4 Fun Alternatives to Downtown Chicago Apartments’ Fitness Centers

The New Year is here, along with many lofty resolutions. Many of us have vowed to shape up, get fit and lose that holiday weight. Fortunately, when living in Chicago, the fitness options are endless. When the weather is pleasant, Chicagoans run and bike along the beautiful lakeshore. When the weather is vicious, some Chicagoans still exercise outside, but the sane ones hit the gym. Most downtown Chicago apartment buildings include fitness centers, but if you need a class that’s outside the box to get motivated, we’ve rounded up four unique options in the city.

1. SoulCycle

While SoulCycle hasn’t officially opened a studio in Chicago yet, the hype has already arrived. The intense classes have a cult following in New York and are expected to be just as popular here. In April, the first studio will open in Old Town, in the 1225 Old Town building, followed by a second studio in June at OneEleven. A single class wil cost $30, or $26 as a package deal.

2. Air River North

Want to try something a little wild? Meet AIR– Aeriel Fitness. With locations in River North, Lincoln Park and another studio opening in Streeterville, AIR is an exercise fusion that has proved to be popular. If yoga was so last year, add some silk hammocks, ballet barre work and Pilates to try AIR in 2015. One class is $30 and package deals are discounted.

3. Studio Lagree

New to the city, Studio Lagree introduces Chicagoans to the Megaformer, a piece of equipment with straps, springs, and pulleys that combines strength training with a Pilates workout. The Lagree Fitness Method promises to deliver fast results by including core, endurance, cardio, balance, strength and flexibility training. A class that is sure to make you sore in the morning, single class costs $35,  and drops to $24 per class when purchased in bulk.

4. Reach

Inspired by the Spartan Race, where participants tackle an obstacle course with fire and barbed wire, Spartan Group X features a variety of classes. From Pilates to Parkour, each class at Reach is sure to knock you into shape. According to their Facebook page, Reach is offering some excellent New Years pricing incentives and specials on personalized training sessions.

Step outside your comfort zone in your downtown Chicago apartment and try one of these classes. Best of luck with all of your New Years resolutions! If we missed your favorite fitness class in Chicago, please share it in the comments below.