by Welcome to the Windy City’s fitness scene! Chicago boasts a diverse array of gyms catering to every fitness enthusiast.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your wellness journey, the city has something for everyone.
From luxury health clubs with resort-like amenities to boutique studios offering specialized workouts, Chicago’s gym landscape is as varied as its skyline.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best gyms in Chicago for 2024. We’ll dive into what makes each gym stand out, from their state-of-the-art equipment to their unique class offerings.
You’ll learn about membership prices, gym hours, and locations to help you find the perfect fit for your fitness needs and lifestyle.
Get ready to discover spaces where you can push your limits, find your community, and achieve your health goals.
Best Gyms in Chicago 2024
Whether you’re looking for 24/7 access, personalized training, or a wide variety of group classes, Chicago’s gyms have got you covered.
Let’s jump in and explore the best places to break a sweat in the Windy City!
Top 10 Best Gyms in Chicago 2024
1. LifeTime Fitness
Life Time stands out as a premier athletic country club in Chicago. It’s more than just a gym; it’s a lifestyle destination offering a comprehensive approach to health and fitness.
About the gym:
- Spans an impressive 126,000 square feet
- Provides a resort-like atmosphere
- Features a spacious workout floor with cutting-edge equipment
- Offers multiple specialized studios including hot yoga, Pilates, and cycling
- Hosts over 90 weekly classes covering yoga, cycling, barre, strength, and cardio
Key features:
- Luxurious amenities
- Wide range of fitness classes
- State-of-the-art equipment
- Multiple specialized studios
- Resort-like atmosphere
Membership details:
- Price: $249 per month
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Location: 15 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60654
Life Time is ideal for those seeking a high-end fitness experience with a wide variety of options. Whether you’re into group classes, solo workouts, or a mix of both, LifeTime has something for everyone. The 24-hour access makes it perfect for night owls and early birds alike.
2. Chicago Athletic Clubs
Chicago Athletic Clubs offers a network of seven fitness centers spread across the city, making it a convenient option for many Chicagoans.
About the gym:
- Seven locations throughout Chicago
- Offers a wide variety of fitness equipment and classes
- Classes include popular options like BODYPUMP, Zumba, Kickboxing, and Yoga
- Designed to create a welcoming and motivating community
- Features state-of-the-art equipment and world-renowned trainers
Key features:
- Multiple locations across Chicago
- Hundreds of weekly group fitness classes
- Professional-style weight rooms
- Modern locker room amenities
- Welcoming community atmosphere
Membership details:
- Price: $49 – $89 per month
- Hours: Vary by location
- Locations: Multiple across Chicago
Chicago Athletic Clubs is great for those who value variety and convenience. With multiple locations and a wide range of classes, it’s easy to fit workouts into your schedule. The affordable pricing makes it accessible to a broad range of fitness enthusiasts.
3. Midtown Athletic Club
Midtown Athletic Club is a massive fitness complex offering a comprehensive wellness experience.
About the gym:
- Spans 575,000 square feet
- Offers a “wellness playground” with top-notch fitness equipment
- Features several studios, a full-service restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools
- Includes a beautiful spa and luxurious locker rooms
- Hosts 179+ studio fitness classes every week
Key features:
- Huge facility with diverse amenities
- Wide range of fitness classes
- Professional-style weight room
- Indoor and outdoor pools
- On-site restaurant and spa
Membership details:
- Price: $220 for individual & $250 initiation fee
- Hours: • Mon to Thu: 5am – 11 pm • Fri: 5am – 10 pm • Sat to Sun: 6 am – 9 pm
- Location: 2444 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Midtown Athletic Club is perfect for those seeking a comprehensive fitness and lifestyle experience. It’s more than just a gym – it’s a place where you can work out, relax, socialize, and even dine. The variety of amenities justifies the higher price point for those who plan to take full advantage of the facilities.
4. Equinox
Equinox is synonymous with luxury fitness, offering a high-end workout experience in multiple locations across Chicago.
About the gym:
- Known for its luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere
- Features state-of-the-art equipment
- Offers a wide range of group fitness classes
- Provides personal training services
- Focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment
Key features:
- High-end fitness equipment
- Diverse group fitness classes
- Personal training options
- Luxurious amenities
- Multiple locations in Chicago
Membership details:
- Price: $210 per month, plus a $300 initiation fee
- Hours: Vary by location
- Locations: Multiple across Chicago
Equinox is ideal for those who appreciate a premium fitness experience. The higher price point reflects the quality of equipment, classes, and overall environment. It’s a great choice for those who see their gym as not just a place to work out, but a lifestyle statement.
5. Studio Three
Studio Three offers a unique concept by combining three different workout styles under one roof.
About the gym:
- Features three studios in one location: Interval, Cycle, and Yoga
- Two locations in River North and Lincoln Park
- Known for its variety of classes and state-of-the-art equipment
- Offers luxurious amenities
- Provides complimentary Manduka yoga mats for members
Key features:
- Three workout styles in one gym
- High-energy interval training
- Cycling classes
- Yoga Studio
- Results-driven workouts
Membership details:
- Price: $199 per month
- Hours: Vary by class schedule
- Locations: Multiple across Chicago
Studio Three is perfect for those who love variety in their workouts. The ability to switch between high-intensity interval training, cycling, and yoga all in one place makes it easy to maintain a diverse and engaging fitness routine. It’s great for those who get bored easily with their workouts or like to cross-train.
6. Lateral Fitness
Lateral Fitness offers a boutique gym experience with a focus on functional training.
