★ 5

Awesome gym with great trainers, awesome equipment, and a super welcoming environment.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Squeezed me in after the Marine Corps Marathon! The facility was very clean and the staff was great!

Source: Google

★ 5

Can't say enough good things about Ambitious Athletics. Coach Zach's programming, instruction, and encouragement have made all the difference. Coach Carmen really understands nutrition and how to set up athletes for success (and how to run a terrific gym, with a strong sense of community and support). I'm a believer in this great local business. If you're thinking about getting serious about fitness and nutrition (or PT/rehab), this is the place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics is hands down the best gym in DC! I’m not kidding when I say this place has genuinely changed my life and my entire perspective on health and fitness.

When I first joined, I was someone who strictly preferred running for my workouts. But after dealing with repeated injuries, I knew I needed to start strength training — something I honestly used to dread. I knew nothing about lifting and walked in feeling intimidated and totally out of my element. But from day one, I was welcomed into such a friendly and supportive community. Everyone genuinely wants each other to reach their goals and encourages you to see how strong you really are.

Carmen is an amazing coach, and his programming is so intentional and effective. You can tell there’s real thought behind every workout — from the warm up to the cool down. The app is user-friendly and makes it easy to track progress, and each exercise includes a demo video so you always have the resources you need.

I can’t believe how much I’ve learned since joining this gym. I now feel confident and capable in my strength training. Carmen’s approach has shown me how much more effective a structured program is compared to random workout classes.

I’m officially a strength training convert and would choose Ambitious Athletics over running any day. My body has never felt better, and it’s all thanks to this gym. I never used to be a morning workout person, and now I actually look forward to going at 6 am!

If you’re not working out here — what are you doing?!

Source: Google

★ 5

Loving the Recovery Room at AA. So affordable and easy to pop in for a quick cold plunge to start my day. It has had a significant anti-inflammatory effect for some joint issues I am facing, energizes me for my day, and helps me sleep better.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious is such a fantastic spot! Great facility, ownership, coaching, and programming. I've really enjoyed being able to work out of the space and look forward to continuing to do so. Definitely recommend checking it out!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love Ambitious Athletics! The coaches are great, encouraging and very knowledgeable. The programming kept me consistent in a way I had never been before, and the members are really welcoming and supportive of each other. All my fitness metrics improved, so I highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun and effective gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Coach Zach is 💯

Source: Google

★ 5

I was in D.C. for the summer and found Ambitious Athletics and was so impressed and satisfied. I am a college athlete so I was looking for a gym that had a trainer to hold me accountable and guide me in the right way, push me, and have fun. AA was nothing less of those things, Carmen was so amazing and made me a better athlete and more importantly a better person. If I ever end up in D.C. again, I will be back.

Source: Google

★ 1

Carmen is too touchy feely

Source: Google

★ 5

When I moved to DC, I researched many gyms, looking for something to mimic my days training as a collegiate athlete. I missed being a part of a team and wanted a training program that was focused and strategic, while still being fun.

I decided to try Ambitious Athletics and have gotten much more out of the experience than I ever expected. As many reviews mention, this place is more than a gym, it’s a community. The owner, Carmen, has put such thought into every detail of the experience.

- The facility is top-notch, with a well-designed layout, all the training equipment you could want, a body scan, a sauna, and a cold plunge.
- The workouts are structured, science-based, and cycle through phases to keep things interesting.
- The app is intuitive and makes it easy to track your progress over time.
- The groups are perfectly sized — enough spots to enable you to attend when you want and small enough to ensure you get focused attention from the coaches.

What stands out most about Ambitious is the thoughtfulness of the coaches and the community. Carmen and Kam go above and beyond to help you reach your goals and genuinely care about getting to know you as a person. They’ve created an environment where you can laugh, have friendly competition, and support one another. And the people who are members of Ambitious are simply the best.

