I really like this gym. My insurance covers membership at other gyms but not this one, so I have to pay the dues. In spite of it, I opt to go to Galter, because I think it is a lot better than the competition. What I like the most here are the fitness classes included in membership. You have to sign up for the more popular classes 48 hours in advance, because they fill up quickly. Try to take some classes like yoga or Aqua Mix/ Aqua Blast with Shannon, who is an awesome instructor. As others have mentioned, you will see all ages and body types here, so no need to be embarrassed if you are not in top shape. There are two pools (the West pool is bigger), a sauna, whirlpool, and a lot of equipment on the second floor. The staff is friendly and the place seems quite clean. The only negatives that I can see are very small towels and several lockers without working locks. read more

They changed their policies in the middle of the year, and now there are no reservations. Before, it was already very difficult to find a spot to swim; now, it is just impossible. The membership is overpriced for the services they provide. There is also very little respect for members. They offer individual classes that take up entire lanes, leaving members unable to swim. They even state in their documents that people paying for those classes have priority. Well, I pay too--and I pay a very expensive membership, yet I feel that the needs of regular members are completely disregarded. There isn't even proper shampoo--just soap that they label as shampoo. People are allowed to use their phones, and nobody seems to enforce the rules. Overall, it feels like the facility has been abandoned and that management no longer cares about the members or the quality of the experience. read more

Management- It's summer/ 95 degrees and there is absolutely zero air movement in the showers or locker room. It's too warm and smells like mold. It's impossible to cool down, especially if you have to head to work afterwards. This is not the way it used to be, and another example of Endeavor trying to cut corners. Mold +flies in the showers?? Seriously?? read more

I love trapeze and trampoline. Their food is delicious and the toilets are tops Their air freshener is great

This place is an absolute sh$thole. Its filthy. Mold on the shower curtains kind of filthy. There is never any lotion in the dispensers. It takes for ever for them to fix anything and they always have an excuse. If the sauna is broken they have to wait a month for 'the part' to fix it. Here's an idea: keep some spare parts so you can fix the sauna. The pool is filthy and then they lie and say it is because of the chemicals that clean the pool which is obvious b.s. They forget to post when the pool is closed for classes and when you show up to swim in a lane you reserved they kick you out of the pool. Do yourself a favor and find a different club! read more

This is a beautiful facility with a lot of promise, but unfortunately has unreachable class sign up program that is not disclosed to new members when signing up. You must sign up 72 hours prior to the class and then the registration window closes in 60 seconds. For senior water classes, not sure how this is attainable or acceptable. Would not recommend. read more

Very kind people. Very capable. Helped my husband. Got to know him and know what he needed.

Great opportunity for exercise and/or health training and or physical therapy. Staff is very friendly and professional. Offers lots of specialized group or individual support. read more

I saw some amazing exercises at Galter LifeCenter. I was most interested in the swimming pool, which is very good for me. I am going to walk with them, not only for swimming, but also for exercise. This place is amazing for anyone and I love it here. read more

My husband and I signed up JUST before the COVID lockdown, so my review is based 100% on post COVID lockdown. My husband and I have been using the gym since mid-June. We are not "gym people". We were out of shape, never really worked out, a bit ashamed of our level of fitness and decided to take action. We signed up for the new members special for $100 1:1 personal training sessions. We were matched with Leslie, who is a very supportive, sincere, effective and motivating trainer. We bought a package and have been training ever since, so I highly recommend. Oh yeah - and I lost 20 pounds since training started!!! The gym has been amazing during this time. I feel safe and the clients and staff take COVID seriously. They limit the capacity, you sign up for your timeslot and everything is cleaned in between groups. It is EXTREMELY clean and everyone wears a mask over both their nose and mouth :-). The lockers are social distanced as well. The staff is fabulous. Josh at the front desk makes my day with his positive attitude! In Sept, they plan to open more facilities and you can sign up to swim, in 30 minute timeslots. The other wet facilities remain closed during the pandemic, which makes perfect sense. I highly recommend this gym. I love the amount of space and the great staff and clients. read more

I've been going to Galter since cardiac rehab in the summer of 2019. I've never had an issue with the cleanliness of the locker rooms, bathrooms, or showers. This is a laid-back gym. People are working hard, but everyone is nice. We all nod to each other because the same folks tend to show up at the same times of day. Rarely do you have to wait for equipment. It's a big plus that parking is part of the membership, too. read more

