★ 5

I don’t understand what all the complaining is about. The gym happens to be very nice! Machines work well. Staff is as nice as you would need them to be. It’s a gym, not a social club. Great quality !!

Source: Google

★ 1

I saw homeless man sitting on an old lady very disappointed for 45 dollars a mound h

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★ 1

Management doesn’t answer. Hot water doesn’t work and equipment is constantly broke. With no updates on when it ll be fixed. Front desk cannot help. Everyone is clueless at this gym.

Source: Google

★ 1

Don’t bother emailing the manager or their customer service mail because they’ll never respond.

Source: Google

★ 1

got a day pass b/c it rained today and my regular gym was closed for columbus day. yes, the equipment is top and the atmosphere is great, but i have never *ever* seen "towel service" in a supposedly "upmarket" gym (lol!) where the same towels are used for floors and for customers as shower towels. the cleaning person simply took one of the shower towels from the bench to wipe the floor from rain and dirt, and threw it back into the bin with others. look at the pic, so disgusting. bring your own towel if you happen to go! this is a source of infection and disease!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym!

Source: Google

★ 3

Coed steam/sauna 🤮 that's disgusting

Source: Google

★ 1

Went to the pool as a guest and honestly not sure what people are paying for here: disorganized and condescending staff, long wait times, and 55 dollar pitchers of ice water (vodka lemonades) with mandatory 20 percent tips to listen to smooth elevator music at the lowest volume available with everyone just working from home (on a sunday) on their laptops? Vibes, and atmosphere are not worth the insane prices spent here : save your money and go to another pool top

Source: Google

★ 5

Oh, I love this place! I’ve been a member since 2023 and I split my time between DC, NY, CT and honestly, this is the best community and gym I’ve found so far. The gym itself is solid, but what really makes it stand out are the group classes and the people. It’s such a welcoming environment.
A few of my favorites:
Terrence’s yoga classes are amazing he’s so positive and uplifting, I always leave feeling better.
Sweatbox here is one of the best workouts you can get and David is a fantastic trainer he really cares about form and makes sure you’re doing everything safely and effectively, which is rare in a group class.
Dylan’s BodyPump classes are packed, but for a good reason his energy is infectious and he keeps everyone going. Every other class I’ve taken here has been great too, and there’s a nice variety.
I don’t really use the machines much myself, but there seems to be plenty of equipment and they keep things updated I know some locations just got new cardio machines so they stay on top of that.
Only a couple of downsides: I think the showers and locker rooms could use a bit more attention with cleaning. And my biggest issue is that there’s no option to freeze your membership, which is tough when I’m away for 4-5 months at a time. It means I either have to keep paying while I’m gone or cancel and pay a fee to rejoin later, which isn’t ideal if you split your time between cities like I do.
But overall, if you’re looking for great group classes and an awesome community, this place is totally worth it. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great selection of equipment. Can be focused or social depending on the hours and the vibe you are seeking. Basically, good people, both staff and members.

Source: Google

★ 1

I wanted to share some feedback following my recent visit to one of your locations over the weekend. I had hoped to check out the gym and potentially sign up for a membership, but unfortunately, I was met with poor customer service.

While I completely understand and respect that your policies require either a scheduled tour or a day pass, the way it was communicated felt dismissive and unnecessarily rude. I wasn't offered any alternative options or even a basic level of courtesy—it was simply a hard “no.”

In contrast, I also visited Equinox that same day and, despite them having similar restrictions, the staff there took the time to explain the policies and offer workable solutions, which made a big difference.

I was genuinely excited about exploring VIDA as an option, but the lack of professionalism and inflexibility left a bad impression. I hope this feedback helps improve how prospective members are treated going forward.

Again to clarify (since Vida made a comment), I understand the rules it was the professionalism and how rude the front desk was when I inquired.

Source: Google

★ 1

Membership app/reservation wasn’t working for over a week — staff/managers did not offer an interim solution while waiting for it to get fixed for me. Declined to give a week’s refund and then ghosted me after asking for screenshots of an employee being unresponsive. Followed up multiple times over email and phone and they stopped replying. But they will reply quickly if you’re trying to enroll!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 1

Charging $53 for a day pass with the reasoning of it being pride is flinging crazy! Make it make sense! Do better!

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★ 4

Great gym for DC but don’t go there if you want Air Conditioning. Never works. Maybe hire a permanent HVAC tech?

Source: Google

★ 2

The swimsuit dryer in the men's locker room has been broken for months. In the meantime, there have been new, fancy turnstiles installed in the lobby. What exactly am I paying for?

Source: Google

★ 1

Update - Ended up cancelling my membership. Frankly, couldn't get past the lack of hygiene in the locker rooms. It really put me off. I spoke to staff 3-4 times about the issue of dirty locker rooms and moldy showers and there was no improvement. Adding to this was the fact that the temperature of the showers switches from scalding hot to freezing in a matter of seconds.

Regardless of the class programs that I enjoyed, it doesn't seem worth the $200 per month if I'm unable to use the locker rooms without feeling disgusted. You'd think for the membership cost, it would be possible to count on good cleaning services. Unfortunate.

I've been a member for about a year, and I've been loving their yoga, barre, and strength classes. Programming is great and I rarely have an issue finding a class time that works for me. Shoutout to my favorite instructors Joaquin, Carl, and Tami.

The only reason I wouldn't give it five stars is because the women's locker room is continually dirty.

The "carpeted" area where the lockers are is rarely cleaned. I have been pieces of trash on the floor that remain there for days on end. It also has a perpetual sticky feel - not a good feeling. I bring flip flops most of the time, but given the membership cost, this shouldn't even be an issue.

