I don’t love working out. I would maybe classify myself as someone who tolerates working out, and that’s mostly because eating is my true passion. With that said, I’ve been peer-pressured into trying more than a few workout classes across D.C., and there are classes that fit any level of fitness. But if classes aren’t your thing, the District also offers scenic parks, trails, and other outdoor spots for getting fit. Whether you’re running the “Exorcist” stairs in Georgetown or hitting a barre class on 14th Street, here’s your guide to working out in D.C.

Navy Yards

Photo courtesy of Solidcore at Navy Yard

Vida at The Yards is probably the most impressive gym in D.C. The gym offers more weights and machines than you even knew existed, and their classes are some of the most high-octane experiences I’ve had working out. Vida will cost you a hefty amount, but you’ll feel justified when you’re sitting in the steam room in mid-February. Dropping a couple hundred per month for a gym membership isn’t always in the cards, but luckily living on the water provides some free options. Anacostia Park is right across the river, offering miles of scenic running paths.

As far as classes go, Solidcore at Navy Yard will be your go-to spot. Solidcore offers beginner’s classes, full-body classes, and muscle-specific classes, so odds are you’ll be able to find some enjoyable ab destruction workouts.

Georgetown

You’ll love running on Georgetown’s cobbled streets lined with historic rowhouses—but they’ll destroy your calves. Also, the steep stairs seen in the film “The Exorcist” (near a gas station where M Street becomes Canal Road) double as a D.C. landmark and a calf-destroying workout. If you’re looking for something a little more air-conditioned, Barre3 isn’t a bad way to go. The national boutique fitness chain offers a wide variety of ballet-inspired classes that are low-impact but produce a serious burn.

On the flatter side of things, the C&O Canal running trail is a D.C. favorite. The canal starts in Georgetown and runs 184 miles along the Potomac River into Cumberland, Maryland. It’s flat, and it doesn’t take long to feel like you’re out of the city. There are even historically significant markers and stops along the way.

Logan Circle

Photo courtesy of FusePilates

Logan Circle—and 14th Street in particular—probably has more new workout studios than new fast-casual chain restaurants, and that’s saying something. If you’re really dedicated to you workout, CrossFitMPH offers a community of athletes committed to proper technique. Don’t want to be screamed at? FusePilates was voted Best of D.C. in both 2016 and 2017. The classes they offer—such as mat, reformer machines, and “ladder,” a challenging full-body workout—come in a variety of packages, including a pass for unlimited classes. Other trendy options in the area include Orangetheory Fitness, barre3 DC, Elevate Interval Fitness, and Cut Seven. If you live in Logan Circle, maybe look into ClassPass.

Dupont Circle

Connected to Georgetown by the Dumbarton Bridge, DuPont offers runs with rowhouse views in a flatter setting. It also has a bunch of easy access points to the Rock Creek Parkway, D.C.’s premier “wooded” running trail. Running through the circle itself lets you choose your own adventure, with offshoots headed into West End, Adams Morgan, and Shaw as well as other neighborhoods. If you’re looking for a gym in DuPont, Mint is your best bet. Buried at the bottom of 18th Street in a former music venue, Mint offers a wide variety of classes in a clean, not-overwhelming atmosphere. They even take some of their classes outside—which is a nice touch—incorporating the soccer field across the street and nearby neighborhoods.

Columbia Heights

Meridian Hill Park

Columbia Heights boasts one of D.C.’s most under appreciated gems: Meridian Hill Park. For being packed in between two of D.C.’s most densely populated neighborhoods, there’s a surprising amount of real estate in the park. It’s got plenty of stairs, expansive (shaded) pathways, and a bunch of cool fountains to boot. The best part about it, though, is the sheer number of dogs you’ll see when out on a nice day. Also, the views of D.C.’s skyline give you a built-in excuse to take a break.