Epic Athletic Center

Fantastic experience: This is hands down one of the best gyms in the DMV. It has everything that you need and isn’t overcrowded like most commercial gyms. Equipment is all hand selected by Joe, the owner, for optimal biomechanics of all training levels. 100% worth signing up for or checking out!

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center is a superb place to train. Joe is extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and will help you reach your goals. I cannot recommend him highly enough. Within the first day or two of meeting, he set me up with a personalized fitness plan, nutrition program, and other guidelines. He also checked in when I was at the gym, was on hand for questions, and always made time to talk even when busy. He stresses the basics: effort, technique, consistency. There are no gimmicks here, just solid advice and encouragement. The facility itself has all of the equipment you will need, with an excellent set of new machines and ample free weights, etc. It is also kept very clean. The feel of the place is more like a friendly fitness club than a gym. It is never too crowded and there are usually a handful of people working out during normal business hours which makes the training feel more of a group effort. All in all, Joe is the best of the best. I know that his advice will stick with me for years to come, not only with training, but also with sleep, nutrition, and goal-setting. Thanks again, Joe!

Fantastic experience: Thoroughly enjoyed my time here. This is a great gym with a very welcoming atmosphere and great training sessions. Joe is extremely knowledgeable with strength training and general health/fitness, He explains concepts in a way that’s easy to digest and puts an emphasis on technique which was one of the most valuable things Ive learned here.

Fantastic experience: LOVE this place!! Annie is an absolute rock star!! She connects with adults and young athletes alike--knows her stuff like no other!! No cookie cutting, just a genuine desire to help each individual reach their goals. I workout with her as does my daughter, a HS senior and many of my players. Reading all the well earned and great reviews about Joe, it's no surprise that Annie is there as well. Your vibe attracts your tribe!! Thank you Annie!! Thank you Joe!!

Fantastic experience: My son has been going to Epic for about 2 years. This has been fantastic from a strength and fitness perspective, and Epic definitely knows how to work with teens who are still growing. My son’s body composition has changed dramatically. The added bonus is the autonomy and confidence about his athletic training, knowledge that he will take past his high school sports career into his life. We feel lucky to have found Epic!

Fantastic experience: Easily the best gym in the DMV, reasonably priced and a great workout atmosphere – nice but not fancy, lots of people (all ages) serious about fitness! Ive gotten some of my best training advice from a true professional, Joe! Non competitive & super welcoming.

Fantastic experience: Epic is one of the best gyms I have ever used! Not only is the equipment and facility top notch, but also Joe’s guidance and strength training plans have fundamentally changed my workouts for the better. Would highly recommend to anyone!

Fantastic experience: My son joined Epic in 2019 and is very pleased with his progress since joining. Joe has been great explaining proper diet and exercises to be healthy and prepared for baseball (probably any sport or activity). My son is more confident and much stronger. As a parent, Joe took the time to answer all my questions prior to and after joining the gym. It's a pleasure talking with Joe about his passion.

Fantastic experience: I was referred to Epic/Joe by my chiropractor, who identified some movement dysfunction due to lack of strength. I got way more than strength from Joe!! Not only does he pay meticulous attention to form, he also checks in on the other factors that affect your body (aerobic exercise of choice (mine is triathlon), some stretching, nutrition and sleep) so he can better customize his training plan to meet your needs. Each machine he has and exercise he selects has a specific purpose and supports the overall goal - use strength to build resiliency and improve sport-specific performance. As a 60 year old athlete, I appreciate the thoughtfulness and thoroughness he puts into my plan - allowing me to safely build strength, to avoid injury in the gym and to learn more about body mechanics and nutrition (he has a wealth of fitness information and is happy to share!). I believe Epic/Joe is giving me a foundation that will support an active lifestyle later in life, so I encourage anyone that wants to use their body to meet Joe and see what he can do for you!

Fantastic experience: Working out at EAC has been significantly more beneficial for me than a commercial gym. Joe worked with me to build a program that fit my schedule and fitness goals. I’ve had lingering shoulder issues from surgery on a torn labrum for 5+ years. I saw multiple PTs and spent countless hours working on my shoulder, but the healing progress was slow and had essentially plateaued. Lifting with Joe has helped build back my shoulder more than traditional physical therapy. I now have a better range of motion and get little to no pain when working out. I’ve made quicker strength/muscle progress here than when lifting at my previous gym. Great atmosphere and coaching. Would recommend for your fitness needs.