I have mentioned the locker room cleanliness issue twice to front desk staff, but I have yet to see any improvement.

I did not have an issue using my sign up credits. I was able to book a massage seamlessly and had a great experience.

The outdoor pool is great - highly recommend. Their food and bev program is also a big hit.

Source: Google

★ 5

Loving VIDA! Joined this past January and have been going as much as I can. I love love love the classes, such a great variety in types and times throughout the week. And the instructors are really engaging and knowledgeable. The facility is always clean and the machines are on the newer side. The staff are always friendly and the membership office looks out for the members and make sure they are satisfied with their membership. They even have free breakfast on Tuesday mornings!! Definitely worth the price

Source: Google

★ 1

Gym is great except the locker room. It’s designed so you cannot avoid bumping into people and cannot access the lockers easily. The huge benches take up all the space. Peak times are hellish.

The showers are terrible. I’ve never ever had one with stable temperature. You’ll be scalded and frozen in turn. I’ve pointed this out for six years now.

Update: They told me the showers were fixed; but they aren’t and the temperatures are still constantly shifting from one extreme to the other. They’re spending a fortune on new turnstiles but still can’t provide a decent shower.

I also just found out I can’t suspend my membership for 5 months when I am out of the area without seeing my regular membership fees go up to $200 a month.

So not a happy camper. And not alone.

Source: Google

★ 1

I had a traumatic expérience there few month ago.
I was in the steam room when sudendly a guy came and start JERKING OF IN FRONT OF ME.
He kept looking at me: i was petrified.
It is like my saoul was leaving my body and I was a spetactor of the scène: I COULD NOT MOVE.

I complained through M.WOLF.
He told me he was going to make everything to find this guy but guess what ?
I JUST CHANGED MY LOCATION NOW TO LOGAN CIRCLE AND JUST MET THAT GUY AGAIN.
Futhermore M.Wolf was there.

This situation is horrible: are you guys serious?

If nothing is made to make this guy leave the gym I go to the police.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym. Staff is lovely and helpful. Tons of workout machines and a equipment so even when its crowded there’s plenty to do. I should have joined sooner.

Source: Google

★ 1

I definitely do not recommend this gym. I was stolen there. My wallet and all my documents stolen inside the gym. I filed a complaint at the front desk, and they told me they would review the cameras and conduct an internal investigation. Time passed, and I received no response. When I called the gym to ask if they had reviewed the cameras regarding the incident, the assistant manager, Embry Wolf, simply said that the police were handling it and was very rude and unhelpful. I had already heard from other friends who lost their phones while working out! I have been a member of EQUINOX for 2 years, and I have never had an incident like this in my life. Be very careful, this gym is very sketchy! You are not safe there.

Source: Google

★ 5

Premium gym, has everyyou might need, does day passes.
Would come again!

Source: Google

★ 2

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★ 5

I visited this gym and spoke with Paul, he took me on a tour around the facility and showed me how the gym is organized and all of the amenities. I ultimately decided that vida fitness was not the gym for me, however I still had a very positive experience with Paul and the gym is very nice, all of the employees are professional.

Source: Google

★ 1

It's really being abandoned

Source: Google

★ 5

Cool gym and centrally located. They’ve got a good variety of weight machines, and a floor dedicated to cardio. I am a fan of their yoga classes as their instructors are pretty good. I recommend checking it out

Source: Google

★ 1

UPDATE 1:

My complaint, filled with facts, was not vague; I approached the instructor and then management about feeling disrespected and harassed. Instead of support, I faced weeks of silence, only to be blamed for the employee’s unprofessionalism. Every attempt to communicate was ignored—even when raising a serious matter like video cameras installed in the locker room, which could lead to legal consequences for the company as it violates both district and federal laws. At every level, I faced denial, blame-shifting, and zero acknowledgment of my experience. An apology? Not even a classic, “We’re sorry if you felt that way.”

Best regards,
Ilson
_________________________________________________________

Serious Customer Service Failures and Privacy Violations at VIDA Fitness

I have been a customer of VIDA Fitness for over a year, and after numerous serious incidents, it’s clear that VIDA Fitness is not concerned with addressing customer complaints or even serious legal concerns. Here’s what happened:

Harassment during a Zumba class: The incident involved the instructor and another employee, and despite my report to management, I was ignored for weeks. When I finally got a response, the manager protected the employees and blamed me for the harassment.

Mistreated at the rooftop pool: A group of friends and I were mistreated by staff. All attempts to communicate with management were completely ignored.

Poor responses to inquiries: From questions about locker rentals to complaints about broken equipment, I’ve been repeatedly dismissed or outright ignored.

Cameras in the changing rooms: VIDA Fitness installed cameras inside the changing room without explaining why. I emailed management, citing both DC and federal laws that prohibit this, and was ignored once again.

VIDA Fitness’s lack of accountability and their refusal to address these serious issues sends a clear message: they do not prioritize their customers. This pattern of ignoring legitimate concerns is unacceptable, and ignoring me will not silence the truth. People deserve to know what’s happening.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym and especially the rooftop pool. Our favorite bartender, Sama, is always so welcoming and we love seeing him!

Source: Google

★ 1

Terrible experience. My friends and I got a cabana and we were treated like subclass citizens. I haven’t been treated this badly since I was in high school. I don’t know if it is racism as I am a black woman but yall need to treat paying clients better. -20/10. Wouldn’t recommend

Source: Google

★ 3

Vida U st is an adequate gym under the right circumstances. They have a plethora of equipment and plenty of floor space. If you avoid the post-work rush-hour, this gym is quite good.

I admit that I go to the gym to lift weights, do cardio and leave. If that is what you're looking for, this gym may not be for you. Reasons: Price, many "amenities" unrelated to weight training, a social environment which leads to folks chatting while occupying machines (or worse yet staring at their phones), poor training staff.

