Fitness & Personal Training
Charlottesville's premier fitness and wellness community · Charlottesville, VA
Published in partnership with acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square
Book online anytime
| Mon | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Tue | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Wed | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Thu | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Fri | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Sat | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Sun | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
acac Fitness & Wellness at Albemarle Square is Charlottesville's urban fitness oasis, where cutting-edge facilities meet a thriving community culture. Located in downtown Charlottesville at 500 Albemarle Square, acac operates from 5 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and offers extended weekend hours, making it accessible for early-morning warriors and after-work fitness enthusiasts alike. With a 4.5-star rating from over 350 Google reviews, the club has built a reputation as the best full-service gym in Charlottesville, VA, offering an unmatched range of amenities including a rooftop infinity pool with skyline views, indoor walking/running track, EDGE cycle studio, full aquatics center, squash courts, and dedicated functional training zones.
The fitness floor at acac Downtown features state-of-the-art cardio equipment, selectorized strength machines, free weights, and open functional training areas with turf, kettlebells, and sleds designed for real-world strength and agility development. Group fitness is a cornerstone of the acac experience, with 150+ weekly classes spanning yoga, Pilates, cycling, strength training, and aquatic exercise—all led by expert instructors who create accountability and keep members motivated. The club's aquatics center includes a lap pool, warm-water activity pool, and heated whirlpool, hosting everything from family swim time to the Dolphin Swim School, a Starfish Aquatic International-certified learn-to-swim program for ages 3 and up, and Elite Performance Training for competitive swimmers.
acac goes beyond typical gym offerings with specialized wellness programs tailored to diverse health goals. The GLP-1 Support Program is a 3-month guided experience for members taking obesity management medications, combining personal training, nutrition coaching, support groups, and monthly educational seminars. On-site services include personal training, physical therapy, Pilates reformer sessions, and The Spa at acac, creating a holistic wellness ecosystem under one roof. Families benefit from the complimentary Kids Zone, offering up to 2.5 hours of supervised childcare so parents can work out worry-free. Social spaces with WiFi and café service, plus a summer rooftop music and events series, make acac a lifestyle hub for connection and community.
What sets acac apart from other fitness centers in Charlottesville is its focus on consistency, community, and accessible high-end amenities. Members aren't just working out—they're part of a supportive network that celebrates progress at every level. Whether you're training for competition, recovering from injury with physical therapy, learning to swim through Dolphin Babies (ages 6 months to 3 years), or simply looking for the best group fitness classes near downtown Charlottesville, acac's experienced team and thoughtfully designed spaces help you build lasting habits. The club also offers off-site tennis court access and squash programs to develop speed and agility, making it a true all-in-one destination for fitness, wellness, and recreation in central Virginia.
Best for: Busy professionals who value premium amenities and early/late hours, parents who need reliable childcare during workouts, swimmers of all ages (from infants to competitive athletes), group fitness enthusiasts seeking variety and expert instruction, individuals managing weight with GLP-1 medications, families looking for a full-service wellness destination with pools and social spaces
Service area: Charlottesville, VA and surrounding Albemarle County, serving downtown Charlottesville and nearby neighborhoods
Why choose acac Fitness & Wellness Albemarle Square: acac Fitness & Wellness stands out as the only fitness center in Charlottesville offering a rooftop infinity pool, 150+ weekly group fitness classes, comprehensive aquatics programs (Dolphin Babies, Dolphin Swim School, Elite Performance Training), on-site physical therapy and spa services, and a specialized GLP-1 medication support program—creating a true all-in-one wellness destination unmatched by other local gyms.
Rooftop Infinity Pool with Skyline Views: acac Downtown's signature rooftop pool offers a resort-style experience above the city, complete with café service, sunbathing areas, and a summer music and events series—an amenity unmatched by other Charlottesville gyms.
150+ Weekly Group Fitness Classes: With expert instructors leading yoga, Pilates, cycling, strength, and aquatic classes across every fitness level, acac provides more variety and scheduling flexibility than any other fitness center in the area.
Comprehensive Aquatics Programs: From Dolphin Babies (6 months–3 years) to Dolphin Swim School (Starfish-certified curriculum for ages 3+) to Elite Performance Training for competitive swimmers, acac offers the most robust swim education in Charlottesville.
Specialized GLP-1 Medication Support Program: acac is one of the only gyms in Virginia offering structured 3-month support for members taking obesity management medications, including personal training, nutrition coaching, support groups, and educational seminars.
| Service | Details | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Swim School | Starfish-certified 8-week learn-to-swim program for ages 3+ in small groups with 30-minute weekly sessions. | |
| Personal Training | One-on-one training with nationally certified trainers specializing in strength, performance, and corrective exercise. | |
| Group Fitness Classes | Over 150 weekly group fitness classes including yoga, Pilates, cycling, strength training, and aquatic exercise. |
How much does an acac Fitness & Wellness membership cost?
acac offers multiple membership tiers to fit different budgets and needs. Pricing varies based on access level (single-club vs. all-location access), amenities included (rooftop pool, Kids Zone, spa discounts), and whether you're joining as an individual, couple, or family. For current membership rates and available promotions, visit acac.com/charlottesville or call (434) 978-3800. A 1-day guest pass is available for those who want to tour the facility and try classes before committing.
