Published on 7/25/08
Published on 7/24/08
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Body by Brooklyn
Old-world techniques meet new-world elegance at this enormous spa. Spring for soothing treatments like a Rose Quartz Healing and Restorative facial ($140) or a Sedona mud wrap ($120). If you’re not into calm, opt for the Russian platza ($40), in which you’ll be slapped all over with a broom made of oak leaves (a natural astringent) before you plunge into a cold bath. The Russian baths and the Turkish steam rooms are coed—but ladies, keep in mind that Tuesdays are for men only. 275 Park Ave at Washington Ave, Clinton Hill (718-923-9400, bodybybrooklyn.com). Mon, Wed, Sun 11am–10pm; Tue noon–11pm (men only); Thu 10am–10pm; Fri, Sat 10am–midnight. Day pass $40, yearly membership $960.
Crunch
Brooklyn’s second outpost of the mega–gym chain offers a wide variety of ways to work out, with more than 50 cardio and weight machines, 50 spinning cycles and a boxing ring. If machines aren’t your thing, try one of the many classes offered, from the classic (aerobics, Pilates) to the quirky (like Zodiaction, which combines fitness with astrology). Child care is also available during the week and on Saturdays. 691 Fulton St at St. Felix St (718-797-9464, crunch.com). Mon–Thu 5am–midnight; Fri 5am–11pm; Sat, Sun 7am–9pm.
’Cure Beauty Bar
Yes, like mani- or pedi-; both are available, along with facials, waxing and massages. Take a seat at the long communal table in the center of the spa, where manicurists work their magic. Basic manicures are $15, but on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from noon to 5pm, combine it with a basic pedi (normally $25) for only $30. In the back, plush brown chairs and aqua-colored bowls replace sterile-looking pedicure stations—try the Brooklyn ’Cure, which uses all-natural ingredients produced right in the borough. 921 Fulton St at Clinton Ave, Clinton Hill (718-622-7100, myspace.com/curebeautybar). Tue–Wed noon–7pm; Thu, Fri noon–8pm; Sat noon–6pm; Sun noon–5pm.
Cynergy Spa
Tucked into a rowhouse just off Fulton Street, Cynergy is a calming oasis, offering dozens of luxe treatments for guys and gals alike, using all-natural ingredients. Try the Urban Oasis Sports Massage ($110), a deep-tissue massage that relieves the aches of constant sidewalk-pounding; or indulge with an extravagant spa bundle, like the Birthday Package ($350), which includes a rose petal bath, an aromatherapy massage and a facial (plus champagne!). 87 Fort Greene Pl at Fulton St (718-403-9242, cynergyspa.com). Mon–Thu 10am–6pm; Fri, Sat 10am–7pm.
Embora Wellness & Movement Studio
Since it opened in 2004, Embora has become a neighborhood beacon for all things wellness. Fitness fanatics can take a yoga or Pilates class, or even sign up for private training; more holistic types can take advantage of acupuncture, massage therapy or Chinese medicine. Can’t decide? The studio offers an annual membership ($65/month), which allows devotees unlimited access to all of its services. 900 Fulton St between Washington and Waverly Aves, Clinton Hill (718-857-4360, embora.com). Mon–Sat 9am–9:30pm; Sun 9:30am–9:30pm.
Keep It Movin’ Pilates Studio
This small space offers both group classes ($15/class) and private training ($50 per session). New to Pilates? Try a beginner’s-level boot camp program—for $300, you get unlimited access to any beginner’s mat class for eight weeks. 45 Willoughby Ave between Adelphi St and Clermont Ave (718-422-1300, keepitmovinpilatesstudio.com). Schedule varies; call or check website for details. Closed Fridays.
Lucky Lotus Yoga
Practice your asanas at this charming yoga studio, where classes for all levels are on the menu. The community-minded yogis offer classes for kids as part of their “After School Cool” program, which includes tumbling and soccer. The studio also occasionally hosts special workshops, like prenatal yoga or Buddhist meditation classes. 184 DeKalb Ave between Carlton Ave and Cumberland St (718-522-7119, luckylotusyoga.com). Schedule varies; call or check website for details.
Mirai Wellness Nail & Spa
Basic treatments get upscale upgrades at this cozy spa: A basic manicure ($12) turns luxe with the addition of paraffin wax ($10 to add on to any manicure), and a peppermint clay mask enhances a spa pedicure ($60). Or choose from a variety of facials—eight are offered, targeted to different skin problems like acne, bacne (yuck!) or reducing free radicals. The shabby-chic spa also offers massages and waxing. 670 Fulton St between South Elliott Pl and South Portland Ave (718-875-0369, miraiwellnessspa.com). Mon–Sat 10am–8pm; Sun 10am–7pm.
Your guide to Ft. Greene
“ Food & drink
“ Fort-ified wine
“Art
“Art star: Whether you’re a Brooklyn Academy of Music newbie or an old fan, here’s how to get more BAM for your buck.
“Shopping
“Sport & spa