River North feels like Chicago's answer to Lower Manhattan: ambitious, energetic, and full of people squeezing every last ounce from the day. I took a late-afternoon class, and the atmosphere was the perfect transition from the workday to the evening, with a focused, high-achieving crowd ready to empty the tank before heading out. I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, so it always makes me smile to see my hometown embrace a brand that helped shape an important chapter of my life. If Barry's is a fitness cult, River North is one of its great cathedrals. read more

Raise your hands if you like workout classes! I was introduced to Barry's classes by a friend and since then I'm obsessed! They have amazing workout regime and definitely impactful strength training classes. I've attended Sean's Run X Lift classes for upper and lower body and loved both of them! Sean is my favorite trainer!! He is super motivating and I love his sassy comments throughout the class. I usually opt for Double Floor(DF) where you can skip the treadmill and just use weights all class! What I don't like about Barry's is that they're a bit unfair to ClassPassers lol. The credits required to signup for Barry's through ClassPass is usually on the higher side and even after using those credits, you are not guaranteed a spot for DF as they are limited. Also, their only Lift classes are almost blocked for ClassPass and one can never sign up for them! I am hoping they increase more slots for ClassPassers as I definitely would like to try more of their workout regimes! P.S. They also have free massage gun stations outside the studio from Theragun which you can use pre/post workout, which is really good and I don't think I've ever seen that before! read more

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Soooooo....lets talk about Barry's I am in love. I have never been until now. In the 90s I remember hearing about it. But I was still young so of course I would not be able to attend. Now as an adult I took a solo trip to Chicago and saw the fitness studio. Nostalgia came running towards me and I booked it. My first class was on my 34th birthday and I went every day since on my trip. I love everything about it. From the friendly staff to the facility. Staff was friendly, inviting, and motivational. Shot out to Holly, Katie, and Spencer they know how to push you and make you feel so proud of yourself and rewarding. Personally I had been feeling extremely depressed for about 6 months about my body and my capabilities. Let me tell you this was the best thing I could have done for myself to gain back my confidence and abilities in physical fitness. I felt and feel more capable and the self worth and low self esteem about my body has stopped. They made me feel capable and strong of so much more than I gave myself credit for. Thank you to everyone at Barry's you truly touched my life and I am forever grateful. I'm sad and dark times you inspired me and made me feel worthy again. Thank you! read more

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I'm a Shred415 gal...or at used I used to be pre pandemic, but slowly getting back on the bandwagon (or treadmill). I recently stayed downtown for a work summit and when I looked up workouts near our hotel (Hyatt Centric) noticed Barry's was .3 miles away. It's no Shred415, but would do. My friend and I arrived at Barry's for a 6:15am (early!) class. When I got to my spot on the floor I saw a card congratulating me on 10 Barry's classes. I usually do Barry's when I travel to SF and it certainly feels like more than 10 classes, but I appreciate the love. I was a little afraid of the workout since my other 9 classes at Barry's as been pretty tough, but this was challenging yet doable. I probably walked a bit too much during the jogging parts, but I left feeling like I got a good workout yet wasn't dying. I did notice they now offer double lifting classes, which is nice for those who aren't fans of running. It's never easy getting up for a 6:15am class, but felt better all day because I made the effort. We don't have a Barry's in the burbs, but if one opened in the North Shore I think I"d go somewhat regularly. read more

Awesome fast paced workout! If you want to burn a lot of calories - definitely worth it!I was in town for work and it got me up and ready for the day! Not sure it is really worth the high cost to go regularly, but it is a great workout once in a while! read more

I finally got myself to the Red Room that everyone's talkin bout! I was a little intimidated just from what I'd heard, but I've been working out consistently and taking HIIT classes almost every day for about 6 months now, so I figured I wouldn't exactly die. I found a total body LIFT class on a Sunday morning and signed up for it; my partner decided he'd join in on the fun too :) LIFT is a dumbbell/resistance band workout minus the treadmill, so I figured it'd be a good one to start with. We arrived 20 minutes early to the class, and of course, we were the first ones there. We were assigned the last 2 boxes in the back corner - I appreciated that because I could watch people in front of me to make sure I was doing the correct movements. Mirrors line the walls to allow you to check your form, especially in those deadlifts/squats. The studio is nice and clean. Locker rooms looked nice too! I think I'm ready for a regular Barry's class with the treadmill portion. Next time, that's what I'm signing up for! read more

