I wish I could give zero stars. I've been there three times now. First of all, I had a massage next to the salon area, so all I heard was gossip and hairdryers while trying to relax. Not to mention, the masseuse wasn't that great and talked the entire time. But the WORST part is the woman at reception. She is rude and snarky, and she messed up my appointment and then blamed me for doing so. It's overpriced for no reason. Go anywhere else. read more

Bought a Groupon voucher for massage mani/pedi. I had to wait 4 months before they had an appointment available. I had a hard time finding parking, so I called to let them know I'd be just a few minutes late. They were fine with it. What I didn't know is that they were docking me for it. Upon my arrival, the receptionists must think it's really cool to be there and uncool for me to be late because they were so rude. When my masseuse finally came out she told me because I was so late I was only getting a 45min massage even though I paid for 1hr. I got a deal, so I let it go. The massage was rushed and the walls so thin or the staff so obnoxious that I could hear everything outside the room. My mani/pedi were the worst I've ever had. There's only space for two people at a time and the space is so small and uncomfortable that even the nail techs kept hitting the walls and each other everytime they moved. My nail tech was disgusting. She was messy and creepy. She kept staring awkwardly at me without smiling or saying anything. When she started to masage my feet I closed me eyes, but when I realized she stopped massaging I opened them and saw that she was dozing off!! Foot massage lasted 5mins. When she did my nails and knicked the crap out of my cuticle I told her it was fine and even when it started bleeding she insisted that she didn't do anything and that it was me who did it before I came in. I asked her to please stop working on my nails, but she wouldn't. So, I had to sit through until I was left with more bloody fingers and uneven nails that were cut way too short. I can't believe how much they charge people for such mediocre services. I can't believe they allow people like this to work in their salon. This is another place that was a gym and decided they'd probably make some money with a salon, but know nothing about catering to it. I hate you, VIM. read more

Using groupon - IMPOSSIBLE to get an appointment. I called THREE times and left my number/name and the receptionist said the manager will call me back. Still no words. read more

I hate working out. It's boring, and there's all these strangers around sweating and grunting. It's nasty, it hurts, it's expensive, and I don't want to do it. But I finally got to thinking this year, it's time to commit to this. I did the free week membership at one of those large basement gyms where there's, like, 236 people in a row on all these machines and a used band-aid on the bathroom floor. No thanks. I need somewhere quiet and clean. Something small scale where no one has to witness my paltry feats of strength. Vim Fitness is new, small, and somewhat undiscovered. It's tastefully furnished with all new equipment, located above the Karma Yoga Studio with a view of Mass Ave below, and the founder/personal trainer, Pierre, is a nice guy. Fortunately, my company made a discount deal, because otherwise I'd never be able to afford this place, so be warned. Being so new, it has its share of growing pains (I joined in June and was just given a membership card today), but it's relatively uncrowded. Usually it's just me and a few others. Sometimes I'm completely alone. There are about 3 treadmills, 5 ellipticals, 2 bikes, 3 spinning bikes, and ample free weights and machines. Because the space is so limited, there is the potential for feeling like you're in someone's way when they're having their personal training session (tonight I almost got hit by a dropped medicine ball). The thing is, so far, even on the busiest day, there was never a problem adjusting my schedule to work around people so I could use the machine or flat bench I wanted, which is exactly what a whiney fitness-hating prole like myself needs. read more

So disappointed with this place, it had so much potential! Just redeemed a groupon for this salon - hour massage and mani/pedi for $69. Great deal, right? I thought so, until I went... The massage was so-so. Therapist was very nice, but not that great. I get a lot of massages on a regular basis, and this one wasn't that awesome, but I wouldn't base my review on that...it was just "sub par", but not terrible. Very nice girl... But the nails!!! 90 minutes for a mani pedi? 90 minutes? No special services like a scrub, lotions...nothing! She didn't even cut my cuticles!! She just worked sooooooo slowly, and with terrible results! Both my nails and toes CHIPPED WITHIN 2 HOURS!! I get my nails done all the time, and this NEVER happens!! Terrible pedi chair, no fan for the nails (or UV drier...)...I do a better job at home when I do it myself. DO NOT GO HERE, regular price for these services is $60!!!!! Unreal!!! So disappointed...I had so much hope for this place. Boo. ps - took 4 months to get an appointment...I have no idea who would WANT to come here. read more