I wake up every morning excited to start my day at Ambitious. I can’t recommend this place enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

I was in town for a couple days and have a habit of cold plunging every morning. Made a quick appointment online and was in and out in no time. Great place, very friendly, super convenient.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love spending my mornings at Ambitious Athletes! I transitioned from a personal trainer to the private group sessions at Ambitious Athletes and love it! The group classes are small but the workouts still feel tailored to my own progress. The app we use is super easy to follow, track progress and book sessions. The facility is also so clean which can be hard to find!!! Everyone is super kind and welcoming, very happy and highly recommend! The sauna and cold plunge are a great bonus!

Source: Google

★ 5

I came to Ambitious Athletics in October 2023 after 3 months of my friend telling me I would love it because

1. the workouts are programmed so you never have to think about what you’re going to do that day,
2. the coaches are detail oriented, dedicated, and passionate, and
3. most importantly, it’s an amazing community

And she could not have been more right. In the past year and a half, I have progressed and accomplished more than I could’ve ever imagined — including running my first 10-miler, half marathon, full marathon, Spartan, and Hyrox races — and that is wholly due to the programming and the people at Ambitious. What started as a way for me to stay active and train like an athlete, brought me to the people who get me out of bed everyday and consistently bring joy and fun to challenging workouts.

My goals have become my achievements, and I have made friends for life with people who are constantly pushing me to be the best version of myself in and out of the gym.

When I walked into the Ambitious gym for the first time, I could not have known that I was making one of the best decisions of my life. A life that would not be the same without the relationships I have built and the community I have gained, and I know I would not be where I am or who I am today without Carmen, Kam, and the Ambitious family.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics is a total gem in the DC fitness scene. Having lived in DC for 18 years and frequenting many fitness studios, I’ve finally found my home.

Carmen (owner/coach) focuses on quality over quantity, and it shows. Carmen and Kam (coach) put so much thoughtfulness into each workout and the overall program. Not to mention, they pay attention to everyone in the gym and their form, weight choice, etc. The coaches are always watching and will call you out! People have been coming to this place for over a decade, and I can see why. As a recent new member, I was welcomed into the community right away and already feel a part of the Ambitious family. It’s a testament to what this place is – special!

Ambitious Athletics is top notch, not only in the programming and the coaches, but also the gym as whole – the atmosphere, the equipment, the recovery room. It is the highlight of my day and I look forward to going every morning (and I am not a morning person!). Anyone looking for a killer workout regimen and an awesome community – this is THE place.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym, very welcoming and the coaches are great very encouraging atmosphere. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great gym with group training albeit with a tailored program in a supportive and friendly environment. You don't have to worry about your level of fitness as the trainers will coach you to achieve your personal goals.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics truly restores the beauty of what the athletic community should ALWAYS be. People know you beyond your name and push you to do what you think is impossible. Through this community, I’ve also valued the lesson of being okay with taking my time and being at the different endurances of others. Whether you’re new to working out or a seasoned athlete, you’ll find a place here. We’ll make sure of it.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics is the best gym in DC! Carmen and Kam are amazing—knowledgeable, supportive, and truly invested in your progress. It’s more than just a gym; it’s a welcoming, motivating community. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I love the community & the well-thought-out programming at Ambitious Athletics. Carmen & Kam provide a supportive environment and help to keep you motivated to crush any fitness goals you have. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Recently started at AA and I’ve already learned so much working with Coach Carmen. Super knowledgeable and approachable. Loving getting stronger and making progress towards my strength goals!

Source: Google

★ 5

If you're in DC and working out anywhere besides Ambitious Athletics, what are you even doing!?!

At Ambitious, you are essentially getting personal training level attention without the associated price tag. The owner of the gym is coaching the class every morning and your workouts are programmed for you to actually build strength. You can put your brain on the shelf and still meet your fitness goals.

Classes are capped and small so you get to know everyone and there's people of every fitness level, age, etc.

Stop wasting your time and come try out a class!

Source: Google

★ 5

Excellent facility! Really great atmosphere.

Source: Google

★ 5

Kam and Carmen are the best! I have been working out for over 10 years and this is the most fun I have had at a gym and the most progress I have ever made in a short period of time!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics isn’t just a gym; it’s a vibrant community that truly enriches the fitness experience. The workouts are intense yet safe, perfectly balanced to push you while ensuring your confidence. The diligent tracking system here helps you see real gains, and the supportive, uplifting atmosphere makes every session worthwhile. If you’re looking for more than just equipment, but a place that fosters both physical and community strength, Ambitious Athletics is the place. Kam and Carmen are also the best trainers I have ever worked with! I’ll miss this gym dearly!

