This was my first gym and it was fine for that for a few months, but if you enjoy any conveniences a gym should provide, you will quickly out-grow the Y. There is a lot of bad to say about this gym so to summarize it, the cost is not worth it. If you get another gym during the right promotion, you can pay comparably but for a better experience. First of all, this place is a maze, the locker room was filthy, moldy and there was rarely a day I didn't see a band-aid in the shower or the sauna not working. Most of the time the hot tub didn't have water in it, and there isn't towel service. Most of these things didn't seem to matter to the other people going to this gym because they never used the locker room, there are completely different people working out upstairs while a whole other social club happens down below. It seemed that most of the people who were paying for their memberships just came and left in their gym outfits without showering (eww) to avoid the locker room altogether. I once had my locker broken into and was told to go to security to file a report. The seemingly always-bothered security guy didn't seem to understand why I was telling him somebody was bringing a lock-cutter into the locker room and that should be an issue. He feigned taking down my information but was clearly illiterate and nothing he wrote made sense, he couldn't even copy down my phone number correctly. Another time my bike seat got stolen off my bike while locked up to the rack in front of the entrance. I got similarly unhelpful aid from the employees who stated the sidewalks aren't their responsibility, aren't monitored by the security cameras, and although the YMCA provides these racks for its customers, they personally didn't suggest I continue to use them and instead park next door on the racks for Whole Foods because they were better lit. Too late for that now, thanks. read more

I have belonged to this Y for almost 6 years now. I like that it's not a fancy pants gym like XSport or EBC. REgular people work out there. No one is hitting on you. They recently updated another wing of the gym with nice new equipment. My trainer, Mat Kremke, is awesome!! I almost left the Y because my work situation changed but I stayed because I want to contiue to work out with Mat. 2 complaints: #1 The shower area of the women's locker room is yucky. I showered there once, and will never do it again.. It needs to be renovated. #2 They are raising the personal training rates but aren't raising the incomes of their trainers. Also, I think they should grandfather people like me who have used the personal trainers for several years into the same rate we pay now read more

Ah, Lake View YMCA, how I have such mixed feelings for thee. I've been a member since February, but admit that I didn't start going with some frequency until a couple months ago. I was working out with one of the personal trainers there, but found the cost to be prohibitive when there are classes that are free that do a similar job. At least the trainer got me back in the habit of going though. So why I like the Y - low monthly cost, lots of class options (wish they had Zumba, but LOVE spin now, especially taught by Kyle), decent amount of equipment, convenient location off of brown line. Why I don't like the Y - My locker got broken into, and apparently several others were broken into that morning as well. It was fairly busy, yet no one saw a thing. Luckily the piece of crap only took my cash, but it's the point. My advice, if you go to the Lake View Y, absolutely take advantage of the lockers behind the check-in area. DO NOT put in valuables in your locker even if you think you have the most kick butt lock. Criminals will find a way to break in. read more

This gym is really low frills, and is great for anyone who's new to working out and is intimidated by the gym rats at Bally's, all the way up to intense athletes who are serious and don't want to participate in dating scenes like LPAC/X Sport Fitness. Everyone there is friendly, but you won't feel ogled like other gyms. The machines are all clean and well maintained, as is the stretching area. Unlike other gyms I've been to, they keep everything well maintained and cleaned, including the locker rooms. What I love in particular are all the classes offered. For $47 a month, I have so many classes I can choose from like yoga, pilates, zumba, turbo-kick, spinning, and more. Classes really help motivate me to get to the gym, since there's a set time I need to be there, instead of just putting off going until later and later....until I end up not going at all. The pilates teacher, Mari, is one of my favorites; she's great at giving us modifications depending on what level we are, and you don't feel judged if you stick with level 1 moves. My only complaint would be that there are far more fitness classes during the day than after 5 pm, and we don't have nearly as many choices if you are part of the typical 9-5 mass. But that may be just my jealousy peeking through for the housewives who get to just do yoga and go out for coffee during their day, while I'm stuck hunched over the computer for 9 hours. **Update- I had to move to Seattle for a job, and I've had a hard time cancelling other gyms before, and have heard nightmare stories from others. This was the easiest cancellation ever; I wrote an inquiry to the website advising that I needed to end my membership by said date - got an email hours later that said it was cancelled for the next month and thats all. No need to write a letter, mail it in and wait for it to arrive or anything. SO very helpful during an already stressful time. read more

