As a guy, I wasn't quite sure what to expect initially from Pilates - but what I've learned from…read morethe talented and experienced instructors at the Pilates Core is that this body conditioning system can be truly transformative and, despite current stereotypes, is not just for women. There are plenty of articles that explore this in greater depth, but suffice to say that I've really enjoyed the physical challenges and rewards of Pilates. I HIGHLY recommend the Pilates Core, whether you're just starting out (as I did 18 months ago) or if you're an advanced practitioner. The Romana's Pilates-certified instructors are friendly but also push/motivate to maximize your workout. When I started, I was pretty strong but really inflexible, and they've been able to focus on developing greater flexibility as well as core strength development. Why do I continue to study at the Pilates Core? -Romana's Pilates Certification: In short, I trust that my instructors are experienced, educated, and authentic. -The Results: In combination with a change in diet, I lost more than 30 pounds (5'10", went from 190+lbs. to 160 lbs.) after beginning Pilates, and have developed greater core strength and increased flexibility. I owe a lot to Pilates, as it reinforces the body-mind connection and has been a major component of my health-conscious lifestyle. -The Value: Again, this is authentic Pilates, and I'm fortunate to be able to study under such a quality program. I see myself continuing as a lifelong Pilates student.

The Pilates Core is outstanding! All of the instructors are certified in Romana's Pilates, which is…read moreessentially the truest form of Pilates. Romana Kryzanowska was a student of Joseph Pilates himself (his protege); therefore, the Pilates taught here is extremely true to its original form. (Beware of Pilates classes at gyms and rec centers--they are often NOT true to the original.) The Pilates Core offers classes (mat, reformer, and other) at varying levels as well as private instruction. I have done both and found all of the instructors to be very attentive and friendly. They will challenge you but will also be mindful of your needs. I originally started Pilates here to assist me with physical therapy for an injury - not only did I get stronger and healthier, but I got hooked! I've been a student here for over 3 years now. Pilates is an extraordinary way to get stronger, leaner, and healthier. I think it's great regardless of your athletic ability, gender, size, or even if you have had an injury--they will meet you were you're at and you'll progress from there. I have never felt better, and I owe so much of it to The Pilates Core! They also have plenty of evening and weekend availability for those of us with day jobs, and I have found them to be extremely accommodating in terms of scheduling.

Eva Rosenthal is the pilates instructor here and has gotten me to love Pilates. She teaches…read moreclassical mat and reformer classes; I got a 3- mat class groupon. Her small classes are challenging, tailored to my specific needs, and makes me feel strong. Eva is an encouraging, patient, and is clearly passionate about Pilates and teaching. Her mat classes go through a circuit of classical Pilates positions that focus on building your core strength, increasing flexibility, and breaking bad habits like poor posture, improper breathing, and overusing your neck and shoulders which results in painful knots (my problem). The building is a bit hard to find and you have to go up to the 3rd floor. Don't let the exterior or the stairs deter you, Eva has a created a great space. Her mats are high quality, new and comfortable. She also has 3 reformer mats which are for more advanced students. Class sizes are very small so you get individualized attention. If you are at all interested in taking Pilates classes from someone caring and knows her stuff, I highly recommend Eva at Pilates Road!

I absolutely love Spark Fitness! All the trainers are incredibly kind and talented. Josh is always…read moreupbeat, positive and helpful. Ted is super motivating and is always helping you reach your goals. Whether it's mental clarity, physical strength or general fitness- I have found there is always a place for it at Spark. I used to lift and train all the time, but after having my two kids, I could not get back into a routine I didn't dread, could sustain, and delivered results. I am SO happy I walked through the doors at Spark and found this awesome team of people who are somehow equally laid back (because no one wants to be intimidated at the gym) AND at the same time motivating (because it feels amazing to get the most out of your workout and see results). I love the format- like personal training but with flexibility- having professional workouts and guidance while being able to go at your own pace. I genuinely look forward to signing up, I am excited about my workouts, I feel awesome before during and after AND the results feel pretty awesome. Highly recommend!