I can't actually speak for the physical location itself, because although I've tried to get in - and essentially give them my money - I've not been able to get an appointment... even worse, the process has not only been difficult, but also involved a less-than helpful or sympathetic "customer service" person at the spa. Like many people, I bought a Groupon for a massage and mani/pedi. When I tried to make an appointment, I was told the next available time was more than THREE MONTHS from now. I asked if I could upgrade to get something sooner, thinking that they might be more apt to accommodate a "real" customer. (Which, of course is a ridiculous notion; they should treat Groupons as cash- or better, since Groupon users are MUCH more likely to share with their friends.) The response? If I "break them up" they could get me an appointment in only THREE MONTHS! Are you kidding? Either they were grossly unprepared or they don't understand service. Hire an additional therapist; extend your hours; do ANYTHING to get these people in and make them happy! Groupon users are loyal, and share their experiences- as I'm doing now. I've been looking for a good spa in the Boston area, and this clearly is not it. Not only am I going to return my Groupon, I definitely will not be going to this spa in the future, and will recommend my friends avoid it as well. I'll also be sending a note to Aveda; as a concept salon this is far from the service expected for something associated with the Aveda brand. read more

I joined the gym at VIM last Friday (woohoo! go me), but I had a BuyWithMe that I was using since December. The location is convenient, the gym is clean, and it isn't particularly small or big. There are a decent number of treadmills, bikes and ellipticals, a stretching area, weight circuit room, an area for free weights, and a studio room where they do classes- mostly yoga, pilates and the like. The gym does get crowded around 5:30pm, but the rest of the time, it's not bad. They also have a steam room and a sauna. I pay about $60/month (but it is cheaper if your company does a deal with VIM). The clientele is a bit eclectic. The first time I went here, a guy approached my friend, told her he had been staring at her since she came in, and then asked her to go a concert with him. When she said no thanks, he accused her of being racist (he was Indian). Awkwardly unfounded, especially since a. he was being super creepy, b. she is Asian and has been dating someone for 5 years, and c. who asks random people they don't know to a concert? Anyway, I'm just going to say the clientele is a bit unique and leave it at that. My favorite part of this gym: most of the treadmills and ellipticals are lined up right in front of the window, so people walking by on Mass Ave can stare at you working out, and you can stare back at them. While some people may hate this, I actually love it. It's hard to give up on a run when a bunch of people waiting for their bus are watching you workout. It also makes me enjoy working out at odd times, especially Saturday and Sunday mornings. While hungover hot messes lurch by the window and gape at me exercising at 10am, I feel a sense of superiority and think these kinds of thoughts: "Yeah, you're hungover and going to stuff your face at brunch, puke it back up and then go back to bed. In the meantime, I am on a treadmill RUNNING INTERVALS cause my life is so much more put together than yours could EVER BE." (Conveniently forgetting the roles are often reversed).Then I run twice as hard to be doubly impressive. Some of us have to find motivation to work out where we can, you know? A few complaints: - The locker room is teeny tiny and gets crowded. Any more than 2-3 people in that space is awkward/uncomfortable, especially if some of them are changing. - The gym is always a few degrees too warm for me, although I suppose that's not bad when you're working out. - Limited hours. They close at 9:30pm during the week and 7pm on the weekends. While it's not horrible, if I can't get to the gym til 8 or 830, that means my workout can only be 1-1.5 hours long. An extra hour or two would be great. read more

I came here as part of my "Groupon yoga tour." Classes As tends to be the case with gym yoga classes, the classes here felt athletic and the routines predictable (think sun salutations without much variation from class to class). I'll usually go to beginner classes when I'm not feeling 100% physically, but in this case, I did not see any real variation in the level from class to class. All classes are 1 hour long. Atmosphere The gym is small but very nice/modern. No yoga atmosphere here. Props Mats, padding mats, straps & blocks are available. Facilities Locker room is tiny, but there is a small sauna (bonus). The yoga room is also relatively small. OK overall, but the classes did not hold my interest. read more

If this location were big enough to house the amount of patrons you have, it would be better. If I didn't have to run half naked for all of Central Square to see, it would be better. If you had clean towels available in the locker room... ever, it would be better. And if EVERY WOMAN didn't piss all over the toilet seats, it would be better. Other than that, pretty cool to have a spa/salon/snack bar/gym altogether. But I think I'll be sticking to Central Square from now on. It's the only location I can *really* get a workout in between 5-7p... read more