The top floor, which is ostensibly equipped with many squat racks and free weights, is largely dominated by their rather aggressive personal trainers who monopolize this space. This became rather frustrating after over a year.

However, if you're looking for a fairly manicured workout experience that also offers some social opportunity, it's a great find.

Source: Google

★ 3

This is a really great gym overall, but they play the same repetitive boring music every single time I’m here, which is 4-5 times per week. Rather than motivate me to work harder I want to run from the place screaming. Please update your playlist to music more conducive to a good workout ! Thanks !

Source: Google

★ 5

Wish I could give more stars .

I just recently moved here from Boston Massachusetts ,we had low end planet fitness ,mid range LA Fitness High end Equinox Gyms .
I would have to say Vida Fitness is ,what in Massachusetts would be labeled a high end fitness facility ,but amazingly ( and fortunately for me) a mid range price .
The staff from the front desk to management is the best .
The giveaways at signing up for membership ,bonus classes offers ,and two free appointments for most of their offered services .
The locker rooms always clean and well maintained,The sauna and steam room occasionally has issues as do occasionally any facilities ,but they work fast to get them back into service if this happens .
Get a haircut at the salon ,get a spa visit while you're there .
An outside area to exercise, or chill outside . Studos available to get away for a minute when classes aren't in session .
A large stretching area with turf surfaces .
Extra free weights upstairs for hours when trainers aren't with customers can be used .
The cherry on top the rooftop pool .

I also signed up for some personal training ,for me its a bit more .Any personal trainer should be a kinesthesiologist by mere definition of the trade ,but i required someone with a bit more experience when getting assistance because of long term compensatory issues of years after an injury .
I was skeptical and decided since everything else had gone so smoothly.. then this should be the same ,but still hesitant ?
I went in for my first appointment with Ari Davis person trainer there ,and it was more than expected .He really knows his stuff .
After a session i walked away feeling better than in a long time in the sense that i was shown definitively what has been happening and what i need to do to correct it .reasonable payment plans for training sessions.
I hope they are paying Ari well as he could definitely make a killing on his own somewhere .I signed up for 12 more and expect to get a package of 50 soon when i can afford more .

The hours are great too open much later than most gyms post covid .and open earlier as well .alot of gyms after covid saw their bottom line improve, and decided to shave hours at expense of a percentage of gym goers ( happened to me at Boston sports Clubs ) and they never went back to original hours .
Im assuming Vida did cut hours over covid times (I wasn't there ) and glad they are at normal hours for sure .

Can't say enough about Vida Fitness U Street my new home away from home .

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Vida is a welcoming, state of the art facility with everything you could ask for. I have been pleased with my membership and have recommended many friends to this facility.

Source: Google

★ 1

The front desk staff seemed disinterested and unfriendly. It was challenging to find a spot on the weight floor during peak hours (5pm - close).

Source: Google

★ 1

Had a wallet stolen out of my bag in the men’s locker room yesterday. Haven’t received a call back from management and was hung up on twice when trying to resolve the issue or figure out the next steps towards finding a resolution for this issue. Also was referred to as “boss” before being hung up on. Very disappointed with this company and this location.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have had a great experience at Vida Fitness at this location and the one close to Logan Circle. Staff is always friendly and super helpful. It is a very welcoming and inclusive gym which I love. I like focusing on calisthenics and a lot of stretching. I love the that there is an entire floor with so many goodies to stretch, do pull ups, dips and many other bodyweight based exercises. The fact that they have rings makes me so happy. They have a good variety of machines too and everyone in there is really nice, friendly and respectful. It’s also very clean compared to other gyms. I feel like I can finally hit my fitness goals, hopefully. The membership did go up and it is pricey but I think it’s definitely worth it. I have not checked out their classes but my friend tells me that the Pilate classes rock so maybe I’ll check them out later.

Source: Google

★ 2

I was a member of Vida for about 6 months before switching to Equinox
Pros - Alex was great to work with and helped resolve some account set up issues I had when I joined. They have convenient locations in the city and stay open late. Vida offers a variety of strength, spin, yoga, and other classes. I really loved Shanika’s bodypump classes!
Cons - if you come during peak hours, it is very hard to access the machines and weights. Also once I was mistaken for cleaning crew, and another time I was asked to restock towels in the locker room. I raised the issue to staff the 2nd time it happened but never got follow-up. These experiences made me feel uneasy and unwelcome so consider that if you are looking for a diverse gym community. Lastly there was confusion about what was included in the enrollment fee credit. From other reviews it seems others had similar confusion, so I encourage the Vida team to reconsider how the credit is marketed for future members. Overall the gym was okay but I likely would not recommend Vida to friends.

Source: Google

★ 1

Dishonest customer service. I felt like it was a bait and switch in which they promised me credits when joining in exchange for the membership fee, but I never received or was able to use the credits despite repeatedly following up with Vida.

Source: Google

★ 1

Terrible customer service and unethical business practices. I was promised a promotional credit when I joined the gym, and another when I later rejoined the gym (after moving back to town) to be used towards products or services at the gym or spa. The full amount of the credits were never added to my account or my wife's, and they make it difficult to use the ones that were added. My repeated inquiries about the credits (by phone, email, and in person) were met with a number of false promises by Kobie and Justin that they were researching the issue, and that they would provide the credits, but I never received the credits I was entitled to despite my diligent efforts to ensure I got what I paid for. When we tried to use the partial credits that we did receive, we were told by the spa that they couldn't find them in our accounts. (You can view your credits on your myiclubonline account under My Purchase History / Payment History). Update: I reached out to Kobie and Justin again after Vida responded to my review, and received no response.

