Trying out Pilates has been a desire for the better part of a decade, perhaps longer. After looking…read moreup options and asking around (and finding that there wasn't much for Vida Pilates here on Yelp) I decided to give a test run at Vida Pilates. After about 3 weeks with 2 classes a week, I am continuing and all the more excited for each class. DECIDING ON PRIVATE CLASSES / WHY VIDA: Knowing that Pilates is all about specialized movement and that form is important as well as little adjustments and refinements can improve the exercise and impact the results, I wanted to have a private instructor get me off on the right foot before going into group classes (Why be in a larger class and not know if what I'm doing is benefiting me the most -- I want to know that my time and investment is going as far as it can with the capability of my body. Having a dedicated Pilates instructor coach has given me this satisfaction.) I wanted the real deal Pilates before considering a blending of other things (there's documented research on Pilates but not much on the other things. Vida Pilates is Pilates, not "Pilates-inspired"). VIDA PILATES: Vida Pilates had a new client 3 private class special that I initially booked and have since booked a package of private classes. My Pilates instructor is Nina, who is fantastic. Before meeting, she asked me about my injury history and anything that would assist her. I told her about my health and fitness goals. With this she has been tailoring our sessions to meet my needs. Based on my feedback/desire, Nina has provided me with a couple of simple stretches to continue between classes. Since starting the private classes, I tested out the Vida gym with a Pilates mat class (again with Nina) and loved the challenge that provided too. You do not need to join the Vida gym to take the Pilates reformer classes (private or group). The Pilates mat classes are part of the gym membership (and with the day rate, currently $35). Nina also offers the mat classes privately and uses contemporary and classical Pilates in these classes. HOW TO BEGIN AFTER BOOKING: At this time, there is no information on the Vida Pilates or Vida gym websites how to schedule your private sessions, nothing in their FAQs, and no instructions provided after I booked the initial new client package. I called Vida, and they provided me with an email, and it was sorted out easily, but the process could use some improvement. There is a Vida Pilates app and a Vida gym app. I suggest downloading the Pilates app to show your booking at the front desk when you arrive. FUTURE: I can see myself getting into group classes in the future while also continuing with private classes. I enjoy and see the progress being made with Nina. I am excited for this Pilates journey!

From the owner: Strength of body. Peace of mind. Experience what the hype of VIDA Pilates is all about. VIDA at The…read moreYards is located in Washington DC' Capitol Riverfront neighborhood just south of Capitol Hill and east of Nationals Park. Beyond the Studio Luxe amenities, including a full-service locker room, sauna, and steam room. Fuel Bar featuring VIDA Signature Smoothies, assorted beverages, and snacks. Gear Shop featuring licensed VIDA Pilates apparel. Member lounge with comfortable seating and free wifi.

COVID UPDATE BELOW- For the real reformer lover - or even a novice who's curious to try this style…read moreof working out... this place is incredible. I teach fitness classes for a gym & am certified by the national association of science medicine, so feel like I have some perspective.... the anatomical cueing and guidance around the musculature that is working throughout the series, by all the instructors, has been excellent. I've been coming here since they opened this location and have experienced 7-8 instructors, each for a few times... and have been thoroughly pleased ... the owners are lovely and have a lot of pride in how they manage both locations ... COVID UPDATE- Masks are required during workouts (they provide paper ones if you need a more breathable option) and the number of beds have been condensed with ample space to & around ones self. Multiple high end air filtration systems have been placed throughout the studios & fans are consistently on ensuring the air is moving. Truthfully it's felt like an incredibly safe and thoughtful place to work our during this time!! It's been my sanity touch point during the week... hope you'll check it out !!

These instructors know what they are doing, they are helpful, and they give you a chance to work at…read moreyour own level. I've never had an instructor I haven't appreciated. It's a great workout! And the Capitol Hill location is so convenient.

OVERALL: good workout but it's more like stretch Pilates…read more PROS: - small studio with I believe only 7 reformers = lots of individualized attention - if you're new to Pilates the individualized attention is great and adds to a safe and welcoming environment - clean - friendly staff - socks on pilates (they sell sticky socks) - great 3 class for $79(?) promo CONS - fills up quickly bc there are only 7 reformers - it's not as hard as solidcore. I did both beginner classes here and solidcore and found that while I got a little burn/soreness the day after, District Pilates felt more like a stretch Pilates class. Solidcore was harder and I really felt I was working my entire body - wish they had followed up after my 3 day promo was up Overall a good starting point and would recommend for starting out.

I love District Pilates and had been regularly a few years ago. I recently visited again with a…read morefriend as a birthday gift and honestly it's just getting better. There are 7 reformers (yay small classes) with a chair and a ton of props to use throughout the workout. I've been to a few of the instructors and liked them all. The workout is challenging and you can really feel your legs, arms, glutes working in each posture. The studio has lovely and colorful art work and small seating area at the front. If you are looking for a good reformer workout I highly recommend this studio. Location: Conveniently located in Logan circle with plenty of street parking and many restaurants nearby to try after your class.

I've been a founding member since August of last year, and I love this place. It's close to home,…read moreand all the instructors are amazing. They guide you to improve and are always happy to help with any questions you ask.