Barry's River North - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Joe said to write a review so here it is. I'm a huge fan of workout classes, but this was my first time at Barry's and needless to say I was Barry happy with the experience! I really enjoyed the mix of cardio and strength with the emphasis on fitness and not purely looks. Joe did a great job with the programming and was a great instructor (especially for a beginner). The red lighting helped mask how sweaty I got (this workout is no joke)! Everything from the Red Room (workout room) to the locker rooms was very nice and clean. My only real issue was that they didn't have a vertical water bottle filler (so it was a little annoying), but overall will definitely be coming back! I highly recommend signing up for their first free class and giving it a shot. read more

Highly recommend the lifting class at Barry's! I had heard about Barry's Bootcamp before but I never actually tried it. Usually these classes involve a lot of cardio but I started with the lifting one just to try it out! Instructor was great, gave me good context on what to expect - I have a shoulder injury so he recommended I go down on weight for one of the exercises. The music choice is good, pretty motivating, there was less yelling than I expected for some reason.....maybe I heard some rumors about Barry's beforehand. I definitely had some shaky arms by the end so I think I got a pretty good workout! Will have to see tomorrow how sore I am, lol. read more

When a friend invited me to try out Barry's Bootcamp for the first time, I was a little nervous because their website looks INTENSE (they may wanna tone it down a bit to look more inclusive lol) but I had a great experience! The workout was definitely VERY hard but there are various options for the level of difficulty you're going for. I've been twice now and both instructors were motivating, friendly, and high energy! Now for the most important part...the showers! Oh my god their shampoo, conditioner, and soap are such high quality and smell really good! And don't even get me started on the silky smooth face wash they provide! The locker rooms are always clean so I highly recommend taking advantage of them/the showers whenever you workout here! read more

I've been to other Barry's locations in New York and I have to say this is one of the nicest locations. Great amenities, the Malin + Goetz candles burning smell great in the locker rooms, and they give you cold towels post class to help you cool off -- GENIUS! The studio is split between two floors with the fuel bar and some retail in the lobby and the locker rooms, studio and more retail upstairs. The instructors were nice and moved around the floor to correct and tweak form (which I absolutely loved). Their enthusiasm was infectious and super helpful when you're doing double floor and feel like your limbs are going to fall off. read more

Barry's River North - Signage in the lobby - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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TLDR: not worth the price. This was my first time taking a class at a Chicago Barry's. I've been to Barry's in LA and have always had such great experiences. The instructor for the class I took seemed annoyed to be teaching and basically just went through the motions, all while being sarcastic. If I was new to exercising, I feel like I would have been so lost... I watched a couple of people struggle to follow the verbal cues without any demonstration of the exercise being called out. Overall, I enjoyed my workout but the instructor left a lot to be desired; if you have to pay full price, I would say skip it. read more

Barry's River North - Entrance to Barry's River North. - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This evening, I took a class with Andre. He was so so motivating to me, but I would say if you don't like loud and yelling, then prob not the instructor for you. I will definitely be back!!! read more

Wow. I have been a Barry's frequenter for quite a while now (in Boston/Dallas/NYC) and have to say I had one of my best experiences here! Having heard a lot about Joe N., I made sure to sign up for his class as I was in town this week. I dragged my two friends here with me, and while we are absolutely dead, we have never had a better class. He was one of the toughest instructors, but that's definitely what we prefer anyways AND he was absolutely hilarious. I have honestly never worked so hard in a class before, and I was so happy I finally got to take his class! In addition, he was just so nice and open when I talked to him after! Unlike many of the more famous fitness instructors that I take classes from (but love anyways). The river north studio was expansive and clean, and the staff members were all AMAZING! I try to visit every Barry's when I visit new cities and was on the lookout for Barry's Chicago apparel. They didn't have it out on display, but when I asked, the guy at the front was so nice and checked in the back for me. I got the cutest Chicago gear and was amazed by the generosity and general fabulousness of the whole experience. I can't wait to be back soon! read more