Source: Google

★ 1

Used to be a member when I lived in DC and returned for this month due to work and holiday and these greedy people are charging $348 for a 12 visits. On top of that, they won’t allow a month-to-month option at this location specifically but will allow for all others. Also, if you sign up for global pass to all locations, U-street is excluded. I was told specifically that they are trying to make U street less accessible so they’re pricing people out on purpose because they’ve oversold memberships to that location. Greedy people and quality isn’t exactly top notch for what they’re charging. Save your $ and go elsewhere.

Source: Google

★ 1

The most ridiculous staff I’ve ever encountered at any gym, for all their establishments..

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★ 4

Vida's staff and instructors are outstanding.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Fantastic quality in general. They have everything you could ever need.

My previous preview gave 4 stars because, at the time, there was no hack squat machine or seated leg curl machine. They have both now and they even have the superior seated leg curl machine with the handles on top.

Source: Google

★ 5

Communication is top notch, constantly improving equipment and environment, really clean and organized, staff is so friendly. I love coming here! Not to mention free breakfast on Wednesdays and new decorations every month for the holidays. Yoga classes are great too.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

The best commercial gym I have ever been to. Lots of kettlebells, Olympic lifting platforms, calisthenics equipment, traditional machines and free weights, and cardio equipment.

Source: Google

★ 3

Overcrowding is out-of-control; locker rooms are in desperate need of a renovation

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love this gym. The positive energy is overflowing, and all of the members and staff have been so kind and courteous.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 1

I had more than $1,000 worth of personal property stolen from the locker. Despite an offer from the gym management to reimburse me, that offer was never fulfilled (I didn’t even ask to be reimbursed in the first place, so to be "led on" for months for a resolution that was never going to transpire was doubly disappointing).

My understanding is that the gym has since upgraded their security. And while the gym employees have been “supportive” throughout the process, the bottom line is that the security is lax. Anyone can come in and out of the gym with no oversight — disappointing to say the least especially with the high membership fees.

All in all, while the facilities are nice, I wouldn’t recommend this gym if security is one of your main concerns. Anecdotally, I’ve heard horror stories from the employees and other gym members having their stuff stolen at this location as well.

Source: Google

★ 1

I cancelled my subscription last November with VIDA Fitness because I understood that it is not right format for me. Although their facilities are great, I was disappointed to find that I was still charged for an additional month. I still can't get my money back. When I reached out to manager Koby for assistance, he was unresponsive and unhelpful. It seems like he was only interested in signing me up as a member and did not care about providing quality customer service. I would not recommend this gym to anyone looking for reliable and trustworthy fitness services.

PS. google administrator suggested me to come to vida fitness to figure out to get my money back, it turned out that I wasted my time, administrator people, as usual wasn't able to help.

I don't recommend this service to anyone.

Source: Google

★ 2

I am one of the original Vida members; it is clean and well-equipped, but that's where the good ends. Vida has consistently disappointed me over the years, it is not a serious workout facility, members are endlessly on their phones and not working out. I had an awful experience with another member today, she was not using equipment and on her phone... management did absolutely nothing.

Source: Google

★ 4

Signed up for Vida when I moved to U st last year. Excellent equipment for weight lifting (weights go down to 1/2 lb increments; usually squat racks are available; every machine you can imagine)

Weight lifting: 4/5 (reaches full occupancy during rush hours)
Facility over all: 5/5
Cadre staff: 2/5
(your smoothy is not gonna be ready when you get there; you’d have better luck w the McFlurry on 14&U)
Trainers: 5/5
Rooftop Pool: 5/5 (if you can get in)

Reciprocity with other Vida DCs which are less crowded

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 3

I’ve been a member of Vida for nearly a year now and honestly joined due to convenience of location for me. I just ended my membership and agree with many of the other reviews that customer service is lacking, especially for such an expensive “luxury” gym. Agree with other reviewers that say front desk staff can be uninterested and bordering on rude. In the past couple of months, the facilities have been overcrowded (I mainly use the cardio floor) to the point where I’ve gone after work and have not been able to find a treadmill for 20 minutes because they were all in use and several were out of service. They also need more space (and mats) for the stretching/abs area. It’s always tough to find a spot. There are a few great classes (s/o Jeremy, Jo Ann & George C) but there are also some where the instructors seem to lack training and professionalism. As for the pool, I upgraded my membership to get access to it last summer and it was not worth it. Generally overcrowded and hard to book spots with a couple of times where the pool turned a murky color and nobody wanted to swim. It was barely addressed by staff and when I requested to recoup my guest pass that I had wasted on that day, I got no response. That was not uncommon for my experience when I reached out via email to the team on a few issues.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 3

Great gym with good facilities and equipment. Only downside is front desk staff…they are either always absent or just plain rude. I came in today and the guy behind the desk didn’t even say hi back he just shook his head at me.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 2

Vida offers Equinox-level facilities and pricing at Retro Fitness-level customer service. That is to say that you should expect to chase management around for months with repeated emails and phone calls, should you require their assistance. Don’t expect satisfactory resolutions, either. While this is to be expected at gyms, like Retro Fitness, that charge $19.99+ per month for the use of their facilities, I find it unacceptable for a gym that now charges $189 per month, excluding deposits, for its top membership tier (up from $169 per month in 2021, as an aside). In value for money terms, there are better, albeit less fancy gyms nearby.

Source: Google

★ 2

I am Deaf so I tried this place. I asked for deep tissue massage especially on my neck, shoulder, and back. Masseur did Swedish massage and it doesn’t help with my heavy knots. Masseur did not communicate with me so I had to be proactive by communicate with her to make sure that she could understand what I want. I could not get the result that I want. So disappointed to get so-so service for $115 (one hour).