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center is THE place to be if you’re looking to improve strength and your overall health. Not only does Epic have some of the best equipment around but owner/coach Joe will help you make improvements both inside and outside of the gym. He’ll show you how to train safely, effectively, and efficiently. Come check out Epic and talk to Joe, he’s a very knowledgeable and great guy.

Fantastic experience: Cutting edge facility with amazing training guidance and customer service. Grateful to have this superior fitness center in our community. Highly suggest it!

Fantastic experience: I have gotten so much out of working out at EPIC . My conversations with coach Joe always leave me empowered, and a renewed commitment to my goals. Over the last 8 months the physical and mental transformation is evident- affecting all aspects of my life. My training is strong , and progressive. EPIC truly lives up to its name!

Fantastic experience: We have thoroughly enjoyed and value Bryce working with Joe Helisek and his team at Epic. While it’s been rough with Covid, Joe managed to create a consistently safe and effective environment to workout, train and Bryce has had the true benefit of his expertise. Now a junior at Gonzaga College HS, he has been going to Epic since freshman year, at least 2-3 times per week. Under Joe’s supervision, Bryce has grown from 145 pounds to 185 and has significantly increased his strength and muscle mass to better produce on the baseball field. It’s been fun and rewarding seeing his growth and the entire Gaines family recommends Joe Helisek and the Epic team to all considering a first class weight training first in class nutrition resource in the DMV.

Fantastic experience: Terrific gym! Epic was highly recommended to us years ago by an experienced coach as a great resource for student-athletes who want to focus on strength training to improve their game. Epic is not limited to just student-athletes though, as Joe encourages incorporating strength training into your health journey at any age/skill level. All are welcome and all will feel comfortable in the positive, clean, professional environment.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism , Quality Epic is a great place for serious training. Joe the owner is extremely knowledgeable and great for bouncing ideas off of. Highly recommend for any athletes trying to improve their strength and fitness level goals.

Fantastic experience: EPIC is an incredible place to train. It provides everything you need to meet whatever goal you have in a fun, supportive, and super convenient and accessible environment. Joe is a tremendous resource, full of knowledge, fantastic teacher, and I have enjoyed learning from him. It’s a truly unique place, and I’m so grateful I found it!

Fantastic experience: Epic is a great place to train. The facility is top notch, the equipment specially selected, and is an all-around fun, energetic place to work on your fitness goals. Joe is very welcoming, generous with his time, and takes great care to understand his clients’ fitness and lifestyle goals to help craft training plans that work. I’m so glad to have found this gym, which is conveniently located in the heart of Reston. I highly recommend Epic to anyone seeking a great facility, a great coach in Joe, and an overall exciting, dynamic fitness experience.

Fantastic experience: I have been going to Epic for 6-7 years !! I play softball For Boston college . I am a sophomore, Shortstop/ third base. I absolutely love it still and I see major improvement on my mental side for softball, diet for peak performance, body shape, strength, and health since I have been going here. Joe Heslik is a great role model and has guided me to the person and player I am today and will continue to guide me til the end of my career. I recommend Epic Athletic Center to everyone and anyone as this place is the real deal.

Fantastic experience: I played basketball in college and have been looking for a gym that had the same caliber facilities for 14 years and this is it. Anything you will find in the top colleges, Joe brought to this gym. Whatever your goals are he can cater a program to fit your needs. The atmosphere is awesome. If you want to work hard and build strength, this is the place. Joe loves what he does and has a passion for his craft. Lucky to be a part of this gym.

Fantastic experience: Epic is first class all around! Starting with an owner that is not only a wealth of knowledge but truly cares about his athletes. He ensures each athlete is healthy, learns and improves. He will do whatever it takes to help an athlete! The facility has everything needed for absolute success and is clean and well maintained! Hands down the place to be!

