Washington Sports Clubs

I have been a member there for a little over 4 years now, and I wouldn't want to work out anywhere else. I am in the gym at least 5 days a week and have never had a problem with the heat. But then again, I don't mind breaking a sweat when I work out.

Truth is, I have never belonged to a gym with friendlier staff. They all know you by your first name and give a friendly welcome when you enter. Anytime I have ever talked to the manager, he has been more than willing to help me out in a friendly professional manner.

The equipment is new, clean, and I never have a problem using any piece of equipment when I wanted to.

As for the person who called the place a "dump", did you notice those two big round pieces of metal on each side of the cardio area? The ones with the big spinning blades that has been there for a couple of months? Those would be called fans.

I joined this gym last year and enjoyed the experience until I had to cancel my membership. I followed the company procedure in February and have been fraudulently billed for more than six months. The management has changed numerous times, has not been responsive, and corporate headquarters has not responded to my numerous contacts and requests. After three months of attempts, I had to contact my credit card to report the charges as fraudulent. This started in early February and has not been resolved.

I strongly recommend that potential members consider the time and expense of cancellation in advance. The sales team will inform you they have an easy 30-day cancellation and special consideration for people who work in the building. That is far from the truth.

The WSC is Sterling, VA is a dump. The equipment is filthy. The staff never cleans anything. If you want it clean, you have to do it yourself. Which I actually don't mind doing, however, there are rearely any clean rags to use for cleaning at the cleaning station! If you want to sit and stretch on a mat, make sure you have a clean towel underneath you.

There also is a HUGE problem with the cooling system in the gym. If the tempature gets above 85, you might as well not even go to workout. The cardio area is kept so hot. Members are looking around at each other and complaining left and right. It really is dangerous. At least previous managers made an effort to alleviate some of the problem by turning on a huge fan in the back corner to get some sort of air circulation going. But the current manager has no clue. I dont think he has ever walked back to the cardio area. This will surely be noticed when they give tours to potential new members.

My advice, if you are looking for a gym in the Sterling, Herndon area, do not join this one. There are lower priced gyms in the area that are cleaner, have a more helpful staff, and are much cooler!

I have been going to WSC for 8 years and the individual at the front desk - Renato - was more interested in reading his newspaper then signing me in. To say it went down hill from there would be an understatement. Bottom line is that I am writing the coporate office to make them aware.

I normally do not complain and told the manager that everyone has a bad day but I will probably drop my membership based on this experience.

There are a number of reasons why Washington Sports Club is a great place to work out. Not only are there 18 locations in the Washington metropolitan region, but each location offers an extensive list of exercise classes. Of the 7 clubs I have visited, I have always encountered clean locker rooms and friendly staff. Each club also offers a daily 22-minute express weight-training workout that is free to members and supervised by WSC staff. The only reason I don't give these clubs 5 stars is that, membership is pricey.

The best feature are the machnies, everything is new and state of the art technology, with personal fans and t.v. while working out. Great locker rooms, ver clean and staff is customer friendly. One down point is there are no fans in the facility so bring your deodorant. Price is moderately expensive but worth it.

This location, just a block from the MCI Center, is new (it opened in late 2004). It is the best location: never crowded and lots of new machines.

Location is also great. If you're taking the Metro, exit Gallery Place/Chinatown (take the Chinatown exit).

PROS: New, Great location
CONS: None