I think I've been a member going on 5 years. I've been an ACTIVE member maybe 1.5 of those years... I guess that's enough to comment. I love this Y. I love almost every Y I've been to though, b/c I know that I'm giving back to the community every month. The staff is always nice. The parking lot is cheap (10 tokens for $5?, I think) - and unless you come around 10am there's almost always a spot. Instructors that I've had have been good. I've only ever been in one class where the instructor hasn't shown and she's no longer employed there, so my guess is that they nipped that one in the bud. - Montana helped me out with five sessions of personal training earlier this year. He didn't waste a lot of time getting started and had a plan for me before I showed up. He's not intimidating, and when he doesn't make me do really ridiculous looking exercises in the middle of a crowded weight room, I actually like my workouts. He's a big goof but pretty helpful and he's not easily deterred by cussing/whining/moaning. - Mondale is a drill sgt, but really likeable. When I'm brave enough to show up (which is almost never), I know that he will MAKE me work, and will tease me mercilessly if I don't. Hey, that's motivating. If you're the kind of person who really needs someone to TELL you to workout, he's your guy. - Liz/Dre teach a Total Body Challenge class on Sunday mornings that is KILLER. It's an hour and a half and you will hurt - but, when I work my schedule out I'm hoping to start making it regularly because that class alone could probably whip you into serious shape. - Rachel teaches an afternoon spin class on Tues/Thurs. I'm a spin novice but she was really friendly and made me feel comfortable right off the bat. She has some great music selections - kinda alt/indy/pop. Not what I would imagine most spin classes are used to... - The water aerobics instructors get a so-so rating. I think it depends on their mood... one of the guys is aloof, one of the girls never gets in the pool. I don't mind, but I could see how either of those things could bother some people. The little old ladies in your class will make up for them tenfold! So cute bobbing around... And the aquatics manager is really nice, for what that's worth. (Incidentally, swim lessons are dirt cheap if you're a member - something like $54 for 8/30 minute sessions.) There's hardly ever a line for the cardio equipment, unless you show up right at rush hour or it's January when everyone's still honoring their New Year's Resolution. The weight equipment is more congested, they have about one of each of the weight machines, so you can definitely get stuck mid-circuit. Free weight room is easier to get around in... and not as many 'grunters' as most gyms. There's another free weight room just off the women's locker room, which I'm more comfortable using than the co-ed room upstairs... but it's pretty close confines if more than three of you have the same idea. And, most importantly, it doesn't feel like a meat market. I see a lot of the same faces and a lot of the staff has been there forever. The membership fees are really low in comparison to other options AND you're giving back to the community. read more

I've got to give this place a shout-out. I've tried many gyms over the years, and they've all annoyed me in different ways. Bally's just flat out sucks, and their locations are inconvenient. XSport feels like somebody put a bunch of treadmills in the middle of the electronics section in a Wal-Mart and put each employee on commission. It seems like most gyms have some things going for them, but they all seem to have some pretty grating flaws. That's not the case with the Lakeview YMCA. I grew up going to the Y, and it reminds me of why it was great to belong to one. The fees are low - the staff member who gave us a tour even explained how we could get a Family membership even if we weren't technically a family. They let us use the facility several times to decide, with no hassle, just great help. The facility is a bit on the older side, but nothing is wrong with it - in fact, it's probably in better shape than some private gyms I've been to. They have something for everyone: aerobics studio, boxing room, racquetball, basketball, a small track above the basketball court, a nice cardio selection, free weights, plenty of weight machines, a pool, saunas, whirlpools, kids stuff, etc. I've never had to wait (no matter what time) to get on a machine here - and the treadmills all have TVs and there are other TVs in the cardio area too. But not overwhelming - just something to look at while you work out. Sure, there's no $3 million dollar juice bar selling MUSCLE MILK and HGH here. But there's also not a ton of douchebags here either, just regular people like yourself. If you'd like to join a fitness center that's actually a community, where you'll get to know people from different walks of life and have conversations with them, join the Y. People are nice here and it's a great place to work out. Plus, if you're interested in where they Y gets its funding and the organizations that help contribute, check out: http://www.ymca.net/about_the_ymca/ read more

I had to step up and say something - my safe haven is getting trashed here! I love the Lakeview Y. I can understand parking complaints, etc. (the lot doesn't look too pleasant), but if you live within walking distance there's really no better option for the money. For a meager $47/mo, you have access to all of the fitness classes, the pool, weight room, aerobic room - basically the entire facility. The classes are fantastic and are constantly changing - they release four fitness schedules a year that change with the seasons, and with each change there are at least two new classes. I'm not very athletic - in fact, I was pretty out of shape when I first joined, and I was more than a little apprehensive about attending the fitness classes, afraid that I wouldn't be able to keep up. Thanks to the Y's helpful instructors, I've tried several new things, including Spinning - which I now love! It seems like the members here are kinder to each other, and it feels like more of a family. I've rarely encountered a rude person. The locker rooms, although old, are far from dirty, and I usually (8 times out of 10) see someone in there cleaning while I'm there. I'd take this place over the 24-hour meathead fest across School (aka X-Sport) any day. read more