I like Galter and here is why, 1) Yoga classes with just right level of difficulty with very cool, knowledgeable instructors that are very easy to talk to and will work with you. 2) Large variety of dance classes such as Zumba, Group Step, Group Kick, Aqua dance in water. I tried them all and I liked them all too. 3) Towel service.....you can use all the towels you want and they are always clean and smell like bleach. AREA FOR IMPROVEMENT: I take away a star for the nasty jacuzzi It could be cleaner, there's hair floating in it and old men always sit in it for long periods of time. Monopolizing the whole jacuzzi for themselves. read more

I love this center. I joined because they were the only fitness center that has water classes at hours I could attend (late afternoon and evening). They have a vast offering of classes, top notch facilities, caring staff, and more. read more

It is unbelievable how bad this facility has gotten since Corona. It was annoying to come here before as they sell too many kids swimming lessons and the weekend locker rooms were filled with screaming kids. The front desk staff and some of the floor staff are conceited college age kids but you got to use all the stuff usually you were ignored. Since Corona the staff are absolutely empowered to bully you about masks and whatever flowing, changing rules about the coof there is. They can threaten you with immediate membership termination over the slightest noncompliance. Gleefully. One guy stopped me and made me wait 20 minutes while he found a "proper" mask for me to wear. Anytime you go in the younger staff are literally guarding whole sections cordoned off for the personal training no one wants to buy, and most of the rest of it, pools, etc seem to be gone forever in any reasonable form.Their official social media is filled with the usual mask propaganda and they try hard to sell their virtual classes that look and sound worse than a 2009 era Youtube video. Literally a 13 year old with aspirations of being the next top Twitch streamer does a better job streaming out of Mom's basement than these so called professionals. I has suspected most older people was being treated like crap by many, of the trainer brats , especially Libby K. and Lizzy because they preferred just screwing around not working all day. I looked into it further and Libby has turned Galter into her private Tiktok studio where she makes 100 percent narcissistic,mostly rear end focused content. This was a gym with fixable problems prior to Corona and now it's been run straight into the ground by selfish children doing whatever they want and not understanding people need to actually want to come here and pay money to do so. There is no saving this place. Even if the mask bullying and coof restrictions magically disappeared tomorrow too many people have been run off by the nasty children working here. read more

This gym has a lot going for it. My kids love the ping pong table and other kid-centric activities. The yoga classes are great. Real professionals. The problem we've had is with the swimming pools. This was the main reason we joined this gym, but the pools are far too often inaccessible. Before Covid they could not seem to follow any schedule for when the pools are open. More times than not we would show up for lap swim only to find some other class was in there..or something was being fixed or changed. In 3 months we counted 8 of 11 times we came to swim during what should have been our designated time only to be turned away. And the water is not clean. Even with my best goggles I cannot see a person right in front of me when swimming under water. Im not a fan of chlorine, but when it comes to health and safety I think they need to use more of it. We got so fed up with the pool situation that we actually quit the gym not long before covid hit. Not sure if we will rejoin or look for another place. read more

ZERO STARS! This review is solely based on our experience signing up for a membership. Today is January 27th. My wife & I successfully managed to join this gym after having to endure 3 weeks of BS from the membership team. Why 3 weeks you ask? Upon our initial visit, we were told that there was a "special" currently being promoted. This "special" consisted of a joint membership rate of $130 a month, with "NO" initiation fee. The catch: both wifey & I would have to take a "BTS" class. What is a "BTS" class? It's one of those classes that people like me would never consider---but, I agreed in order to save my $49 initiation fee. On our second visit, we were greeted by the same membership rep who quoted us the "special." She was glad to see that we showed up to take a "BTS" class. I took a "Group Step" class. Quite comical indeed. I looked like Vince Vaughn in "Old School" dancing around a gym, absolutely clueless. But, I did this in hopes of saving $49. After successfully completing my "BTS" initiation, and the instructor signed off on my card, I thought we were good to go. {Wishful thinker I am} A few days later, I went into Galter in hopes of signing a membership. A second membership rep claimed that there was no "BTS" promotion that waived the initiation fee. I gave her the card of the original rep and claimed that we were in on 2 previous occasions, and that we were indeed quoted this rate. {Look of confusion on her face} She claimed that she'd have to check with the "Marketing & Communication Director." In her defense, she allowed me to continue on with my workout, and said that her boss, the Marketing & Communication Director would call me. A few days later---NO call from the Marketing & Communication Director . I call the Marketing & Communication Director. A few days later, I FINALLY get a return phone call from the Marketing & Communication Director, and she leaves a voicemail. {Getting frustrated} A day later I call the first membership rep that quoted my wife & I the "special" rate. Once again, she said we could have our initiation fee of $49 each waived, since we completed a "BTS" class. The next day, I email the Marketing & Communication Director. She argues, and insinuated that I (potential customer) should've done my due dilligence, and that her employee was misinformed, but this ultimately lies upon me. A+ for customer service!?!? I've owned several businesses, and if MY employee is quoting a price that is incorrect, this is MY fault, because I didn't properly train MY employee. Galter disagreed, and still insinuated that I should've read the term on the card. Hmmm, okay, so I guess it's acceptable that I was told on THREE separate occasions that there would be NO initiation fee. Absolutely pathetic! Horiffic customer service. Normally, I never would've joined a gym, after a "Director" offered such a condescending, rude display of "F the customer." Fiscally ignorant, in my opinion. BUT, there is not a plethora of gyms in this area. When a decent gym opens, put your money on me...leaving Galter! Galter, and a few of their employees need a lesson in Business 101. If they acted like professionals and returned phone calls / emails,honored the price that we were quoted, I would've been a satisfied customer, as the gym itself is nice, but pricey! Anxiously awaiting the arrival of LPAC in Lincoln Square! read more

