Some Like It Really Hot: Hamam at Sports Club

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MAYBE IT WAS the international influence of all those nearby embassies, or just the urge to be different. But when the Washington Sports Club in Dupont Circle (1835 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-332-0100) planned a grand makeover, the gym didn't settle for just high-tech equipment, a new yoga studio and more windows. It also got a hamam.

Huh? In case you're not up on your international spa terminology, that's a Turkish-style bath. It's the first and only one in the health club chain, and it seems to be the second one in the entire country (after the Standard in Miami Beach). It's part of a 3,700-square foot coed spa that features a vast steam room and sauna, along with the hamam: an open area with tiers of heat-radiating marble and a pair of cooling showers. The idea is to drift between the rooms in bathing suit attire and generally unwind.

Purists may be disappointed to hear that, unlike in Istanbul, there won't be any staff on hand to offer massages — at least for now. But visitors will be able to lounge there for hours, hanging out with friends in true Turkish fashion.

Club manager Dave Garner suspects it'll be popular among folks just looking for a spa day, as well as ones hoping for a post-workout boost. "It's great for muscle relaxation," he says.

To make sure the space doesn't get overcrowded, though, they're being cautious about the opening. It's slated to debut next week, but only 50 members will be allowed to add the service to their monthly fee (for $25) at first. Another 50 slots will open each month until they hit a cap of 200. There will also be a limited number of day passes for members ($15) and curious guests ($50).

No one really knows what to expect, least of all Garner. "Not very many places have a coed spa to begin with," he says. So, the heat is on.

Photo courtesy Washington Sports Clubs