Barry's River North - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I love Barrys River North! I was originally intimidated to come here. I've been an indoor cycling cardio queen for years, but I'm relatively new to strength training! I was honestly scared the first few times I came to Barrys, but the front desk staff are generally friendly and helpful! The classes are fast-paced and challenging, but when you have the right instructor, they're also a ton of fun. I'm not a runner so I either do Double Floor in the Red Room (complete the strength circuits twice) or I take the Lift classes, which are smaller classes and dedicated to strength training only. I wish Lift classes were offered more frequently; they're great and exactly what I'm looking for in my Barrys experience! Of course, Barrys is also incredibly expensive, and it's relatively no frills. That said, the instructors and engaging, challenging classes are what keep me coming back! Derrick A. is an absolute gem; he was the first Barrys instructor I really got to know. He's always immensely helpful and encouraging, and he has a bubbly, fun personality and so much enthusiasm that just lights up the room in class. Kate L. and Danny S. are fantastic too. Studio manager Heather Grace K. and assistant manager Jordan are friendly and helpful, too. Barrys is an expensive and challenging workout habit, but it's worth it because I'm now doing strength training consistently. read more

Love Love Love this location and the studio! I was brand new to Barry's and didn't know much about the classes. I came across this workout through class pass and was so grateful I did. I maxed out on the number of times I could attend through class pass and wanted to attend more so I ended up purchasing more classes directly through Barry's. The instructors are AMAZING here and really do a great job of pushing you while also being supportive (heads up, curse words are a form of encouragement). This location is huge and has a clean locker room area with multiple showers and lockers. The juice bar is downstairs and staff can have it made post workout. Ignacio is one of the managers here and he is fantastic! Wonderful customer service overall! read more

Ehh - I don't think this is worth the hype. I went here on Friday and yes, it's a good workout that incorporates a lot of running and heavy weight traing. Is it worth the $30 a class? No way. Orange Theory is cheaper and I think it's a better workout. Book through ClassPass and you can get a class for very cheap compared to buying the class through the website. The instructors are nice and the facility was super clean! read more

I'm personally not a fan of the group fitness class craze, but attended Barry's for a fundraiser for a nonprofit. I didn't know what to expect, and was honestly nervous that I was going to have my butt kicked by the instructors. The facilities are very clean, large, and modern. I was instantly impressed by the size of the building and the niceness of the locker rooms. The workout room (AKA the room of ultimate sweat life) is also very large, with treadmills lining the wall and space in the middle for strength-based work. I don't know how a crowded class would be like, but we had about 30 people that fit comfortably in the room. You switch off between high-intensity work on the treadmills and strength-based work that sends your heart rate into different zones for maximum calorie-burn. I was super impressed by the instructor, Kate. Because the nonprofit that was holding the fundraiser serves individuals with physical disabilities to participate in sports, Kate was working with a lot of different physical abilities and restrictions. She executed a flawless and high intensity class, and was able to ensure that everyone got a hard workout to meet their ability level. The nice thing about the class is that you can tailor it to your own needs for a workout. All in all, my experience at Barry's was awesome and I walked out feeling like a rockstar. I cannot see myself coming here regularly (a bit too expensive for my taste), but it was a good workout and I was fully impressed by the fantastic staff and facilities. Keep up the good work, Barry's! read more

Barry's River North - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My work team loves Barry's and insists on coming every week. One of our favorite parts is that you can pre-order a smoothie to be picked up right after your workout (the smoothies are very heavy and rich with protein.) The locker room is bright and stocked with everything you may need (hair ties, towels, lotion, feminine hygiene products, etc). I've used their showers 2x though and have had cold waters and weak pressures. I've only had good experiences with each new instructor. The intervals are longer than other places like Torch @ Studio3 and allows you time to work hard and sweat at each station. Kate has been our toughest instructor and kicked everyone's butts. The prices are expensive, but I would definitely recommend if a friend invites you or just to sign up for a free trial class. read more

