It’s time to switch up your same old gym routine and find a new way to get active. Working out can seem like a drag when you’re stuck in the same regimen every time you go to the gym. Luckily, D.C. has a variety of places for students to try as they venture into a new fitness journey. With these fun exercise options, you won’t even realize you’re gaining muscles and breaking a sweat.
Rumble Boxing
Rumble Boxing hosts intense, calorie-burning exercises you’ll definitely want to try. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gym rat, you’ll feel comfortable trying something new. The workout includes 45 minutes of punching bag work and resistance training. There are 10 rounds of intense energy that will leave you feeling strong. If you’re new, instructors will teach you punching techniques so no one is left out.
The facility also boasts a mega-watt sound system and custom playlists, which allows you to explore music from Drake, Cardi B and Biggie Smalls. With tunes like these, you’ll be too busy busting a move while getting a knock-out workout to even think about being tired.
Where: 2001 M St NW Suite 120, Washington, DC 20036
Directions: Metro towards Glenmont from Tenleytown AU. Get off at Dupont Circle. Seven minute walk to Rumble Boxing on M Street.
Earth Treks
To switch up your regular treadmill miles, try rock climbing. With climbing walls accessible to people as young as four and as old as 94, Earth Treks offers an experience for everyone. In addition to open climb times, they also offer classes for anyone interested in learning, equipped with skilled trainers for newcomers. Here, there is no need to fear not having any gear because they will provide it all for you. For more experienced climbers, they also offer multiple intermediate and advanced level walls, so you will be far from bored while entertaining the rookies. Earth Treks is a great place to get a unique workout and try something new, no matter your experience level.
Where: 1235 S Clark St, Arlington, VA 22202
Directions: Metro Red Line towards Glenmont from Tenleytown AU. Take train to Metro Center and transfer to the Blue Line toward Franconia-Springfield. Get off at Crystal City. Eight minute walk to Earth Treks.
Rock Creek Park
If you’re looking for an outdoor workout before the weather turns cold, Rock Creek Park is the place for you. This large urban park, located in northwest D.C., is a beautiful place to go hiking and be surrounded by nature. There are multiple trails to choose from, such as Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford and Rapids Bridge, which range from 1.75- to 3.5-mile hikes. Each trail will take you through beautiful forests along the creek, leaving you fascinated by what D.C. nature has to offer.
Where: Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C.
How: N6 bus from New Mexico Avenue & Nebraska Avenue stop. Take bus eastbound toward Farragut Square to Massachusetts Avenue & Belmont Road. From there, a 20-minute walk to the park.
Cut Seven
Cut Seven is a great place for people who aren’t huge fans of using machines. This workout, based solely on learning how to move your body in the best possible ways, focuses on different muscle groups everyday for overall body sculpting.
This place is also great for you if you don’t enjoy being sore after a workout. The training facility emphasizes efficiency over intensity leaving you with a great workout that won’t leave you bed-ridden the next day. There is also an element of surprise since you can never guess what workout they will be doing that day.
Where: 1101 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
How: Get to New Mexico Avenue and Nebraska Avenue N4 bus stop toward Farragut Square to Massachusetts Avenue & 20th Street. Walk to P Street & 20th Street stop and take the G2 bus toward LeDroit Park-Howard University to P Street and 11th Street.
Squash on Fire
Even if you’re not familiar with the game, Squash on Fire offers options for beginners and nearly professional squash players. Squash is a fast-paced game that involves hitting a ball with a racquet against the wall towards your opponent and trying your best for them to not hit it back. This cardio-heavy game will definitely get your heart racing as you play on one of the six international courts offered, the tournament court or the glass single courts. New players get the luxury of an all-inclusive package, which includes your needed gear and a place to play for only $39. Experienced players can go online and book a court or even take lessons.
Where: 2233 M St NW, Washington, DC 20037
How: AU Metro Red Line towards Glenmont. Get off at Foggy Bottom and walk two blocks to the destination.