Source: Google

★ 3

Love the gym itself. The staff? Front desk staff is inattentive and uninterested. The tall red headed gentleman always in a backwards cap with some tats in particular is one of the most unpleasant people I’ve interacted with.I enjoy the smoothies but refuse to order if he’s working the front because he acts as if I’m asking him to sever his own arm. Other than the staff my experience here is wonderful! The facilities are clean and well maintained.

Source: Google

★ 4

Really beautiful gym. Got my airpod pros stolen here though (on my first visit!), hence the four stars. :( they are in an elementary school somewhere, gone forever. disappointing bc they had my email address on them and would have been easy to return. keep an eye on your stuff!

Source: Google

★ 1

Horrible rude staff and terrible incompetent management. Trainers who became managers.

No Applepay at the desk. Probably only business in US. Archaic system with everything.

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★ 5

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★ 4

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★ 5

Very diligent and professional staff, clean equipment and those Wednesday breakfasts are bomb.

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★ 5

Friendly staff! So clean!

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★ 4

This is good gym ! Little expensive for pool and cheap on new machines !

Source: Google

★ 3

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★ 1

In the most appropriate way, I can say that Vida does not prioritize member safety in its steam rooms and saunas.

Update! Apple Pay doesn’t work on racist VIDA’s old school antiquated card readers.

Source: Google

★ 2

A/C necer works and worth the amount you pay monthly if management can’t fix the leaks or keep the ac working during peak summer

Source: Google

★ 5

GREAT FACILITY WITH EXCELLENT STAFF IN ALL DEPARTMENTS. IN THIS TIME OF COVID, MAINTENANCE STAFF PERFORM EXTRAORDINARY JOB IN KEEPING US SAFE WITH AN EXCELLENT CLEANING. ALSO GREAT SPACE, EQUIPMENTS FOR ANY TYPE OF EXERCISES

Source: Google

★ 1

Racism On Steroids: This white owned and white managed gym has the pleasure to craft & serve a Juneteenth-themed cocktail, named "Watermelon Henny Lemonade", which is allegedly contained "Watermelon liquor, Hennessy, and Lemonade", during the Juneteenth Holiday season this year.

So far, nothing has been heard from the Reginal Manager Nancy Burnham or the owner David von Storch. However, a PR force seems to be used to cancel and suppress the reviews about it on social media. Only a low-level manager named Aaron Moore's "statement" appears on Fox News.

Considering Vida Fitness gym's historical and prevalent hostile environment and retail racism towards to it's minority employees and it's minority members, this incident doesn't happen by accident, but it happened at least by Freudian Slip, Arron Moore's "statement" on Fox News at best is glossing-over, hollow, superficial, disingenuous, and trying to get away with it again.

Source: Google

★ 1

Fix the water fountains or offer complimentary bottles. Literally broken on all floors for months

Source: Google

★ 5

I love this gym, it makes me happy to come here

Source: Google

★ 1

I pay entirely too much money for there to be towels in the floor from a roof leak, a scale in the locker room that has been low battery for a week so I can’t weigh myself, and RUDE STAFF. Will be canceling my membership this month.

Source: Google

★ 5

Honestly I have had always a lovely experience, clean fun and the staff especially has always been pretty amazing, from managers to trainers! 👌🏻👌🏻

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 4

Overall: Solid gym, nothing is overtly missing. You can do everything you need to do.

Summary: Basically 3 floors, cardio floor, machine + dumbbell floor, powerlifting floor (w/ dumbbell rack).

Good: The ambiance and vibe is good. You feel like you are working out in a cave with a bunch of people.

Bad:

- Working out from 5-6/7 sucks. The gym is too small to serve the load of patrons at rush times. There aren’t enough benches & benches for presses so you find yourself waiting for major lifts.

- If you go any other time that is non-rush it is a solid gym

- The benches are way too close to the mirrors, you can’t do heavy lifts and drop weights. It just feels cramped. You have to maneuver around people doing heavy lifts and there are just personal space issues (when squatting I don’t want anyone near me, we have mental bubbles).

- Maybe picky but the dumbbells are decent ones. I’ve used better with more grip (steel handle with a mesh pattern etched in). They are a bit narrow in grip and have plastic handles with decent grip. This nuance is kind of annoying and grip is worse so I just do few dumbbell movements now.

I’d give ~3 1/2 stars but I imagine there is a huge constraint on real-estate within the city so a gym can only be so large, etc (can’t compare it to gyms I’ve been to elsewhere).

But at ~$120/130/mo you’d want more space and just…more. But this was the closest complete gym option to me (.8 mile jog) and the vibes are good.

Edit: Have visited all other branches. Nice to be able to switch up gyms on a day you have time to jog farther. Great branding & vibe consistency. Great value add if you want to switch things up and drop in other gyms.

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★ 5

Went there when I was visiting DC- got a day pass, def worth it ! -

Clean gym - has a lot of equipment

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Definitely worth the money spent! My favorite is the Sweatbox Class. Lost 14 pounds within a month and a 1/2 just in time for my wedding. Took a month off, then returned and worked out until the day of my surgery. I am recovering and So far, I can only do bike and light cardio :( but safety first. Once I'm cleared to do high intensity workouts, I will go to the Sweatbox. Can wait!

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★ 2

Meh

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★ 5

Great gym, great management, great amenities.

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★ 5

A breeze compared to the lord of the flies customer service I was treated with when I used to attend WSC in Columbia heights. I did lose some shades I left in the locker room but that was on me. Someone stole your bag? The skip to and look at footage.

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★ 5

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★ 1

Terrible customer service. Spam generators. And there goes another week with half of the gym out of service!