Barry's River North - Superfood Flex - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Let's be honest, the only time I regularly run (or do any cardio for that matter) is when I'm trying to catch a train. But, whenever I'm in the mood for a cardio fix, knowing I can reward myself with a delish Barry's PB smoothie after class is enough to get my butt in the door. The format is simple - often there's two to three rounds alternating between the treadmill and the floor (a stepper/workout bench). And...I've been to similar places where people will murder you to get on the treadmill first, but that's not a prob here since you reserve your treadmill/floor spot when you book. On the treadmill you'll be led through some intense speed/incline intervals, while on the floor you'll rock anything from weights to resistance bands to burn out the body part of the day. Although there's a ton going on, I'm constantly amazed the instructors never miss a beat, and can clearly cue a class through a killer workout. Afterwards, when you're limping out, they have everything you need to not look like a mess after class - cold towels, showers, hair dryers, product, everything. That said, since there is so much going on and the majority of classes are packed, don't come here expecting personalized corrections. Instead, I'll mention any injuries to instructors before class, they'll tell me what exercises to expect/modify right then and there, and I've never had a problem. One thing to note, the room feels more heated than most places, and I've had to modify running speeds - srsly, once we were given options to start at 8.5, 9.5, or 10.5 mph (my slow ass started at a 7). So with all that in mind, get that ass to class - and then get that ass a smoothie! read more

The quality has DROPPED. The sound is too loud and/or it is not equalized well. it is difficult to understand the instructor. the workout is not progressive and hurts; the trainers at Barry's used to make workouts that flowed well and worked minor and major muscle groups in balance. it can be clear when the trainer is not doing there own program because it's not just hard, it hurts. the sprinting on super high inclines doesn't seem safe. inclines are challenging I know, but these new ones hurt. the facilities are horrible. the new challenges are just hard to be hard. the trainers and staff can look irritated and their body launguage screams of being over worked and being unhappy. The front staff seems unbothered. the expensive shakes are icy and not blended well. for Boutique fitness it's giving kmart. I recently purchased two bags form Barry's. the First bag I purchased from Barry's was a black duffle. It had a neat pouch for shoes; I enjoy clever things like that in craftsmanship. I broke the zipper which I thought was odd because I i usually do not have issues with the quality of the products. So I bought another bag this one a brown messenger which I think is over sized but it was cute so I gave it a try. zipper broke in a month. When I've addrsssed my concern with staff they couldn't be bothered and told me I had to go through Barrysshop. So I emailed Barry's shop. 2 months later no reply. Most importantly Barry's used to be fun, now it's a chore. i was a black tier member for two years. I'm taking my business to Equinox. Thank you Barry's I hope one day you acknowledge quantity of sales will directly lower the quality of service. enjoy your B- service, B for Barry's I guess broke, boring, Barry's. There are a few good trainers left but clearly they are over worked. Also river north has diminished most but Lincoln park and wicker park are still suffering from a lack of quality and a dwindling customer experience. read more

Wow!! I love group fitness and this met my high expectations. I took Kate's Wednesday morning class, and it was awesome. It was my first time, I didn't sign up correctly, got stuck in awful traffic and when I called them on the phone they were super understanding and accommodating- I ended up arriving right when the class started, they fit me in (probably because it was a weekday morning and wasn't too full to begin with), and everything went smoothly. There are two groups; on treadmills and on the floor. Every 15 minutes we switched between them. The floor exercises focused entirely on upper body- arms, chest, back, abs. The treadmill portion is a series of basically high intensity interval training; there are about 4 sprints with jogging and walking mixed in. The second set on the tread involved inclines as well. Kate had great energy and was very positive and motivating without being too pushy. There was a great soundtrack (hip hop/pop) instead of a weird electronic mix. She also had a microphone; the volume was great. It was relatively dark with some red lighting and the studio didn't get too hot or smell bad. The locker rooms are super nice and clean, and the mirrors have excellent lighting. All around it was a great experience! I will probably buy a package of classes; they start at $30. read more

