How has your experience been with MINT? When I first started working out at Mint (the Downtown Studio, RIP) I was incredibly out of shape, had not worked out in a very long time, had very little confidence and was terrified of being judged by… well, everyone. Kathryn’s Barre class was the first one I walked into on a April evening, and from that first class, I knew that this gym felt different. From the first steps you take into any of the locations, you are greeted by welcoming, smiling people who seem to be in your corner right away. Every single instructor I have worked with has been engaging, fun to work with, and kind. That judgment I feared so palpably my first time stepping into the studio has never been felt within any interaction I have with any other member. In short, I’ve never had a gym experience where I’ve felt so supported and encouraged, even by people I’ve only met once or a couple of times. I went from going a couple of times a week to going six days a week, and know that Mint is my “safe space” – no matter what noise or ridiculous thing is going on in my life or in DC in general, I can go to Mint, breathe and re-center myself, all while being around a bunch of genuinely great people. And ten months following that first Barre class, I not only know that I have grown in leaps and bounds health wise, but my confidence has risen in ways I could never imagine.

Fitness goals and how you have started working your way towards them? When I first started, my main goal was to lose weight and get healthy in all areas. I am still working toward my “goal number”, but I really am placing more focus on maintaining the work that I have accomplished while gaining more confidence to try out more of the HIIT classes and challenge myself more in the areas of cardio endurance and strength training.

Classes you like? Kathryn’s Barre class was my first introduction to Mint and remains my favorite – her enthusiasm and support are what ultimately made me want to become a member. All of the Barre classes are fantastic and speak to me really well as a former dancer, and I love that each instructor has their own style while retaining the integrity of the method. I have also started taking the Power Pilates classes every week and love how centering and peaceful they are, while still providing a great challenge to my core and leg muscles. Mariam’s Cardio Belly Dance class is SO fun, and I am thrilled that it was added last month – to anyone who is curious, take it! Its so fun, and works both my brain AND my core my crazy! I also really enjoy the TRX Bootcamp classes when my confidence in myself is up, and Braegan makes something that looks incredibly intimidating easy to follow (if exhausting but gratifying as all get out by the end of the class).