I worked out at the Galter LifeCenter for 3 years. As a medical resident of the adjacent hospital, I had low expectations and used the facility about 2-3 times/week solely for the convenience. The equipment is fairly nice. Lots of treadmills, a few elliptical machines. I didn't use the weight equipment a lot, but seemed fairly clean and a good variety. The area is spacious, which is really the best part of this fitness center. There's lots of room to move and you never feel cramped. Group fitness classes are decent as well. Nothing like Equinox, but pretty good. The best classes in the city of Chicago are at Equinox. FFC is a close 2nd, then the LifeCenter/XSport. I'm giving the LifeCenter 1 star for its poor management, dreadful customer service, and inadequate cleanliness of the women's locker room. These factors unfortunately overshadow the above positives I have mentioned. I have never been treated in such egotistical self-centered ignorance of the staff on numerous occasions--from the cleaning staff to the manager under hair-ridden, disgusting conditions in the women's locker room. I would not recommend this fitness center to any of my friends or family members. read more

UNDER THE SEA My little one would love to be Ariel but she has legs and she will never be the little mermaid. Knowing this info I figured she should learn how to swim. My wife researched and this is the place that came up as being the best place for children to get private swimming classes. We also found an amazing instructor. She was fantastic with our little one but after our 6 week course she was moving away for college. We spoke with the manager and she promised to pair us with another instructor like the original teacher. So we purchased another 6 weeks. On the first week, I realized our new instructor was not even close to our first instructor. In fact, our little one had gone backwards in her swimming ability. After class the teacher wanted to talk to me. I told him he needed to be the instructor and not be lead by a toddler. While this conversation was happening my little one was walking by the pool. I had one eye on her, when she decided to jump in on the other side. No one saw her jump in the pool. Not even the life guard on duty nor the new instructor. I had to fly across the pool, throw my cell phone against a wall and reach into the pool head first with my clothes on to save her. Luckily I was there to do everyone else's job. To this day I have no idea how I got there that fast. I will say the Galter DeathCenter traumatized me forever. And immediately after this incident, nobody said,"Sorry!" I had to call the manager and inform her about what happen. She had no clue. I was surprised that no one told her this..."a parent got soaking wet when he had to save his own kid during a personal swimming lesson". Really? No one mentioned that? Wow I'm surprised and also the King of Sarcasm! I requested a full refund. The manger did apologize but suggested for me to try another teacher. I told her I really could not step foot back in there again and put my little one in danger. The manager only refunded me for 5 of the 6 classes. Which I thought was shitty considering the new instructor was terrible and our child almost drown. That's just bad customer service. It has taken me a while to actually write this review because I just wanted to forget this horrible moment ever happen. But I also realized it was important for other parents to realize that even though there are suppose to be trained professionals here. You must keep an eye on your child because you are the only one responsible for there safety. This place screwed up. I'm just lucky it wasn't worse then me getting soaked. In the end, I'm glad my little wasn't seriously hurt. She will never remember this horrible moment and that's good for her. Just remember to be safe, if you bring your kids here. read more