Can't believe the reviews aren't better for the Lakeview Y! It's a GREAT gym. Let me tell you why I love it: There is tons of the newest equipment, and they are constantly upgrading. They have tons of cardio equipment (treadmills, ellipticals) with built-in TVs. There are some awesome classes. On Tuesday and Thursday AM, check out Mondale's abs/legs classes.... if you dare. He is tough and teaches it like boot camp, but he encourages you to keep going when you think you can't, and he walks around checking your form and corrects you so you don't hurt yourself. Also, Ana teaches Zumba on Sunday AM and Tuesday and Thursday PM and she's incredible! It's really fun, good choreography, and you will sweat and work hard! What I don't love, but am willing to overlook for the above reasons: For parking, you have to buy tokens ($5/10) to park in their lot. On weekends in the winter and spring, it's a you-know-what to find parking because of all the swim meets. Also, with this being the first gym I've gone to where there are kids around, I do find it annoying on the weekends sometimes. The layout is REALLY weird, as well. There are two areas with weights and cardio equipment, and to get between them you have to go through the free weight room, then the gym, then a little weird hallway. That took a little getting used to at first, but now I don't even think about it. read more

I worked out at the Lakeview YMCA a few years ago and stopped going. I started back up again at the beginning of this year and was happy to see some improvements. They replaced much of the equipment (treadmills, weight machines, added some machines). I think the staff is pretty friendly for the most part and I like that it's never overly crowded and it's very affordable. My biggest complaint would be the locker room and shower area. The lockers can be a bit gross sometimes. While I think the staff could do a better job of cleaning them, I also can't believe that patrons use the lockers as a trash receptacle. The showers don't ever feel completely clean to me but I just choose not to shower there and shower at home instead. If you're just going to the gym to get in your cardio and weights I think this is a good place and a good deal. However, if you're looking for frills you may not be happy here. read more

First, let me give a nod to the trend in public entities that allows domestic partners to have the same rates, etc. as married couples. I know it was made for the gay community, but my fiancee and I benefit even though we're not married yet. In other words, the Y is cheap, and I like it. The equipment is the same you'll get at any of the pricey gyms in the area, but you have to go to LPAC for a pool, and nobody else has racquetball, both of which are free at the Y. They're also always improving it. My fiancee loves Mondale's classes, but I'm a solo workout guy. There's also parking, which is nice in the winter when you live more than a couple blocks away. The building is old, but retro-fitted pretty well. It can get hot, but they'll open a couple windows, and you can deal with it, especially at the bank of treadmills. Overall, the Y is a great value, and a place with a mission. There's actually a small intrinsic satisfaction in joining the Y instead of a gym, since you know they help so many kids and so many of the underserved. And where else can you walk into the locker room and hear a naked old man say (and I quote) "You know, they say you shouldn't hang meats anymore." On the down side, I wouldn't get into that hot tub for all the money in the world. It looks a little funky. read more

Amazing value. I am used to paying a lot more for gym classes in major cities, but I get every bit of the enjoyment here (with none of the attitude) for $78 covering my household. My favorite services/products: *extensive aerobics class selection. Zumba almost every day! * excellent pilates reformers and Wunda chair equiptment by Stott, with the best group package pricing in town * 2 raquetball courts (quite possibly the most exhileratingly addictive sport ever) Mike and Lazaro at the front desk are so nice! I love getting so much selection and quality for so very little. read more

I'm a YMCA member, and have been for the past 15 months, because it's the YMCA. It's not XSport Fancy Pants or Pretension Power Gym. It doesn't have floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow passersby to gape at me while I'm sweating. It doesn't have an attached smoothie bar that sells high-calorie snacks that negate my workout. It doesn't discriminate against anyone - you don't have to already be fit to fit in. They've got a variety of free fitness classes and open gym/swim. They've got staff constantly walking around, just in case you need them. They've got all types of equipment, a separate women-only free weight room, a sauna and whirlpool. But it also has some older equipment, some creaky machines, a wonkey treadmill or four. The building is old and, in some places, falling apart. The upstairs track is hardly one and so sloped it can be scary to run on. But it's the YMCA. It's no frills. It's pay-by-the-month. It provides a good workout space for those of us who don't own treadmills. While it might be nice to have some newer equipment and a nicer facility, I wouldn't want that to mean it loses its charm. NOTE: It can get busy like any gym, particularly after 4:30 p.m. during the week AND during the free enrollment periods, so consider yourself warned. But most members are respectful of the 30-minute cardio machine rule, and there are a lot of machines to go around. read more

