Solidcore

Definitely the hardest workout I’ve ever done. Johanna was an amazing coach. She provided just right amount of pushing you to do more and making you feel like you can work harder, but not so much so like I couldn’t keep up. Addicted after 1 class. Can’t wait to try the Mt. Vernon Studio !

Solidcore is by far one of the most challenging workouts anyone will ever experience. Its precision toning, meaning you’ll work every muscle in very finite movements. Its also extremely great cardio and you’ll be sweating before you even realize it. That being said, I’m pretty experienced in the gym, but found it pretty difficult to keep up with the instructions — the changing movements come very quickly and there is no opportunity to ask questions during the actual workout if you don’t understand the cues being given (kinda like starting a yoga class — you have to learn the language). The instructors are constantly talking on the microphone to the full group, so if you’re someone who needs a lot of individual attention, this may not be for you. If you’re also new to fitness, I also would not suggest you try this as one of your first workouts. There are not a whole lot of modifications and it can be dangerous to try and keep up with the movements if you’re not in somewhat good shape or aren’t familiar with form. That being said, I do wish the instructors were a bit more «gentle» with first/​second timers or people who move at a slower pace (perhaps a beginners class would be beneficial, but this doesn’t not currently exist). I felt like Josh was getting a tad bit perturbed with me for not being able to catch on to the positions/​movements right away, but it really does take a few classes to truly catch on. I say give it a try if you like to dive headfirst into challenging workouts, but be sure not to let the pace of the class and super experienced students intimidate you — its really a great challenge and you should feel very proud of yourself for making it through one of these classes.

Best workout I have had in a long time. Hardest, but most effective results. I am not in amazing shape, but my body looks and feels different after just one class… every time.

I started last December with a free group class. I fell in love. Never have I felt more sore than when I finished my last class. Almost a year later it is still a difficult work out but I could do a lot more than when I first started. I have begun incorporating weight training, running, cycling, and other sports into my routine but solidcore definitely still kicks my butt. My favorite teachers are Ashley R., Sarah B. (great music selection), Chad M. (no longer there), and Damon F. (no longer there). Definitely looking to expand my class schedule.
Besides my regular teachers here are some kick-​ass ones too:
1. Mitchell B.
2. Josh P.
3. Sarween S. (So nice!)
4. Johanna (Only two classes but form was important)
5. Sarah A.
6. Meg B.

This is a crazy workout that kicks my butt every time and I cannot believe that it makes me somehow come back. Probably because I feel stronger after each class and I feel like it’s actually worth all that pain.
Even though it’s worth it, I wish it wasn’t so crazy expensive (and they’ve raised prices this yea) r; therefore, 4 stars.

That is the hardest thing I have ever done physically, yet I want to do it again. Talk about a full body workout focusing on your core, hence the name SolidCore.
The instructors and clients are very friendly and helpful. I could barely do half of the workout, but everyone around me high-​fived me after and told me I did great.
They have filtered water for you to fill your water bottles, wipes to sanitize the machines after and towels to use during the class. You will need a towel!
If you want to get fit and challenge yourself physically this is for you. I wanted to lay down and either be sick or cry ten minutes in. And I am a pretty active person, I have a personal trainer, do yoga and attempt to wakeboard among many other activities and this was tough, but great.
Try the starter class and you will want to buy a package, because you don’t want to feel this physically out of shape.
Also, don’t be scared, the instructor comes over to newbies before each class and goes over all of the moves.
You won’t regret doing this, even when you want to cry during class.

It gets better the more you go. It’s hands down the most effective workout you can possibly do to tighten every muscle in you body. Throughout the whole class you’ll be thinking things like «holy sh*t, why am I here? Why do people do this?! what time is it? I wouldn’t put my worst enemy through this!»… then by day three, when simple things, like sneezing or getting out of bed, don’t make you consider contacting a medical professional, you’ll want to come back for more.
The only serious flaw of this place is that they don’t stretch at the end. They just end abruptly and you’re left on the megaformer wondering if you can physically make it to your car. They told me its because of timing, but because this workout is so extreme, they really need to either cut it 5 minutes short, or add an extra 15 minutes between classes to account for stretching.

I absolutely love this class, I saw a difference in my abs immediately! However while it’s a great workout, I just can’t spend that much money on it, it’s $ 37 per class or $ 359 for the month. But the décor in the studio is gorgeous, just wished they turned up the a/​c. The founder Anne is the best teacher, her classes fill up way in advance. James had the best music. You can buy Goüter juices in their fridge.

My problem with solidcore is that there are not enough instructors in the room for as many machines as they have. The equipment requires that you know what you are doing otherwise you are going to hurt yourself. I’m in the fitness business and I could tell that as I tired my hips were sinking in the plank position and I was pulling from muscles I shouldn’t be to compensate. So yes I was sore after, but in some places sore from over extension.

This is by far the hardest and most effective workouts I’ve ever done. I’ve been coming to [solidcore] for over a year now and I am challenged every single time. I’m pretty loyal to Ashley R.‘s morning classes at the Shaw location. She definitely brings the energy to motivate me early in the morning. I’m always sweating and shaking five minutes into class, but Ash gives just the right amount of push and encouragement to keep me from giving up when my muscles feel like they are dying. Don’t let the intensity keep you away though. It’s tough, but the workouts are low-​impact, easy on the joints, and there are plenty of modifications for newbies. The studios are awesome, the music is great and the coaches are the best. Try a class, you won’t regret it!