I've been getting my workout on at Galter nearly every day since mid-January, and let me tell you, this place is CLASSY. Not classy like intimidating classy, but classy like it's seriously worth it classy. I've only been a member of one other gym--uh, the Welles Park Fitness Center, if that counts--and I took some P.E. classes in high school, but other than that, I'm pretty clueless when it comes to fitness. Or I WAS, but thanks to Galter, I'm all in-the-know now. Being the nerd-tastic bookworm that I am, I always kind of assumed I wouldn't like working out (because working out is for cheerleaders, right?), but man, endorphin highs are killer. I go in, bust out a jump rope, crank some Girl Talk, get sweaty as hell, and it's the best part of my day. They have this thing called the Personal Fitness System, which essentially amounts to a few free personal training sessions with a fancy name. Someone weighs you, takes your measurements, tells you how strong and flexible you are, and then says, "OK, here's what you need to do to reach your goals." (Read: Get Sexy.) Which is pretty awesome, 'cause I'd never go near the weights, and so I told my trainer I was afraid of them ("They're scary! And look at all those strong guys! They will beat me up!"), and he was like, "Nah girl, lemme show you this leg press." Now I'm cool with weights and I'm getting stronger. Definitely thinking about starting some impromptu brawls soon so these guns don't go to waste. Also: free classes. Some of them are cheesy, some of them will kick your butt (Group Ride), and the music's pretty lame, but if you're a group exercise junkie, try them out. In terms of the demographics, you'll be hanging with a lot of smokin' geriatrics (a lot of them really are smokin'), a lot of late-twenties/mid-thirties "working professionals," and the occasional meathead. Oh, and sometimes lots of babies are there for swim lessons. I don't know how someone could feel out of place here, and that's saying a lot, because I tend to feel out of place just about everywhere I go. Super friendly staff, lots of equipment. It's the sanctuary of sweat. read more

I have been a member for couple of years. I came here because of convenience. Started to hate this place. Because one day my daughter come and visited me and I decided to take her to Galter as a guest. No problem there. What happen next is we decided to use the pool and my daughter started to show me some swimming technique. The lifeguard didn't like what he saw and told my daughter that she can't give swimming instruction to me. I asked why and didn't get any answer. I can see if my daughter is doing it every week but just for one time. Come on. I pay over $80 for one person and they want to nick pick. I don't like the staff and the management ran this place. read more

Some people get happy when they work out. Some become cheery, perky, energetic and just can't stop talking about how many reps or circuits... I hate these people. I cannot relate. I suck at gyms. I am naturally perky and hyper but the gym sucks all that out of me leaving a surly, sarcastic, angry, achy... It isn't good. I am miserable. Aerobics and group classes really render me into a frustrated rage monster- the rest of the class is at 4 and still not coordinated enough to land on 1. I'm not fast, not athletic by any stretch. I admit it. I am Posh Spice who can neither sing nor dance but want to wear all the clothes and thus, must exercise and pout in a surly fashion. In fact, the only reason I am here is due to relentless nagging. This should not be held against the establishment. All that said, there is parking, there is ample space, it is clean, the employees are very gracious and helpful, there is a swimming pool, a hot tub and sauna even a well-stocked locker room with showers, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, hair dryers and towels galore. So, if you are looking for something local- this can be convenient. read more

I belonged to this gym for several years up until a little while ago. A long time ago, the management actually possessed traits that a top-notch facility should have: helpful, friendly, customer-service oriented administrators who oversaw equally-friendly employees who excelled at what they do, from Pilates instructors, to personal trainers, to licensed massage therapists, to swimming instructors, and to the teachers of many fitness classes. As new policies filtered in and the recession hit, that's when the club quality and satisfaction of a large percentage of the members started to take a steady nosedive. I remember when the personal trainer and massage therapist I used to see made their jobs seem like a hobby, like they didn't sweat the small stuff because they took so much pride in what they do and excelled at it. I really enjoyed the all the help and advice they gave me. In addition, it looked like they really enjoyed their jobs and I always looked forward to my sessions. Then the management began efforts to cut costs and cut the budget. They even froze the salaries of every employee in the building, I was told, for an entire year. I'm sure this had quite a bit to do with the concurrent and gradual decrease in customer service, quality in services, and overall atmosphere of the building. You could definitely tell the demeanor of the employees had changed, as toward the end, I had had enough of such a gloomy facility, and ultimately decided to jump ship down the street to Lincoln Square's new health club, a 100% improvement. It's just that the combination of several little things that started to totally suck (for example, the awful parking situation, increase in prices, cluelessness of courtesy desk workers) eventually added up. Oh yeah, and by the way, the other review of the massage services was right on. I did find a couple of therapists who were really good, but the way that department was (and probably still is) run is the biggest joke. read more

