Metro). It makes it easy to not only commute, but get some exercise while you’re at it.
When: Whenever. It’s based on hourly rates and you can rent one at any time.
How much: $8 for a day pass, but if you plan on using it more than twice a week, definitely invest in the month or year pass, it’s way more economical.

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Zengo

Where: 4 studios in the DMV area.
Why: 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.
When: Timing varies by location, but many of the instructors are really active on social media and make it super easy to find a time and location that works for you.
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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Solidcore

Where: 4 DC locations
Why: It’s an amazing core strengthening class that will leave you full and satisfied after just 50 minutes. Michelle Obama does it. Look at her arms.
When: Almost all day everyday. They have a complete schedule on their website and lists of awesome instructors – you can find your ideal location and a time you can attend with no problem, even if you want to attend a class today.
How much: New clients get great deals and after that they vary in price based on timing. An off-peak class, for example, is less expensive than one that everyone attends right after work. Photo courtesy of solidcore.com

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Pilates in the Park

Where: Farragut Square (next to the Farragut North Metro station at Connecticut & K)
Why: The Golden Triangle – an area marked by it’s savvy businesses and over 550 bars, shops, parks, and more – hosts this bi-weekly gathering in the midst of the DC rush hour. It’s the calm eye of the storm.
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30; you can drop in before you hop on the metro a Bikeshare home.
How much: Free! All they ask is to bring your own yoga mat. We suggest going a little early to grab a spot – a good 100 people have been said to come out for each class.  Photo courtesy of waashingtonian.com

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Nike Run Clubs

Where: Run Clubs have been popping up all over DC, but the Nike ones we’re featuring here all end up at the 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 get 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.
When: A weekly calendar is put up every Sunday afternoon, and just about every day has a run scheduled.
How much: Free! Just reserve a spot online.

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Barre3 at Union Market

Where: There are a ton of Barre studios in the DMV area, but this one is a free community class held at Union Market.
Why: MOTHER OF GOD who knew such tiny movements could hurt so much? Barre combines essential positions of ballet, yoga, and pilates with weights and props to concentrate on isometric strengthening. And it works.
When: Every Tuesday at Dock 5 above Union Market at 6:15pm
How much: Free! RSVP online via Eventbrite and enjoy your last moments with muscles that don’t hate you.  Photo courtesy of yelp.com

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Mountain Training

Where: Stanton Park in DC, sponsored by The North Face.
Why: Working out using Mountain Athletics is just an awesome way to use the environment as your gym. It’s like parkour, but you won’t end up on an “Epic Fails” list. It’s also lead by two The North Face trainers who vow to help you achieve your outdoor goals, whatever they may be. Want to get your ski game stronger? They got you. Summit a mountain? No problem. Want to feel a little less lazier than you did yesterday? Still on your side.
When: Every Tuesday at 6:30pm from now through December.
How much: Also free! Again, RSVP with Eventbrite and show up a few minutes before start time to get warmed up.  Photo courtesy of washingtonpost.com

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Go Kayaking

Where: There’s 3 locations: the Key Bridge, Ballpark, or National Harbor.
Why: We’ve mentioned doing this before on our Summer Bucket List, but it’s still relevant: hang out in a self-powered boat for half a day and you’ve burned off more calories than you’d have eaten if you went to happy hour instead. And you’ll have so much fun doing it you won’t even notice.
When: All day everyday while the warm season sticks around. Each location has different specific hours, but they generally open late morning (10-11) and send the last boats out in the evening (5:30-7). Check the website for location details.
How much: Depending on your preferred flotation device (they have other options besides Kayaks if that’s not what you’re into), rentals can be anywhere from $15-30 per hour.

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