LOVE this place. The location near MIT ... Unconventional ... It does not have the machismo GYM, rather has some zen feel with WINDOWS !!! This place makes me want to go workout given I don't feel like I'm going into a dark closet with joey grunting. The big windows are great for people watching to pass the time while in your cardio zone. One major drawback: no weight machines! So I focus here on cardio and floor work. Staff is great too. Easy going w/out ego. Lastly, when I inquired to the gal @ the front desk about a membership she was able to give me direct answers, whereas other gyms can't answer basic questions and have to go get a "sales" person. Really? read more

I recently joined this gym despite having access to a gym for free (I teach spin there). VIM is right near my office and offers us a great discount. Joining was very simple, which I appreciated--in and out in about 5 minutes. Having worked in the fitness industry for a few years, I can tell you that most gyms are staffed by sleazeballs, but that is definitely not the case for VIM, everyone is very kind and there is no pushiness. My old gym routine was taking me too long because I had to go back home to shower because i'm pretty sure i'd get full body herp if I went anywhere near that gym's showers. VIM has beautiful, clean, well maintained showers with complimentary towels and shampoo, conditioner, and bodywash. It has revolutionized my life. I can sleep until 6, get in a 2 hour workout and get to work on time. Score! VIM is also above ground and not a sketchy basement, which is awesome. There is some cardio equipment -- treadmills, ellipticals, one erg -- and a small weight area, as well as a large room of nautilus machines. I really only have a couple of complaints: *There are only 3 PRECOR ellipticals and all of the rest are LifeFitness. I doubt anyone else cares, but I really like the PRECORs and get bummed when they are all in use by people who are just cheating and leaning on them anyway. *There is limited weight equipment -- no decline or incline benches, limited cable machines (I miss my cable flys), one squat rack, some kind of awkward free weights. The lack of weight equipment and ellipticals is mitigated by the fact that the gym is never crowded, at least when I am there. I highly recommend VIM as a clean, convenient, well staffed gym. read more

I've been a member for a while and I do like it a lot. It's always spectacularly clean, and not crowded at all if you come in the morning. The music they play is also surprisingly good! I have taken several fitness classes and enjoyed those too, although sometimes they can be crowded. I wish there were more classes on weekend and longer weekend hours, but all in all its a beautiful little gym with great machines and equipment. read more

VIM has been the best gym experience I could possibly hope for. Why? - Immaculate, clean, zen-like workout space. Great lighting, hardwood floors everywhere. - Never crowded. I have never, ever been unable to find the machine I want here, and rarely ever have to wait, even at peak times. - Super friendly and helpful staff. - Nice saunas, clean showers, towel service, friendly staff. I never did any classes, but my girlfriend loved them. I can't say enough nice things about this gym. I recently had to move out of Cambridge to NYC, and I'm heartbroken to leave VIM. If you're in Boston/Cambridge and you're just kind of 'blah' about your gym, check this place out. Also, when I joined, they let us work out for free to try it out. read more

The club posts signs asking members to wear masks. When I pointed out to the staff member at the desk (Nov. 12, at noon) that someone was using a treadmill without a mask, and had been doing so for at least 30 minutes, her response was: "Oh." When I looked into the club 10 minutes later, the person on the treadmill was still maskless and the staffer was still eating her lunch. My VIM membership runs through next Spring and I've generally had good experiences. But I've stayed away during the Covid crisis and this was my attempt to go back. If I can't make use of the club because I don't feel safe, the remaining part of my membership is a waste of money. read more

This review is based solely on the gym- have yet to try the spa & salon. Gym is very clean and has all the basic machines/equipment I need. While it gets crowded weekday evenings after work (6-7pm), I have always managed to get a treadmill without waiting, so capacity seems to be just about right. Love the separate weight machines room in the back - it has never been crowded there. Only complaint is the small locker room. The locker area is half the size of my friend's back bay studio apartment, aka tiny. Like I said, only an issue if you work out right after work. Otherwise, I'm a fan of the simplicity and cleanliness of VIM! read more

I want there Couple of times and I like the whole step up of the workout machine & they have Two and more Squats racks. The price is alil bit to high but, Overall the gym is great the vibe you get in this gym you won't get it on the other gym. That's my opinion! read more