Source: Google

★ 5

The best Gym in DC. Hands down, you must experience the energy that Carmen and the team bring to the sessions.

Source: Google

★ 5

I love Ambitious Athletics. I love the gym, the training program, but most of all I love the people – the trainers and everyone who works out there. The gym’s motto is “move, look, and feel like an athlete at every age.” Whatever your starting point, you'll be welcome at Ambitious Athletics by Carmen and Kam, and the rest of the community. The only prerequisite is a desire to be better. If you're willing to do that, you'll get all the encouragement and technical coaching support you will need to get better.

One quality that separates a great gym from a good gym is a commitment to creating a sustainable fitness routine. Carmen and Kam have designed a workout program varies deliberately over the course of the year balancing strength gains with definition, cardio, agility, flexibility, and rest (yes, rest).

You'll be inspired by your fellow gym mates and over time, you'll see progress and come to believe in your potential to continue to get better. And you'll meet wonderful people from all walks of life, each at a different place in their journey, but each committed to helping each other -- including you -- live life to the fullest.

Source: Google

★ 5

In 2014, I began looking for a fitness program that could replace my tired solo gym workouts and occasional running.  I was slowly recovering from major knee surgery, north of 45 years old, and in desperate need of a program that was engaging enough to keep me coming back.  I spent a year trying boot camps, group classes, even briefly considered CrossFit.  It was a frustrating experience, because everything I tried resulted in reinjury, not showing results, or being too boring to keep with it.

My luck changed when I came across Ambitious Athletics.  I started with Carmen in the basement of his first gym in Woodley Park.  It was immediately clear that Carmen’s approach to fitness and the community he was building were very unique amongst the programs I had tried.  After my first month, I was hooked.  Dragging myself out of bed for his 5:45AM workouts quickly went from chore to the highlight of my day.  I worked hard that fall and winter, and was rewarded with the first pain-free ski season I had experienced since my surgery.

It’s been almost 10 years and I still train with Ambitious Athletics 3 to 4 times per week.  The newest location in Farragut North is convenient and the equipment is top notch. The combination strength and conditioning that Carmen and Kam program has transformed my body and the way I think about health and fitness.  I am far stronger than I was in my 30’s, and physically capable of things I didn’t consider possible for myself.

Even as impressive as the training program is, the Ambitious Athletics community may be just as good.  It’s difficult to convey in a review how empowering an incredibly supportive community can be.  Challenging each other to work harder, celebrating the results, and always looking out for each other - the community is a direct reflection of the values that Carmen strives to instill every day.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious athletics exceeded all of my expectations from the day I joined over a year ago. Carmen and Kam and so incredibly welcoming and supportive, open to questions, comments, conversation any day of the week. The intro meeting that Carmen offers is extremely helpful in getting familiar with the gym and equipment they offer, while being prepped for what to expect in your first class and getting a chance to discuss any other personal goals or concerns. This really removes any of those first class jitters at a new gym and gives your trainers a chance to get to know you, your goals, your strengths and weaknesses, and how they can help you be the best version of yourself in and out of the gym. The small group training classes offer the perfect mix of personal attention you would get from personal training but support and motivation from working out with other people who are all trying to improve themselves.

The facility itself is full of top notch equipment and has everything you need. As a former D1 collegiate lacrosse player, their programming very much models that type of training, cycling through different seasons and phases throughout the year and utilizing a combination of strength training fundamental compound movements with more cardio focused workouts. After being away from this atmosphere for a few years post-grad, coming back to this team training environment has been extremely motivating - I was lost trying group workout classes, online programs, Instagram workouts, and struggling to stay consistent. I have done this type of training before, but have made so many improvements and gained noticeable strength after doing it at Ambitious. There isn't a day that I feel like they have programmed a bad or ineffective workout, and each workout fits into the overall goals of each phase and season. The recovery room access to a cold plunge and infrared sauna are awesome recovery tools and are super convenient to use pre or post workout. Carmen's nutrition coaching is super personalized, he will work with you to create a healthy plan to help you reach whatever your goals are. He checks in frequently and genuinely cares about how you are feeling throughout the process both mentally and physically.

