Meet May Member of the Month, Mark Jefferson. When our GM Bresni asked Mark about his experience with MINT he shared that “MINT has been downright transformational over the years in terms of flexibility, strength, endurance, and at times, sanity. It has always been not only a great place not only to work out, but also a work-week respite, and weekend primer. MINT went to great lengths during the pandemic to create a safe way for us to continue doing so despite the required limitations.”

Mark originally joined MINT with the goal to fit into certain clothes still hanging in his closet which he was able to achieve while working with a MINT personal trainer in the beginning. What keeps him coming back is the ongoing goal of staying healthy and in shape while maintaining flexibility. Now that the restrictions of the pandemic are lifting he’s excited to get back to his routine and include some more cardio-focused in his workouts.

When Mark isn’t working with a trainer or jumping on the treadmill, elliptical, or rower he enjoys attending the candle-light virtual yoga class with Laura to end his workweek. Recently he has really enjoyed Ferdaious’s outdoor Saturday morning outdoor yoga class. Core fitness groups are another favorite for Mark and he has continued to incorporate some of the exercises he has learned during those classes (specifically Gabe’s) every day!

The next time you see Mark, whether it is in the club or in a yoga class be sure to give him a wave and say hello!

A few years ago, Laura fell in love with strength training and the patience, discipline and confidence it taught her. She got certified to become a personal trainer soon after, and now enjoys helping others in her community have a similar positive and fulfilling experience with health and fitness.

Strength training has become her specialty. She loves working with people who are new to weightlifting to help them build their own confidence and foundational strength. Her goal is to help each of her clients feel their best and accomplish whatever goals they’ve made for themself.

One thing that is unique about Laura’s training style is that she focuses just as much on emotional and mental wellness as physical. She believes everyone’s relationship with fitness is intrinsic to their sense of self; and it’s important to her to create spaces in health and fitness for everyone to feel safe and welcome no matter their level of experience or ability!

Laura’s advice for anyone considering personal training for the first time is, “there’s no time like the present- any step you take is a step forward! Having a personal trainer by your side to help guide you will guarantee that you will make progress safely and efficiently as well as have fun in the process. Try it and you’ll be hooked!”

Outside of MINT, Laura loves to run or bike around the monuments – her favorite is the Jefferson Memorial. Her favorite places in DC to get a healthy meal are the farmer’s market in Eastern Market and Chopsmith (she always gets the Tropical Chicken bowl!). She also enjoys going for walks, traveling and photography and is even reading a book in Spanish to keep her foreign language skills sharp.

If you’re interested in working with Laura she can be reached by emailing Laurasaltzer@mintdc.com.

Ready to take a yoga class but not sure which one is right for you? MINT has a variety of options both virtual and outdoors to help you feel strong, flexible, and at peace on your mat. Recommended props include a yoga mat, blocks, folded blanket or throw pillows, a yoga strap or belt and items to set the mood such as candles or essential oils.

Virtual Fairy Lights Yoga (Sundays, 11am)
Yoga with ambiance.
60 minutes
This is an all-levels vinyasa class designed to address all seven energy centers in your body from the base of your spine to the crown of your head.  You start the class with a short centering that includes a  mindfulness practice and a calming breathing exercise. The rest of the class is evenly divided between a flow practice and seated poses. Enjoy heart/shoulder/neck/hip openers, forward folds, twists, side bends, inversions, and balancing poses throughout the class. You will be offered modifications or options appropriate to your yoga practice.

This class is typically taught by Laura Trejo. 

Virtual Vinyasa Flow (Mondays, Noon)
MINT Vinyasa Flow anywhere you go.
50 minutes
This active, fluid style class is based on traditional, mindfully linked poses and breathwork. While this class is open and appropriate for all levels, Kate often sequences the practice to learn and play around with a fun challenge pose.

This class is typically taught by Kate Rivard.

Virtual Hatha Yoga (Wednesdays, Noon)
Intelligent mobility and physical wisdom.
60 minutes
This interdisciplinary class focuses on strength and intelligent mobility. It uses the wisdom of yoga interwoven with techniques from instructor Dr. Ariele Foster’s physical therapy background to create better body balance with modern life (sitting, computers) and more athletic training. All levels and ages are welcome.

This class is typically taught by Dr. Ariele Foster. 

Virtual Candlelight Yoga (Wednesdays 7pm)
Restorative practice by candlelight.
30 minutes
This class is all-levels, beginning with a slower vinyasa and ending with more restorative poses. Set up your candles, and prepare to stretch and relax after a long day.

This class is typically taught by Ferdaouis Bagga.

Virtual Power Flow Yoga (Thursdays 7:30am)
A powerful flow for all levels.
60 minutes
This Vinyasa-style class will boost your energy, and help you feel grounded and strong. Each sequence will vary, challenging your breath and muscles in new ways. All levels of experience are welcome.

This class is typically taught by Ferdaouis Bagga. 

Looking to take your yoga practice outside?

Outdoor MINT Yoga (Tuesdays 6:30pm, Thursdays 5pm, Saturdays 10am)
60 minutes
Grab your mat, water, and towel and meet at Marie Reed Field for MINT’s (physically-distanced) yoga class in the fresh air. Look for the MINT instructor near our green cones.

These classes are typically taught by Ferdaouis Bagga, Kelly Tobin, and Kristin Adair.

Check out our schedule here and save your spot today! 

NOTE: Virtual MINT Yoga Classes
First class on Virdio? Upon registering for class you will receive a one-time email to create your Virdio account. Virdio is accessible on your web browser, https://virdio.com. iOS/Windows application, and iOs/Android mobile. More info here.

Grow as a Personal Trainer at MINT health club!MINT is a modern, independent boutique health club operating in northwest DC for over 15 years. We are looking for certified personal trainers who can provide a high-quality fitness experience for our members and clients.MINT is unique: there are “gyms,” and then there’s MINT. Thus, trainers who have worked hard to gain education and/or experience, and want to work among a professional, fun, and reputable team, MINT is for you.

We are an entrepreneurial organization. You will get what you invest in your job. Successful trainers at MINT are motivated, skilled, organized, good at self-promotion, interested in meeting new members and sharing their passion for wellness. Our personal training team is comprised of full-time professional trainers looking for meaningful fitness careers (not a few hours as a part-time job).

Applicant requirements:
BA/BS with a National Training Certification (example, NASM, ACSM, etc.)

OR

National training certification and 2 years of experience

In addition, a desire to change people’s lives in a healthy, sustainable manner.

Personal Trainer Compensation (full time):
Very competitive hourly rate commensurate with education and experience, potential into six figures
Healthcare options available with a PPO after 60 days of employment

To apply please submit a resume and letter of interest to melissa@mintdc.com.

Stock up on your personal training sessions. We have a deal for everyone – go BIG or go SMALL.

Go Small

6pack in-club 50min (Trainer) ($75/session) –$450

6pack in-club 50min (Master Trainer) ($85/session) – $510

Go Big

30pack in-club 50min (Trainer) ($68/session) – $2,040 

30pack in-club 50min (Master Trainer) ($78/session) – $2,340

 

Get access to 30 days of MINT classes.

If you’re currently on a cardio + strength membership you’re eligible to get 30 days of all MINT classes FOR FREE! This includes outdoor, virtual, and our on-demand library. All you need to do is fill out this form.