I have been going to Solidcore at the Mt. vrrnin location since May. My experience there is very similar to the review written by Lindsey. She did a terrific job of describing typical sessions. They are very, very challenging. The rewards short term are the sweat and the overall feeling that you have out your body to a major test. Perhaps even more Important is the mental side of the workout. You begin a class with some trepidation about what is in store. But once you begin, you are determined to perform each movement to your maximum level of performance. As you keep on going through the exercises, you feel the sense of accomplishment. Your self esteem builds up with each encouraging word from the instructor. When you finish, the high fives you share with each participant affirm what you all feel. Now that is after one session. Think about doing this 3-4 times a week over seven months. Those who are regular participants see the results in our bodies and in our overall feeling of increased strength and endurance. We also feel that we can meet any challenge. The experience at Solidcore is that strong and infectious. I combine what I do at Solidcore with regular spinning. Both are non-impact. But one builds lean muscle mass and core strength. The other is terrific cardio. They complement each other well. The Mt. Vernon facility is easy to reach, particularly for those Virginians close to I395 which feeds right into Mass Ave. The street parking nearby is easy. I have never had a problem. The trainers at Mt. Vernon really make the experience: Damon, Anne, Kafhryn, Sarah and Melissa have been my regular trainers over the months. They are uniformly encouraging and tough. They have the ability to judge the abilities of each class participant and through in variations of some moves to make them easier or harder depending on the person. I am a very strong advocate for the Solidcore workout, experience and culture. It works beyond your wildest dreams. read more

I love solidcore. I've never experienced any workout like it before. It's extremely high energy yet completely low impact. Also seems very healthy for the body since the instructors focus on proper form. Also, the atmosphere is awesome. When I've had a stressful day, walking into solidcore really boosts my mood. The instructors and clientele are all very positive and the music gets me in the mood to workout. The studios are all very clean too. I would definitely recommend solidcore to anyone looking to see results from their workout. read more

I attended my first class this weekend with Cass. It is most definitely a challenging class and a great workout! I was worried that I would feel intimidated but I had nothing to worry about! Cass was incredibly supportive, encouraging and motivating. She really took care that I was following everything and that we were all totally engaged. The class sizes are perfect (not more than 9 people) and this seemed to make for a really great atmosphere. I've already booked on to two classes this week and made sure I can get at least one class with Cass! read more

Without a doubt, the BEST workout and the BEST community. The Mt. Vernon studio is my favorite, as each coach is extremely welcoming, genuinely cares about making sure you push yourself past what you think you can do, and is just so much fun! While the classes are expensive, I'm telling you, there is NO other workout that brings muscle twitching shakes, and brings results in no time. read more

[solidcore] is hands down the most efficient workout I have ever done!! I feel like this is an informed opinion as I am willing to give any new workout a try and usually do :). As someone with a demanding work schedule, I was becoming frustrated that I would go to a class at my gym and feel like I didn't get much out of it or wasn't challenged and I was looking for something to complement my running. (For context: my workout "loves" include running, hot power yoga, spin, and Barry's). But, all of this changed when [solidcore] opened in May of 2014! Since then, I've been going to classes regularly (2 - 4 times per week), and so I hope this review is helpful. First, the coaches are all awesome. I am always grateful for their encouragement, good spirits, and willingness to try new sequences in class to challenge us. I couldn't list all of my favorite coaches here if I tried! Second, having been to many, many classes, I see how great the coaches are for beginners. Often when I see new people in class I am excited because it will be more of a "back to basics" class, which is just as challenging. Be sure to let the coach know it is your first class and they will put you next to more experienced team members and come over to make sure you've got some of the more complex moves. Also, most coaches demonstrate a move or two before class, so try to arrive 10-15 minutes early! Try to listen to the coaches carefully (while focusing on the moves). They will describe and cue the next move while you are finishing up the current move. Listening to cues in a workout class was new to my fiancé and this is the part he found most challenging. Third, the brand is unique. I have been doing a significant amount of work travel lately and so have tried the megaformer in other cities. To be clear, they are not [solidcore]. [solidcore] has its own twist on the megaformer moves that will truly work your muscles to failure, get you super sweaty, and transform your body. I have never been a stronger version of myself. That said, [solidcore] finally taught me the value of a rest day - that resting does as much for your body as exercise and is just as essential! Fourth, it is not too hard. The workout can be modified to your fitness level and while you should always try to push yourself to your further in this class, you are never pushed to do something that will cause actual pain (not soreness / good pain) or is outside the safety of your fitness level, granted that is up to you to monitor your own body. Truth be told, I modified many exercises until I built the strength to do them fully (and still modify others!); and this is supported by the coaches. Be prepared to sweat, be optimistic, and be prepared to be sore, in places you never imagined there to be muscles, for a day or two afterward. In general, the studios are bare, but that's the nature of the room. Your team, your megaformer, your towel, and your water. They do keep essentials in the bathroom, have a cute selection of clothes, and sell juices for after the workout. But you will need to plan to work a shower in shortly after this class. I have noticed that the megaformers are definitely being "used" more of late, but they usually update the supplies as items wear out. give it a try! you have nothing to lose, but lots to gain! read more