First gym that I joined in chicago after checking out many others. It's the perfect intersection of substance and value. Ample, CLEAN facilities and they even have a pool. Pros: very friendly and helpful staff, clean facilities, literally have almost anything you could want. Cons: layout is slightly awkward (nbd) can get a little crowded after 5 during the week but that's to be expected. Overall super satisfied with the place. It's filled with normal people that go to a gym as opposed to gym people (you know the type) read more

i can only comment on LVY's swim lessons for kids and for those, all good. My son has been going for about 2 yrs now and has excelled to great degree. The classes are relatively short, under an hour, but whatever they're doing it's working. I say 'whatever they're doing' above bc they don't allow parents to stay while the lessons are going being practiced. He does tell me the drills they do but again, we're left to our imagination. End of: Clean pool and facilities, respectable teachers, fairly cheap and above all he's learning and loving all things water. read more

I love the Lakeview Y. I've been a member for close to two years, and I'll never ever go back to Globogym. Membership fees are totally reasonable. My husband and I have a family membership and our monthly fees are about the same I used to pay for a single membership at Crunch. Their classes are great (my favorite is Turbokick with Carrie), and they have tons of equipment. I rarely have the problem of not being able to get on a machine, and that only happens when I'm running late during the peak gym hours (5-6:30pm). I love that this Y participates in the AWAY program, which gives you access to other Y's across the country for up to 12 visits per year. It comes in handy when we're visiting my husband's family in small-town Ohio when there's not much else to do. But listen, this is the Y, and you pay for what you get. The locker room is reminiscent of a high school locker room, and I wouldn't go near the whirlpool with a ten foot pole. The pool is not large, and the indoor running track is so small it takes you something like 31 laps to run a mile (hello, dizzy.) but they have plenty of treadmills to make up for it. There are members of all shapes, sizes, ages and fitness levels, so I never feel out of place. I love the lakeview Y, and I'll continue to be a member as long as I live around the area. read more

You get what you pay for. Pros: -Price. My fiance and I pay $69 a month for BOTH of us. There's no contract either so you can quit anytime with appropriate notice before the billing cycle. -There's a LOT of equipment. Some of it's more up to date and nicer than others. I was in there on a Monday night around six and there were plenty of machines open, so that's always good. I'm sure that's not the case during new years resolution time but such is gym go-er life. -They have a respectable class roster -Good location, near the Paulina brown line in Lakeview -Parking for a nominal fee (you purchase tokens to park, 50 cents each) -People are there to get their workout on. I love the atmosphere/aesthetic value of a high quality healthclub as much as the next guy but the YMCA is a GYM, not a social scene and thank god for that. Cons: -Bad layout. You have to have your card scanned separately to get into the locker room area, and to get into any of the separate workout room areas. So... I couldn't just go into the cardio area, walk out to go to the bathroom and get back in without having to be buzzed in. It's secured like crazy. How about one area where you check in, get buzzed in and then you can freely move about the facilities? It's really really annoying. -Kids. I mean.... I know it's a YMCA and that's how it is blah blah blah but it is a con for me, nonetheless. I don't want to deal with people's annoying children running all over. -Not the cleanest place or the nicest atmosphere. It feels a little prison-like. It's all very plain and bland and old looking. All in all... I wont be here for long. I just moved to Lincoln Square and I joined here while I'm waiting for a gym super close to my apartment to open. There was a $0 joiner fee at the YMCA and they don't require any kind of contract so it's perfect while I wait. I'd probably stick around as a long term member if it were closer. I'd recommend it to those in the area or those seeking an affordable, no-frills gym membership. read more

Lakeview YMCA is superior to other gyms in the area because: -- There is always equipment available -- They have plenty of lower-weight dumbbells (5,8,10,12,15 lbs) -- There are many more classes offered at good times for 9-5ers than other gyms -- It is easily accessible via the Brown Line, and bus lines on Addison, Ashland, Belmont, Lincoln -- The lockerrooms and weight areas are always clean (unlike every Ballys I have been to) -- Staff is incredibly friendly -- The regulars and the trainers are super friendly -- You can use your YMCA membership at any other Y in the country that participates in the AWAY program -- Your membership fees help support families who need assistance paying for their Y membership (keeping in mind that many of them use the YMCA for services other than the weight room/classes) -- You don't get tons of marketing spam emails about new promotions (unlike Ballys) I highly recommend becoming a member of the Lakeview YMCA if you like to go to the gym, get down to your workout, need early AM (5:30/6/6:30) classes, travel for work, visit family in other cities and want to workout while you are visiting, need to store your gym stuff in a locker (available for monthly rent), don't want to put a load of money up front for a contract... the list goes on. read more

