Once again, our staff at Pointed Magazine is dedicated to bringing its readers the hottest product and services for 2006.The staff at Pointed Magazine have reviewed all types of products and services, but this fitness facility has a whole new attitude towards working out.

If you are tired of the same ole in gyms and health clubs, old equipment, too crowded, expensive fees all for what seems like nothing, then if your anywhere within 30 minutes of Downtown Washington, D.C, we highly encourage giving VIDA Fitness at the Verizon Center a try, you will be glad you did.

With all of the hype that has surrounded this hi-tech fitness facility opening in the space of the former Discovery Zone at the Verizon Center our staff had to check it out. While both of us contributing to this article work-out on a daily basis, going to VIDA was an eye-opener that there is finally something that caters to all in terms of a great workout. No one will feel uncomfortable going to VIDA

According to co-owner and operations manager Chris Carnecchia, VIDA is a fitness center and spa that is not like the others. “We are going after the mind, body and spirit and we can say there is just no other club like it in D.C. We are making it very competitive in comparison to others in the area like Sports Club L.A and the Ritz Carlton,” said Carnecchia. “Once you step inside everything myself and David have learned from the health club industry we have put it in this club.”

“We have some of the best equipment in the area, said Carnecchia. Members will get an opportunity to find all the machines they need. Whether they want to work out with free weights or soak in the Japanese soaking tubs, there is something for everyone, male and female,” said Carnecchia.

So after speaking with Carnecchia, we decided to give VIDA a whirl and see what their competitors have to fear.

When you step in to VIDA, the first feature that prospective clients will enjoy is how each machine is spread throughout the facility. There is a treadmill available on almost every part of the four floor facility. What makes these machines the best in the industry is not just the televisions at every machine, but all of the analyzed information regarding your workout displayed on the screen at all times. Just one touch of the screen will start your workout right. From steppers, to treadmills, each machine is tailored just for you. Just plug in the headphones and get your groove on and this will be a great time, minute after minute. Shedding pounds this winter will seem

When we moved upstairs to the free and circuit weight section on the fourth floor, members will find each section of the circuit weights labeled for each part of the body. Unlike some gyms where each machine is all over the entire gym, they have simplified your workout for each part of the body. Potential members will also like the floor to ceiling windows which brings plenty of light into the gym area, so you don’t feel like you stepped into the concrete jungle when you workout. High industrial tailored ceilings also add a very modern look to the gym. Polished wood railing and chrome all around shows everyone how VIDA gets their shine on.

VIDA has a great selection of free weights, from benches to barbells; they have ensured that there will be enough to share even during their peak hours.

For those who enjoy the workout classes, VIDA has one of the most extensive class list found anywhere in the city and suburbs. Whether you enjoy cycling or yoga, classes begin as early as 6:45am and run all day long until 8:45 at night for the later after work crowds. VIDA even offers a full Military challenge on Saturday morning. We must say this is the real boot camp, led by a real member of the military, Antoine.

While we have never felt a locker room was worth mentioning in an article, this one deserves some recognition. With saunas and steam rooms large enough to house a small family and with the large lockers and Versace style sinks and countertops lined with a fresh line of soaps and lotions, you will leave VIDA feeling refreshed and your body renewed.

If you’re tired of your old gym and just looking for something new and upbeat, give VIDA a chance, we did and our staff saw the difference only after ten minutes of working out.

Below are some of the key reasons why fitness minded people should take advantage of the no initiation and $84 month intro rates.

Free Weights to kinesis training
Free initial 55 minute personal training session
Pilates, yoga and mediation
Indoor Cycling and cardio machines
Endless pools and Japanese Soaking Tubs
Personalized fitness and circuit training
Studio Classes
Exclusive VIDA brand health products
Saunas and Steam Rooms
Professionally designed lockerooms with optional laundry service.

VIDA is located at the Verizon Center in D.C’s Penn Quarter at 7th and F Streets NW. The hours are as follows m M-F 5am to 11pm and Saturday and Sunday 7am-9pm.

For those of you who want a VIDA on the other side of D.C, their expansion plans include opening a second club with 24,000 square feet of workout space at the Metropole, a luxury residential building at 15th and P Streets, NW in September 2007.

For more information on joining VIDA or to check out their class schedule at visit their website at www.vidafitness.com