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism , Quality Clean and filled with great energy, EPIC is a place that provides a lifting experience unlike any commercial gym. The staff is knowledgeable and professional, and the environment is supportive, hard-working, and overall amazing.

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center is a great internship location to learn more about sports performance and overall health. Joe has many years of experience in the field and is very knowledgeable on all subjects regarding fitness and athletics. Talking with Joe for a couple of months during the internship accelerated my learning because he was able to take complex concepts and explain them in ways I would better understand. He was always available to answer my questions and as I began to understand his philosophies and methods, we could have conversations regarding higher level topics. I appreciate the time I spent with Joe at Epic Athletic Center and recommend it for anyone who wants to improve athletic performance and fitness for themselves or other people.

Fantastic experience: Joe is very knowledgeable and has helped me improve my technique while working out. He has shown me how to train hard and helped me better understand nutrition so I can get optimal results. He is a great mentor and helped me learn more about fitness, recovery, sleep and nutrition. I have also changed the ways I previously worked out and let him guide me through the process. If you want to build muscle and prevent future injury’s I recommend going to joe!

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center is a great gym, regardless of your fitness level or goals. I’m fairly new to focusing on strength training and Joe has been extremely helpful in teaching me the fundamentals. He puts a strong emphasis on learning good technique first and and will take the time to understand your fitness history and goals, so you get specific program that sets you up for success. Overall it's a supportive and positive environment and I’d recommend it to anyone looking to improve their health and fitness.

Fantastic experience: I discovered EAC early in 2020 when I was looking for a gym near my office that would help me with sports specific training. I was in the process of recovering from big surgery and was looking for some guidance as I returned to my sport. After I met with Joe I knew EAC was the right gym for me. I have had a great experience training at the gym for the past year. Joe is incredibly knowledgeable about training and his passion for making athletes better is instantly clear. The facility has been getting better and better over the past 6 months and I look forward to continuing at the gym.

Fantastic experience: I started training with Joe at Epic Athletic Center back in 8th grade and it has been extremely influential not only in my athletic development but personal development as well. From nutritional advice to learning efficient movement patterns, Joe, Brandon, and TJ have been instrumental in my growth as an athlete and have helped enable me to pursue my dream as a college baseball player. Their intuitive approach to training and learning how to move properly is second to none and I would highly recommend training at Epic.

Fantastic experience: There is no one that I trust more in the field of sports performance. PERIOD. I first met Joe 11 years ago when I was playing collegiate summer-ball for the Vienna Senators. To this day, I've yet to meet a coach who has influenced my life more in regards to sports performance. Not only is his knowledge of strength and performance ELITE, he cares deeply about making sure all of his athletes develop as human beings. Joe continues to help me to this day, despite living on the other side of the country. If I was anywhere close to Fairfax County and Epic Athletic Center there isn't even a question, this is where I would be training at. I promise you wont be disappointed.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Professionalism Epic Athletic Center is a great place to train with professional programming, top notch equipment and plenty of space to maintain distance. The equipment ranges from dumbbells, plates, speciality bars, prowlers, weight machines, etc. Epic is perfect for anyone looking to lift in a competitive but friendly environment!!

Fantastic experience: Joe Helisek runs the best athletic training program in the Northern Virginia area. You won't find a more knowledgeable person when it comes to strength, conditioning, flexibility, sport specific, and diet aspects of achieving athletic goals for all ages. I highly recommend Joe Helisek and EPIC Training Systems for young kids or adults trying to get familiar with the weight room, all the way up to College and Professional athletes whose sports demand being in the best shape possible. EPIC provides a personalized regimen for each athlete as well as a unique atmosphere to improve physically and mentally, just make sure you eat breakfast are ready to work hard before arriving!

Fantastic experience: Positive: Communication , Professionalism , Quality Joe’s an excellent trainer, extremely knowledgeable about the fitness industry and on how to achieve lasting and sustainable results. He’ll teach you how to do this so that you can continue and not just rely on a trainer, but how to implement effective changes. Great place to train and a great guy, would recommend to anyone.

