The LAB Fitness DC — Local services in Washington

Why The LAB? Smart programming. Knowledgable coaches. Positive community.

The LAB isn’t one of those “let’s throw random moves in a random order at people and hope they think the workout is good” or “one-size-fits-all” type of classes. The LAB offers top-notch and smart programming. The class is broken down into 4 parts, which is what makes it different than any other workout I’ve done in the DC area: wake up (mobility), warm up, work (lifting/barbell work), and cashout (conditioning).

You spend a significant amount of time on proper mobility and warm up so you can prevent injury. This is one of the things I appreciate about The LAB. Many other classes don’t focus on the mobility/warm up piece enough in my opinion, which is why I hear about and see injuries from time to time. Don’t worry, though—there’s still plenty of time to do barbell lifts (deadlifts, front squats, back squats, bench presses, etc.). This is one of the things I’ve missed the most in group fitness classes. You don’t really find real barbells in classes except in CrossFit gyms and barbell clubs, so it’s been great to be able to implement this back into my routine again. I really like that there’s time to work on these skills at your own pace with a partner or two (and your coach). You build good skills, technique, and strength during this portion of the class.

…And we can’t forget about the cashout. This is the last part of class where you get to do some conditioning work with cardio machines (treads, assault bikes, ski ergs, rowers), dumbbells, kettlebells, and other pieces of equipment that I haven’t used before like hex bars and aqua workout bags. I feel like I learn a lot of new moves that I’ve never done before, which keeps it exciting!

The coaches are really knowledgable, positive, and encouraging. They know when to help you with your form so you can prevent injury and what I appreciate most: they know exactly how and when to push your limits. I don’t mean in a “I’m going to push you and you’re going to hurt yourself” or awkward cheerleading type of way, either. They watch you and immediately know you can go up in weight, or when you’re getting tired, they can see you have a little more in you to do a few more reps (in a safe way, of course). The programming makes the workout challenging, but the coaches take it one step further.

The people are really welcoming (and strong). There’s always conversation flowing, people cheering each other on, and big smiles even when we feel like we’re dying. This is one of the best parts: having like-minded people surrounding you to celebrate your victories, along with having cool coaches who care about your ability to grow and facilitate it in different ways.

At The LAB, you'll develop your skills properly and have the opportunity to be challenged, all while working at a pace that feels...

Let’s start off with this gym is a solid place for seasonal gym goers and beginners. Mon/ Tues/ Wednesday/ Saturday are broken into two portions. A 30 minute (estimate) lifting section and a 30 minute higher intensity portion (estimate).The workouts are challenging, dynamic, and constantly changing, which keeps things exciting. The coaches are knowledgeable and motivating, pushing you to give your best while still offering modifications if needed. The weight lifting portion at this gym is also very well programmed! The coaches provide clear guidance on proper form and technique, making it easy to follow along whether you’re new or experienced. The class is well-structured, with a good balance of strength training and progressive challenges each session. I have gotten so much stronger and confident. The group setting creates an energetic, supportive environment that keeps me coming back. There are also a multitude of different classes from symmetry (working one side at a time) to glute lab (all about building the peach) lastly comp classes ( if you are training for Hyrox).. check them out you won’t be...

Truly the best all-around fitness program and community in the DMV. The classes and programming are challenging yet approachable and the coaches are supportive, knowledgeable, and fun.

I’ve learned how to do complex barbell lifts and I’ve seen my strength and confidence with them significantly increase in the past year I’ve been going to the LAB. It’s also been great to do conditioning in the cash-outs and on wildcard Fridays that isn’t just running or cardio machines but also incorporates free weights and body weight exercises that have helped build my overall strength and endurance. And the classes are fun - the people and community there is unmatched.

I’m so glad I found The Lab DC - 10/10 highly...