What qualifications do acac trainers and instructors have?
acac's personal trainers hold nationally recognized certifications (ACE, NASM, ACSM, or equivalent) and many have specialized credentials in corrective exercise, sports performance, or nutrition coaching. Group fitness instructors are certified in their respective disciplines (yoga, Pilates, cycling, etc.) and undergo ongoing education. The Dolphin Swim School instructors are trained in the Starfish Aquatic International curriculum, and physical therapists on-site are licensed clinicians with doctorate-level education.
What should I expect on my first visit to acac Downtown?
First-time visitors can claim a 1-day guest pass online to explore the facility and try classes. Upon arrival, check in at the front desk—staff will give you a tour of the fitness floor, EDGE cycle studio, aquatics center, rooftop pool, and Kids Zone. You're welcome to take a group fitness class (check the schedule online), use the cardio and strength equipment, or book an introductory session with a personal trainer. Bring athletic wear, indoor shoes, and a towel (or rent one on-site). Locker rooms have showers and changing areas.
Who is acac Fitness & Wellness best for?
acac Downtown is ideal for busy professionals who value premium amenities like the rooftop pool and early/late hours, parents who need reliable childcare during workouts, swimmers of all ages (from infants in Dolphin Babies to competitive athletes in Elite Performance), group fitness enthusiasts who want variety and expert instruction, and anyone seeking a full-service wellness destination with personal training, physical therapy, and spa services. The GLP-1 Support Program also makes acac a strong choice for individuals managing weight with medication.
Does acac offer childcare, and is it included in membership?
Yes, the Kids Zone provides complimentary supervised childcare for up to 2.5 hours per visit for members' children. The space is safe, engaging, and staffed by trained caregivers, allowing parents to work out or attend classes worry-free. Kids Zone hours align with peak club times—confirm availability by calling (434) 978-3800.
Can I try acac before committing to a membership?
Absolutely. acac offers a 1-day guest pass that you can claim online at acac.com/charlottesville. This gives you full access to the fitness floor, group classes, pools, and amenities so you can experience the facility and community before joining.
What swim programs does acac offer, and how do I register?
acac offers Dolphin Babies (parent-supported classes for ages 6 months–3 years focusing on water safety and floating), Dolphin Swim School (8-week Starfish-certified curriculum for ages 3+ in small groups of 3–6), and Elite Performance Training (land and water training for competitive swimmers). Register online at acac.com/charlottesville or contact the club at (434) 978-3800 for session dates and availability.
What is the GLP-1 Support Program, and who is it for?
The GLP-1 Support Program is a 3-month guided experience for individuals currently taking or considering obesity management medications (GLP-1s, GIPs, etc.). It includes one-on-one training sessions, nutrition and health coaching, support group meetings, and monthly educational seminars to optimize results and ensure safe, effective exercise while on medication. Contact the club at (434) 978-3800 to learn more or enroll.
“The physical therapist is very good !!!! . . . but each time I arrive or depart, the reception / office is terrible. They sit behind this glass enclosure, that they open to assist you. They are almost always on the phone, so I need to wait until they are finished before I’m able to be helped. This is frequently 5-10 minutes, making me late for my therapy appointment. Fortunately, a number of times, my therapist has wandered i to the lobby and retrieved me (before I was able to check-in) . . . just so we can start close to on-time. Their hours are convenient and parking is good, and they take my insurance, so I keep going, but the check-in / check-out process is not good. 😢”
— Julie Richardson (Witten), Google Review
“I’ve traveled to most us cities and always find a gym near my hotel, so I seen quite a few. ACAC is unique in its focus and diligence to health management. Staff is excellent and members fantastic!!”
— Paul Scaffidi, Google Review
“The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. The ACAC I use is in Albermarle Square.it is spacious and not crowded.”
— Meredith Woo, Google Review
“Best health club I've ever experienced! With a friendly staff, every kind of class you can imagine, multiple locations, hot tub , sauna , warm pool& lap pool and cafe and childcare in larger clubs and a welcoming inclusive atmosphere everywhere. Worth every penny”
— jocelyn kitchen, Google Review
“Maurice makes the best burgers and smoothies in town! Hands down! I recommend the Green Detox Smoothie, substitute orange juice for apple juice for a naturally sweet taste. Add the Smash Burger with everything as a yummy treat to go with your smoothie and enjoyyyyyy... Thank me later!! 🥂”
— Michelle George, Google Review
Book online: Claim Your 1-Day Pass →
Phone: (434) 978-3800
Address: 500 Albemarle Square, Charlottesville, VA 22901 (Get directions)
Website: acac.com/charlottesville/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb
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