I bought the buy with me which is what orginially got me to go here. It was a fabulous experience for sure. It's a bit pricey when you don't have the coupon but my girlfriends and I will definitely be going back when we want to splurge on ourselves! The staff is nothing but nice and helpful and I definitely can be the annoying one asking all the questions. Only downside is right now if you both want to get a facial you have to wait one after the other. There's not enough room for you both to go at once. Overral definitely a great place to get a facial! read more

I have been going to this gym for almost 1.5 years. I love this gym unfortunately I have to give a one star!! Maybe it's just me. The owner/staff did not keep the locker room clean. You smell the stale soaked shower curtain whenever u take a shower. The toilet's I have to lay around some toilet paper before I even sat on it. I went there 4x a week and I should have thought they would clean them overnight. Or at least put the curtain shower in the wash but NOOooo.. Lucky for me, my office has a shower facility. ************************************************ After posting this, I am very happy that this will be addressed! The owner replied and will make improvements. Thank you! ! I'm still a member despite these. Like I said, I LOVE this gym. They have good machines. :). read more

Stay far away from this place it is very dirty and the egotistical Pilates instructor Sharon is awful. There are many other great boutique gyms and pilates studios in Boston don't waste your money here! read more

The Spa and Salon has a separate entrance from the gym, which is not that obvious . . it's on the side street to the left. And it's teeny tiny - the hair station is right on top of the waiting area, making it a bit cramped, but all is well once you pass the curtain into the massage/facial rooms. Best $40 facials, ever (they even offered a "Groupon" for $20, which was a total steal). Of course, they do push their products to really address those "problem areas," but not too aggressively. Their eyebrow waxing is expensive compared to other salons, but Jessica did an really excellent job with the shape. read more

This gym is just fantastic! Everything is new and immaculately clean. VIM has all the cardio and weight machines you'd want, plus the cardio machines have flat screen TVs and are always working (no "out of order" signs getting in the way of your work out) The gym is small in size with never more than a handful of people (if that) using it at any time, so I've never had to wait for a machine. And the people at the desk and at the gym are all very pleasant. I love working out as it is, but this gym makes the experience even better. read more

I really love this gym. I like the non-gym ambiance, I like the deal I get through my office ($48/month!), and the staff is great. The showers and locker room are clean, the equipment is in excellent shape, and there's enough variety, between the equipment and classes, to keep me interested. The array of drinks, smoothies, and snacks is a big plus. That they can put drinks and snacks on my account, instead of having to run my card or take cash, is a nice, modern perk that saves time as I'm running back to work. I also really like the nearly complete lack of meat heads ... And generally, the music that's played over the loudspeakers is tolerable. (For example, I recently heard Bjork's "Venus as a Boy." Not pump-you-up music, but a personal favorite and way better than having to sit through another listening of Sublime.) Okay, a few gripes ... there's no steam room, which I greatly prefer over a sauna (I know, First World dilemma ...). Because of the size, there are a few items lacking (preacher curl, for example). I also wish they'd enforce in some way people putting their weights back on the racks when they're done ... I find it annoying that I have to lug someone's 45-pound plates around every time I want to use the bench press ... But despite that, it's never that crowded, and I rarely have to wait long for a machine or weight bench. I do wish they had another location near my place, because it's really inconvenient on the weekends, but that's not a complaint. Just a wish, because I like it there so much. read more

I too have followed Sonya for my haircuts since I have lived in Boston. Sonya listens extremely well and is very good about understanding hair texture (mine has a lot of body). I always feel like a million bucks when I walk out of the salon with Sonya. On top of being a great stylist, Sonya is such a warm and calm person that I look forward to sitting in her chair as a relaxing treat. read more

I tried to receive facial services here to no avail. My appointment was lost or mixed up by the salon and nearly an hour of my time was wasted. The desk staff didn't seem to have any idea how to appropriately respond and the aesthetician never bothered to even speak with me to at least offer to reschedule. I guess they are not interested in serving clients or making money. The tiny place doesn't actually feel like an appropriate salon rather an add on to the gym next door. Don't waste your time. read more