The cherry on top is the other members and overall vibe at this gym. Ambitious is probably the only gym I’ve ever encountered that attracts such a diverse group of people - different ages, backgrounds, athletic experiences - yet brings them together to create an environment where everyone can thrive. They have members who have been there for 10+ years, and that just speaks to the community Carmen has built. It doesn’t matter if you can lift 10 pounds or 200, everybody supports and pushes each other to give 100% of what you have available to give that day. If you can bring that and a good attitude, I’d highly recommend Ambitious to anybody - from athletes who workout everyday to those who haven’t worked out in months or years. Ambitious has had an enormous positive impact on my life and general routine, and my hour there is often times the highlight of my day. If you're looking for a gym please give Ambitious Athletics a try!

Source: Google

★ 1

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Ambitious Athletics to prepare myself for my college soccer season in the off-season. Not only did I see the results through improvement in my strength and mobility, but I also gained so many great relationships. The culture at Ambitious Athletics is unlike any other I have experienced, it truly does feel like a family!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Visited this place for sauna + cold plunge and I highly recommend it! The cold plunge and sauna facilities were fantastic, clean and spacious and the carefully curated light settings added to the soothing atmosphere, preparing me for the cold cold cold (45F) plunge. The place had a great vibe, and the friendly staff made me feel welcome. Will definitely come back when in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I joined Ambitious Athletics 4 years ago when I moved to DC for grad school and it was one of the best decisions I made during that time. The gym was exactly what I didn't know I was looking for programming wise and despite the crazy grad school schedule, I was able to become the strongest I've ever been. Carmen (Owner/coach) and Kam (coach) genuinely care about the success of each member and meet each member where they are at, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and is able to complete the workout. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention the community. All the members are so welcoming, and it's not long before you are working out amongst friends. I've moved away from the DC area since finishing school, but Ambitious Athletics has set the bar at which I now judge my gyms and it is a hard bar to meet.

Source: Google

★ 5

The trainers get to know you personally and the structure of the workouts means results. You can show up and you are with friends! Well worth the value!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics provides a good variety of workouts from cardio to strength training! The community is very supportive and we are always uplifting each other during our workouts! Carmen and Kam are both very dedicated to this curated program and they both always want to see the best results out of their clients!

Source: Google

★ 5

You can stop scrolling through Google, trying to find a gym that you can feel comfortable walking into on your first day, because this is the one.

Don't worry about being the only person there with no experience. I am 34 and I literally have zero gym/weightlifting/training experience. I too have walked in and out of other gyms due to intimidation and not knowing what to do.

You should at least do the orientation class. You will sit down and talk about your goals and your story, learn how the gym works, and do some stretches to show your mobility and/or limitations.

Hopefully I will see you in classes, and we will be newbies together!

(Click on the website, and at the top you will see "Click here to reserve your orientation spot" - that's what I did)

Source: Google

★ 5

To feel well cared for and get a great work out - this is an amazing gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is EXACTLY what I was looking for when I moved to DC and left behind a gym that I loved in New York. The facility is top notch. Carmen’s programming keeps me motivated and he has created a welcoming and supportive community of members. I highly recommend joining Ambitious Athletics.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics to me is this: Good people getting better together.

I didn’t find Ambitious; I feel like Ambitious found me. When I first visited Ambitious, I was just getting back to exercising after years of inactivity. I was basically planning to settle into my old routine of the same boring mix of cardio on elliptical machines and circuit training on machines. It never produced much in the way of results, but it was better than nothing. And I didn’t know any better.

On my first visit to Ambitious, I looked around at all the gear, a little intimidated. I had never trained like that - never done a squat, deadlift, or pull-up, never swung a kettle bell, never pushed a sled. More than once, I had met with trainers who beat me up and left me for dead. I never went back to them.

I told Carmen, "I'm not ready for what you do here." He said, "You're ready. We'll work with you to your own ability. Trust me." I said "If you break me, I'm never coming back." He said, "Trust me."