Believe the hype! Your legs will shake, your muscles will ache, and you’ll wonder if you made a mistake.
2 days later and I am still feeling the burn (haven’t had a workout like this since college track workouts). Solidcore is definitely for those looking to push themselves and those looking for results. The 50 minute workout can be done at your own level and pace, but it will challenge you. The workout is based a lot on resistance and using your own body weight, so while your heart rate might elevate steadily, it is different from your traditional cardio or weight training workouts.
The instructor was very friendly, encouraging, and provided a lot of advice. For those looking for the latest in fitness, give Solidcore a try. You may be sore, but you’ll know you got your money’s worth!

It burns so good! After you get past the dying part of course. I had the pleasure of visiting SolidCore through Unilocal’s fit February month. I died a few times on the machine. My abs were shaking, and my butt felt like I squatted a small SUV all night.
Sad thing is, I want more!!! I’m a believer!!! I’ll be back once my shakes subside.

If you want to find out how in (or out) of shape you are just do a Solidcore workout! I just finished a 50 minute session with Meg and it pushed me to limits far beyond my typical workouts or Zumba classes. My shoulders were sweating for petes sake… shoulders! Meg was very encouraging especially for a class full of newbies and didn’t put too much pressure on us to do everything perfectly. It felt like a personal training session but with others there to keep you motivated. Will definitely be doing this again soon!

SolidCore is the best and worst work out you’ll find. Super intense, super fast (50 minute sessions). You’ll get more accomplished in 50 minutes at SolidCore than spending 5 hours in the gym weight lifting/​cardio. The best work out for busy people.

This is a crazy full body workout. It’s like Pilate on steroids on a mega former! I loved it

Far and away the hardest workout I have ever done. I frequently run and have raced several half marathons, but Solidcore is in a league of its own. That said, you still feel extremely welcome when taking a class and everyone there makes you feel comfortable (even if it’s your first time).
Just five minutes into the workout and I was already dripping sweat. I agree with others that say it’s addicting, because even after my legs were shaking and I was contemplating quitting, I still found myself wanting to attend another class. Others came up to me after the class and said how much of an improvement they saw in the their own bodies after frequently attending. The instructor (Damon) was great and definitely helps guide you through each motion. I like that the classes remain small to ensure you’re getting the most out of each workout with one-​on-​one attention from the instructor. If you’re up for one of the most challenging workouts ever, I highly recommend Solidcore.

I absolutely love this place! If you want a good intense but low impact workout go here! I have gone 15 times in the past 5 weeks and I feel great. Every time I go to class I feel like I am getting stronger! The instructors are phenomenal! I’ve had a few classes with some instructors also taking the class and they even struggle a little. It’s hard but you feel great after! Also don’t forget to try a Goüter after class, they are great too!

I agree with all of the reviews for all three of their current locations in DC. The workout is hard, but great! I like the fact that it is low-​impact to joints and focuses on slow deliberate movements. I really appreciate the positive atmosphere where coaches are always encouraging. It is hard, no doubt, but just what I need. There’s more…
So I’ve been swimming as part of a Masters Swim Team in DC for the past 6 years. Its a decent workout, 4000+/- yards 5 – 6 times per week. But I’ve gotten to the point where I can swim hard, get bored, and get a so-​so cardio workout. I needed something more. Just about 6 months ago I started to get the dreaded «swimmer’s shoulder,» and my back started to get this strange twinge before really going out and sending me flat onto the couch for 3 days. I was annoyed and kept swimming to just keep in mediocre shape. Recently, US Masters Swimming published an article stating that many swimmers that only do pool workouts often get pain in their shoulders and back because swimming often works only one side of a muscle pair… The article suggested that dry land strength training of both sides of the muscle groups had solved many swimmer’s shoulder and back problems.
A couple of teammates decided to get a group sessions at SolidCore and I decided to try it. Wow, [Solidcore] is the strength training I needed! I’ve been going weekly for almost two months and the pain has totally gone away. I think I might have abs! Now I swim harder the next day and my metabolism is running high.
To top it off, the new thing our swim coach is pushing with freestyle is the «core driven» stroke concentrating on rotation and kicking instead of just muscling (one-​sided) through with the arms alone! Perfect timing to be building the core I never had!
Our team looks forward to group sessions at least on a monthly basis and we let some of our runner friends join us! LOL! In the meantime, I’m loving weekly sessions by Anne, Robin, and Cynthia! Great coaches, great motivation.
Because of [Solidcore] I’m now [Core Driven]!

I was a skeptic going into it… the price was a bit more than I fathomed paying for a workout and I thought. meh, is it really worth it?! It’s COMPLETELY worth it. I have been going to classes once a week for months (just upped to twice a week, it’s addictive) and find it to be the most challenging workout I have ever put my body through (and I have been running/​racing for 20 years). I’ve noticed my body gradually changing — growing stronger, my balance improving, my core strengthening. and I love going back to classes and seeing if I can take one less break, stick with something just a bit longer…
The instructors are all fantastic — upbeat, personable and warm. They make a point to encourage each participant in the class — which I love. They know you by name (I think this is a nice touch), and are the first to compliment your improvement or high five you for working your butt off. Newcomers are always made to feel at home (another very nice touch).
I’ve taken classes at all three locations — Mass Ave is the closest to me (please open on the hill!), but each location has it’s own charm. I love the brightness of the Shaw location — and it’s proximity to food/​drink post workout!
If you are looking for a challenge (and a phenomenal workout), solidcore is where it’s at!

Not for the faint of heart… AT ALL. It’s one of the most challenging workouts I’ve ever done. While it seems to get a little easier after the first few classes, it’s still by no means easy. I’m yet to take a class that didn’t have my muscles shaking and forehead dripping in sweat.
The music is GREAT… and the instructors are very motivating. My only issue is that I’m not a fan of being called out by name during the class by the instructor. I understand why they do it though, and you get used to it eventually.
Again… Not for the faint of heart. But if you’re a fitness nut, like me, you’ll probably enjoy it.