Blakely F I T

(7 reviews)

406.5 mi

I have been working with Brit for five years! I have lost 25 pounds and increased my mobility and…read morestrength. Brit is an exceptional trainer who cares about her clients' success. She has extensive knowledge and the ability to customize every session to fit my goals and needs. She is also genuinely kind and caring, making each workout feel supportive.

I've been training remotely with Brit for over a year and I can't recommend her enough. She has a…read moretrue passion, not only for fitness, but for understanding her clients--what they need as individuals and what they want as athletes. Under her guidance, from 2,000 miles away, I've seen consistent improvement in my strength and overall performance in the gym. Brit has helped me push through plateaus and achieve many of my current fitness goals. If I could stop eating like a wild animal who doesn't know when they will see their next meal, I could probably be doing even better, but hey, I have young kids so lay off me. But that's also the reason Brit is great. I have young kids and I don't have a lot of time to be in the gym or think about my program. Brit makes the programs easy to follow and understand. Through her app, everything is laid out for me. I don't even have to think about it until I get into the gym that day. Every week is scheduled in advance. She checks in routinely and is regularly asking for feedback on how the workouts are going. There is also a level of accountability which I love. Brit really is a champion and a motivator--even from a distance.

Two women flexing their biceps and looking good

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One-on-One Fitness Personal Training Service, Inc.

(5 reviews)

Michael set me up with David due to his expertise with training athletes as well as his athletic…read moreexperience himself (previously a semi-pro triathlete). The training has been intense but I am seeing amazing results already. I am hoping to get into the best shape of my life and shave an hour off my marathon time. So far so good! Highly recommended!

My experience with Michael Sokol and One-on-One Fitness has been extraordinary. Through careful…read moreinstruction of research and evidence-based techniques in the areas of nutrition, cardio and strength training, Michael has helped me discover my best body ever. He has a relentless passion for health and fitness, and the proof is in the pudding--amazing results. If you're serious about getting in shape, look no further. One-on-One Fitness is the very best out there!! Erin, age 33, Stay-at-Home Mom

Michael J. Sokol, Owner & Personal Trainer

Cable Pulleys

Www.USAgetFit.com

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SWEAT Fitness Studios - Chicago

4.1

(83 reviews)

I've recently started getting back into fitness and working out, and was looking to tryout a few…read moreclasses before I commit to anything. SWEAT was offering a 7 day free trial for new customers which I found very helpful. They have a range of classes that target specific body parts, like the Arms & Core workout or the Butt and Legs workout. They offer classes almost every part of the day including before and after work hours. I even saw a few classes that start at around 5:30am. They have two different and convenient locations around the city and I believe you can attend classes in both location if you are a member, but I'd call and ask just to double check. My first time was at the Gold Coast location. It was a little confusing to get to at first, but when I saw a bunch of people in sweats and gym bags going down to a basement, I was able to finally locate the studio. There is no front desk or anyone to greet you upon entry. I had no idea where to go or where to place my bag. I had to ask a few people before a nice lady that's a member there helped me out. There are OPEN lockers right outside the studio (and yes there's only one studio), so I wouldn't bring anything valuable just in case. They offer free towels and you can just dump them into a laundry basket when you're done. The studio itself is large and can fit about 25-30 people comfortably. It has weights, treadmills and a bunch of other workout gear that are used during certain classes. Now here's the deal - These classes are not easy pace. They go quick and it's up to you to catch up. The instructors will try their best to help you out, however, they have an entire class to attend to, so sometimes you won't be able to get the help you need. I am not a very active person, so I was not able to catch up AT ALL during the Arms & Core workout class. It seems like classes are very advanced and target people that have already been on the workout train for years. As for someone who is just getting back on track, these classes are not for you. On the bright side, they do offer personal training, so I might be looking into that. FYI - the only contact you can have with a representative is through phone or email. I was very interested in these classes before I actually tried them out, and when I expressed that to the representative through email, I was automatically charged for a membership right after the 7 day free trial ended. I was able to get a refund though, but I was a little upset that my card was charged without my permission.