Worth the extra money ! I am on a very tight budget I used to use the YMCA however I rarely went. This place is so nice its entertainment and you actually want to go. How priceless is a huge Jacuzzi on a freezing winter day or the many warm pools when you feel trapped in an apartment all winter long. Me and my husband feel so refreshed and destressed when we leave this place. I also love the fact that they use use a salt based system over chlorine in there pools and jacuzzi so much better for your health not to mention your skin and hair. This place is an investment in my mental health as well as physical. read more

I love Galter. I joined a little over four months ago and have been going consistently 3 times a week since joining. I've lost inches and sine pounds. Plus, I feel terrific. I immediately felt at home here. The guests and staff are very down to earth and approachable. There is a wide variety of classes to choose from and the program and instruction of the few I've tried have been excellent. Lots is equipment too. There is a three tier membership plan to chose from. I think most guests choose the middle tier. There are nice amenities: lockers with integrated locks, towels, shower, steam sauna in locker rooms, hair dryers... There is unisex hot sauna and whirlpools. The swimming program seems to be very popular. I highly recommend this gym if you're serious about getter by more fit but in an approachable and supportive atmosphere. read more

Wow, I love this place. Been a member for about half a year now and couldn't be happier. Yes, it is kind of expensive, but it's worth it in my opinion, and why cheap out on your gym and have to deal with everything that comes along with it? All the reasons why I won't be leaving Galter any time soon: -never very crowded- though it does get busy at peak times, in general it's not too bad and not nearly as bad as some other gyms (Bally's, X-Sport) can be -great clientele- a huge mix of people, which makes it a really comfortable place to go work out -nice equipment -super clean -friendly staff -2 pools -all the various classes/programs they offer To address some of the issues people brought up before... A. I've NEVER had a bad experience with the staff at the desk or in membership... they've been nothing but friendly and helpful to me. B. Tiny towels? Are you kidding me?? These are full size towels that I personally think are too big to be gym towels, and besides, they are free and bleach-clean. Jeez, some people! C. No floor staff? Again, really? There are always tons of people on the floor seemingly bored out their minds, just waiting for people to ask them for help. And when I have approached them, they've been friendly and willing to answer any question I had. My ONLY gripe is that I wish the free weights area was a little bit bigger, and had 2 squat racks instead of just 1, which is hard to get on when it's busy. Other than that, this place rules. Some people will never be satisfied, but I think any normal person will love this gym... so check it out if you are looking! read more

Thanking Galter Life Center Massage Therapist Matthew Fahey for a superb deep tissue massage today. Matthew finds the knotted painful "hot spots" and systematically loosens them. Top flight massage! read more

Great gym. It's relatively clean, the staff are friendly, the equipment seems to be well maintained. It's not pretentious at all. I'm really not a gym person but I want to be able to swim and working around the Park's department lap swim schedule became impossible. The gym members skew older but I feel like it's a nice mix. Child care for as low as about $3 for 90 mins is pretty much impossible to fine else where. Easy parking and reasonable dues. read more

