Irons Fitness Gives Workouts a New Angle

Nestled into the 7700 block of Wisconsin Avenue, Irons Fitness is putting a new spin on daily workouts.

Opening just two weeks ago, the small gym adds a splash of chic to the normally drab workout environment. Incandescent lights with wild geometrically shaped shades take the place of the usual florescent hue in large gyms. Tan and red paint adds a flavor of warmth instead of cold cinderblock walls.

But the real difference, according to founder Nick Irons, is the private experience. Irons has brought together an all-star personal training staff: One trainer holds the world record in deadlift and another has been twice named Bethesda’s best personal trainer.

Workouts are made by appointment only. The 2,500-square-foot gym is an area for a client and trainer to work without the distractions of a large gym.

Irons began his personal training career five years ago after his father, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, was making little progress with his personal trainers.

“I said 'I can do better than them,' and got certified on a whim,” he said.

Irons is no stranger to the training lifestyle, however. In 1997 he became the first person in 70 years to swim the length of the Mississippi River. His journey was used as a fundraiser for multiple sclerosis.

“I swam for six hours a day six hours a week,” Irons said. “The hardest part was getting back in the water. Just looking at the brown water and thinking, 'I have to go.'”

It took Irons four months to complete the 1,550-mile swim. He finished toward the end of September, on his father’s birthday.

According to Irons, the fitness center can cater to anyone. The trainers make specialized workouts for each client.

“Obviously a workout for a 70-year-old is different from a 30-year-old trying to lose five to 10 pounds,” he said.

Irons already has a steady clientele. “People who try it love it.”