About the gym:
- Located in the River North neighborhood
- A unique approach combining functional training, cardio, and strength training
- Offers a variety of classes including HIIT, strength training, and cardio
- Workouts designed to build strength, endurance, and mobility
- Incorporates movements that mimic everyday activities
Key features:
- Functional training focus
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Strength training classes
- Cardio workouts
- Emphasis on everyday movement patterns
Membership details:
- Price: Contact the gym for pricing
- Hours: 7 am – 7 pm (Mon to Sun)
- Location: 314 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60654
Lateral Fitness is ideal for those looking for a more specialized, functional approach to fitness. If you’re interested in workouts that translate directly to improved performance in daily life, this gym could be a great fit. The boutique nature of the gym also means you’re likely to get more personalized attention.
7. Lakeshore Sport and Fitness
Lakeshore Sport and Fitness is known for its comprehensive facilities and diverse class offerings.
About the gym:
- Two locations in Lincoln Park and Lakeview
- Offers state-of-the-art equipment and group fitness classes
- Provides personal training services
- Known for challenging group fitness classes
- Non-repetitive teaching styles
Key features:
- Variety of challenging group classes
- State-of-the-art equipment
- Personal training options
- Multiple locations
- Mid-range pricing
Membership details:
- Price: $194 to $404 per month
- Hours: Vary by location
- Locations: Multiple across Chicago
Lakeshore Sport and Fitness is great for those who want a well-rounded gym experience without the highest-end price tag. The range of classes and equipment makes it suitable for various fitness levels and interests. The multiple locations add convenience for residents in different parts of the city.
8. CrossTown Fitness
CrossTown Fitness offers a unique, ever-changing workout experience to keep members engaged and challenged.
About the gym:
- Known for non-repetitive workouts
- Each class is different every time
- Focuses on incorporating strength and endurance in every motion
- Classes include interval cardiovascular routines, mobility, and strength training
- Designed to build functional strength
Key features:
- Constantly varied workouts
- High-intensity interval training
- Strength and endurance focus
- Functional movement patterns
- Engaging, challenging classes
Membership details:
- Price: $215 per month
- Hours: Vary by class schedule
- Locations: Multiple across Chicago
CrossTown Fitness is perfect for those who thrive on variety and challenge. If you get bored easily with repetitive routines, this gym’s ever-changing workouts could be the perfect solution. It’s also great for those looking to improve overall functional fitness rather than focusing on specific muscle groups.
9. East Bank Club
East Bank Club is more than just a gym – it’s a comprehensive fitness and lifestyle destination.
About the gym:
- Offers a vast array of amenities beyond just fitness equipment
- Provides personalized service
- Features fitness facilities, spa services, and nutrition counseling
- Known for its commitment to excellence
- Creates a refined environment for members
Key features:
- Comprehensive wellness experience
- Diverse fitness facilities
- On-site spa services
- Nutrition counseling
- Refined, upscale atmosphere
Membership details:
- Price: $250 per month
- Hours: • Mon to Fri: 4:30am – 7pm • Sat & Sun: 7am – 11am
- Location: 1031 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
East Bank Club is ideal for those seeking a holistic approach to health and wellness. If you’re looking for a place that can cater to all aspects of your wellbeing – from fitness to nutrition to relaxation – this club offers it all. The higher price point reflects the comprehensive nature of the services offered.
10. Cheetah Gym
Cheetah Gym offers a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming environment at a more accessible price point.
About the gym:
- Known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere
- Offers top-notch group fitness classes
- Provides personal training services
- Competitive membership options
- Popular among local fitness enthusiasts
Key features:
- Variety of group fitness classes
- Personal training options
- Welcoming community feel
- Affordable pricing
- Local gym charm
Membership details:
- Price: $59 per month
- Hours:
Mon to Fri: 5am – 9 pm
Sat & Sun: 7 am – 6 pm - Location: 5248 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
Cheetah Gym is great for those looking for a quality gym experience without breaking the bank. It offers many of the amenities of higher-priced gyms but at a more accessible price point.
The welcoming atmosphere makes it a good choice for those who might feel intimidated in more upscale gym environments.
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Conclusion:
Chicago’s fitness scene offers something for everyone, from luxury health clubs to affordable local gyms. Each of the top 10 gyms we’ve explored brings its unique strengths to the table:
- Life Time offers a resort-like experience with 24/7 access.
- Chicago Athletic Clubs provides variety with multiple locations across the city.
- Midtown Athletic Club is a massive complex offering a comprehensive wellness experience.
- Equinox delivers a high-end, luxurious fitness environment.
- Studio Three combines three workout styles under one roof.
- Lateral Fitness focuses on functional training in a boutique setting.
- Lakeshore Sport and Fitness offers a well-rounded experience at mid-range prices.
- CrossTown Fitness keeps things interesting with constantly varied workouts.
- East Bank Club is a lifestyle destination offering more than just fitness.
- Cheetah Gym provides quality fitness at a more accessible price point.
When choosing a gym, consider factors like location, price, class offerings, equipment, and overall atmosphere. Think about your fitness goals and what type of environment motivates you best.
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of free trials or day passes to get a feel for different gyms before committing.
Remember, the best gym for you is one that you’ll use consistently. Whether you’re drawn to high-end amenities, diverse class offerings, or a welcoming community atmosphere, Chicago’s top gyms have something to offer every fitness enthusiast.
Here’s to finding your perfect fitness home and crushing your health goals in the Windy City!