From the owner: Club Pilates Navy Yard is a boutique Pilates studio specializing in reformer fusion classes for…read moreanyone, at any age or fitness level. Pure to Joseph Pilates' original Reformer-based Contrology Method, but modernized with group practice and expanded state-of-the-art equipment, Club Pilates offers high-quality, life-changing training at a surprisingly affordable price.​

My favorite thing about this studio is the location, right off of the Eastern Market metro stop…read more It's a small studio with one bathroom and a changing room. The classes are challenging and rewarding. The instructors are welcoming and technical. They go around to individuals, calling you by your name, and correcting your form. I have tried all 3 of their classes: Pure Barre Classic, Pure Reform (using resistance bungees and has similarities to pilates reformer) and Pure Empower (more cardio). All of them are great in their own way, and Pure Reform is the most challenging. It's definitely worth it to try the 3 class new client deal or through classpass (although Reform doesn't seem to be offered through classpass).

I attended an introduction to barre class on a Saturday at noon…read more Pros: The instructor was excellent!! Very friendly and very helpful. She also took the time to learn everyone's names The studio was clean and well maintained. Strong community feeling. Cons: The staff was a little pushy and "in your face" from the moment you walk through the door. Both before and after class. Now I did opt to receive more information later, so that I don't mind. But immediately before and following class it was a bit much. More of a turn off Street parking only, so prepare The lobby can be a bit hectic between classes with very little space to move around Overall the class was fun and a good low impact workout!! Although I would definitely consider joining, the price tag was a little steep in my opinion. But If it's something you love, it's worth it! And again this location seemed to have a good community.

Took our first "Yoga & Play for Babies". The class was pretty good. My baby enjoyed most of the…read moreactivities, but the teacher was condescending. Especially upon answering questions. I'll likely finish the three classes, but unfortunately won't sign-up for other classes here. Too bad, I was really looking for classes for my baby and I other than music.

I initially signed up for a toddler's yoga class which we love. Jen is wonderful at illustrating,…read morein very creative ways, how to do complex things like control ones breath, balance, and stretch. Her games, songs, stories, and gentle presence helped my shy son open up. This is a great way to teach them proprioceptive skills even at a very young age. As an aside, Jen (the owner) also generously allows you to explore other classes with your un-used class credit. This is how I found the adult's yoga class - pure bliss. It was like a spa experience except closer to home. A welcomed remedy on Sunday before the start of a new week.

I love Club Pilates Navy Yard! I took my first class when the studio opened in October and have…read morebeen hooked ever since. The instructors and staff are fantastic, and I really appreciate how they offer progressions so each class feels fresh and appropriately challenging--you can truly make it as strenuous as you want. What I didn't expect is how much I'd enjoy the more meditative side of Pilates--the focus on breathing, precision, and control. Before this, I avoided core work (especially bridges and planks), and now they're some of my favorite exercises. I've definitely seen results. My core is stronger, my posture has improved, and I'm noticing more tone throughout--arms, legs (especially hamstrings!), shoulders, and back. I also appreciate the attention to the often-overlooked muscles along the sides and back of the body--it really feels like a balanced workout. Overall, I've had a great experience and highly recommend Club Pilates Navy Yard.

I'm not sure why there are so many bad reviews for this place. I had a great class on a weekday…read moremorning - the class was challenging and different than other studios I had been to. The class was more than half full and everyone was nice. I love that this studio has WINDOWS in the actual studio so it doesn't feel as dark and dungy. They have about 12 reformers. Music was a little quiet but I liked the vibes here. Street parking is easy in the mornings.

Shoutout to Lexi for making my first solidcore class memorable! The place is clean and I thought my…read moreinstructor pushed me to my limits.

I had a great time trying out solidcore at this location. I love that they send you a code so…read moreyou're able to access the studio and that the space is clean. The instructor was extremely welcoming, as this was my first time on the machine. The instructors encourage slow movements and shaking from your smaller muscles putting in the work. If you're thinking of trying out a solidcore class, I definitely recommend the H street location!

For a gym charging a premium of $145 a month, my experience was a huge letdown. Day pass is $45…read more Steam room is out of service. I spent about five hours at the Yards location this week to thoroughly evaluate it before committing as I've been getting spammed in the mail, and I'm glad I did. The staff's attitude was consistently condescending, from the Senior Membership Advisor (Saad Siddiqui) upselling me, person trainers roaming around the facility, to the people at front desk. My main issue how the staff addressed my comment about the soft flooring in the free-weight area, which is completely unsuitable for barbell squats. When I brought this up, the staff condescendingly told me to just use the Smith machine or use the Olympic platform, completely dismissing a valid safety concern. There was a Titan Fitness safety squat bar (SSB) that I had no idea how much it weighed. I asked two person trainers (you'll see PT and their clients everywhere in the gym) how much the bar weighed. The PTs said they had no idea and left it at that. The front desk staff was equally apathetic. I've had better customer service at Planet Fitness for a tiny fraction of the cost. This place is motivated about locking you into their membership plan and signing you up to the many classes and services they offer. This place is not it and I highly recommend looking elsewhere in the DC area.

During the summer I loved the Aqua Burn classes at sunset in the rooftop pool! Joel teaches such a…read morefun class with reggae music. Shiloh teaches the best cardio kickbox class! So challenging to awesome music! She also does a challenging sunset rooftop step aerobics. I wish they also had aqua zumba! The fitness studio is so hot, you immediately feel the difference in temperatures when you walk in and feel like you're hit with a sauna. Speaking of which the sauna is super popular, they really need to build out a bigger one as its too small.