Tone Up, Slim Down in Style

Unique D.C. gyms to get in shape

By LAURA SIBIGTROTH

Updated 10:30 AM EDT, Mon, Dec 1, 2008

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Summer is wonderful because you can work out outdoors. As we quickly transition to winter, it might be a good idea to look into a gym membership. Going to the gym can be an extremely dull experience, but luckily the DC area has a few great gyms that make working out fun.

Mint Gym- A unique gym with an environment that seems more like a day spa than your everyday gym with their soft colors, natural decorations and soft music. Mint is focused on not overwhelming the senses of the individual, which is why they cut off memberships after it reaches capacity. Mint doesn’t want their facility over crowded or people waiting to use equipment. Other perks of the gym include free personal training with membership, group classes, a smoothie and sandwich bar, as well as a day spa. www.mintfitness.com

Results Gym- Locations in Dupont Circle as well as Capitol Hill. Results offers basketball courts, volleyball courts, Jacuzzi tubs, a café with healthy, fresh options made daily, day care services. Results Gym offers nutrition counseling, personal training services as well as rock climbing. They offer month by month or yearly memberships. See www.resultsthegym.com for more information.

Balance Gym-This is a great gym for sports lovers. Guests have the opportunity to participate in competitive sports such as basketball and volleyball. Balance offers a variety of classes including strength training, boot camp and flexibility. They also have a ton of different exercise equipment and a newly renovated facility. A standard membership costs about $60 per month. See their Web site at www.balancegym.com for more information.

Vida Fitness- Offers the most extensive list of classes. There is a new class going on each hour of the day. Japanese soaking tubs, endless pools and saunas/steam rooms are some of Vida’s best features. For more information, see their Web site at www.vidafitness.com.