We've been members here for 7 years, and I've been a YMCA member (in one location or another) for almost my entire life. Of the 3 Y's I've belonged to (and the other 3 - 4 I've visited on AWAY status - where you can use this Y's membership to go to other Y's), this one is by far in the worst shape. Their only significant renovation in the past 7 years is the addition of a very nice new workout room with new treadmills, bikes, weight equipment and a Pilates studio. Pros: 1) Great kids' swimming program. My kids have been swimming here for 6 years and the program has improved a lot in this past year - better teachers, following the curriculum more closely, asking parents for feedback more often. My kids are learning a ton and swim like fish from these lessons. You have to be a member to have any hope of getting in the swim lesson you want though - and even then it's pretty tough. Still - it's cheap and very effective. 2) Love the diversity of the members - families, singles, racing diversity, ethnic diversity, economic diversity. I strongly appreciate that and find it very important. No one I know is impressed that we belong to the Y and I love that. 3) Good (and included in the membership) fitness classes. Good teachers. They don't cancel classes. 4) Gymnasium with open basketball court time for my kids to shoot hoops in the winter. (Yes, there's open adults-only basketball too - but I can't tell you how much I love it when the teenagers will shoot with my 7-year-old. He loves it too.) Cons: 1) I HATE the locker rooms. There is a family locker room which is totally servicable for the 10 minutes I have to get my kids dressed after swimming. The adult locker rooms are just ewww. Anyone wishing for a spa-like experience would never choose this gym. I try to never shower or change clothes there - just go home instead. 2) Hate stressing about getting my kids into swim lessons. Every 7 weeks. 3) It's a total maze. I'm actually used to it - but I remember coming in when I joined and thinking "ANNOYING!" It still is but now at least I mostly know where I'm going. read more

Clean, non intimidating, convenient hours and tons of equipment. This gym really has it all. Also, conveniently next to the Paulina Brown Line stop if you want to work out before or after work. I was member for about 8 months and have no complaints other than the price at $50. (cancelled because I'm moving) That said, I've looked at cheaper gyms and their quality is not up to par or they're far smaller. So for what you get at the Y, the money is worth it. They even have a parking lot which costs a mere 50 cents to park in for members per visit. Another benefit, if you're a member at this or any YMCA in the city you have access to the other Y's in the metro area, giving you the option to switch it up every once in a while and try out a new place. read more

Extremely budget friendly option. It's a no frills kinda place, and it gets the job done. The equipment is being updated on a consistent basis. I really joined for the classes. The instructors are top-notch. The classes offer something for everyone. The pool is great as well. read more

I've been a member for about 3 or 4 years and consistently going (at least) twice a week for the last 1.5 years. I am HUGE fan of their childcare and group fitness classes: I have been taking my 1.5 year old daughter to the 'Mazing Kids Center since she was about 12 weeks old and we are very pleased with the facility; the staff are friendly, the toys look dynamic (I have never been IN the play area; kids/staff only) and I rarely have to be pulled away from my workout to tend to her (I think it has happened twice). As far as the fitness classes go, Mondale's "Ultimate Power" circuit training class on Tuesdays (lower body) & Thursdays (upper body) is AMAZING. It is a very challenging but so, so very rewarding: it has made me strong and given marvelous muscle-definition to my middle-aged body. Mondale always mixes up the routine week-to-week so we never get bored and he plays the best mix of music to keep the class pumping. If you have the stamina, his "Absolute Abs" class immediately follows and each session is just as varied and well-taught. I also love Mari's Hatha Yoga on Fridays. Her thick accent doesn't give any hints as to where she is from or where she trained but she is VERY well-versed in the proper Sanskrit names for each pose which alludes to her master practitioner status. Overall a lovely, calm class with plenty of variety for more challenging modifications. read more

THE GYM: FIrstly, the actual gym area is pretty good. There is always a treadmill open even during after work hours. They have a passable array of weight machines. They keep the area pretty cool with fans and air conditioning and heaters in the winter. LOCATION: Great! Easy access off the brown line. Very safe. Parking lot is always full, but if you have the right parking pass, you can usually find free street parking. THE YOGA CLASS: The WORST YOGA CLASS I've ever been to EVER. The teacher was obviously NOT certified to teach. She kept calling the asanas by the wrong name.... she did not give ample instructions or demonstrations, which could result in injuries for less experienced yogis. The class was not challenging at all. The room was freezing, and the air conditioning kept rattling. Overall, I walked away angry, not what you expect from a yoga class. I'd rather pay $15 for a studio class. THE LADIES LOCKER ROOM: Is nasty. I deal with it and try to get in and out. THE POOL: Not 25 yards, but it is relatively clean. I wish there were more lap hours. The water is a bit warm for lap swimming. OVERALL: For a gym with no contract and a under $50/month price tag, it's okay. I'd rather belong to the Lake View Y than not. read more

