Ultimate Performance

I came to Ultimate Performance Dupont Circle with a unique set of physical challenges due to a spinal fusion, unsure of what I'd actually be able to accomplish. Malik completely changed my perspective. From day one, he took the time to truly understand my limitations and tailored every session around my needs, never pushing me past what was safe, but always pushing me toward what was possible. Malik has patience, compassion, and adaptability. He's shown me that I can build real muscle and make meaningful progress, even if my journey looks a little different from most people's. Progress takes me longer, and Malik never once made me feel like that was a problem; he just adjusted the plan and kept me moving forward. If you're dealing with physical limitations and wondering whether a radical change in your physique is even an option for you, I can't recommend Malik enough. He's not just a great trainer, he's a genuinely supportive partner in your fitness journey.

I recommend UP in general and Zach in particular. UP is different than other gyms to which I’ve belonged. You come in at specific times to work with your trainer doing specific lifts; the focus is on lifting rather than cardio. I wasn’t sure about the approach as my primary goal was fat loss, but it has both been successful and gives a great return on investment of time. The gym itself is better equipped than any facility I have seen, and the UP app is been helpful in tracking nutrition and workouts. But I think their trainers are the key. I started working with Zach last summer, and have been very happy with the results. I’ve lost over 30 pounds and have never been stronger. He is a great resource regarding technique in lifting and motivation during sessions, but also makes them enjoyable. Zach developed and adapted workouts and nutrition throughout, modifying to help me continue making progress, and helped me understand nutrition (which I thought I did before, but didn’t). The program at UP worked better for me than anything else ever has, which I find remarkable as I am in my 50’s with a busy life including job, family, and travel.

I’ve been training at UP with Zach for over a year. The program has genuinely been life-changing. I originally joined with a straightforward weight-loss goal and ended up losing 90 pounds. Along the way I've developed a very real interest in lifting. My goals have now shifted toward building strength and muscle, and Zach adapted my training seamlessly. The program is challenging but sustainable, and it keeps me motivated and disciplined without being overwhelming. Zach is outstanding. He is extremely knowledgeable, supportive, and encouraging. He knows how to meet me where I am and explains movements in a way that keeps my training mindful and intentional. If you want a structured, serious, and intelligent approach to training, UP -- and especially Zach -- sets a very high bar.

From the moment you walk into UP, the team is focused on helping you achieve your goals. This is actually my second stint training at a UP gym (I started at Metro Center in 2024). I continue to be impressed with the level of accuracy and accountability of each experience. Couple that with the support of your trainer and you are bound to succeed. Zach has been an awesome guide and partner as I've worked to lose fat and gain muscle. I cannot recommend UP highly enough!

If you are really dedicated to getting stronger and in better shape on a disciplined timeline, highly recommend the team at UP. The combination of accountability and supportive trainers (and clients—everyone in this gym is here for your success) is spot on — and (unlike other programs/studio classes) it’s the only program that has ever kept me motivated and delivered real strength, health, and fitness results. Shout out to Herus for getting me through the hard days as a new client and making me look forward to my workouts for the first time ever. :)