Walking into the building is pretty weird as it is an empty floor with a Kitchix fridge and a…read morestaircase leading down to the gym. You walk into a lounge area where you can view an active class and see what type of exercises you'll be doing. Each day has a particular work out so that you can go on different dates and not work the same muscles. The locker rooms are a bit weird with a long hallway to hang your coats and stick your bags in cubes, not lockers. The locker room has two showers and two closed off bathrooms. They have spray deodorant, hand soap in both bar and dispenser. The room is small, so if you have a class ending or beginning, it can get crowded. There are small cubes to put your personals as well. Once in the class, they have a lot of weights, ropes hanging from the ceiling, row machines, Ski machines and high boxes to jump on. The classes are made up of intervals so you are grouped with a few people and rotate to another set of exercises. The classes I've been to so far with Joey and Ally have been tough, but great. I try to keep up and not feel intimated by the people that have been coming here for a while, but trust me, no one is looking at you. Everyone here is trying to work on their physique and at the end of this class, you are guaranteed to sweat. The music is always great and is loud to get you going. I can already see a difference with my endurance, strength and physique.

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Wells Street Fitness

4.9

(20 reviews)

0.8 mi

I've been working out here for about 10 months and I love this place. I can confidently say I've…read morenever been stronger or in better shape. You can probably find cheaper gyms but you will not find the high level of coaching, the well maintained equipment and the incredible community that you will get here. The workouts may seem intimidating at first glance but the coaches will help you scale them to a level where you are pushing yourself every day. I'm so glad I have easy access to this gym!

One word Legit. This gym will get you swole and also has a solid group working out together. Three…read morelevels total with Olympic options and many interval training. They have this win coach with a thick British accent that can really push you. I don't understand half of what he says but it's like James Bond is your coach. Definitely check it out when you're in town. They are also set up for COVID protocols because of their size

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Lift Chicago

(26 reviews)

0.1 mi

I worked out here for almost 2 years before moving cross country. When I first came in I was 260…read morelbs. and not far removed from weight loss surgery which helped me get down from 360 lbs. I felt overwhelmed and anxious about the whole thing but my trainer, Alex, quickly made me feel comfortable, as did the owner, Chad and the rest of the trainers there. I lost a further 50 lbs. and got in the best shape of my life there. The workouts were always custom tailored to my exact needs and Alex was extremely patient with me and my limitations. I also spent a few months working out with John who was just as great. These guys are highly educated and know what they are talking about. I recommend them highly to any age or fitness level. I also felt the prices were very reasonable and that the gym was never overcrowded and always immaculately clean. 10/10

Small group training studio and workout at its finest. Loved the space, equipment, staff, and…read moreworkout. It's very structured and easy to follow while also being able to make accommodations as needed. Instructor was very knowledgeable and had a great playlist.

Top of the line equipment.

Gain strength.

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Custom workouts to your goals.

Equinox Gold Coast

Other than the price, nobody has any reason to give Equinox Gold Coast Chicago anything except…read more5-star reviews Love the location, the fitness services and am happy to pay the membership price for the best gym anywhere as I travel for a living and I may use any of their clubs I go primarily for their excellent lap pool

Visited Equinox Gold Coast as a guest for the day, and overall it felt like a very corporate-style…read moregym. The facility itself is clean, and the equipment quality is definitely up to date and in great working condition. The cardio area was well organized and spacious enough to move around comfortably, which I appreciated. Decent size for any Olympic type of lifting or just regular strength training. I did not take a class, but they offer classes like cycling and yoga. They also keep you in the loop with online ads and updates about special offers, which is helpful if you're considering a membership. On the downside, the staff seemed pretty busy, so it was a bit hard to get help when needed. The locker rooms and bathrooms also felt crowded, and the lockers could be bigger, but you can still manage to fit your things if you pack smart. Overall, a solid gym with modern equipment, but the crowded locker areas and less personalized attention made it feel more average than exceptional.

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Sari Weis Personal Training

(73 reviews)

2.4 mi

Love working out with Sari! Every session is different and built for me so I never get bored of…read moreexercises. Also appreciate how flexible she is with my changing schedule. Highly recommend!

Sari is great. She is incredibly knowledgeable, can tailor exercises to my needs, and adds a…read morepersonal touch. She called and spoke to me in person before I had signed up for her program. Other places just give you a website to book appointments. Every time I leave a session with her, I feel mentally (and physically) as good as I do after seeing my therapist. I recommend her without any reservations.

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A Women's Gym

4.8

(6 reviews)

I have been getting personal training here for several years. Janice Smith is a wonderful,…read moreprofessional, and attentive trainer. She is with me every minute and gently nudging me to expand my capabilities on her first rate machines. This is a very safe place for women. I can highly recommend this gym and Janice. Check it out!