Barry's River North - Clothes for sale in the front area - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I should give this place 1 star for showing me how fat I truly am. Obviously joking, Barry's was great. Not only do you get to pay to sweat with a bunch of strangers, but then you get to go to work all exhausted afterward! All joking aside, a close friend invited me and I couldn't be happier. while $30 to work out is a little pricey, I can truly say that I got my ass thoroughly kicked! I'll be back in a month when I look in the mirror and am finally disgusted enough to justify spending $30! read more

T H E S T O R Y I bought 10 classes here using a well-being subsidy provided by my employer. T H E G O O D - Motivating instructors. Spencer is a favorite instructor. - Great workout. - Amazing music. - One of my favorite places to work out in Chicago. I also enjoy Core Power. T H E B A D - Expensive. - Buying classes in bulk don't even get you a good deal. T H E S T A R S - I couldn't give 5 stars just because of how pricey it is. Both their classes and memberships are expensive. read more

Wow wow wow! I can't rave enough about this workout! I've taken about 30 different workout classes and their programming is by far the most challenging yet dynamic for all fitness levels. From the moment you walk into the studio to leaving the locker room. Everything about the experience is amazing! Here's what to expect. The music is loud and the instructors are magnetic! You'll do at least 3 rounds. In each round you'll do a running interval sequence and then a lifting routine or vice verse. I always start on the floor first, but if you like to run then pick a position that starts with T- # . You can also opt out of running aka just do DF. Double floor! Every round is different and gets more challenging as the class progresses. So, they ease you into the pain cave! My favorite instructors are Spencer and Kate. Both of these instructors have the wildest stage presence I've experienced ever! They inspire you to go harder each round! Do Barry's! You won't regret! read more

Barry's Bootcamp is the best HITT ever. It is the best 50 mins of my day. I am not a runner, now I run daily because of Barry's. Barry's has perfected this product where you get a nightclub experience ( dark/red lights and loud music) but instead of drinks, you get your ass kicked by the treadmill and the strength training. This location is great and the employees are very helpful. read more

If you want to realize your best possible fitness and body in a time efficient manner, this is the regime for you! Each work out is less than an hour, but stick it out at least three times a week and you will quickly see the leaps in improvement both visually and performance wise. This regime is perfect for someone who has no chill and just love challenging themselves - a.k.a a Type-A fitness junkie like myself. I have tried everything from cross fit, orange theory to local group fitness class but Barry's stuck with me because as someone who wants it all, I love that Barry's facility is centrally located and clean, and most importantly, the workout will always push me to grow. It's definitely pricier than its peers, but for me 3 things justify the price: 1. The efficiently design workout and ambiance that pushes you to always give your 110% 2. Quality and fun instructors. I recommend Full Body by Scottie (it rhymes so you know it's good) #fullbodybyscottie. 3. The facility. The clean shower with great toiletries (I'm very picky with public shower) and protein bar that makes it easy for me to keep my diet and tight work schedule happen. It has been 5 months since my first Barry's class, looking at the before and after is amazing. Anyone who wants to complement a healthy life with an exercise regime that is effective without taking 2 long hours in the gym, check out Barry's and see if the hype is worth for you! read more

I had been to the Barry's in Lincoln Park with friends a few times before giving this location a shot, but I actually like this space better for two reasons: It's closer to my apartment, and it's GIANT! It has two separate floors, with the Fuel Bar and some retail downstairs, and the locker rooms, studio, and more retail upstairs. (I also think I saw a second men's locker room downstairs...?) Parking is also easy: only $4 if you pay online at a garage about a block away (Check out the Barry's website--it gives all the details). The studio is nice, with clean and pretty locker rooms and the best treadmills I've ever used. I've been to two classes at this location now, and I've been impressed both times with the instructors. Today, my sister joined me for her first class, and Jason, the instructor, was super kind. He even checked in with her afterward to see how she liked the class. I'll definitely be back! read more