First, a quiz: 1) Do you think paying any more than $50/month for a gym is a bit much? 2) Do you think the gym is a great place to pick up guys/chicks? 3) Are you, like, a meathead? If you answered "no" to any of these questions, you should probably look into the Y, because it's about as good as it gets. Ample cardio machines that are compatible with iPods and Nike +, tons of weight machines and roomy free weight areas. Class schedule, as others have pointed out, is massive and most are included in your membership. Because the Y is family-based, they do offer a lot for families, including youth camps, classes and discounted family memberships, but you can still enjoy it as simply a gym even if you can't pick up on these perks quite yet. Only downside is I wish it were easier to move around inside the building--the current set-up requires you to enter through the locker rooms on the sides of the entrance instead of being able to head right into the cardio rooms, which can be a pain if you're cramped for time. Everything else has been smooth sailing, though! read more

I'm gonna have to edit this after I try out more equipment and maybe classes, but so far so good. I went in to promote a fundraising event I had in Lincoln Park and was trying to target 20's and 30's crowd, so they let me put flyers by the entrance and some in the locker room. Very nice and cool. Suddenly, I decided to tour the place officially as a potential member. The dude took me to every corner of this MAZE. It's an old building with all sorts of little rooms, stairs, tricks and corners. I seriously get lost in the men's locker room and look like a fool when I semi-confidently turn a corner and see a white wall. It has different work out rooms, for cardio, or weights, the pool, sauna, lots of lockers, and....A great basketball court! Which has a track on top in case you want to run in circles and look at games, or are staying warm and waiting for your next game. There's also parking--you pay 5 bucks for every ten visits. They have a lot right next to the building, and the 5 bucks gets you 10 tokens that you can use each time. This is if you want to be hassle free because the area is dense and it's difficult to find parking. However, you can if you try. As for the people I've met on the court, they're cool guys, positive attitude, good talent, good sportsmanship. Liking the YMCA! I also have one by my home in Logan Square which is smaller, no pool but does have a bball court. It's equally cool, although more family-oriented. The Lakeview feels like a "regular" gym, with people in their 20's 30's etc working out, although I'm sure it has family programs. read more

I like Lakeview YMCA! I don't go as often as I should, and I know that. And that's my fault. Yes, it's not as fancy as X-Sport, or Athletic Club, but for a normal looking girl, I feel comortable (and pretty attractive) at this gym. The desk staff are really friendly, and the price is terrific. They have everything I need (although a few more treadmills would be nice for those really packed days), and the machines are up to date and easy to use. My only complaints are about the people- there are gym wipes. Use them. I don't want to sit in your butt sweat, nor do I want to wipe it off for you. Also, grunting or whatever is natural, but keep the volume to a lower decible. Please, don't sit at a machine and not use it when other people are waiting. And finally to the weird old men (who are generally not there- don't be afraid!), I'm at the gym- I look gross, and I'm not there to make new friends. Please don't try and talk to me as I try to use the weights. Beside that, the Y is great, and I really have no excuse not to be there more! Definetely a great price, and a good gym! read more

Convenient: Check Affordable: Check Clean: Check Friendly staff: Check No contract: Check Free classes (including yoga and pilates): Check No girls wearing make-up and/or muscle building wannabes: Check The list goes on. I mean, OK, the YMCA isn't perfect. There's no internet cafe or juice bar. There's no towel service or spa. There aren't state of the art machines that defy gravity. But people looking for that can spend $100 a month and workout elsewhere. If you work for a large company, see if you're eligible for the corporate rate, which is just them waiving the initiation fee. read more

I think the biggest reason to join is the month to month thing. Having worked in a bank I've seen more people try to stop memberships at other gyms with no success...month to month makes your life easier. okay small detail. Reasons to join: classes, tons of classes of mostly everything. 2) new equipment for the most part---belonged to other gyms that had outdated broke equipment...not here 3) ymca impact the community more than say an x-port 4)pool although it sucks 5) 47 bux aint bad a month for the flexibility of month to month 6) can get you into other y's out of town not to join 1) elitism 2) dooche friends 3) you need mirrors 24/7 to work out read more