The classes are great but really disappointed by the poor customer service. Absolutely no leniency for missed classes because of illness or even going to an early class when there's an opening. I received much better support and service from other small gyms in the city. All the club cared about was money. I'd rather support smaller clubs that try to work with me when I need help. read more

Super baller workout. I have never been in so much pain and enjoyed it so much. The megaformers are crazy torture devices that will change your world. I began this workout with a very beginners' level core and I like to think I have gotten somewhat stronger since then. But this workout does not let you plateau because there's always a step or two further you can go to make it burn more. The instructors are excellent motivators and make you want to get on your toes. The studio is no frills but that's not the point of coming to work out so its okay. There's a bathroom, a water fountain, and a few drawers for your stuff. It's clean and there are wipes that are handed out at the end of every class. I highly recommend it if you have the $$ to do an unlimited month. I'm trying to save up for next month already. Also, once you get advanced, try arms and abs. It's killer. One time I was convinced I would pass out if I pulsed even once more. Try it. read more

I love boot camp style workouts but I've never done anything as challenging and rewarding as this. I've tried seven different instructors at this location, over the course of five months, and they are all phenomenal. Some days before class begins I almost regret signing up because I know how hard I'll be working, but the instructors are great with the variety and pace of their programs, and their motivational coaching. I always feel amazing immediately after, and I've strengthened muscles I had apparently been completely neglecting in other workouts. read more

I've done some great workouts but this workout truly the toughest, most humbling workout I've done in a long time. It challenges your body and has given my fitness routine renewed focus. I'm happy to compete against myself and with some phenomenal athletes. The direction and coaching is top notch. Thanks to Ramona for being an absolute rockstar and helping inspire many of us. Many thanks to Loren, Anna & Erica for being fantastic as well. read more

I am new to Solidcore. I have taken 2 classes so far and I am very impressed with the classes. It is the best workout that I have ever had. I plan on taking a class 2-3 times a week. read more

A-ma-zing. Go now. Like - stop reading, get online and sign up. Super cute little studio with 8 machines. Great workout that left me sore the next day without killing my joints. Not to mention the great apparel and other clients. If I lived here I would come everyday. Reason 100 to move to DC. Also it's the ONLY gym in DC with the mega-reformer. Google it. read more

Went there and was not treated very good. I had gained weight after a surgery and having 2 children. I hope to get a handle on before becoming an issue. Apparently they only want hip thin people to come in and treated me like I was some hog even though I'm not nearly as bad as these people on fat buggies and stuff. I've gained about 20lbs since my surgery, recovery, bedridden pregnancy. I really was looking for a place I could feel welcomed and I did not. I felt shame for my body. I guess they made fun of me too. read more

I absolutely love [Solidcore]. Before joining, I sincerely hated working out, and now it's pretty much the highlight of my day when I know I have class. Ramona is the bomb! She will work each muscle group to failure with a smile, but she also knows what she's talking about and is going to make sure you get the most out of every class. I drag friends to her class every chance I get! read more

