About
Urban Athletic Club
Founder’s Story
The Birth of a Vision: Urban Athletic Club
In April 2003, Graham King envisioned creating a gym that was more than just a place to lift weights or run on a treadmill. He wanted to create a community, a neighborhood fitness center that would cater to the unique needs of busy Washingtonians. Tired of the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional health clubs and uninspired corporate group class models, Graham set out to offer something different, something better.
A New Approach to Fitness
From day one, Urban Athletic Club was designed to be a comprehensive fitness solution, offering various services, including group training, personal training, and open gym access. But Graham knew that to serve his community truly, he needed to go beyond just providing facilities. He wanted to offer a training practice that could be tailored to the individual needs of each member.
The Evolution of Excellence
Over the years, Urban Athletic Club has refined its fitness approach. We’ve implemented assessments and programming designed to help athletes of all levels reach their full potential. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get in shape or an elite athlete aiming to break records, our team of skilled trainers guides you every step of the way.
Expanding the Dream: The Shaw Location
In 2016, the dream expanded with the opening of our Shaw location. Situated in the heart of downtown DC, this new facility allowed us to bring our unique approach to fitness to even more Washingtonians. Since then, we’ve continually added new training options, state-of-the-art body scanners, and cutting-edge equipment to ensure our members have everything they need to achieve their fitness goals.
More Than Just a Gym
But Urban Athletic Club is more than just a gym; it’s a community. It’s a place where busy Washingtonians can come to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, to focus on themselves and their well-being. It’s a place where you can achieve your fitness goals and connect with like-minded individuals on the same journey.
The Journey Continues
As we look to the future, our commitment to providing an exceptional fitness experience remains as strong as ever. We’re continually exploring new ways to serve our community, from expanding our range of services to incorporating the latest advancements in fitness technology.
So come join us and be a part of the Urban Athletic Club story. Because here, your fitness journey is our passion.
The Team
Graham King
Founder and Owner
Mike Presley
Coach
As a personal trainer and sports nutritionist, Mike Presley brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their clients. With a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from James Madison University and multiple certifications, Mike is well-equipped to help clients reach their health and fitness goals. Throughout Mike’s 12+ year career, he has worked with various clients, including athletes, kids, and special populations. Mike started as a trainer for Olympic sports teams at James Madison University before transitioning to corporate gym management. After the pandemic hit, Mike focused solely on one-on-one, small-group, and team training. Mike’s journey has given him a deeper understanding of the importance of staying committed to one’s health and fitness. At one point, Mike lost touch with his well-being and gained 40 lbs, but after working with his trainer and embracing a healthier lifestyle, Mike rediscovered their passion for fitness. Mike’s ultimate goal is to empower others and show them that it’s always possible to start their health and fitness journey. Mike supports and guides clients every step of the way, regardless of whether they’re starting for the first time, overcoming an injury, or trying again after setbacks. Mike takes great satisfaction in seeing clients reach their full potential and achieve their goals. Credentials: B.S. Exercise Science (James Madison University); CrossFit L1, ISSA certified: Personal Training, Sports Nutrition, Corrective Exercise, Online coaching.
Michael Jimenez
Coach
Michael Jimenez brings a wealth of academic and professional qualifications to his clients. As a Certified Personal Trainer from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Michael can guide his clients through tailored fitness programs. Further solidifying his credentials, he holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from Universidad Pedagogica Nacional, Colombia, and a Fitness Instructor Certification from the Institute of Human Performance University. Michael’s life narrative has always been steeped in a culture of activity. His fitness journey began on his high school soccer fields and continued onto the badminton courts of UPN University in Colombia. Now, as a personal trainer, his passion for fitness thrives. Michael can be engaged in CrossFit workouts or mastering functional training exercises when he’s not inspiring his clients to reach new heights. Outside of the fitness world, he revels in quality time with his wife and sons, often on park outings, fostering a unique understanding of parents striving to balance fitness and family life. With an innate warmth and affinity for helping others, Michael is adept at guiding clients of all ages and fitness levels toward their objectives. He acknowledges the individuality of each client and takes pride in customizing workouts to suit their unique fitness levels. Michael’s balanced approach to training involves physically and mentally challenging his clients, a method that consistently drives outstanding results. If your workout routine has turned monotonous, Michael is here to infuse freshness and enjoyment into your sessions. With many resources, including weight machines, stability balls, medicine balls, kettlebells, dumbbells, resistance bands, and bodyweight exercises, he designs dynamic workout regimes tailored to your fitness goals. Michael aspires to transform exercise from a chore into a joyous, intrinsic part of his client’s lifestyles, paving the way for long-term fitness commitments. Certifications: Certified Personal Trainer- National Academy of Sports Medicine Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education- Universidad Pedagogica Nacional (Colombia) Fitness Instructor Certification- Institute of Human Performance University.
Rohit Joshi
Coach
El Carlisle
Coach
Take the first step.
We can’t wait to meet you
Chat with a coach at our gym to learn more about what program will fit your goals.