This is the third Y in Chicago (well, anywhere) that I've joined. As Ys go, this one is pretty great. The staff is friendly, everything is clean, I never have trouble getting onto the equipment I want to use (even at 6pm, which seems to be a peak time), and there are lock boxes behind the check-in desk if you are concerned about leaving any wallets/phones/jewelry in a regular locker. Also a big plus: there aren't a lot of stinky areas. The Irving Park Y always smelled like smoke to me, but this location is A-OK in the smells department. The only really stinky area is the free weights room, which seems understandable as everyone in there always seems to be sweating profusely. And a tiny landing outside that room is sometimes kind of smokey smelling, but that's it (and it takes about 3 steps to pass through that area, so not a big deal at all). I never work out with a trainer or attend classes, so I can't speak to those aspects here, but all the basic functions of a gym are covered here. My only gripe is that the hot tubs are in the locker rooms. My husband and I used to sit in the hot tub for a few minutes together after swimming back when the New City Y was still open, but that isn't an option here. Not a big deal though. I know a few people in their reviews have complained about this building being a labyrinth, and it's true that there are a few floors and twists and turns to master. It took me a few visits to get it down, but after a time or two getting from point A to B, you'll know you way without any problems. The only issue with this for me is that to get from the lady's locker room to the exercise room I like to use, I have to walk through the free weight room (which wouldn't be an issue, except for the stink mentioned above). Final awesome point: it's only a 1/2 block walk to the Paulina stop, and a 1/2 block in the opposite direction to a Whole Foods. So, easy access for the post- or pre-work commute as well as convenient for a quick post-workout snack that you won't regret. Is this gym perfect? No. But for the price, and given that it has a pool, I don't think I could find anything better. read more

I have been a member of the Lakeview Y for over 20 years. I think it is a great facility and the thing I love most about the Y is my pilates instructor, Mari. She is an outstanding teacher and I love working with her. read more

I used to go to this YMCA when I lived in Chicago. The equipment was fine, they always had wipes to wipe the equipment and the location was conveniently located near the Paulina stop. My issue was with one of the ladies behind the counter. Almost all of the staff members were nice, except this one mean rude lady. When I first signed up, she didn't even acknowledge me for almost a minute despite standing in front of her. Very rude. Never smiled, but the other woman who was not handling my registration was very nice and friendly. The gentlemen downstairs at the desk were nice and friendly too. It was just that mean lady that put me off to this location. Her bad attitude made me feel like I wasn't welcomed. Would not recommend this place if that mean lady still works there. read more

The New to Chicago Gym Guide Ahhhh I never thought I'd see the day when I joined a YMCA, if for no other reason than that ridiculously annoying song. In either case, I find the Y is just ok when comparing to other clubs. For starters, the main attractions for joining the Y are the pricing and lack of contracts. I think one thing that really bothered me was that at every other club in the city you had to sign up for like 27 months at a time, either as requirement or to get a rate that isn't some kind of ridiculous. Also it seems like you have to pay an enrollment or processing fee (what? it costs $50 to have the person who gave me a tour put my application in a file cabinet?). There is a one time sign up fee and for $70 per person (family rate) you've got a gym membership. If you don't need anything too fancy or glamorous, the Y essentially has it all; pool, bball court, showers, locker room, free weights, classes, running track, etc. There's a fair amount of treadmills, a good size stretch area and most of your average weight machines. I think probably one of the most misleading things is the size of place. Everything is really spread out so it makes the club seem a lot bigger than it really is. I know typical gym rush hour is before and after work but it seems like there are too many people for a few of the really popular machines. Even coming at off times it seemed like there were just certain machines I couldn't use because someone was always on them. Also, while treadmills are in abundance, getting an upright bike or a stair stepper near busy times means you'll definitely be waiting. The equipment is weird too. It's kind of just a hodgepodge of random stuff they seemed to acquire from somewhere. There will be really nice treadmills or elliptical machines but then some crusty ones. Some of the Olympic plate weights don't match and the weight room feels a bit cramped especially during busy time. Again, nothing really wrong but I feel like there are too many members for too few machines. Unfortunately I think I was just looking for something more or different. read more

I have to give credit to the Y for providing a great low-cost option. A monthly membership here is 1/2 to 1/3 what it would be at other gyms in town, and it's month-to-month so you can cancel any time you want. The trade off comes with the facility quality. They have a good number of treadmills (of varying quality), but not nearly enough weight equipment or benches. There is also a major ventilation problem in the weight room as well as the hallways. The weight room is hot and stuffy--during the summer months it becomes downright uncomfortable--and predicting the odor in any particular hallway makes a fun guessing game (well, it was cigarette smoke last time... ooh now it's bacon and a Hot Pocket!). I think the Y's price tends to attract people who aren't of the gym rat mindset, so workout etiquette is not the best. Many people treat the weight machines as a seat to rest up for their next set. Parking is usually pretty good, but can get tough depending on the time of day. read more

For the price, you really can't find a better gym. The employees (with one exception) are very friendly. Cleanliness---yep, it's always clean & tidy. Equipment---lots of cardio, and a decent (not great) selection of free weights. It can get busy around 6:00-7:00, but never overly crowded. Parking. Yep, they have free street parking (after 6:00P) and a parking lot that takes tokens (50 cents). Once again, the price---$69 a couple---NO initiation fee! Clean, friendly gym. I recommend. read more