This is the toughest workout I've ever done. I've been an avid runner for over a decade, but I've never seen my body look like it does now after three months of regularly attending solidcore. I initially heard of solidcore while I was recovering from a knee cartilage injury and going crazy from not being able to do what I viewed as challenging workouts. Not only is solidcore easy on my knees and other joints, but it was exactly what I needed to get excited about fitness again. I've referred eight of my friends and all of them have loved it. The atmosphere is very welcoming, and even though I was nervous for my first class, Jamie really took the time to show me the machine and correct my form. I was immediately hooked. My favorite instructor is Ashley, but I've also loved classes taught by Cynthia, Kathryn, Damon, Sarah, and Alex. And, if you're really feeling awesome, Anne will kick your butt! read more

This place absolutely changed my body and my life -- I miss it tremendously and would still do it all week if I could. As my spouse's idea on a whim, we started working out here in September 2014. I became addicted immediately, coming faithfully 2-5 times a week for the next 12 months of my own volition. The exercise burns a ton of calories (600-800cal for a 160lb guy) which you just can't get slowly doing weights on your own or running on a treadmill [unless sprinting constantly]. The instructors' motivation is absolutely the key here. They're never aggressive, mean, or condescending, but they do keep you working out constantly. You never get breaks, but your workouts are safe, healthy, and non joint-impacting. This is a first for me. I've worked out with personal trainers, and I am a military veteran who's gone through repeated boot camp evolutions [where the instructors were certainly aggressive, mean, and condescending]. All those prior mentioned other things involved lots of pounding jumping/lifting type stuff with breaks between, and they certainly were workouts, but beat up my joints and the breaks probably didn't let me push my cardio fitness levels the way solidcore did. At solidcore, the fact that I worked out 50 solid minutes hitting every major muscle group totally transformed my body in ways I hadn't seen - especially on obliques and lower abs. I recommend this heavily to everyone who lives near one. A word to guys-- do as many "Arms & Abs" classes as you can, as many instructors tend to focus on girls' "beach muscles" compared to what guys prioritize. I've been to several classes where arms were a brief afterthought after tons of quads and abs and glutes. But when they do arms & abs - your triceps will get beat to awesome failure and then beat some more. Alison C-F and Erica B are by far my two favorite instructors - get in their classes when you can, they are so good!! [solidcore] please open a studio in Yokosuka, Japan as soon as you can! [missing you guys] ! read more

This class KICKED MY BUTT! I thought I was a little above average in the fitness department but this class manages to twist and turn and stretch your body in a completely different way than any class I have ever taken. I would says its a mix between barre, power yoga and even lifting. You're using this boxed contraption so you're basically staying in place but YOU WILL SWEAT A TON. My instructor was Anna, and I like that she is up in your face motivating you because every move is tough and it takes all your energy and gut to keep going but once you wake up the next morning and the morning after that and you feel the soreness in your abs and you're instantly hooked and you can't wait to come again. Don't be scared - you would be amazed at what your body can do. Location is easy to find and everything is clean and small and intimate. You feel you're in a private training class. The newbie discount is nice, but the regular price is high. Makes sense because of the small classes and the skill of positions they have you in. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for that extra challenge. read more

Solidcore is a fantastic workout; the megaformer gives you a run for your money like no other equipment! It also works muscles in ways you don't usually get to work them, and it targets some of the smaller muscles that no other workout can help you reach. I love the Mt. Vernon location! I started going there, honestly, because of the proximity to downtown. If you work anywhere near Union Station, Capitol Hill or the Mall, this is the best Solidcore location for you. It is warm and comfortable. There's always parking, even at rush hour. The classes are naturally small by definition because there are only a limited number of machines. Warning: the coaches at Mt. Vernon work you really hard. really hard. Unlike one other reviewer on here, i've found nothing but individualized attention and close monitoring. The coaches constantly circulate in the class. They watch you VERY closely, to the point where you feel like you are getting one on one training. I've made extraordinary strides in my lifelong fitness and i credit Solidcore for a lot of that. A special shout out for Damon who is remarkable, but it's hard to overlook Melissa, Loren and all the other great coaches at Mt. Vernon. I will say, Solidcore is not for everyone. It's a super challenging workout. You have to be up for it, you have to be able to push yourself and you have to be willing to strive for more than you think you can do. Not everyone wants to work that hard. You can get in decent shape without this kind of workout. For those of us who are addicted to the Solidcore workout....it's really about being motivated and committed to going past where you think you can go.....every time. read more