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★ 5

My favorite place! Everything is so clean and the staff are really welcoming and helpful.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I’ve been going to this gym for years! Hands down one of the best gyms in the DC area!

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★ 2

I usually go to Ballston location. Wanted to try this one as well. I communicated with the staff over email before, but my latest email about asking where I could park when visiting the U street location wasn't answered, so I just drove up there with no info on that. Ballston location has a garage, but apparently the U street location doesn't. This was a nasty surprise, as there was no street parking anywhere in the area either. When I called the front desk and asked them if they could give me any info on where to park, they didn't offer any helpful information. The staff should know where their clients can park for such high fees. So I tried to find parking for about an hour with no success, and ended up driving back home without having my workout. Very disappointed. I'll give this location another chance on a weekday, but first impression is entirely ruined.

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★ 5

Amazing workout experience from the membership consultation to the quality of the facility. Paul Leiby understood my fitness goals and listened to all my concerns as I came from another gym franchise. I fully endorse the quality of the experience and I guaranty you will see results in your fitness goals.

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★ 3

Absolutely love the gym itself. The facility is large and has a dedicated floor for compound lifts filled with squat racks and deadlift platforms. Unfortunately, personal trainers usually dominate this space and use it for calisthenics and TRX workouts. Granted, they seem very focused on ensuring their clients have a great experience, just at the cost of other members. As a result, there is almost never an open rack or platform.

The locker rooms are top notch. With a sauna, steam room, and showers that have excellent bath products, there is amazing attention to detail.

The rest of the facility is nice as well. Although, it is devoid of some typically essential equipment such as seated leg curls. These spaces, to include cardio rooms, are often overcrowded and only seem to be less trafficked from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Overall, the facility is great, to include the rooftop pool. However, these seem to be used as selling points to encourage new members and after joining, the organization only is invested in trying to get members to spend more money through personal trainers, nutritionists, etc. rather than ensure members spending $180/month have an enjoyable experience.

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★ 5

Love the cleanliness and state of the art equipment in this facility.

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★ 1

The staff at the pool party this Friday night was nice (the servers). Chris Kinlaw and the other girl serving, they were awesome. However, there was a manager on duty who had on a yellow shirt who was nasty to myself and all of the other patrons. She cursed at us, told us that we were not welcomed and then closed the kitchen and limited communication and admitted she did not want to work that day. Please be mindful of the management you hire. It was really disheartening.

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★ 5

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★ 3

Pros:

They have an entire floor dedicated to power lifting that has squat racks and platforms so you don’t have to wait! One always opens up within 3-5 minutes even at peak hours.

The roof top pool is great and so is the food as well. I love those friggin’ wings and drinks!

They also never run out of sanitizer, sprays, wipes and towels.

Great hours is also a plus. I have a second membership at a competitor for later hours when my schedule entails but vida is definitely my preferred location.

The members are super friendly and great and I never see anyone not masked or sassy when they’re required; I’ve made many friends at the pool so keep that in mind.

Value is a plus; I’m used to spending ~150-300/mo for other premium/lux gyms and I feel what they charge is very fair.

Also a barber in the gym is great and they have quality cuts.

Cons:

Their billing department is deficient, I’ve never had a issue with a gym not being able to schedule recurring charges, and it seems they have been unable to properly due so.

The $150 sign up fee that gets rolled over into credit to use at the gym, it took two months for it to get added into the barber account. I had to follow up about it several times to make that happen. Very frustrating and not a very luxurious feeling to have to deal with that as a new member.

Each month billing cycle roles around and i ask them (FD) if everything is squared away and they say yup/yes you're all good. Yet for the past two months in a row they contact me weeks after it’s due saying I have late fees and haven’t paid. Even when I’ve called and spoke to them each time on the phone after the first warning they still don’t properly process it and it ends up back after 10 days in a email; you have late fees, it’s very disappointing.

I know they’re able to process my card; they’ve charged that same card “no show fees” when I’ve booked for the pool and it’s canceled due to rain. So it seems sus.

It took about 3 weeks of my effort of calling, emailing and talking to the front desk to get that squared away to refund the “no show fee” when they closed the pool due to weather. In that process many emails were not answered.

They did however eventually reverse the charges but it wasn’t easy and the communication was absent until finally getting ahold of the billing manager in person as she was taking out trash one day. She was very kind and apologizes and seemed to be the person who gets things done. If I were the owners I’d give her more tools or people to work in her department to make their billing staff efficient, or let someone else take out trash so she can better allocate her skills to where they’re most needed.

The rude front desk manager in other posts is most likely John/Jon, he doesn’t listen to guests and always responds with attitude. I tried to review my account today and was met with “well maybe you should try paying your card so it doesn’t decline”, like dude I’ve never carried a balance, and when I paid it with the same card today in person there was no issue. I definitely did not appreciate his less than helpful personality. I would like this late fee reversed but I would happily pay $10 to not have to talk to John/Jon again.

**Communication** Forget about trying to leave a message anywhere, inboxes are full at their billing specialists, pool inbox, everywhere on their phone tree. Emails aren’t answered, so your only chance to have them resolve any issue is in person, provided you find someone willing.

Penthouse reservations; weekend slots for premium seating are booked quickly and often occupied primarily by their employees; seems sus. If you want a spot; set a alarm for 167.9 hours before you want it and immediately book when it changes to 168 hours, else lose your chance to vibe on a daybed or cabana on the weekend.

In summary: it’s a good place and I’m sure they're doing the best they can during this pandemic, but boy it can be frustrating. If it gets better I’ll be sure to update this review.

Best
Rob

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 4

The facilities are mostly clean and the equipment is plentiful. Since COVID-19 restriction let up, it does get quite a bit crowded! Morning staff is really nice, sometimes other front desk staff is pretty unfriendly.