I couldn’t be happier that I did. It's no exaggeration to say that it's changed my life profoundly for the better. I’ve made a lot of gains on the strength and fitness front, and have done many things that I never thought I ever could or would. But I feel like I have so much more to do there, so many ways I want to improve. And I've met a community of people who will be my friends for life.

If you're thinking about joining Ambitious, please give it a shot. To use Carmen's words to me at our first meeting: Trust. Trust the system to produce results for you if you commit and put in the hard work. Trust your coaches and classmates to know how to bring out the best in you, and to always have your best interests at heart. Most of all, trust yourself and know that whatever you think you’re capable of at any given time, you’re always capable of more.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics provides a fun atmosphere to train and has knowledgable coaches who really make this place special. Carmen and Kam are so welcoming and take time to really get to know their members. The community they have created is unmatched and is what keeps me coming back. This gym is always a highlight to my day and I highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

I was hesitant to join Ambitious Athletics at first, but after my first week, I was hooked. It’s been over a year since I joined, and I can truthfully say that I feel completely different. I’m stronger, I have more energy throughout the day, and I feel athletic again (after taking a year and a half off due to the pandemic).

Its not one of those big gym chains where the interactions are impersonal, none of the staff are helping if they’re not your personal trainer, you don’t know what half of the machines do and there are people using them anyway, and it’s incredibly hard to set goals because you’re on your own. Ambitious Athletics on the other hand is a small business run by very knowledgable and passionate people who genuinely care about their clients. They’ll meet you at your current abilities, get to know you as a person, help you set goals, push you, and root for you.

Throughout the year, there are multiple training phases, each with different goals and programs. Each day of the week brings a different workout, and you’ll be using an app to track your progress. You can choose to do the workouts on your own during open gym hours, or you can sign up for one of the group sessions. Before each workout, you’ll always go over each exercise with one of the trainers. While it isn’t personal training, a trainer is always in the gym watching your workout, and making sure that you’re doing everything correctly.

The group sessions have played a huge role in my progress - the community is friendly, welcoming, and incredibly encouraging. There’s no shaming or over the top competitiveness - people are simply trying to improve and reach their individual goals. Some members have been training with Carmen (the owner) since before Ambitious Athletics was even a thing. You’ll find loyal members that have been attending the same daily group workout for years - that alone speaks to the quality of this place. So try it. I bet you’ll be hooked too.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out at Ambitious since 2016, and it is truly my happy place. Carmen and Kam pour their heart and soul into the programming and atmosphere, which is apparent the second you walk through the gym doors. The workouts are challenging, but with the support of Carmen, Kam, and the rest of the gym members, you always have a great time completing them. Carmen and Kam are happy to offer modifications as well. I recently had a baby and during my pregnancy, they provided modifications to the workouts that were safe for me (and baby) based on the trimester and my own fitness level. They helped me have the healthiest pregnancy I could, and I reaped the benefits during the first few months of my postpartum recovery. Carmen and Kam will encourage you to be the best version of yourself that you can be, and they’ll be in your corner for the entire journey. If you’re thinking about joining- please do, you won’t regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

A great hybrid of personal training, group classes, and a weight room. They have all the equipment you could ever need. Carmen and Kam are caring, knowledgeable, and hard working. They clearly put a ton of thought and expertise into the workout plans and keep things fresh and interesting. The community is fantastic too, judgement free and supportive.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great program! Really helpful trainers that are extremely knowledgeable on everything fitness related. I highly recommend if you're looking for a great smaller gym and like guidance in weight training exercises along with proper form. 10/10

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a member of Ambitious over the years since 2015. Seven years. The longest I had been able to keep track of a fitness program was 7 months. That is how amazing Carmen, Kam and Ambitious is. The workouts are strong, but engaging and always changing so you have a comforting routine without getting bored. Carmen takes the time to learn about his clients lives and creates programs that work not only what will get you results, but what will work with your work and life schedule. I've also done nutrition coaching over the years, which has completely changed the way I view my relationship with food. On top of all that, the people at Ambitious are incredible, and have definitely become people I count as close friends, while also keeping myself accountable as we achieve our goals together.