I have been a member of the Life Center for 2 months and I am tremendously pleased. I will try to break this review down into useful categories. Location: The GLC is located on the North Side of Chicago on Foster Ave at the congruence of the Budlong Woods/Lincoln Square/Albany Park/Irving Park/and North Park neighborhoods. Parking is available free of charge at the nearby parking garage, but there is also ample street parking at the adjoining streets. Clientele: As a result of the location, there is a great variety of cultures that frequent this establishment, most notably Korean. Many signposts throughout the facility include English and Korean characters. You will also find a good deal of Eastern European and Hispanic cultures here. This diversity adds to the unpretentious atmosphere (which I find to be the most appealing aspect of the gym). You will also find a diversity among age groups, from young professionals to what can best be described as senior citizens. This is a reflection of the GLC's focus on wellness, rather than good looks, and also its association with nearby Swedish Covenant Hospital. Vibe: The best thing about the GLC is its no-nonsense, do-it-to-feel-good atmosphere. This is not a meat-market or a place to pick up dates. This is a place to go get your workout on, at your own pace, without the fuss of being stared at, worrying what you look like, or feeling out of place. Because there is such a variety of people here, there is also a variety of fitness levels, and no one looks around in a judgmental manner--just like no one looks around trying to show off, either. Equipment: The equipment here is really quite impressive. There is a variety of cardio equipment located in four different clusters. One cluster is reserved for cardiac rehab patients only from the hospital, but it sometimes opens up. Regardless, there is rarely a need to wait for machines. All machines, by the way, are newish and in good working order. There are also two separate weight training areas, one with free weights and one with machines. These, too, are in good working order, and they are also plentiful. Classes: There are three different studios that host a variety of classes, from spinning to salsa to yoga. There are also swim classes located in the pools. I can only speak for the yoga classes, which can get quite full--especially Tracy's Monday class, so get there early. The yoga classes are well-taught and there is enough mats and equipment to go around. As for the other classes, there are more than 100 offered per week, so I'm sure there's something for everybody. Facilities: The facilities are immaculate. I have really never been in a gym that has been so clean. This includes the workout floor as well as the locker room and showers. The ladies locker room, by the way, is excellent. There are many amenities provided, including shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, razors (at the front desk), lotion, blow dryers, straightening irons... everything you need to take a shower without lugging in your home bathroom supply. There are also plenty of lockers which do not require a quarter or your own lock--they have automated locking mechanisms in which you key in your own code for each use. This is incredibly convenient. One can also rent a locker for a reasonable price ($8 a month, I believe). Other facilities: As mentioned before, there are two pools for lap swimming. There are also two whirlpools, a sauna, and steam rooms in both locker rooms. The only thing that is really lacking at the GLC are sports facilities (i.e. basketball courts, racquetball courts, etc.), but I may just be spoiled by my alma mater's rec center. Price: Regular month-to-month membership is $78, which can be canceled at any time. Initiation fees range from $140-240, depending on whether one is a student or applying for a joint membership. Five guest passes are included with membership to use at your disposal. I'm happy with these fairly reasonable prices, given that membership includes free access to all classes on top of the already above-average facilities. Bottom line: I would recommend this gym to anybody that's into looking after their health and wellness over picking up a date. In fact, I would recommend it highly. Five stars. read more

As a member of Cheetah for 3 years, I was turned off by all the drama of the "suddenly closed, oh wait, we're open again" nonsense and decided to try out a new gym. Based on reviews on Yelp, I decided to check out Galter Life Center because I likely will be moving to Albany Park in the next few weeks. My first impression of Galter is that it is a very comprehensive health center that is frequented by people of all ages, sizes, and colors. That is in sharp contrast to Cheetah, where everyone is around the same age and fitness level. It is a little frustrating to be stuck in the hall behind a very old, slow-moving grandma on her way to water aerobics, but it beats being surrounded by meat heads. Galter is very low pressure and very much is not a scene. The staff and instructors are so nice, it's almost creepy. I couldn't put my finger on it until I read in the member guide that "The LifeCenter is affiliated with the Evangelical Covenant Church and Swedish Covenant Hospital." And then it all made sense... Regardless, I haven't noticed any religious overtones to the gym, with the exception of the occasional Christian song playing overhead. I try very hard not to curse (as that is explicitly forbidden) when I fall off the stability ball in a class. So far so good, but I make no promises. Because I don't live in the area now, I have to drive or bike to Galter. Parking is a challenge weekday mornings because the parking structure is shared with the hospital and most of the street parking in the area is permit-only. However, there is ample bike parking right in front. Overall, it's a great gym with lots of classes and two pools. However, it takes an adjustment period for those of us who are used to a different setting. So far it is a refreshing change! read more

Galter is the Wellness Center that is attached to the Swedish Covenant Hospital at the corner of California and Foster. An old girlfriend told me about the place when I moved into the area and I became a member shortly thereafter. The best thing about Galter is the convenience. The Lifecenter is about 5 blocks from my place, so it is easy to get there. They do have free parking which they will validate if you need to park in the structure. The running and biking path that runs through Legion Park is across the street from Galter so you can go outside for a run if you prefer the scenic enviorns of the north branch of the Chicago river. However you can get a really funky stench from the river depending on which way the wind is blowing. Galter has two pools, a very short running track (I think it's like 16 or 18 laps that equal one mile), two steam rooms (in the men's locker room at least), two whirlpools, one sauna, lots of cardio equipment, a good mix of nautalus type machines, free weights, some hammer machines, and a yoga/spin room. I mostly stick to the free weights, exercycles, treadmills, track and nautalus equiment. I have belonged to two other health clubs in the city. One was a very small neighborhood place and the other was one of the bigger city chains (not Ballys or World). Galter contains the better aspects of both clubs without any of the negatives. It has the laid back vibe of the neighborhood place but has roughly the same extensive facilities as the other club. There are no basketball or tennis courts inside the club but both are available in Legion Park. read more

