VIDA - Ballston

📍 4040 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, Virginia, 22203

Cold Plunge & Sauna

The spa and sauna facilities are central features at VIDA - Ballston. The venue offers a steam room and sauna within the locker rooms, which spa-goers describe as restorative spaces that are spotless and smell nice when available. However, a common point of feedback is that the sauna is frequently broken. When operational, these heat therapy amenities provide a space for relaxation and wellness. The spa area, referred to as the aura spa, is also available. Specific details on cold plunge availability, temperatures, or contrast therapy protocols are not detailed in the provided guest feedback.

Atmosphere

The gym spans three levels with a layout that members find logical and spacious. The environment features a dim ambience that some find motivating, and the music selection—RnB, hip hop, and pop—is noted as being at an appropriate volume. The women's locker room plays spa music, contributing to a calming environment. During non-peak hours, the facility is reported to be uncrowded, though it becomes crowded after 5 PM and on Saturday mornings.

Pricing

Membership sign-up includes a required $150 "New Member Package," which is not optional and must be purchased to proceed with checkout. This package cost was not clearly disclosed on the pricing page according to some guests, leading to feedback about a lack of upfront pricing transparency. Fitness classes are included in the monthly membership fee, though Pilates on reformers is a separate entity requiring additional purchase.

Staff

Feedback on staff is mixed. Specific staff members like membership consultant Derek and front desk associate Sam are praised for being personable, professional, and providing excellent customer service. Joshua Sands is highlighted for giving exceptional tours. Conversely, other guests report negative interactions with front desk and management, including unmet promises for follow-ups and a deeply upsetting incident where a guest's friend was accused of being an unauthorized personal trainer.

Additional Amenities

The facility boasts a wide selection of equipment across multiple floors, including cardio and strength machines, TRX areas, and group fitness rooms. A smoothie bar on the ground level offers freshly made options. Members receive parking validation for one hour and have access to various member discounts. Some lockers are reported not to lock, and the condition of showers in the main locker rooms received negative feedback, though private shower rooms on the bottom floor were preferred.