Fantastic experience: Joe and his team at Epic Athletic Center have an excellent approach to strength and conditioning training. I sought out their expertise to help me get stronger for lifting patients at my job as a physical therapist. They focus on teaching proper form and technique with every exercise, and they program workouts to train the entire body for optimal mobility and strength. As a rehab professional, I am very particular about who I train with. I make sure those training me are invested in injury prevention and are up on the current research within the field of exercise, training, and nutrition. Joe and his entire team are the whole package. Not only was I able to get stronger, the team also provided the consistent support I needed to be consistent in my workouts and see progress in towards my goals.

Fantastic experience: I first came into Epic my 8th grade year. I was generally undersized compared to my peers, but wanted to do anything in my power to play baseball at the next level. 5 years later I owe everything in my collegiate baseball career to Joe Helisek and everything he and the Epic experience has provided for me. I’ve always said Epic is more than a gym, it’s a lifestyle. And I guarantee you will not regret your decision when you buy into the Epic lifestyle.

Fantastic experience: Epic athletics is top of the line. Joe is a no nonsense type of guy. He pushes you to reach your personal goals and holds you accountable. There is no subject regarding health and fitness off limits because of his knowledge and experience, he knows his stuff! He is a true health nerd and backs things up with facts and science. That’s the type of person you want to trust with your fitness goals.

Fantastic experience: Joe, and all the folks at Epic, are great. As a guy in my 50s, with a job that requires me to travel frequently, I need a place to train that offers me flexibility. Joe always meets me where I live. When I need guidance, Joe is full of techniques for fixing my mobility issues or addressing chronic injuries. When I need to change up my routine, he has great ideas for doing so, and presents me with a range of options. Epic is a great facility, and the folks that go there, from the high school athletes, to the college and professional athletes, to the various folks whose well-being depends on their physical capabilities, to the office workers like me, are serious about improving their physical performance, and friendly and encouraging to boot. I have trained at Epic for 6 years, made great strength and mobility gains during that time, and I expect to continue with Epic for as long as I can.

Fantastic experience: Positive: Quality Epic Athletic Center is a one of a kind facility in the area with a one of a kind coach! A true strength and conditioning training facility. The owner Joe is a wealth of knowledge on training and recovery. If you want amazing results come train here! It’s very good.

Fantastic experience: In case the other glowing reviews didn't convince you to give this place a try, I also think this place is amazing. Joe is an excellent coach that will cater to your needs. Not only will he set you up with a personalized workout plan, but he instills knowledge in you so that in the future, you would be equipped to continue your fitness journey on your own! The place is clean and everyone is friendly. Joe knows his stuff inside and out, I constantly annoy him with my million questions regarding routine, diet, sleep etc. and he's always happy to answer them. Joe is the real deal, he won't waste your time with empty promises or gimmicks, you will see the improvements right on your chart. His prices are also very reasonable. This place is a hidden gem so if you're looking to become a healthier version of yourself, consider giving this place a try!

Fantastic experience: This is the best gym I have ever been to in my entire life. As an Officer in the US Army with 9+ years of experience, I have tried many different gyms and hundreds of different training methodologies. The quality of training and instruction that Joe Helisek and Dr. Chris Rahbar provide is hands down the best. No matter what your goals are, the professionals at epic athletic center can help you achieve them. Their approach to training and conditioning is simple, effective and extremely practical. In today's day in age, there is a lot of misinformation out there. The second I stepped into the gym we discussed my training goals, how to get there, and a specific plan that could be easily executed. Additionally if your someone like me, who has nagging injuries or issues from years of training, epic athletic center will help you train in a way that heals your body and helps you overcome those problems. The facility is top notch with state of the art equipment and an on-site chiropractor who has been the only Dr. that has been able to fix certain nagging chronic joint issues I have had for years. There are a lot of gyms in the area to choose from. However, there are few that truly have the right focus and will holistically help you to improve and achieve a new level of capability and self-actualization. So if you're thinking of joining a gym, before you go straight to a chain, consider coming to a place that cares about YOU as a person, rather than just your monthly dues.

