202.470.5238
Home > mint-sk

mint-sk

MINT’s Enhanced Membership Access System | Next Level Member Access is Coming!

by

Updated Aug 20: MINT members will soon enjoy more convenient and more secure access to the club with facial recognition technology. Please see this post for additional FAQs.

We have meticulously researched the best overall solution for our new front door security system. While there may never be a ‘perfect’ answer to security challenges, our upcoming facial recognition system is designed to be streamlined: you walk up, and you walk in; it’s that simple, it even checks you in for the gym/class!  Our chosen security company offers the most robust modern digital security available, serving over 30 million users and over 55,000 commercial and government partners globally. They are a vetted, reputable partner of mindbodyonline, another global organization, and the software we have been using for over 10 years for member and billing information. We are working to possibly provide an alternative access method, which will carry an extra fee and be less convenient.

At MINT, we constantly strive to enhance your experience in every way possible. With this change, our staffing and service levels will remain at the high standards you have come to expect. This system is being implemented in response to recent security issues (noting that we haven’t experienced any issues in months). As we have posted recently, MINT, being an open-access environment, is no exception to issues across DC and most cities, such as ‘smash and grabs’ involving individuals and groups trespassing, ignoring staff, and stealing items that were left unlocked. While there has never been a direct threat to safety within MINT, theft is unacceptable. We have been working closely with the police to address these incidents.  Please remember to lock your personal items in our provided key-free lockers.

We eliminated all third-party guest partnerships, such as ClassPass, earlier this year to maximize members’ value, which was unrelated to any security concerns. Following the recent incidents, we also eliminated all drop-in options, including paid guests, and increased our vetting process for membership trials. FLEXGuest continues: info on that program here.

These changes come with substantial costs for us, including lost revenue, increased expenses, fewer new-member inquiries, and heavier workloads for many staff. However, we are always planning for the long term and know these changes will ultimately benefit everyone and increase the value of being a member. We will continue to work hard for you through all aspects of your experience with us.

We love our community and our city. Theft and trespassing are destructive to physical property and attempt to dismantle our peace of mind and sense of security. We are committed to enhancing the safety and quality of our environment for our members and staff. We believe that implementing these new measures will help us maintain a safe and peaceful experience for everyone. We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate this transition.

Thank you for being a valued member of the MINT community.

Bresni Maldonado GM at MINT Gym Studio
Bresni Maldonado | MINT General Manager

For more information or further questions, email: Bresni@mintdc.com.

MINT Member “Open House” Week – Aug 11-17

by

We are excited to share that from August 11th through August 17th, we will be hosting a MINT Member “Open House” week.

What does that mean? Class access to ALL members, regardless of membership type, will be FREE.

BONUS: Members can register up to 3 guests to join you! You must register them using this form by 8/10/24.

fitness gyms near me

August 2024 Personal Training Promo – Go Big or Go Small

by

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

Go Small

10pack in-club 50min (Trainer) –$840

10pack in-club 50min (Master Trainer) – $940

10pack in-club 50min (Advanced Master Trainer) – $1,090

Go Big

50pack in-club 50min (Trainer) – $3,950

50pack in-club 50min (Master Trainer) – $4,450

50pack in-club 50min (Advanced Master Trainer) – $5,200

Get Into the Olympics at MINT

by

The summer Olympics are here, and we all have our eyes glued to the incredible feats of athleticism of this year’s athletes. If you’re inspired by Paris 2024, check out these MINT classes for an Olympian-worthy workout. 

Rowing 

Did you know that rowing has been an Olympic sport for over 100 years? The inaugural event for men’s teams occurred in 1900, with a women’s event added in 1976. It’s also one of the oldest collegiate sports in America. There’s a reason that rowing is so popular – it builds strength and endurance with very little impact. Though not quite as scenic as rowing on the Seine, MINT’s erg-based classes simulate the movements required to man a boat. Offered Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, Power Row classes focus on short but intense bursts of power. You’ll learn proper rowing form and build power and speed. In Endurance Row, a 90-minute class offered only on Saturday mornings, you’ll slow down the pace, refine your form, and build stamina. 

Cycling 

There are four types of cycling events at the summer Olympics: BMX, mountain biking, track, and road. Road cycling races are probably the best known of the sport – these are endurance races that traverse hundreds of kilometers. For just a small taste of what the Olympians face, try a MINT Ride or Rhythm Ride class. You’ll be guided through varying resistances and speeds throughout each class, making you feel like you’re traversing the hills and streets of Paris. 

Weightlifting

In Olympic weightlifting, athletes compete in two barbell-based moves: the “snatch,” and the “clean and jerk.” Learn both these moves and more in one of MINT’s signature FLEX classes. These classes will teach you the basics of strength training, using barbells, dumbbells, TRX, battle ropes, and more. Bonus: many of the exercises you’ll do in FLEX act as a base for building the muscles needed for other sports! 

Breaking

Breaking (also known as breakdancing) is one of two new events introduced at Paris 2024. With improvised choreography, break athletes use a combination of moves including windmills, 6-steps, and freezing. Many breakdance moves are based on the fundamentals of hip hop-style dance. If watching these breakers makes you want to get up and move, try out a MINT Dance Hip Hop class. Zumba and Doonya classes are also on the schedule if you can’t get enough of dance-based exercise. 

Do you prefer the summer or winter Olympics? And what’s your favorite event to watch? 