Since my first painful trip to Barry's, I have been working out on my own and gotten more in shape. I have gone back to Barry's twice recently and survived on both occasions. I totally can see what the hype is about. *Every* part of your body will be sore the day after, no matter what day (workout) you go (do). I cannot recommend Spencer L. enough for butt + legs on Tuesday. I love how he tells you exactly what to expect, especially towards the end. The last three or so minutes on the tread were super rewarding. You get three chances of a 30-second sprint to push yourself. Also, I must have been doing my stupid butt exercises wrong my entire life, coz after Barry's, my barely there booty DEFINITELY was on fire. It's like it hurts when I sit down that kind of pain. The result is immediate. Monday's arms + abs is pretty doable, and there are variations (e.g., kneel down on the bench to pull up the resistance band) you can do to adjust to your level. I will say I didn't feel much in my abs, and I didn't even cheat *that* much. I stand by what I said in my previous review though - it's not for everyone and could be overwhelming and counter-effective. I still get palm sweat on my way there and while waiting outside of the red room. I prolly won't be a regular ever, but occasionally I will go to Barry's to push myself and see what I am capable of, and return to improving/intensifying my own regimen. And there's nothing wrong with that. read more

Dystopian fitness experience in the heart of River North. The workout chamber is lit like a dark cell interrogation room. Dispassionate, disciplinarian instructors pace the room, alternately judging and commanding. The pulsing, deafening techno music harkens a Slavic disco, circa 2005. This brilliant aesthetic deprives the mind of the ability to wander. 25 militaristically lined treadmills lend a totalitarian aura. Each runner must constantly confront their tired, submissive visage three feet in front of them while they run. Subjects also alternate to floor stations for maddening, mindless resistance training. Barry allows each subject the tool of his own discipline. It is hard to find this type of Eastern Bloc workout experience this side of the old Iron Curtain. There is no joy but pain, there is no freedom save for utter submission. Surrender your pride to hand over your payment details. Brother Barry awaits. read more

So basically I get to write my love letter to Barry's on here!!!! This is probably one of my favorite things to do for a cross training ( and seriously just to get my mind off of things and leave with motivation and purpose)to my everyday physical labor as a Joffrey Ballet dancer. Every instructor is super motivating, fun and inspiring. I honestly have not only gained so much from this workout and the people that guide it but the staff is beyond kind and many of them I have come to look forward to seeing on a daily basis. I hear a lot of people say they are intimidated by Barry's.... well, don't be. Just go in and work at your pace. Listen carefully to the instructors, they always give cues for beg. Int. and Adv. on the treads and are constantly cueing form. I must say that one of the most unique things about Barry's is that you have to face yourself on the treads and on the floor. The red light in the room makes you zone in on yourself but if you aren't good at following directions, look around, you will eventually get the hang of it. The work out is not only amazing but the more you go on a regular basis the more you understand where to push yourself and the more you can add and grow within the framework of the workout. It truly is what YOU put into it. Have questions, just ask the staff at the desk before. They are super accommodating. Remember to note the cancellation policy. It's not that big of of deal, just don't cancel your workout cause there are little bulldogs like me on a waiting list trying to get into a last minute class. Last thing... it's NOT that expensive; check out your last drink tab. Imagine that could have been spent on an incredible workout with amazing music, it's the closest thing to a proper programmed personal training session without paying 150 ( I'm lookin at you east bank club ) for a one on one and doing it with high quality treadmills, equipment and facilities..... and fun people like me that will scream and cheer you on as you sprint! Have I said enough here to convince you?? Great!!!! See you in the Red Room! read more