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center is A+! Joe Helisek (Owner) and TJ Ehrsam are professional, committed, and smart. An initial assessment is completed. A tailored workout plan is developed. Consistent accurate feedback is provided by request for diet, sleep, and workout regimen. Beginner to professional levels will improve. Atmosphere is competitive, fun, and energetic. Have seen measurable gains from all age levels and sports. They offer core advice to make beginners better and advanced direction for a seasoned athlete. Joe and TJ are particularly strong in baseball development. Specifically, Joe and TJ do not give "run of the mill answers" that you could google, because they "know you athletically" you will get tailored unique insight on getting to the next level in any area. If you tweak something or get injured playing your sport, they know how to get you back to good health. I have referred 20+ athletes to EPIC and 100% of them have thanked me. Biggest "difference maker" for EPIC is the experience and insight from Joe and TJ and how much they care about your health and performance. Everything that matters to an athlete in a gym is outstanding. Without hesitation, I am recommending you contact Joe and TJ for the assessment, commit to the plan, and measurable results will follow.

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center (Joe H.)is simply the best Strength & Conditioning expert in the DC area. Years of experience, dedication and proven success. Baseball, Football or basketball Epic training will get you to the next level. Joe has increased the strength and conditioning of my son (who is 15) while getting his mind and body ready for varsity football. Thank you for being caring and dedicated.

Fantastic experience: Training with Joe and Epic Athletic Center was one of the best decisions I made in both my baseball playing career and in life. I began training with Joe during my early college playing years, up until I retired from playing baseball professionally. Joe helped me maximize my performance and prepare me for the next level. Training at Epic was a major contributor to me being able to play baseball professionally. I could not have done it without them. I am now retired from baseball but the guidance and information they taught me over the years such as technique, nutrition, proper sleep, and so much more, I greatly value and utilize to this day. Joe and Epic Athletic Center are the best around.

Fantastic experience: My teen has been working out with EPIC for over 2 years- she’s gained so much from training there! Never mind what the increased strength and physical control and awareness of her body has done for her softball game- the life lessons she learns in responsibility, focus and nutrition are terrific. Joe and TJ often greet the kids with a “what did you have for breakfast?”/ “who cooked it”- and it should be healthy and cooked themselves! They’re asked about grades, told to thank their parents for that breakfast they cooked, work hard and push in the gym, a handshake on the way out and shown respect that naturally teaches them to show respect back. Really, a great environment for them to get stronger all around.

Fantastic experience: For all ranges of athletes, from any age group, Joe and his team at Epic are simply as good as it gets. You WANT to train with these guys! Trust me. They are a notch above. I knew Joe from one of his previous engagements while I was still a high school athlete. When he told me he was opening up Epic I knew I had to stop by. As a young professional at that point, I was struggling with keeping my body in shape and pain-free while spending 8+ hours a day at a computer desk. Joe's techniques, guidance, and the positive environment his gym provides were the ultimate medicine for me. Joe was patient and time-flexible while helping me on my way, and I trained at his gym as often as I could until moving out of the area. I deeply miss being able to put in the work at Epic.

Fantastic experience: “Joe has had a long standing, positive impact on the success and development of his past and current clients. The professionalism, organization, and strength training at Epic is unparalleled in relation to the competition in the Northern Virginia Area. The beginnings of Joe’s training philosophy that he introduced over a decade ago are still advanced in comparison to the programming used today at facilities like Driveline. This is an ideal place to be for any athlete looking to advance themselves as a person or as a player. “