Warning: The staff here is very bland and unfriendly. Plus its not clean. Very dirty locker rooms and stream rooms. Tried being friendly but they forgot guests are paying almost $90 a month. Go Somewhere else folks. read more

5 stars for the actual place, 3 stars for inconsistent membership information, 3 stars for over crowded parking lot even after they built a brand new parking lot. With all that said, I must mention that my family cannot live without this place. We absolutely love the gym. We go there about 2-3 times per week. We have a 2 year old and a baby on the way. We've been members for about 2 years. I LOVE their dance studios (they have 4 total), variety of free classes to members, specialty classes for pregnant women, 2 swimming pools, etc. My husband and I both purchased massage packages and have been very happy with our massage therapists (Lena and Steve). We love the fact that the entire family can go to the gym at the same time. My 2 complaints about this place is that one person from membership can tell you something and someone else can tell you the complete opposite. This has happened to us at least a handful of times but eventually you get to know the truth if you talk with enough people (about 3). Parking was a nightmare before the new parking lot was built and it can still be even with the new parking lot if you go there during busy times (any day of the week after regular work hours). read more

Galter is a great local, private gym! The front desk staff is incredibly affable, and informative. Unlike their competitors at LSAC, Galter staff are all up to date on all there is to know! One caveat, though, is the pathetic staff in membership. Membership office truly lacks professionalism, as does the inept director. If it weren't for them, this place would be perfect. The locker rooms are kept neat, with towel service, lotions (scented and fragrance-free), body wash, conditioner (they no longer provide shampoo , as most members never used it), and free, easy to use tall lockers. The locker room staff are diligent and hospitable. The facility has a very open, circular layout, providing members with the sense of an even larger gym, while still maintaining a level comfortability. The equipment offered are amongst a host of different brands: Treadmills (3 diff brands); ellipticals (4 different types with various range of motion); reclined bikes (3 diff types- with/without monitor/tv screens); cycling bikes (3 diff types- all great!); rowing machine (2 diff types); stairmaster (2 types). The circuits are gathered on the opposite side of the free weights. Ample circuits with enough space amongst each to avoid crowding. Every circuit imaginable occupies this space. The free weights area is neatly organized and open enough to avert the typical crowding feel. They have all types of weights for various forms of training: body building, MMAs, cyclists, runners, etc. They have the TRX system set up just between the free weights and circuits. They have punching bags scattered throughout. There is a fitness desk in the center of it all, with a number of trainers and fitness specialists eager to assist. There are cleaning stations all throughout the gym, with mini-towels offered to encourage cleanliness. These stations, thankfully, are easily located. GLC has an impressive amount of classes all throughout the day, allowing people with demanding schedules to still manage to fit in a class. Most of these classes are free to members. YES! They have incredible stretching apparatuses, that most gyms lack! There is space dedicated to stretching all throughout the gym, which is neat! As open as the layout is, it still feels very calming and relaxing. They offer private classes ranging from boot camp, TRX, MMA, and beyond. They offer an infinity pass, akin to a membership card open to unlimited private classes. Neat, but pricey if not taken advantage of. They have a nice lap pool with several lanes (I want to say 6?), an open pool, 2 jacuzzis, a sauna that's unisex, and private stream rooms accessible in men/women locker rooms. They have a lost/found cabinet just outside the two locker rooms, near the massage rooms. read more

I somewhat agree with the most recent reviews, which range from Meh to Awful. I've been a member for over seven years and remain a member just because it's close to home. The management seems intent upon driving members away and turning this into a youth swim training facility---there are often many more kids and their parents clogging up the pools and hallways than there are members working out. As membership appears to be dwindling---there are rarely more than 10-20 people in the equipment+weight areas in mid-late-afternoon---access to equipment has improved. So that is a plus to me!!! And there are the old guys wandering around naked and dripping on the carpets in the men's locker room, the deserved mates to the rude ladies I've read about, coloring their hair in the women's locker room. No staff ever bother to request better behavior from these un-house-broken dopes. To me, it's refreshing that the Galter Center is NOT swarming with gym rats---with so many old and out-of-shape people around, it gives your self esteem an easy boost!!! But you also have to wonder why the most fit people have drifted away. A few months ago I did stop into the dread membership office to inquire about the cost of adding my partner to my membership and I also found indifference. They didn't offer any gym passes for him to try out the gym or make any effort to close the deal. You cannot count on having access to a pool lane because they are often full of children. And, really, the pools are the only difference between Galter Center and a $20 gym with exercise equipment. Galter Center is an adequate gym where those of us with less-than-perfect bodies can work out in peace. However, gym members do NOT seem to be the first priority here. read more

