Just moved to DC? Been here for years but looking for a change? Whether you're looking for high-end amenities, a serious strength-training environment, or a budget-friendly option, DC has plenty of gyms to choose from. With a mix of locally owned spots, well-known franchises, and luxury fitness centers, there’s something for everyone if you know where to look. Here’s a breakdown of the best gyms in DC and what makes them stand out.
Balance Gym
Balance Gym has been a staple in the DC fitness community for years. While it used to have multiple solid locations, the Capitol Hill location is really the only option these days.
Amenities:
- CrossFit!
- Great lifting areas
- Amazing classes
- Locally owned with a strong community
Gold's Gym
Gold's Gym is a no-nonsense gym that delivers. It's been around forever. Rosslyn, Georgetown, and NoMa are the best locations.
Amenities:
- Open Spaces galore
- No-nonsense lifting
- Steam room, sauna, and spacious locker rooms in some locations
Equinox
Equinox is the luxury gym experience. Everything is top-tier, from the equipment to the locker rooms. It's never overly crowded, always clean, and designed to be a premium experience.
Amenities:
- Gorgeous gyms
- Group fitness, personal training, and pilates studios
- Spa services, massage therapy, and recovery lounges
Mint
Mint may be the cutest gym in DC. It's a boutique-style gym with a strong community feel. It's welcoming, well-maintained, and offers some of the best group classes in the city. If you're looking for a more intimate, non-intimidating gym, this is a solid pick.
Amenities:
- Small group fitness classes, including strength, pilates, and HIIT
- Well-maintained free weight and functional training areas
- Personal training options with experienced instructors
VIDA
VIDA is a locally owned gym that tries to provide everything in one package. It offers great classes, rooftop pools, lounges, and a social atmosphere. If you want a mix of fitness and lifestyle amenities, it's one of the best choices in DC.
Amenities:
- Rooftop pool 👀
- Smoothie bar and café
- Vibrant community
- Lots of equipment
- Great pilates classes
Honorable Mentions
Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a gym membership. These budget-friendly options offer solid value:
Planet Fitness – Yes, really. It offers a ton of equipment for cheap, and if you just need a place to lift, it gets the job done. The “no judgment” philosophy makes it accessible, even if you won’t find heavy free weights or squat racks.
LA Fitness – Affordable, plenty of locations, and decent strength training options. It’s not going to wow you, but it covers the basics well.
What’s the Best Gym for You?
The best gym depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re serious about strength training, Gold’s Gym is a solid pick. If you want luxury and don’t mind the price, Equinox is unbeatable. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, locally owned option, Balance might be your best bet. And if you just need a budget-friendly place to train, Planet Fitness or LA Fitness will work.
Looking for outdoor workouts? Check out my article on the best running clubs in DC. And DC itself hosts a great org that's worth checking out: FitDC.
Also, don’t overlook your apartment gym. Many apartment gyms have everything you need to get a great workout in without paying extra for a membership. At the end of the day, the best gym is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Happy training!