You get what you pay for...this is about the cheapest gym I have seen. It has all the things you need to just work out. Weights, machines, basketball court, racketball, pool. The staff is nice, and will help you out. All in all its a fine place if you want to run a few miles or lift a few weights. If you want to play basketball, however, find somewhere else. They do have a court...a very small court...the pick up games are 4 vs. 4 because the court is so small. It is also packed...you will most likely stand in line to play from anywhere from 10 min to 30 depending on the time. Most of the YMCA is decent, but this is probably the worst part of it. read more

The Lakeview YMCA is an experience. In one sense I feel like there are a lot of people all waiting to get on the same treadmill or elliptical machine-- in another sense, where else can you work out in such a unique environment, like, next to an old fireplace? The staff here is friendly, but don't count on there being sanitizing wipes to wipe off the equipment. And don't expect a towel. This is a YMCA where everyone is on their own. All in all, I had a good experience with the Lakeview Y, but with other gyms around the corner offering a lot of extras and nearly the same monthly rate, it's hard stay...unless you really dig the atmosphere, which is pretty cool. read more

I've been a member at the Lakeview YMCA for over two years now and it keeps getting better! I love that I'm always able to use the equipment I want and the gym is clean and well cared for. I especially love Turbo Kick!! Jackie is a GREAT instructor with tons of energy. I also participated in personal training last year with Carrie (who is amazing, but no longer with the Y.) Overall, highly satisfied!!! read more

Contrary to my experience with Xsport - YMCA is wonderful! I took advantage of their promo where you try the gym on a Saturday in July and then if you join your joiners fee is waived. The gym was clean, the staff was helpful, and the price was unbeatable. Better yet, signing up for a membership was easy, painless, and instant. Where at Xsport there was a ridiculous process and I felt completely cheated, YMCA was straightforward and reasonable. I've only been a member a few days and I can tell you that if you're looking for a gym in the neighborhood this is your best option and you will be satisfied! read more

Yes it is not the nicest gym in Chicago, and no there isn't a pool on the roof with a view, but it is budget friendly, and in my neighborhood. Staff is generally nice, and very helpful. I lift, cycle, and take a few other classes, and I have to give a shout out to Bernadette. I have used three other instructors and none of the others compare, at least in my opinion. She pushes the students to be better, and my stamina and body has drastically changed in the last four months. I am male, I've lost 23 lbs, and I now weigh 151 lbs and can fit in size 31" jeans. It was all about the diet, and the Y. I have also been taking cycling long enough to see that she constantly changes up the routines. I guess I just like her energy and you'd have to take a class to see what I'm talking about. BIG thank you to Bernadette and the Y. read more

I have a confession: I have gone my whole life without stepping foot in a gym. I've always been a little intimidated but finally wanted to get back into shape. My boyfriend had a membership for awhile so I used his guest passes to check this place out. The Y isn't fancy, but it has everything I need. There is a good assortment of equipment and a lot of the cardio machines are newer. I never have a problem finding an empty machine although that probably has to do with the time I go. They also offer a variety of classes such as spin, yoga and Zumba which I'd like to take eventually. The membership fee, especially for a couple, is very affordable. Who needs the $200/month fancy gym in my building at work? Oh, and this place is not intimidating at all! I always hear jokes about people you see at the gym but it's just regular folks working out and minding their own business. The only negative is that this place is a maze! I'm still figuring out how to get around! read more

Convenient, affordable and something for everyone. The facilities are modest, but over the years have improved. I mainly use the pool these days for both lap swim and water aerobics classes, but I checked out the newer cardio room a few weeks ago... very nice! The pool schedule can be a pain in the neck, because Lakeview accommodates the range of its membership: little kid classes, senior Arthritis Foundation approved water classes, older kid swm teams, private lessons, adult H2O conditioning and regular,ol' lap adult lap swimmers. I would love to get laps in early in the evening instead of waiting until 8-9pm. It is small pool (4 lanes and only 20yrds long) - so you either need to make peace with it (and make peace with sharing your lane. I'm looking at you black-swim-trunk-balding-dude-who-gave-me-the-stink-eye-last-week) or move on. Also, for those who travel outside the area (e.g. visiting family in Boston), your Lakeview Y membership entitles you access to other YMCAs for no-to-minimal fee. I have flirted with other Ys - namely High Ridge and Leaning Tower - and their pools were a bit nicer (and regulation length), but something about Lakeview's charms - from using the cardio equipment in a gothic, wood-paneled room to the small, almost communal showers - that keeps me coming back. Yay, I love the Lakeview Y! read more