Solidcore is absolutely the best workout in DC - seriously no need to try anywhere else. The Mt. Vernon location is my favorite and the instructors at this studio are all topnotch. Every class will challenge your body in ways you never thought possible and every class will feel like an amazing accomplishment. read more

I'm leaving for the country for the year (is Sweatlana in Budapest?!) and wanted to make sure to leave a review. I started Solidcore at the beginning of the summer and was immediately hooked. The class is tough, but I always leave better than I came and find myself smiling through the pain. I've tried most boutique fitness studios in the DC area and I can solidly say that Solidcore will show you the best sculpting results. Even in four short months I've noticed new muscle definition, feel and look stronger, and am tighter in places I didn't know needed tightening. I've visited Shaw, Mosaic, and Cathedral Commons and all the studios are beautiful and have amazing instructors. I found myself at Mt. Vernon most often and loved getting my ass kicked by Anna and Erica. I'm not sure how anyone manages to speak for 50 minutes and make the time go by so quickly, but they manage to do it. You won't regret getting your shakes on! read more

I was in DC for a few days and tried [solidcore] for the first time on Sunday. I loved it! Cass did a great job of making me feel comfortable trying something new, while simultaneously pushing me to do my best. read more

I had the pleaure to attend a SolidCore workout at this location yesterday while visiting friends and family in DC. So, let me start by saying I loved the class, but (there is always a but, isn't there?) I had a little trouble figuring out the megaformer. I'm sure it's just that it was my first class, but I got confused a few times. Luckily there was another girl in class who had taken 100 classes so I looked to her to see what to do. My core is so sore today in the best way possible. I take a lot of barre classes so I'm used to shaking but I was literally shaking in the first 10 minutes of class. SUCH A GREAT WORKOUT! I really wish there were classes near me, but I'm in the area frequently and I plan to come back asap. Oh, and the website says to be in good shape and be able to plank for 60 seconds. I thought I was in good shape (I run, spin, go to barre and yoga), but this class makes me feel like I could quit all those other things and just do this. read more

This is my first ever review on Yelp, and I am inspired to write it because Solidcore is AWESOME. I was in DC for a week on business. My normal workouts are DVD programs like T25 and PiYo, and I knew I wouldn't be able to do them while living in a hotel for the week -- so I decided to take class at Solidcore. I have been interested in megaformer classes but had not yet take a class. I am SO glad and happy that I took class at Solidcore. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the workout, it is amazing -- I have never sweated so as I do during the Solidcore classes. Literally DRIPPING sweat. The class is hard and intense -- but the teachers are wonderful and the vibe fantastic. I took 4 classes during the week, which is probably a lot to jump into, but I was in pretty good endurance/strength shape going in, so I had a fantastic time. I feel like my body is already stronger and harder than when I started a week ago. I am really going to miss being able to take the class -- but will definitely come back when I am next in DC! SO addicting. SO good. read more

This is hands down the best workout I have ever done. Being a dancer for 15 years, I know what a great workout feels like and especially how I feel afterwards, but this class literally makes me feel like the Hulk. All of the instructors are amazing and so motivating (my favorites are Ashley, Loren and Anna). It is like having a personal cheerleader for 50 minutes. All of the instructors know my name and my capabilities and can see the growth class after class. After only 25 classes in the past couple months, I can see a huge change in my body. I mostly go to the Mt Vernon studio just because it is super close to my house. It is definitely the smallest of all the studios, but I like that about it because its more personalized. I have started to get to know some of the people that come to the same classes I do and it is becoming my own little workout family. I mean you high five after every workout, who doesn't love that? I won't lie, it is really expensive and yes your wallet does suffer slightly, BUT if you are used to taking workout classes outside of a regular gym, you know that all studios are expensive. You get a lot more out of this workout than others in the city and believe me I used to be a member at A LOT of other studios. If you ask anyone I know, I love this place so much I am basically a walking advertisement (you're welcome solidcore). Definitely worth a try. Don't be intimidated, it is amazing. read more