Really 3.5. The 2 things that really sold me this gym are the location and the price. It's right in Central Square, it's very easy to get to. As for price, it's $64 per month, with no commitment, but you have to cancel 30 days in advance. So if you joined August 1, you could join just for August if you cancelled the same day, but if you joined August 3, you'd have to pay for August and September. Besides, even with that admittedly odd policy, there are not very many gyms you can join on a month-to-month, no commitment basis anyway! If you can't pay for a month, you can get 2 weeks for $40 or 1 week for $30. Plus, they were super-sweet and accommodating when I was just checking out gyms, and when I needed an extra day to decide, they extended my free pass. They deserve stars on that basis alone! Now, for their selling points that are less of selling points than I would have hoped for. They offer free consultations with a personal trainer and a yoga instructor once every 12 weeks. I thought that that was pretty cool, and could be very useful getting me going right and keeping me on track. Problem is, it took almost a month to get the appointment with the personal trainer, and she only conducted a very brief assessment of me-- the assessment was mostly in interview form, and she never interpreted the discussion much-- and only did a few quick tests, rather than a thorough assessment of strong and weak, or flexible and inflexible parts of my body. She also didn't give me any specific exercises, or tips to build a routine from. The yoga assessment was a bit odd: the goal was to introduce me to the chakra system, not about strength, flexibility, or breathing. The teacher asked me a bunch of questions like you might find on an online quiz and then gave me 3 poses to work with based on my answers. As for the classes-- well, let's just say there's not a very well-developed class schedule. There's a class at 5:30 Monday through Thursday, they sometimes have afternoon classes, and they sometimes have morning classes. There's only one class on Saturday, the one day where I have time to really go crazy! This is not a gym where you can stay in the studios all day taking classes-- if one yoga class doesn't satisfy you, just get on a treadmill, I guess. The instructors vary. The Pilates teacher always does the exercises super-slowly, so you really feel them. Problem is, she doesn't give you many tips for scaling them down if you need it. She also doesn't walk around the room, she's just on her mat at the front of the room, so when she gives corrections, you're never sure if they're for you or not. The yoga classes also vary-- I've never been able to really get into the classes of one of the instructors, it feels like she's more doing her yoga routine and telling us what she's doing than guiding us through our own practice. But I really love the the other instructor, she gives lots of modifications and corrections, and really helps us work into the poses and appreciate their meaning . I really love the Total Body class I've taken, the teacher is awesome at really pushing us, and I like the combination of funky cardio dance, steps with weights, and ab work. I just always have to remember to scale things back to a realistic level for me-- she assumes you are already very flexible and have great balance, and it can be hard to remember how to do the exercises with great form when she's at the front of the room doing the extreme versions. She's also great about helping me after classes with exercises or even playlist questions. I haven't tried some of the morning-only instructors, because it's just not compatible with my schedule. I mostly just wish there were more classes-- maybe the Total Body teacher could do a cardio dance class, or maybe there could be a Tai Chi class, or a barre class, or a class where they use the steps or the Bosu balls. Anyway, since the emphasis is not really on the classes, people who mainly do the classes might want another gym. Other miscellany: Some people say that the locker room is crowded, but that's only true at about 5:00, when all the guys who come here after work get in. Come in at any other time and you won't have a problem. As of this review, June 1 2011, the decline bench feels very wobbly and unstable. The place never has so many sweaty bodies in it that the sweat really fills the air, it's always fresh-feeling, and although I know it doesn't change much, I really do feel richer working out in a place with hardwood floors. I also really like the studio on the off-hours, it's got mirrors and adjustable lighting and any props you could want, and there's never more than 2 other people there. Also, I feel like I know all of the people who work the security desk, and I love how they all always greet me. Overall, it's a really nice place, maybe not the very best, but definitely worth business. read more

I purchased the Groupon along with 2,000+ other people. Perhaps they should have capped the maximum number purchased, but despite the scheduling difficulties, I thought this place was great. They're relatively new, and maybe weren't anticipating all the Groupon purchases. They pushed back the expiration date in order to accomodate everyone, the man on the phone was SUPER friendly about the scheduling, and they are dealing with the masses in the best way possible. OK enough about Groupon... I was there a week ago and had the mani/pedi/massage all in one fell swoop. My mani/pedi is still flawless. No chips at all. My massage was relaxing. She asked what areas I'd like to target, so she focused on those "problem" areas, and the rest was very soothing. Everyone was extremely friendly and professional, and the facilities were all clean. Yes this place is small, and may be booked through December due to the Groupon purchases, but I'd say if you can find time to go, definitely go. read more