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★ 1

Poorly managed. Broken cardio machines. Smelly locker rooms. Worst app. Overpriced.

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★ 1

Worst customer service. I signed up with benefits to access the penthouse and to my surprise it was removed due to “change of policies.” I was billed for 4 months during COVID and had to email multiple people since management is non-existent at the club and I was always referred to email. It took THREE months to be reimbursed and that is after emailing for months! I wanted to freeze my account for one month to travel overseas. They advised me freezing is no longer an option and instead I could opt for a “virtual membership” for $60. Be aware, HORRIBLE customer service.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Love the energy at this place!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 1

U ST LOCATION TERRIBLE! The guy at the front desk was very condescending and rude I asked was the rooftop pool open to outside guests. He said no only to our private guests club? and I said how much is it he said “ummm you can look it up online” that very rude dismissive and condescending. You work there and you don’t know the rates? Also while being dismissive I will not be signing up for this club nor visiting. I asked another location and they told me they were open to outside guests and call The U ST location and they talked to me horribly do not go here!

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★ 5

Vida has done a lot with regards to health and safety during the past year - making for a comfortable and welcoming environment for all patrons. I value the professionalism and continued desire to improve gym-goer's experiences. Thank you!

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★ 5

it's 130 bucks a month if you sign up for a year and they make you pay about $250 upon signing up. They don't call it a sign up fee because you get to choose from a few freebies that you don't really want if you're like me. Just don't try to disguise your sign up fee as it being beneficial to the customer when it really isn't about that.

I joined just to lift and this gym is great for that. I go there 4 days a week, i lift weights, it's all i want from a gym personally. Nice bathroom and locker room and showers. It's nice inside, clean, never too crowded, and the people there aren't shady because it's price controlled. Sounds horrible for me to say that but it's the truth. Still give it 5/5 stars, you can't find a better gym in the city to walk to.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 1

All the classes are booked all the time, the roof top pool -- no chance getting a spot there, and absolutely zero parking in the area.

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★ 5

The level of professionalism at Vida U St. is commendable. My personal trainer, Emma Krieger, goes above and beyond the call of duty as a trainer. She is very well informed about fitness and nutrition and encourages me to work hard to achieve my personal fitness goals.

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★ 4

VIDA is beautiful, has great classes, has creative programs, and offers all the services I could want at a gym. It's the best gym I've ever been to, and the prettiest. Spin outside is really cool. Pool deck is fun. Good trainers. Great classes. Shout outs to Michael, Ny, Luke, Alex, and Camille! You guys make it great!

The only thing I wish they would change is to allow for more flexible memberships for people who travel a lot (which is a lot of DC people!).

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Oh it’s the best gym there is.

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★ 5

Great local business.

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★ 5

Best gym in DC by far, excellent facility. Clean and welcoming. Prices can be a bit steep but it’s a membership that’s worth it. Many other services at their locations as well.

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★ 5

Very professional staff, equipment state of the art, space can't be beat!

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★ 5

VIDA is an excellent fitness facility and your experience will be great. The staff are friendly and professional. Well worth the cost of membership!

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★ 5

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★ 1

I would have to agree with the previous review on the management at this location. The lower-level team members are GREAT! However, the management team at this location is some of the worst I have ever experienced. I recently brought an issue to the attention of the owner David von Storch via email. It took him over a week to respond and when he did, he basically assumed (without clearly even reading the thread I forwarded to him) that I had some culpability in my issue when it was clearly a lack of communication from HIS management team.

It could not be any more obvious that they are suffering from some level of elitism, and I too, have found a much better experience and for a lot, less cost at another gym facility.

VIDA is just about the only game in town.................today. We will all be better off when/if that changes and maybe then IF they are still around, they will be more member-centric.

On a side note, I miss the days of Results. Say what you will about Doug Jeffries but at the very least, he expressed a genuine level of interest and concern for his members.

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★ 5

This is my favorite gym of all time. Have a ton of free weights, squat racks and accessory equipment to help keep variety in your fitness program. Plenty of space and the gym doesn't have a problem with doing Olympic lifts.

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★ 5

My favorite place to focus and improve my athletic performance! Very welcoming and attentive staff (the pool club manager in particular) continuously monitor the facility for cleanliness. Always happy when I get to come here!!

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★ 5

Great building, friendly staff, they exercise good etiquette regarding corona virus.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Vida is a great gym. The staff is very professional and they have done an admirable job managing COVID-19 risks - everyone is given their own set of towels (one for sweat and one for disinfecting equipment.) While people at the gym have various levels of physical ability, the clientele trends on the fit side which I find motivating. The pool club, which costs about $60 extra is worth consideration (especially if you don't have one at your home/complex.) With a full bar, cabanas, and wait staff, you honestly feel like you are on vacation.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Amazing & Friendly front desk staff & Trainers. Have been training with Chris for a few months and its life changing!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Vida on U street is a great gym to get all of your exercise needs. I have been a member for 5 years now and I do not have any plans of leaving. It has a great aesthetic, friendly employees, great gym equipment, and I am motivated to exercise when there with showing results.

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★ 4

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★ 5

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★ 5

Vida U Street is amazing! They offer all the classes I like at the times that work for my schedule. The outdoor classes are the best and I always enjoy them no matter the weather. I love the group classes with Michaela! She is an amazing instructor that brings the energy and fun to each class.

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★ 5

I've lived and travelled all over the world and I work out religiously, everywhere. Vida is the best gym network I've been to. Hands down. Thank you team Vida!