Start your Pilates Journey at MINT 

by

Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, a physical trainer from Germany. It’s often described as a “mind-body” exercise because it emphasizes breathwork, flexibility, and muscle control. There are two main types of Pilates: mat and reformer (though MINT offers a special TRX Pilates class that incorporates elements of both!). Both kinds focus on small movements that build strength, improve core stability, and help with overall alignment and stability. 

Instructor: Sally Tyler

You’ll find three types of Pilates classes on the schedule at MINT: 

Mat Pilates 

A mat class is a great place to start if you’re new to Pilates. Mat classes are typically body-weight focused without the addition of other equipment (though some instructors might suggest an optional resistance ring). By using your own body as resistance, you’ll learn how to engage the specific muscles targeted by this type of exercise. Most mat classes incorporate an established set of exercises that are repeated each session; moves like “The Hundred,” roll-ups, and leg circles are common. Getting a good foundation in these basic movements can be helpful as your body learns to support itself in new ways. Once you have the hang of it, you can slowly add more resistance through reformer or TRX classes. 

Reformer Pilates 

Once you’ve mastered the basics of mat, a reformer Pilates session is a great way to expand your practice. This type uses a machine called, unsurprisingly, a Pilates reformer, which consists of a frame, sliding platform, and adjustable springs and pulleys that add resistance. Exercises performed on the reformer are generally more dynamic and intense; the equipment moves with your body, allowing fuller movements. Reformer Pilates at MINT is offered by a private session in the comfort of two new state-of-the-art studios outfitted with STOTT equipment. One-on-one sessions can be booked as part of a personal training session package. 

TRX Pilates 

If you’re curious about leveling up from the mat but not sure you’re ready to commit to a one-on-one reformer session, TRX Pilates offers the best of both worlds. It uses familiar mat-based moves as a base, with the added element of suspension. TRX is an excellent tool for Pilates because the adjustable straps allow for various movements while providing stability. 

Pilates is a great, low-impact workout suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Though the classes are slower-paced, you’ll be surprised how much they can burn. Whether new to Pilates or an old pro, expect to feel sore in the day or two following a class. Over time, the repeated movements will help you build a solid fitness base. 

Have you tried Pilates before? What’s your favorite type? Let us know, and as always, be sure to tag us in your sweaty selfies. We love to see our members try new things!

New MINT Access System FAQ’s

by

Thank you for your feedback!  We’ve tried to summarize answers to the most frequent questions here.  You can always email our GM at Bresni@mintdc.com. For additional information about this system update please click here.

  • Why secure doors?
    • To protect the security and safety of members and employees, which is always our #1 priority.  Personal belongings have been stolen at an increasing rate by non-members who forced their way in – this is factual and it’s not OK.
  • Why face ID?
    • Because it’s the most consistent, convenient, and secure for members.  Keytags are reported lost (or forgotten) at an extremely high rate, and apps have glitches…your face can’t be lost or forgotten.
  • Are there any other alternatives or any fees for members?
    • We are working to launch a parallel system for current members to use instead of face ID, which we anticipate will be an app to download.  We will be passing through ONLY the additional expense that we are incurring from expanding that offering, which is likely to be minimal.  
  • Why didn’t you ask members for input on this change?
    • We are a small company that strives to hear and review feedback regularly; members have suggested locked doors frequently over the years, and employees, who are the most exposed, have requested and supported this concept for years.  We always work to balance the requests with the needs and wishes of all.  It’s our job to provide the highest level of safety, security, and serenity inside of the facility, making secure doors the only option. It is not feasible to survey members for all operational decisions, doing so delays action and only inevitably provides disappointment to one or more groups.  
  • Is my data safe?
    • Our chosen security company offers the most robust modern digital security available, serving over 30 million users and over 55,000 commercial and government partners globally. They are a vetted, reputable partner of mindbodyonline, another global organization, and the software we have been using for over 10 years for member and billing information. 
  • Will I be able to get in if the new system has a hiccup?
    • Of course! There will be a door buzzer for any technology issues; we will respond as quickly as possible, noting that face ID is the most proven to work consistently with no delays.  As well, staffing at the front desk and across the club will remain 100% as-is. Many clubs have installed a similar system and then reduced staff and services. This is not what we are doing. Our customer service staffing and approach will remain at our high standards, with the added consistent security for members and employees.
  • Can I still bring a buddy sometimes?
    • Yes, member-sponsored guests have always been required to be with you upon entry, and they are the only type of entry permitted to pass with you under your credentials.  Guest program and FLEXGuest info here.  
  • Can I use the door buzzer at other times?
    • The door buzzer is for tech issues only; we are not able to answer the door for other reasons. Please continue to utilize our contact methods already in place for reaching a manager via phone, email, or in-person, or schedule an appointment with a staff member.
  • So I guess you guys are saving money doing this?
    • No, quite the opposite.  Staffing remains exactly the same, we are sacrificing new membership inquiries by putting up a new barrier for members protection, we are paying for the installation and ongoing support of a costly new system, and we have already lost a sustainable amount of guest fees by eliminating that offering.  So, we are losing revenue and increasing expenses; this is being done for the greater good and the long term. 
  • When will this change take place?
    • We anticipate to start lining up new access credentials towards the end of summer, which will be a quick process for members at the front desk, with the secure doors in effect a few weeks following.