Everyone can reap the benefits of physical activity, regardless of age, size or shape. Even Frenchies like our own Lady Louise can get their blood pumping on one of our dog runs throughout the city. If you're looking to get physical and reap those benefits, you have come to the right place. Get moving and check out some of the best places Lady Louise recommends to get your sweat on. From gyms to yoga to aerial yoga– even Louise tires from her usual walk around the block and seeks to shake up her routine.
The Lawrence House
Sweat it out on your own, in the boxing ring, or during one of the group fitness classes, complimentary for all FLATS® residents. The gym is fully equipped to meet your fitness needs whether you’re just starting out or already expert level. With an indoor pool, your water workouts don’t have to be limited to only the summer season.
The Bush Temple
Grab a friend and hash it out in the boxing ring, build your own workout plan using free weights and strength training machines, get your heart pumping on any cardio machine, or better yet, try it all. The gym at the Bush Temple is fully equipped to help you meet your fitness goals. Like all FLATS® gyms, group fitness classes are available and complimentary for residents.
The Alfred
Work out while enjoying the views of downtown Chicago at The Alfred located in the Loop. Equipped with free weights, strength training and cardio machines, and punching bags, you can get your workout in any way you’d like. After exercising, take a break and relax on the rooftop terrace.
AIR® Aerial Fitness
Combining elements of conditioning, pilates and ballet, AIR® Aerial Fitness uses aerial hammocks to give you the ultimate core workout. With multiple locations throughout Chicago, finding a class session to attend is easy and convenient. Whether you’re a beginner or an exercise guru, AIR® offers classes for all levels.
Flex Pilates
Located in River North, Flex Pilates has designed classes to improve strength, flexibility, and posture while building lean muscle. Offering boot camps, group classes, private sessions, and prenatal classes, you are sure to find the right class for you. If you’re looking for a great Pilates class, this is the place to go since it was voted Best Pilates in Chicago by Citysearch.
Bottom Line Yoga
This yoga studio was created to accommodate the busy 9-to-5ers. With two locations conveniently located in the Board of Trade and Civic Opera buildings, Bottom Line Yoga is perfect for professionals with busy workweeks. Get your exercise in early in the morning before work, during your lunch break, or after work. In addition to yoga classes, Bottom Line also offers a nap/meditation lounge. Bottom Line Yoga has made work-related excuses for skipping a workout invalid.
First Ascent Climbing & Fitness
Looking for a more adventurous workout? First Ascent Climbing accommodates both new and experienced climbers. Instructors are trained to teach everything from basic rope and outdoor skills to more advanced climbing techniques. Get harnessed up and ready to climb to your fitness goals. Locations include Avondale, Humboldt Park, Uptown, and The Loop.
Bellicon Studio
Jump back into shape, literally. Bellicon Studio offers high energy fitness classes that utilize mini trampolines to “jump” start your exercise, pun intended. Each class consists of balance training, coordination training, and circuit training alternating between strength and cardio.
Flywheel Sports
Motivated by competition? Try out a spin class at this no-frills / all-sweat spin studio where patrons race for top scores. Sound intimidating? No worries, your stats can be kept private until your workout is finished. Take a ride with Flywheel in either River North or Oldtown.
Mazi Dance Fitness
Whether you’re a former professional dancer or just like feeling the beat, you can find the dance fitness class for you at any experience level at Mazi. Anybody looking for an alternative to the traditional gym setting will appreciate the instructors, music, and welcoming environment. Stop staring at the clock on a treadmill and try out a class at either the South Loop or Wicker Park location.
Ritual Hot Yoga
Ritual proves the point you don’t need to jump, kick, and run to sweat your way through a healthy lifestyle. This intimate candlelit studio is set to 98 degrees, hot enough to melt away all stress and worries of the day. Mats, towels, lockers, and showers are all included and the cool-down after class includes a cold eucalyptus towel. Take a soulful journey with Ritual at their studio in River North.
The Barre Code
This full-body fitness program was designed for getting strong based on cardio, strength, and restoration. This isn’ t your typical barre regime, classes range from kickboxing to full mind and body restoration. All experience levels welcomed with open arms to this Gold Coast fitness community.
Row House
We’ve all heard of the cycling class craze but what about rowing? Row House blew up on the coasts and have brought their full-body row workout to Old Town last summer. Each workout utilizes 85% of your body’s muscles, giving you a complete full-body blast. The friendly staff will help you set up and adjust the erg so you feel comfortable and confident for your first class.
Studio Three
Like to mix up your workout routine? Studio Three houses three studio under one roof: Interval, Cycle, and Yoga. Individuals of any fitness level will join a genuine community led by dedicated trainers who want to see you grow. Studios are located in both River North and Lincoln Park.
Trapeze School New York
I’m throwing in a summer-only bonus for those that are sick of gym and studio classes. Seeking something more adventurous? Fly through the air with views of the lake on one side and the city on the other in Belmont Harbor.