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★ 5

Great equipment, not crowded, very well run by professional staff, and in the time of coronavirus, the staff and members are extremely vigilant about masks, cleaning, distance, and tracking.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 1

This gym is horrible. Management is incredibly rude. The staff is even worse.

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★ 5

Staff is very friendly

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★ 4

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★ 5

I have felt extremely comfortable here since they opened back up. The members are following all the new policies. Basically like my second home at this point.

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★ 5

Vida U Street does an admirable job keeping their facilities clean and enforcing their Covid policies during the pandemic, which is the only thing that matters as far as I'm concerned. Beyond that, the equipment is top-notch, they offer all kinds of perks and fitness services, and the staff is all professional and great. Highly recommend.

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★ 5

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★ 5

How much do you charge monthly????

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★ 5

I absolutely love my new Gym. The best part is the customer service . Paul Leiby , was so kind and patient . I literally took a month to sign up he explained everything to me in detail went over all of the plans and different things the gym offers. He motivated Me to sign up and get it together and not give up . Gaining a ton of weight from being quarantined was not easy , but I’m super excited to get it off. This gym has EVERYTHING! The customer service I received from Paul was Beyond ! If your looking for a new gym home don’t hesitate.

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★ 4

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★ 4

A nice gym but RESULTS GYM that used to exist in the same location is the best gym ever. Vida = 4/5, RESULTS = 6/5. Long live RESULTS!!

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★ 4

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★ 1

They charge their customers regular membership dues even when their gym is closed indefinitely. If you try to get your membership frozen it costs you money. If you ask to cancel it costs you money. So basically they charge you for a product that they are unable to provide because they are closed.

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★ 5

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★ 4

I dropped in this gym on a Tuesday night. Loud music and colorful light kind of gym. Loads of machines, not much space fore bodyweight training.
The changing rooms are fully equipped (soap shampoo conditioner scrub, make up remover, cotton fioc, toothbrushes, single use razors, hair dryer, iron..) and there is a sauna and a steam sauna available.
Lockers require a lock, but they'll lend it to you.

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★ 5

I get go keep my sanity

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great gym. Never a wait for the equipment I need. Clean and upscale facility with welcoming staff.

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★ 1

Edited for brevity. Terrible lack of management, communication, customer service. Would not recommend this gym.

I was a member for almost three years. One star is for the great individual group fitness instructors and hardworking staff I’ve met through the years.

Management made a mistake with freezing and reinstating my membership status in February. I was charged for a full month plus fees when they did not provide me a full month worth of membership. No accountability for GM’s management mistake. February is already a short month!

They also have a rewards system where you receive points for in-club purchases and member referrals. Throughout the year, management never responds when I asked multiple times what happened to these points I’m supposed to receive for bringing them business.

Tldr: a long history of lack of management, communication, customer service. I’ll be taking my gym membership elsewhere. Would not recommend this gym.

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★ 5

Clean gym, nice staff, friendly clientele! They pretty much have all the equipment I need, and the locker rooms are always clean.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 2

The gym is great. My wife and I have been members for four years and could not have been happier. Unfortunately trying to cancel your membership is a different story. We are moving and put in our official 30 day cancellation notice in early November. We got an email back saying we will be charged through the end of December. On top of that there is a $25 cancellation fee. I understand being charged for a month after cancellation but 60 days is excessive. A cancellation fee after being a member for four years is ridiculous. It is unfortunate that this is the way our experience ends with VIDA.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I absolutely love this gym. The positive energy is overflowing, and all of the members and staff have been so kind and courteous. No one stands around taking selfies and everyone is respectful of the equipment. No equipment hogs here!! The facility is always clean, locker room (as well as shower) is stocked with anything you may have forgotten at home, and the sauna and steam room are always working perfectly. Keep up the great work VIDA!

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★ 5

Best Vida location in the city. A lot of nature light, good equipment for everyone and nice staff.

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★ 5

Located in the heart of U street/AdMo, this high quality facility features top-notch equipment and plenty of space to accommodate all kinds of training. Immaculately clean with a friendly staff. Well worth a trip and as good or better than most high-end gyms.

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★ 5

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★ 1

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

VIDA is life, literally. Its the best money you will EVER spend because the return on your investment is priceless. Words can't describe the happiness this place gives me. VIDA is church. The energy is magnificent, the space is amazing and the equipment flawless. The rooftop is gorgeous the facilities very clean and staff is great. And I've made some amazing friends there over the years too. I own three small businesses hence I understand and appreciate what it takes to oversee an operation of this caliber. I wouldn't change anything about VIDA because it does not get any better. To say I love VIDA is an understatement. I'm coming up on five years membership in a couple months and joining VIDA is unequivocally one of the best decisions I ever made. Trust me, VIDA will change your life.

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★ 3

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Nice, clean, and gay friendly

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★ 5

Best gym in DC. Great trainers!!!

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★ 5

Nice, clean workout facilities.

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★ 5

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★ 3

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★ 3

Weird vibe, weird fees

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★ 5

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★ 1

WARNING: (1) Vida collects your private info & biometrics (cameras in men's room too). Acc. to its staff, Vida doxxed at least certain a congressman's on Facebook. (2). NO LONGER A GAY GYM. Now feminists & str8 women overrun this place, ruin the gay niche, create a hostile env. for gay, cause gay exodus to Washington Sports Club.

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★ 1

Terrible staff, overcrowded gym. Left my shoes in the locker room late one evening. Called early the next morning and they identified my shoes exactly in their lost and found bin and told me they would hold them for me. When I went in to pick up the shoes they had given them to goodwill. I spoke to a manager and she could have cared less. Mistakes happen but it’s the attitude that’s unacceptable. I’m going to cancel my membership and go to a gym that values me as a customer.

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★ 5

Best Gym EVER!

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★ 5

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★ 4

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