This is a review for the spa portion and not the gym. First of all I cannot rave about the Nuriel, the masseuse I followed from a previous location she worked at, Nuriel is without a doubt a 5 star masseuse. My only minor criticism keeping this from being a 5 star establishment (and maybe I'm being too picky) is that I could hear too much backround noise from outside my room where I was getting my massage, in prior places I'm used to complete silence. read more

This is just for the spa... Worst brazilian wax ever! I hadn't had one done in years, but I was going on a beach vacation and didn't want to have to think about shaving. Everything seemed to be going as I remembered and the girl was pleasant enough. However, she declared she was done before ever getting to back area and while doing the front she never reached for tweezers. Every time one or two hairs were missed, she slapped on some more wax. Ouch! The worst part is, when I got home, I realized she didn't remove any hair that wasn't readily visible and I hadn't realized at the spa because of all the moving around she had me do. I paid at least $60, maybe $65 for a brazilian that was only half done and I regrettably gave the girl a 20% tip. Again, worst wax ever. I will never go back to this salon. read more

I was compelled to join VIM due to the lure of being a boutique gym. I don't mind paying extra if I am going to receive top notch service. I also joined VIM due to their offering of 'month' to 'month' payments. I convinced my fiance to join with me, and not join BSC. After 5 months - I can say that I only used the gym a handful of times after many discouraging experiences. The scent of the gym is nauseating after you have smelled it so many times. Bathroom doors do not lock well, lockers are always full. The classes are mediocre at best - except for the Bali class (AWESOME - this is why I am providing a star!). I'll give credit where credit is due. To make a long story short - after feeling like I have spent a lot of money to have the advantage of being able to cancel when I was ready, I called to cancel before my bill date and they tell me that they are applying my earned free month to extend the membership. Great, except that I am moving and can not make use of this free month? Had I known they apply it after cancellation, I would have called earlier. I would have saved nearly $200 dollars! That is a lot of money for grad school students. Disappointing and don't even bother going to the one closer to MIT. It's not a gym, it's a room with some cardio machines. And the Central Sq. location doesn't offer spin classes. read more

I went to VIM Spa for the first and only time for a mani/pedi that I purchased on Groupon. When I walked in the door the group ahead of me was having problems with their appointments and it was at least 10 minutes before I was even acknowledged at the front desk. Overall they seemed really disorganized at the front desk and I feel fortunate to have gotten in at all. That being said it didn't seem all that busy. The girl who did my mani/pedi was rude, didn't do a very god job, and cut me not once but twice. Needless to say I will not be returning. The Groupon was also for a massage which they were not able to schedule. Hopefully VIM can work out it's organizational problems and get some more friendly and experienced staff in there before they lose more customers. read more

This spa is just terrible. I went for a waxing at lunchtime got about 4 strips in and they ran out of wax strips. Attitude was abyssmal. I will NEVER go here again. read more

I have been attending this gym for over a year, and it has been a HUGE step up from other area gyms I have attended in the past. They take tremendous pride in their appearance, atmosphere, and cleanliness. The major emphasis on going green is also a nice touch. Unlike some of the reviews I saw recently, I have found the staff to be caring and helpful - I do not feel like just another customer, as I have felt at larger gyms. I also don't feel like they are constantly trying to sell their services to you, which I appreciate. When I had a concern and brought it to the attention of the management, it was resolved immediately and personally. I have never used the spa services, and I can see based on some of the other reviews that they may have had an issue with overbooking - probably because the spa is a newer part of their business. Still, I have never had any issues with the gym and my wife and I plan to try out the spa soon once they have some openings. read more

My stylist, Sonya, recently moved over to the salon here, so I went in for my first appointment in her new place. The experience was great. The space is intimate and welcoming, the staff is attentive *and* they leave out little bite-sized bars of dark chocolate, along with the regular tea and water! If you're looking for a marvelously skilled stylist, you'd better get in to see Sonya before she's gets all booked up. I've been going to her for 3 years, and she consistently gives great cuts, perfect highlights and entertaining conversation. I guarantee you will be glad you went to her! read more