High-intensity workout and great energy in every class. Barry's brings the heat! I've been to a few classes so far and enjoyed the variety between workouts. Each class can accommodate over 50 people, but it runs smoothly. When you check in at the front desk, you'll receive your treadmill or floor station number. Both the treadmills and floor benches are numbered, so you rotate between your same-numbered stations instead of finding an open spot. The instructors personalize the session so even if you're taking a full body class, the time spent on the treadmill and floor will vary depending on who is coaching that session. What I like most is the recommended speed ranges on the treadmill for walking, jogging, running, and sprinting. Everyone runs at a different pace, but the instructor calls out a range to give you a benchmark (ie run between 5-7 mph), from which you can adjust accordingly. At the end of your 10-15 minute running interval, you proceed to the floor for dumbbell, body weight, or resistance band exercises; people who started on the floor move to the treadmill. Then you switch back and forth following the instructor's directions. The music is bumping; sometimes the playlist includes pop and hip-hop hits, and other times it's house mixes. The hour passes quickly and the variation between sets makes it unpredictable and fun! If you have a serious injury, I'd avoid this altogether. But for those able to run between 2-4 miles and lift free weights with full range of motion, this is the place for you! Be advised there are no windows in the studio (it's more like a chamber with dimmed overhead red-accent lighting), but there are wall to wall, floor to ceiling mirrors so you can stare yourself down as you push through the workout. Intense! I recommend arriving 10-15 minutes prior to the start of your class. There are full locker rooms for men and women with showers and restrooms. There are also storage lockers to the left of the front desk. This area gets the most congested as one class ends (50 people out) and another class begins (50 people waiting to get in the studio). There's limited space and no sitting room, so be prepared to stand and wait for the doors to open before your class. (This is the best time to stretch, since you get moving right away!) You can browse the merchandise or take a photo at the photo booth while you wait. After class, check out the smoothies at the fuel bar on the ground floor to replenish. read more

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I got turned on the Barry's while traveling extensively back and forth to New York on business with a colleague who is a raving fan. I've tried many methods and workouts over the years, some with more lasting impressions than others. I wan't blown away by this method, BUT I found enough benefit I chose to continue occasionally back here in Chicago. Since I am a member at a more expensive club, I don't go to Barry's regularly, but it's good enough that it does lure me back once every week or two. What I like best it that is allows for modification to Double Floor for those of use who have difficulty running on a treadmill. And the modification does not impact the quality or intensity of the workout. If anyone is concerned about 'running', you will be able to commit to the program using the Double Floor modification. Of course, for most over 40-somethings, the worst part of any group class workout is the music. Taking a star just for that. Trainers almost exclusively love to adhere to crappy pop and blaring synth dance. Please, can someone make a playlist of 70's and 80's music on occasion? Get a super smoothie on your way out. read more

I don't see what all the fuss is about. I've done a lot harder workouts in Chicago, but maybe they went easy for day 1. Joey the instructor was good. Alternating cardio and strength for an hour. Although that meant I was sharing/alternating a bench with someone and we didn't wipe it down in between. Eww. Even the strength portions were more cardio. Crosstown or some other places are much better workouts. It was a lot of skinny people in way too much Lulu. Joey encouraged people to use the easy bands. Again, maybe he went easy because it was day 1. If you're into the scene of working out - this is the place for you. I'd given one star for the staff and the space - I get that you just opened, but there were power tools in the locker room. And you don't have a water fountain (later I found out they did but not all the staff knew where it was) The checkin process was a nightmare (half the staff telling you to form a line, half the staff ignoring said line). Tons of staff just standing around. The smoothie bar was a disaster. You wait in line at the register to order, then wait in line a second time to pay. Again, tons of staff standing around. You shouldn't need my slot number if I'm handing you my credit card. And if I have an allergy, you should be able to tell me the ingredients in the smoothie not protein powder #22. The cashier Sean seemed clueless. I won't be back and I'm glad I didn't buy a package like I almost did. It's 5 minutes from work so I really wanted to love it and I had higher expectations based on it's reputation. There are better and cheaper workouts in Chicago. For $30 I want to hurt after and not wait take 20 minutes for a smoothie. read more