Seriously if you're reading this, reach out and go to an orientation. You won't regret it!

Source: Google

★ 5

My husband and I joined Ambitious Athletics in 2020 during the pandemic and it was the best decision we ever made. Carmen and Kam are more than just owners/coaches they truly care about every single member more than any gym I've ever belonged to in the past. They will do whatever it takes to encourage you to succeed in your personal goals and are such a positive light. They had to continue to adapt to the ever-changing COVID pandemic rules and we always felt extremely safe there. They recently moved locations to a beautiful new gym and we could not be happier for them. We had to end our membership because we moved but I hope they expand to multiple locations one day so we can re-join or we'll just have to move back to DC. I cannot recommend them enough!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics has been an amazing place to improve my health, fitness, and knowledge. Carmen and Kam do a great job of giving instruction as well as the reasoning behind the movements. There’s a balance with the class sizes that allows me to get the personal critiques and tips I need to improve.

From the day I stepped into AA the staff and members really made me feel like a part of their family and created a great workout experience. Amongst many fitness studios and classes I’ve tried Ambitious Athletics definitely stands out.

Source: Google

★ 5

I only trust these guys to help me get back on my feet from a chronic leg injury. It was nearly a decade of not being able to run and a few weeks with them got me on the pavement again. Couldn’t recommend enough if you’re wanting real, caring attention that’s catered to your needs.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Carmen and Cam are spectacular. I cannot say enough about this gym. Carmen is much more than a coach, a professor teaching with a mix of art and science. He is incredible. The workouts feel very much custom designed and personalized. I’ve been in CrossFit, kettle bell, and barbell classes, but none of those even come close to this. When I joined the gym, I was out of shape. I began to see very nice results in two weeks. I’ve never seen results that fast, nor to that extent. The gym is extremely clean and impeccably maintained. Classes are very small, and it doesn’t take long until the place feels like home. The environment is high energy and very positive. This will be the best part of your day.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics is truly a diamond in the fitness world rough. I joined 4 years ago looking for a program to continue my strength and conditioning training, but found a program that is absolutely out of this world. The intention behind all of the curated workouts shows Carmen's expertise in the field and the comradery amongst the trainers and members is what truly fuels my desire to be better everyday. I highly recommend you check out Ambitious Athletics!

COVID Update: Carmen and Kam have seamlessly pivoted the gym's operations in response to COVID. They provide remote workouts that people can complete on their own or join the Zoom classes in the morning or evening. Their in-person protocol includes mask-wearing, private squat racks and weights to avoid cross-contamination, and sanitizing materials at every single squat rack. Whether I'm doing a workout online or in-person, I feel I am getting the full training experience while feeling safe. You won't find another gym putting in the effort to see their members successful and safe like you do here!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been here 2.5 years now. My transformation has been quite a process from when I came in at 205 lbs. and overweight (the coach there will take you through a body scan and show your body metrics). Over the course of the first year, I simultaneously got stronger (we test 2-3 times per year) and I lost weight to 185 lb. In year #2, we modified my nutrition so that I added weight back on with muscle and I am at 200 lbs. with completely different body metrics (half the body fat, added much more muscle mass). I am steady at my bodyweight, getting stronger but mostly improving on my overall health such as range of motion and energy which is what this gym is about first and foremost.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

Worst customer experience ever, would never recommend this to anyone. I came as a ClassPass user, and they turned me away. I echo Ashley B's comments below, they are elitist and just plain rude to Classpassers. I will definitely not be coming back, no thank you!

Source: Google

★ 5

Ambitious Athletics is the only workout routine that has kept me motivated and constantly working out every Monday and Wednesday morning before work.

It is a boot camp style training that is held indoors and uses body weight, resistance bands and kettle bells. Good music (sometimes rock, sometimes dance, sometimes rap, sometimes all) is played in-between instruction. Training classes are small so you basically get a personal trainer.

The other athletes are nice, dedicated and all ages, shapes, and sizes.

If you want to be stronger, try this. If you want to lose inches and tone up, try this.