I've been on this crazy exercise kick now for a week where I feel the need to research all the yoga and dance studios in the city and burbs and share my experiences!! So we did the Texas Two-Step in the Sunday yoga class with Janet. I'm sorry, but that was great. I have only taken a few yoga classes in the past year and I was totally able to keep up and Downward Facing Doggy and Cobra and all the other animal positions (??) with not much guidance. Class was not crowded and I did not have to smell the dude next to me. Awesome. read more

This is the best gym I have ever belonged to, and I am something of a gym rat. The variety and timing of the classes are the best! Any time of day any day, there are several classes worth checking out. I also really like the atmosphere here -- the exact opposite of the meat market feel you get with many chain gyms. The fitness instructors are for the most part really great. My favorite class is Group Power and I consider myself a regular. The teachers -- Nikki, Francie, Suzanne, etc. -- are all awesome and keep everyone motivated. I also really enjoyed the Prenatal Fitness and Stroller Fitness classes I took. We are moving to the suburbs so I cancelled my membership and am totally bummed and will miss Galter. As awesome as Galter is, I wish it was not so expensive. I also wish some of the more interesting classes, like pre- and postnatal classes, were not additional costs. Oh and the songs in the classes being sung by fake singers for royalty reasons is pretty silly. read more

After living in the area for nearly a year and being put off by my prior gym, I finally decided to join the Galter, as one of my girlfriend's is a member and talks about it constantly. So far I've been pretty pleased. There is a large workout area with machines, a good-sized free weight area, and plenty of cardio options. Add that to an indoor track (much preferred to treadmills) and a couple of pools (and serious ping-pong players) and you get a very diverse fitness center with more than ample options. Generally, there isn't a wait for any of the equipment, and if there is, there are other options you can do in the meantime. The fees are $78 a month for a single person, which is quite reasonable in my opinion for what is available. Usually they have some kind of deal to help with the initiation fee. The only drawbacks in my mind are that there is only one hip abductor / adductor machine, some of the leg machines feel like they might snap at any moment! Sometimes, it does not feel there are enough showers for the number of lockers, and I don't love having to wait in my sweaty clothes. Overall though, the Galter is a recommended fitness center if you're not a fan of the meat markets! read more

Giiiiiirrrrrrrrl, this my GYM! I love this place so much and I hate myself for not going as often as I should. Yes, it's a little expensive, but you and your health are worth the price. I love the classes. I love the hot tub. I love the free lockers and towels. Most of all, i love the old people who work out during the day, from the Polish and Korean women who populate water aerobics to that one white-haired man who hangs out around the weights, not actually exercising but chatting up every lady who passes by. Great variety of equipment and classes, helpful, knowledgeable staff, priceless people-watching, and a comfortable environment where this fat girl fits right in. I love you, Galter Life Center! Don't ever change! read more

Galter is like no gym I have ever been to. If you are serious about getting fit and are not looking for a meat market, this is the place. You will see people of all walks of life here - young, old, fat, thin... It is insanely well run, from the attentive staff, the complementary towels, shampoo, conditioner, and hand lotion in the locker room. The equipment is top-notch, a good portion of the cardio equipment has individual tv sets. Tons of FREE classes. Only downside is the cost is a little high. read more

Still loving Galter, I have been a member for about 4 months. Since the new year is here, there are more people in the gym trying to lose those holiday pounds. Galter offers "specialty" classes for a fee and so far I have signed up for two classes. I did a BOSU equilibrium class. This wasn't my cup of tea, it was mostly for balance and coordination. I think I paid $50.00 for a four week session that met twice a week. The teacher was great and he had awesome music. I just wasn't a fan of the class. I am in boot camp currently and it meets 3 days a week for 6 weeks. The price was a bit steep, $150 but it's going to kick my butt. I'm in my second week and I feel so much better! I have worked out with personal trainers before and I feel like I get a better workout in this type of boot camp environment. We do a lot of running on the track, weight work, and basic military drills. The time they offer the classes isn't convenient for me, I take the 5:30 a.m. class. It is pure hell getting up at 4:50 when it's bitter cold and pitch black outside but I hope the results in the long run will be worth it! read more