With Cassell and Jacobs fitness facilities on campus, it may seem students don’t need to venture elsewhere to get in shape. However, for those wanting to try something new or not see classmates every time they enter a gym, going off campus to work out may be the better choice.
Here are five unique, cheap gym options that your body and wallet will love.
CROSSFIT
CrossFit DC
1722 14th St NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 450-6432
The crossfit craze consuming the country brings a level of difficulty beyond the typical 30-minute elliptical session. Licensed trainers teach proper techniques to their students, helping to maximize the effectiveness of the workout and ensure safety.
CrossFit DC is one of the premiere crossfit-dedicated gyms in the District despite their steep prices. However, the gym offers two free one-hour introductory classes per week on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 1 p.m.
The workout location also offers a deal on their Elements program, which includes six classes over a two-week period and four free classes upon completion of the program. The Elements program’s student discount price is $190.
ZUMBA/DANCE
Jordin’s Paradise
1215 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 997-8211
Zumba, the high-energy dance workout, has become popular over the last few years. Even Michelle Obama enjoys this fast-paced workout, taking a Zumba class at AU a few years ago.
Jordin’s Paradise is a dance studio on Connecticut Avenue that offers student prices for Zumba classes as well as other offered sessions like pole dancing and chair dancing. And if you “like” Jordin’s Paradise Facebook page, the first class is free.
CYCLING
SoulCycle
Location TBD
This cycling studio chain will open a D.C. location in nine months, but has yet to announce its location, according to a Wall Street Journal article. However, anticipation for the studio is high.
SoulCycle currently has locations in New York City and across California. The draw to SoulCycle is the studio’s emphasis on personal fitness and mental well-being with fun-loving,encouraging instructors and a welcoming environment.
YOGA
Bikram Yoga Bethesda
7832 Wisconsin Ave
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 215-7820
AU students go through numerous stresses of daily college life. Yoga can help stretch and exercise the body, but also relax the mind and regain focus. Bikram is a style of yoga performed in high heat, making muscles more pliable.
Bikram Yoga Bethesda provides a work-study program for students. In exchange for free yoga classes at the studio, students must commit to small weekly shift(s) to help around the studio. This includes helping around the business, prepping towels and tidying up the studio. Interested students should send an email to qureshi.zareem@gmail.com to discuss the opportunity.
Cycling Yoga
Sculpt DC
950 F St NW
Washington, DC 20004
(202) 885-9950
Sculpt DC combines cycling and yoga at one location, featuring state-of-the-art cycling facilities and a separate calming and re-energizing yoga studio. There is also a storefront boutique, which sells workout and well-being essentials.
This gym caters to students by offering a student discount of 10 percent off membership and an Energy Exchange program. Students can receive free yoga and cycling class in exchange for helping out around the studios for a certain amount of time.
jmorice@theeagleonline.com
