The old, windowless gym in the basement of the Capitol is one reason we're glad we're not a congressional staffer, but is the House gym really this terrifying? That's a report from the Hill, entitled "House gym a house of horrors?," about a "mix of maladies and embarrassments has befallen several members and staff" who have worked out in the gym over the years.

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The latest casualty is Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.), who required knee surgery after falling off the treadmill. There have also been Staph outbreaks and incidents of extreme narcissism, like taking half-naked photos in front of a bathroom mirror. But Rep. Tom Davis (R-Va.) says the gym's not to blame: "It's middle-aged guys trying to be young guys. [The gym's] certainly adequate, but it's not gold-plated. It could probably use an upgrade, but I don't think Congress is interested in investing right now while they're cutting benefits."

Former Rep. Rahm Emanuel continued to frequent the gym even after he landed a gig at the White House — perhaps he enjoyed the camaraderie — and other staffers use the showers after late nights at the office, so it can't be that bad. Plus, we'd much rather the sweaty, middle-aged men and women of the House stay in the basement rather than venturing above ground to join this frightening zumba craze that is, according to the Post, taking over D.C.

[via Washington Scene]