Barry's is a really TOUGH and effective workout! The 60 minutes breezed by. I was definitely sore for a few days afterward! I felt that the atmosphere was pretty accepting, and you can go at a pace that is doable for you and at your level (but trust me you'll still be sore). My only real critique as a first timer is that it's hard to hear the instructor at times or to understand which portion you're supposed to be listening to. The room is also pretty cramped. But, overall a great sweat! read more

Having been to the other Barry's located in New York and Nashville, I have to say the Barry's Bootcamp River North is the largest and the nicest branch. Located in River North area, Barry's is perfectly situated next to True Food Kitchen, a block from Sweetgreen and also a block from Studio Three. Basically this is where every health freaks want to be. The workout is very efficient as you alter the cardio and weightlifting within ~50-60 minutes. The format is very similar to Shred415; thus, it'd be difficult to say who copied who. The instructors are very good and friendly. The amenities in the bathroom are slightly better than Studio Three but are much better than Shred415. Everything comes with a cost - here at Barry's, you won't get the "all-you-can-go" package as what you can get from Shred415 or Studio Three. At the end of the day, people will have preferences. I personally like Studio Three for spin classes and Barry's for one of those days when you need luxurious HIIT. read more

Flew into Chicago for vacation and found they had a Barrys here. 5 minute walk from hotel. Easy check in and had Kate as instructor. Normally don't like female instructors because I find it hard to hear them. She was excellent and had a great playlist. Room was nice and cold and clean, as was the facility. Treadmills top shape. Can't wait to come back! read more

First class back. Precautions made me feel safe and more excited than ever to be back. Thank you Colton, Jen and Jackie for the personalized welcome back note! read more

I've heard so many raving reviews from friends, coworkers, bartenders, neighbors, and random people down the block about how incredible Barrys is. While it does NOT disappoint or let you down, I did have a few preconceived ideas of what to expect because of the hype. 1) The workout is what you come to expect from an upscale fitness studio - really effin intense. Don't expect a walk in the park, or even for a light sweat. Kate L kicked my butt the entire time (in a good way) and the atmosphere has a way of bringing you up "to a place you didn't think you could go before." Very encouraging environment. Mix of floor work (weights, strength, and HIIT training) and treadmills work (sprints, distance, and recovery). This portion gets a 5/5. 2) The initial entrance experience is a little confusing. From the time you walk in, you are not greeted by someone at reception, rather a few workers behind the counter cooking up some delicious looking (presumably) healthy smoothies. This led to a bit of a confusing experience as a first timer. Locker rooms were great. Once you find your way to the actual check in space outside the studio, you're greeted by very friendly staff who walk us through the workout. A+ here. I even received a hand written welcome card thanking me for joining for the first time (and even got a shout-out during the session - way to go me!). My ONLY gripe here was that I came to the class with 3 other coworkers. Three of us were new to Barrys, and one of us had past experience. The one with experience let us check in first to get our bearings, and then checked in himself. However, because of their rule of being 5 minutes early (we arrived at the desk for checkin at 5:26 for a 5:30 workout), he was unable to join the 3 of us for our group workout that he organized. Obviously, we were a little perturbed! But talking to my coworker afterwords, the manager did refund him that class and invited him back for another on the house. B+ here. Overall great experience - just a little bummed at a seemingly dumb rule that rewards random people for showing up to a class that people already reserved a spot for. read more

Let me be clear -- the one star is solely due to the horrible manager here. The instructors and classes here are amazing. Used to love this location. They recently hired a new manager Colton who is a total jerk. Stick with the Lincoln Park Barry's, the same amazing instructors go to that location and management their cares more about the experience of their members versus making a quick buck by re-selling booked seats for people who aren't checked before class. read more

I went here for the first time as I was excited to see what all the hype is about. Barry's boot camp offers interval running and strength training. The concept in my mind is basically the same as orange theory, shred 415 or torch at studio three. The music was great and the instructor was good. They heat the room to make you feel like your workout is better than it is. Barry's river north isn't on class pass and because I don't think it's better than other interval training workouts, I was underwhelmed. read more

Barry's River North - Interval Training Gyms Near Me - Chicago, Illinois