Working out is one of the ways to relieve stress, but when you’re struggling to think of exercises to do, it can quickly turn into an experience that’s more stressful than you intended. With group fitness classes, however, all of the thought and planning is done for you. All you have to do is put in the work! (Although, that’s not exactly a walk in the park, either).
Nonetheless, group fitness classes can not only help whip you into shape, they’re a great way for you to meet like-minded people in your community. No matter your fitness level, these three West Loop gyms all have group fitness classes to help you tone and tighten, and a friendly community to welcome you:
CrossTown Fitness
CrossTown’s group fitness classes are focused on high-intensity interval training or HIIT. This fat-blasting workout involves intense bursts of cardio and strength activities mixed with short recovery periods. One of the best parts about HIIT workouts is that you burn calories even after you’ve left the gym! This is known as the afterburn effect, which happens after intense exercise due to your body consuming more oxygen. If you’ve never tried HIIT, don’t be intimidated. Every exercise can be altered to match your fitness abilities. Plus, our experienced trainers will be there to help you every step of the way.
Orangetheory Fitness
Much like at CrossTown, you’ll be working with a group instructor that’s leading and motivating you through every movement. At Orangetheory, your heart rate plays a special role in your workout. It’s monitored throughout your group fitness class in order to keep you in a zone that burns the most calories and stimulates metabolism.
On Your Mark
At On Your Mark gym, you’ll find a variety of group fitness classes, ensuring that you’ll never get bored with the workout. Use hitting bags, rope and target mitts to sharpen your boxing technique or attend a rowing class that mixes cardio and strength to give you a total body workout. Training for a marathon? Attend one of their running classes to improve your speed.
All of their group classes are structured to accommodate those who are new to working out as well as those who are long-time athletes.
After you’re done breaking a sweat in the West Loop’s best group fitness classes, explore these West Loop hot spots!