Fantastic experience: I began training with Joe as a junior in high school looking to play lacrosse at the collegiate level. I knew I needed to get faster and stronger in order to pursue my goals, but what Joe and his team have taught me about discipline, mental toughness, and a wholistic approach to my fitness goals is what has carried me through four seasons of division I ACC lacrosse. Joe and his team genuinely care about everyone who steps into their gym, and it shows in their training methodology and individualized approach to personal training. They always took the time to explain to me the “why” behind specific exercises or the “why” behind a certain progression of movements, so that I could feel confident that the time I spent training with them was maximized. After a year of training at EPIC, I saw a huge transformation in my body with regards to muscle mass gained, fat loss, strength, and stamina. More importantly than this transformation however, was the fundamental training skills and techniques I learned that have kept me injury free and continuing to improve on the field and weight room during my years of collegiate lacrosse. Joe is not just a trainer but an educator. The knowledge I’ve gained from him on how to fuel my body and complement my training through my diet has been invaluable. He knows how to break down the science of nutrition in a way that is clear and concise. Whether you are a middle or high school athlete with sport specific goals, or someone seeking to better their fitness and health status, Joe will show you how to adjust your nutrition habits to fuel your fitness goals. Training with this team at EPIC is one of the main reasons I am currently pursuing a career in sports nutrition. I would highly recommend this gym, especially to athletes who want to make it at the next level.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Joe and Epic Athletic center since 8th grade. I just recently graduated college where I played football and now I have a job in the real world. Couldn’t have done this without Joe and the team. Not only do they provide high quality athletic training, but they also educate you on how to take care of your body. Joe puts together a great plan for eating and what nutrients best support your body for top athletic performance (including importance of sleep and hydration). Highly recommend Epic as they help you throughout life because the habits you build in the weight room translate to the real world. I still train at Epic whenever I get a chance and the relationships I have built with Joe and other athletes help provide accountability. Joe is the man!

Fantastic experience: I worked out with Joe and the Epic Team for over 8 years. I joined the gym as a 13-year old looking to begin strength and conditioning training with aspirations to play college baseball. Over the years, Joe would design workout and nutrition plans to keep me on track. Most importantly, there was a strong focus on safety. Unlike other gyms, Joe stresses the fundamentals and makes sure you are capable of doing an exercise. Although my college playing days are over, I still swing by Epic while I am in town to catch up with the team. The environment in there is contagious with hard work. I strongly recommend checking out the gym no matter what your goals may be.

Fantastic experience: Epic athletic center is an incredible gym to train at. The gym has adequate space and top of the line equipment needed for elite athletes to maximize strength and develop their skills. Most importantly, this gym has Joe Helisek as the owner. Joe has helped me and countless other athletes unlock their potential and achieve physical feats that could not be reached on their own. Joe has unmatched experience, knowledge, and drive as a coach to motivate athletes to points they did not know they had. I have been going to Joe for lifting, nutrition, and baseball advice for years and he has helped shape my baseball and future professional career as a physical therapist. Without epic athletic center I could not have reached the heights of division 1 baseball or pursued my career as a health care provider. I would highly recommend this gym to anyone who is serious about furthering their sports career

Fantastic experience: I worked with Joe for many years as a young baseball player, and have now returned in preparation for enlistment into the military. Joes vast knowledge of training, diet, sleep habits, and overall health is a great tool to have in preparing for your athletic goals. The gym is always clean and the equipment is top notch. Joe is very helpful when it comes down to planning workouts, and answering questions about certain exercises. Some of the knowledge I’ve learned from Joe such as proper form, the importance of flexibility, and mobility are great things I will use the rest of my life. If you have an athletic goal, or just want to be stronger/healthier in general, i would highly recommend giving Joe a call.

Fantastic experience: As a chiropractor, I’m always looking to refer patients to quality coaches/personal trainers who truly value the health of their clients. I had a patient about a year ago who raved about Joe and his staff at the Epic Athletic Center, so I decided to reach out and find out more about the gym. I am beyond grateful that I did! Joe has truly created something remarkable that is unlike any gym experience I have seen to date. His deep personal knowledge of strength training combined with his down to earth and electric personality allows him to connect deeply with every one of his clients. If you have a child who is looking to truly level up their performance in sport, but do so in a sustainable way, Joe is THE man to see in northern Virginia. If that weren’t enough, his adult training programs are some of the most thought out and effective full body training options I’ve encountered as well. In the world of performance promises and fitness solutions, Joe and his team at Epic Athletic Center deliver the goods every time!

Fantastic experience: Epic Athletic Center was one of the most important elements of my upbringing — instilling discipline and a lifelong passion of training. As a high school (and later, college, thanks to Epic) baseball player, I found my second home at Epic. Joe and Brandon took me in and nurtured my drive to play D1 sports. It was an environment that surrounded me with other driven, talented athletes — many who are still very close friends. Kids and adults, alike, need to train — and train hard, smart, and consistently. Epic is the place to do it. Though I've moved away, I still drop in each time I visit the DC area — I love this place and the people are like a family to me. Train there immediately.