Best gym ever. I joined right before I hit 50 and am now in the best shape EVER--thanks to weight…read moretraining. Before I would do treadmills, ellipticals and never really do much except get worn out. It's all in learning how to add weight training properly without hurting yourself or using the wrong muscles. And one-on-one training with the owner Janice Kay Smith really made sure that I didn't hurt anything--cause whenever I WOULD try to add weights my back and neck would be killing me and I'd stop. So, okay, as of now, 12 pounds lighter. Flatter stomach. Arms that have gotten COMPLIMENTS (and not the car-door-swinging arms I walked in with).

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Be Fit By Sarah

(7 reviews)

0.3 mi

I hate strength training. I hate lifting weights. I'll do cardio for days, but if you ask me to…read moredo I squat, I will throw a kettle bell at you. I love Sarah so much, that I pay her to come to my house twice a week for squats, presses, lunges, and dips (I call it torture, she disagrees), and a lot of laughs. I've worked with a few trainers over the years and I've never been as strong or as committed to getting stronger than I am now, and it's all because of Sarah. If you want to have a great time and get strong while you do it, Sarah's your girl.

If you are looking for the best trainer ever, you'll find it in Sarah, believe me! Her workouts are…read morealways different and fun, she is motivational, and she'll always look at you as a whole - workouts, nutrition, supporting text messages! She accommodates to my schedule and my pace - never pushing me too much or too little! She is the only thing that keeps me healthy through my hectic schedule! I can honestly say that she not only helped me get way fitter, but also healthier in general - I'm much happier with my body and mind :) I would not think twice about recommending her to anyone - it's the best thing I've done for myself!

Krav Academy

4.8

(12 reviews)

I have been coming here 2 years now. Great trainers, great people, great facility. Some classes are…read moremore of a workout, and some classes are more about technique (it all depends on which instructor is teaching that day). They have a lot of knowledge, and you can share a dialogue about different moves and questions you have. I feel safer walking around the streets of Chicago knowing that I can defend myself. Plus, the owner Jeff usually has some good stories if you show up to class early.

Let me begin by saying that while I love how you feel and look when you work out consistently, I…read morejust can't muster up the motivation to make myself do it! I dislike running, and I push myself harder when working out with a group. Clark and I wanted to take some type of a workout class together...him acting as my new motivation to get in shape. When it came down to decision time, we were between yoga and Krav. We decided to check out Krav since both of us knew what yoga was, and the rest is history. I NEVER feel obligated to come to class - I always want to go! (This is NOT normal for me!!!) We began attending Krav Academy around mid-March and have thoroughly enjoyed it every step of the way. Not only am I getting a great work out in, but I am learning how to get out of a dangerous situation quickly and safely. My funds are limited, but I can certainly justify this work out as it is not merely to "get in shape." The Academy is hosted by FFC Old Town, which is a fine enough facility itself. What I really appreciate is that the Academy is SEPARATE from FFC, so I do not pay for an additional membership at the gym (great news for people on budgets!!). There is a $100 equipment fee when you first sign up and the unlimited monthly package is $130. I believe there is an option for a 2 classes per week membership, but I certainly recommend going w the monthly. As for the instructors: all are seriously great. Ivo and Erin in particular do an exceptional job at demonstrating, explaining, and teaching different moves and defenses. It is obvious that Ivo has been doing this for a very long time and is very passionate about it. While many can be considered a "professional" in something, not all can teach. Ivo makes things so easy to learn and keeps it fun! He pushes you, teaches you, and jokes with you. I've quite literally never met a teacher or coach that has been able to teach me something new as Ivo has taught me Krav Maga. As a previous reviewer wrote: the instructors here are incredibly helpful. They want to teach you and take on a genuine interest in your improvement. I typically need a lot of help going through drills and getting better at them, but I have not felt like I've been a burden to anyone teaching there. People in class are always friendly and it is easy to join and feel welcomed. It helps a lot that the other students in the class that have been there for a few months also help instruct you and help you improve. I seriously cannot write enough good things about Krav Academy. I have a ton of fun, I'm learning how to keep myself safe, and am getting in better shape than I have been in the last 7 years! Everyone involved is seriously great and I really look forward to continuing my involvement in Krav Maga here!

Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

4.5

(162 reviews)

20.8 mi

Well maintained. Not too crowded…read more Challenging enough on a bike for me. Beautiful and well maintained trails that are well marked. Love it. If you're out of shape this place can whip you back into shape if you let it.

Waterfall Glen is a beautiful display of nature. Trails offer a robust adventure. Two parking lots,…read moreone off of Cass Avenue and the other off of Lemont Road.

Brown-eyed Susan

Creeping bellflower

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East Bank Club

4.0

(353 reviews)

0.2 mi

(Kari's Rating 7.5/10)…read more TLDR -Up-to-Date equipment -Work from home spaces -Convenient Healthy Market Came with a friend to hang out on a Wednesday around 5:30pm to see what East Bank Club is all about. After seeing all the crazy amenities which were super cool with a ton of variety, I think the thing that surprised me the most is how up-to-date all of the equipment was and the variety of activities they had for people to enjoy. If you're looking for an all encompassing workout/work space, this is it! They have everything from full-size tennis courts, to a golf simulator-like set up,except you get to hit into an inflatable pillow! They also had plenty of Pickleball courts, and they offer so many different workout group classes.both a wet and dry, sauna, and tons of treadmills and free weights. I was also really impressed that they also had a physical training area. So think something that was my personal favorite and the best thing for Chicago Summers is a beautiful rooftop pool and lounge area. Not only did they have two outdoor pools (one for adults and one for kids) but they also have an indoor pool as well for winter as well as an indoor hot tub! They also had a common area workspace where people can come to take meetings and do their work from home gigs. You could practically move in here haha! As of right now, it is a $750 new membership fee as well as $295 a month, which is a pretty hefty chunk of change if you ask me considering most of the high rises around, have some kind of rooftop pool and workout area. It is cheaper if you join with a domestic partner or if you're between the ages of 16 and 29-see pic for current pricing. They also sometimes host social events which is super fun to meet everyone else in the club, but at the same time I think it is more of an investment in your future and your future health if you can afford it! I will not be joining at the moment, but hey-that could change anytime if I decide I should be on a health kick.

Expensive but worth every penny. A great "country club" in the city. Friendly and knowledgeable…read morestaff.

The Sundeck in season on the East Bank rooftop

Showtime Cycle Studio

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The North Outdoor Pool

Meadowlark Golf Course

3.8

(24 reviews)

14.6 mi

Course was in good shape and staff are friendly. It's unremarkable to play but generally wide open…read moreand easy to walk. Pace was slow. Plenty of carts available. There's a grill setup on hole 4 with all the usuals you'd expect and the porta-potty is accessible from a couple different holes. The clubhouse bathrooms are gross. Price is good.

9-hole course. The staff is very accommodating and nice. No external alcohol allowed, but they do…read moresell snacks and drinks on site. Golf carts available for reservation. The brush around the course is pretty thick because it's located in a forest preserve, making your chances of losing balls higher.

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UIC Student Recreation Facility

4.0

(28 reviews)

1.5 mi

Great facility open year around BUT CLOSED FOR SCHOOL…read moreHOLIDAYS! Spa and sauna are super nice. The rec app says there is a Pilates reformer but no classes to sign up. Testing to find out if true.

**UIC Swim Classes: A Budget-Friendly Option for Kids**…read more We enrolled in UIC Swim Classes for our 1.5-year-old and found it to be a solid, budget-friendly option. At $22 per session, the classes offer structured swim lessons at a more affordable rate compared to other local options. There is a chill vibe that works great for a 1st learner, but the level of rigor is lower than Goldfish so we switched there once we got off their wait list. Classes are sold in 5 week packages, and reschedules are not typically allowed. The class structure follows a set sequence of exercises. Instructors are friendly, but engagement is inconsistent. While they guide kids through various activities, the level of encouragement and feedback varies, with some instructors mentally checking out after providing initial directions. The UIC facility itself is quite nice - The water is comfortably warm and there are changing areas. Parking is available but paid for a few dollars. Note that your access is restricted to within 15 minutes of class time, so don't go too early. Though there are fewer opportunities for underwater practice and confidence-building dips, the parent/tot classes are primary about getting your kid comfortable in water. Overall, UIC Swim Classes deliver decent value for the price, though parents seeking a more intensive training that will get kids swimming faster may want to explore Goldfish.