The head trainer Carmen is the backbone of this business. He is authentically "dedicated to your health" and inspires you to work harder. He is really the best.

Source: Google

★ 5

Carmen is the absolute best!!! I signed up for his boot camp at the recommendation of a friend. I had made several attempts to get back in shape after some health problems, but hadn't had any success. From day one, things were different with Carmen. His enthusiasm about working out hard is contagious, and the support he offers between sessions (nutrition plan, fat-buster challenge, referrals) is a great addition. Carmen has high expectations of his clients, and sometimes he's believed in me more than I've believed in myself. But, 7 months into this thing, I've got to admit it's really working. I'm 20 pounds lighter, way stronger, and feel like (as Carmen always says) the best is yet to come! Thank you Carmen!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had the pleasure of sampling Carmen’s Monday morning 7am class at Woodley Park a few weeks back. First thing I noticed was how wide open the facility is. I also saw all the equipment Carmen utilizes in his regiment. There were kettlebells, TRX, resistance bands and rollers spread all over the floor. The variety of equipment yields a wide range of exercises and movements that Carmen effectively implements in his plan. The workout itself was both very organized and effective; it’s a true full-body workout. My heart was pumping, my muscles were blasted, and I was sweating hard. Carmen does a great job pushing everyone to the limit of his/her ability. I consider myself someone who’s in great shape, and I was as tired as people who are more casual about fitness. He caters to everyone, but ultimately he pushes everyone past his or her normal thresholds.

What it comes down to is if you have a chance to attend Carmen’s boot camp, and you choose not to, then you must not be serious about your health and fitness. Simple as that.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been working out with Carmen for 10 months and I absolutely love it. His bootcamp sessions feel more like group personal training sessions than what you might imagine a bootcamp to be. Carmen plans out very specific circuits of workouts in 6 week increments to help you become stronger and have better movements. Every day, he has a playlist prepared that has timing incorporated into the audio. He spends a few minutes explaining what you will do at each circuit station, and answering questions about how to perform the movements correctly and safely. Then, you move from station to station based on the timing that is announced via the audio. This is SO AWESOME, because it frees Carmen up completely to watch you and help you improve your movements.

He has literally thought of everything. I like it because there are usually 2 or 3 different workout circuits that you do for the entire 6 weeks. This allows you to see your own progress on them over time. When 6 weeks are up, just when your body is getting used to the workout, he switches things up. You never get bored! When I first started, I could do only a few "girl" push-ups, and after about 6 months I could do 10 real ones! I am so proud.

The group is definitely a range of skill levels, so anyone can feel comfortable - even beginners. Carmen is great about taking time with you to make sure you are doing the right things for your body. One of my favorite things about him is that he is very concerned with proper form and alignment. Plus, everyone in the group is totally awesome and nice!

I sometimes have to miss bootcamp in bad weather because I live far away from it, and I hate it! I've seriously considered moving closer to it because it is such an awesome part of my life. I don't ever want to have to live without Carmen - he feels like your personal trainer and he cares a lot about you. I'm a graduate student, so money is tight for me, but bootcamp with Carmen is by far the best thing that I do with my money. Totally worth it!

I couldn't recommend him any higher. There should be a 6th star option for people like Carmen.

Source: Google

★ 5

Just what my rapidly declining 44-year-old self needed. Carmen is the man -- coach, cheerleader, and drill sergeant. I've been working out with him for a year now, and have benefitted greatly from his carefully designed programs, attention to detail, instruction, correction, and tireless motivation. Our class ranges from the young and fit to the older and less-so, and the entire group has benefitted. I'm hooked, and I'm happy.

Source: Google

★ 5

Bootcamp with Carmen gets better and better every session. His workouts continue to be challenging and he does a great job editing things when people come in with an injury. We use kettlebells, trx straps, medicine balls, and elastic bands, and our own body weight to move through circuits that get your heart rate up after you do a full warm up that really preps your body. His nutrition program is comprehensive and complete and he's always available to answer questions about what we can do to treat our body well. I love the small size of the class, the music he uses to keep us motivated, and how he never lets us get away with half-a**ing it. 5:45am never felt so good!

Source: Google