Finding the perfect gym is like finding true love. Look, disco-themed cycling classes are right for some people, but they’re certainly not for everyone. So before you sign a contract with a Chicago gym, it’s best to know what you’re in for. This guide should help.
6 Chicago Gym Memberships, (Finally) Explained
We can work it out
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Published Mar 9, 2016
Chicago Athletic Clubs/Facebook
Chicago Athletic Clubs
Best for: Outdoorsy types
Pros: Many locations have indoor rock-climbing walls walls. (Squint hard and you’ll think you’re in the Grand Canyon.) There are also tons of fun classes--aerial yoga, anyone?
Cons: There is no downtown Loop location, if you’re looking to get your sweat on right after work.
Cost: Call to inquire.
Shred415
Best for: The seriously motivated
Pros: The 60-minute classes alternate 15 minutes of cardio with 15 minutes of weights. So you’ll blast fat, and fast. (We know a few local brides who have #ShredtoWed.)
Cons: The workouts stick to a formula, so you’d better dig treadmills. And barbells. On repeat.
Cost: $145 for 30-day new client unlimited; other packages vary
Energi Fitness
Energi Fitness
Best for: Gym rats seeking balance
Pros: The philosophy here is to balance energetic classes with recovery (or, um, Recoveri.) So you’ll get to sweat it out in a fun, heart-pumping class (anything from boxing to barre); then you’ll kick back in the on-site massage chair.
Cons: There’s only one location, so this is best for peeps who live or work in River North.
Cost: $129 for unlimited monthly classes
On Your Mark Training/Facebook
On Your Mark Coaching And Training
Best for: Legit athletes
Pros: The hard-core trainers design custom programs for endurance athletes. But even if it’s your first year running the Shamrock Shuffle, fret not--you’ll get serious help achieving any fitness-related goal.
Cons: Don’t expect to find essential oils and fluffy towels in the locker rooms. This place is not about the amenities.
Cost: $220 for a monthly unlimited pass
Trump International Hotel & Tower Health Club & Pool
Best for: Those who like pampering
Pros: Those fluffy perks we mentioned? Trump’s got 'em in spades. Health club members have access to the tricked-out locker rooms; there’s also overnight laundry service on workout gear. And speaking of workouts, there’s a 75-foot indoor pool, personal trainers and classes like aromatherapy yoga.
Cons: Well, that depends on your politics. All election-season jokes aside: A membership here will cost you.
Cost: Call to inquire.
Yoga Six/Facebook
Yoga Six
Best for: Yogis. (Bet you didn’t see that coming.)
Pros: The hot new yoga chain has outposts in several neighborhoods and a great variety of classes. So if you’re into meditation one night, and down to blast your way through boot camp the next, you’re good to go.
Cons: This is pretty much all yoga, all the time. So if you’re looking to put in 20 on a treadmill, you’re out of luck.
Cost: $119 a month for unlimited membership.