The staff here are extremely friendly and extremely helpful. I love that. And in direct contrast to the underground cave-feel of Central Square, this location at University Park is bright and sunny. But at the end of the day, the facility itself pales in comparison to the Central Square VIM. For starters, there are fewer machines, and they're crammed really close to each other. So, if you or your neighbor REALLY smells while you're sweating away on the treadmill... Well, there's no escaping it. However, I do like that the treadmills and ellipticals are facing out the huge windows. People watching while running is a lot of fun! I suppose it was indeed a welcome change from the underground dungeon that is the Central Square VIM (though I love it there so dearly!). No weight machines! I was deeply saddened and appalled by this. Plenty of free weights... But I definitely prefer machines. The locker rooms are clean and very nice, just like the ones at Central Square. But they're tiny! And there's literally one small bench that you gotta fight over during busy times of day. No dance fitness classes here. Enough said. :-( Overall, this location sufficed as a substitute while Central Square is closed due to flood repairs. But I don't think I'll be coming here regularly. read more

I recently starting going to Vim on a friend's recommendation after asking around for a good eyebrow wax. Soteria is fabulous, she is very pleasant, does a great job and does it with very minimal pain. After having a good experience with Soteria I decided to try to have my hair done at Vim. I booked to totally change my hair color (something I'd never done before) with Sonya. A-MAZE--ING. I brought in a picture of a color and she got it exactly right. She also gave me the best haircut I've had in years. And she's great to talk to, to boot! read more

I started going to this salon because it was close to where I lived. Last month I was in a bind so I asked them if I could bring my infant to my haircut appointment. When I showed up for the appointment they wouldn't cut my hair because I had my infant with me and it would be "hazardous to the baby's health," which I thought was rather weak coming from an Aveda Salon. I had to leave without getting my haircut. Later when I called to discuss my experience with the manager, I was told that the owner would call me back but no one did. I have since switched salons. read more

I have been receiving massage from Nuriel for almost a year now. She has such an amazing touch! She always knows exactly what I need and delivers a deep tissue massage that is always at the perfect pressure. I guess what I would most like to say is that Nuriel has incredible intuition and is one of the best massage therapists I have had the pleasure of receiving work from. read more

This is a poorly operated business and I do not recommend ANYONE visit the spa. I purchased a Groupon in the winter, along with 2,229 other people! Really, VIM? You couldn't better project your capacity? Whoever runs this nightmare of a spa clearly didn't take Business 101 and master the art of 'supply and demand'. I tried to book my manicure, pedicure, and massage back in March. I had to book them separately. I had my massage in June which was NOT relaxing. The walls are paper thin and I could hear the nail technicians talking outside the whole time. As for my mani and pedi, I couldn't get an appointment until July 12th. I got a phone call saying the nail tech called out and I have to reschedule. Now I can't get in until NOVEMBER! They tried to get me to split my mani and pedi to get in sooner. Enough is enough. Don't go here - this place deserves to fail. read more

I just purchased a yearly membership to VIM and couldn't be happier. My employer (Harvard) is in the corporate discount program so it was $400/year which is an amazing deal, especially for such a nice gym. The facility is very well kept, the machines seemingly brand new and the locker room is beautiful and well-equipped with a steam room and sauna. It's a little out of the way for me (10 min drive from work and 25 from home) and street parking is hit or miss, which is why I'm not giving 5 stars. I've been an athlete my whole life but since college my fitness level has plummeted. As a result I am very intimidated and insecure at gyms. I have access to 4 gyms for free at my work but I just can't get myself to go to any of them. They are always crowded and/or full of skinny college girls that just make me feel like crap about myself. VIM puts all of my insecurities at ease. The zen atmosphere is so relaxing and motivating. You can tell by reading the company's website that they are a wellness company - not just a gym - that is dedicated to the overall well-being of the person, including mental and spiritual wellness - not just the physical part. This really excites me. I am looking forward to trying out some of their many classes, even though I'm a total beginner. I found VIM through their Aveda salon/spa just around the corner. I've had several services there and the salon/spa is awesome as well. The massage was one of the best I've had. The Aveda fitness-spa concept is SO cool and I've never seen anything like it. Overall I am really happy to have joined this gym and am looking forward to continuing my relationship with VIM. read more

Based on my experience there, I think the service is inconsistent. The first time I went there for waxing, it was fine but the next time I visited the place for waxing, I ended up with some bruising. I was helpfully informed by my aesthetician that the bruising happened because the wax was too thick and/or not at the optimal temperature. Unfortunately, I hadn't visited the spa to glean this information but rather to get a perfect waxing done. I won't be going back. read more