I've been going to Spark Fitness Hinsdale for the past 2 years. Ted and the whole team are awesome,…read morethey keep things fun, motivate you, and push you just the right amount to help you get better. It's such a great group and I always leave feeling better than when I walked in. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a place that keeps you motivated and makes working out something you actually enjoy.

Mariel is an amazing instructor. I would agree that it is one of the best kept secrets in…read moreLockport. I am no athlete, but she has helped me become one. I have amazing balance and strength. Both of which I never had before. I always struggled going to the gym. Now, I look forward to my workouts! It's never the same, and I love meeting the people in my classes!

Patriot Pilates in Lockport Il, is the best kept secret in the southwest suburbs of Chicago. The…read moreowner, Mariel has over 2 decades of personal training, and Pilates reformer instruction. Her location on 159th St in Lockport, in the Coombs plaza, is on a main thoroughfare and easily accessible since it is right off of I355. The studio not only offers Reformer, they have Bungee, Yoga, Sculpt, and over 30 classes every week! The instructors here are all top notch, experienced and attentive to your fitness needs. If you have heard about Pilates and ever wanted to see what the buzz is all about, this is the best place to start. They will welcome you with open arms and you will love the vibe here. Best ever Pilates studio-and I've been a student here since Patriot 1st opened 8 years ago.

Okay I will be the first one to admit that I do not like exercise of any kind. However, back and…read morestress issues and the persistent recommendation of my doctor to find and stay with some sort of activity, led me to try pilates at Embody Movement Pilates. Becky is the instructor for the group reformer pilates class that I take. Two words - LOVE IT! I actually look forward to going. The class size is small, the instructor Becky is actively engaged in making sure that you are doing it right, and understands how to modify the moves if you need an accommodation. My stress level has started to lessen as well. If you are a beginner, don't hesitate to take a pilates class at Embody Movement Pilates Studio. I wish I had started sooner.

This studio is wonderful. I've been to so many of the larger chain studios and the quality of the…read moreinstruction is just so subpar compared with what you get at EMPS. Sarah is incredibly knowledgeable about everything related to the body, movement and anatomy - you can tell just by reading her blog. Highly recommend this studio to people coming to Pilates for the first time or with an advanced practice.

An AMAZING community, owned by the best couple- Kelly & Jared. Since day one I've benefited from…read morethe excellent and knowledgeable coaches, warm community, fun events, and the variety of CrossFit, Hyrox and Olympic lifting classes!

I have been a member of Iron Flag for several months and I have learned to love coming to the gym…read more This is no small feat, since I am 61 years old, and I can honestly say I have never felt that before. I belonged to a different gym that closed late summer and I was looking for a place that would push me. I didn't even know what Crossfit was. But co-owner, Kelly, really impressed me with her intelligent questions about my health history, and Ioved how many women coaches there were at the gym, and felt the place had a great, down to earth vibe. I now attend weekday at 6:30 a.m. classes religiously and usually go to a class on the weekends. They will scale to your level and encourage you at the same time. I also thought I ate well (no flour, no sugar, and no alcohol), but I am working with co-owner Jared on my nutrition and upping my energy level and mental clarity. I appreciate the inspiration of those around me who can lift hundreds of lbs and do muscle ups, while I am working my training bar. Hey, it takes a village! My doctor is thrilled and I have gained several lbs of muscle in a few months! Check this place out. You will be glad you did!

Absolutely love this gym! The workouts are always challenging! There are many opportunities to go…read moreto classes and the classes are small which allows the instructor to actually focus on if you are using correct form. No class is the same and im always being challenged. I also love the self defense classes that are added each year!

I have been working out at Finetix Fitness 5.0 in Naperville/Lisle since September of 2018 and I…read morehave seen some great results! Tori is awesome...she is a great motivator and really knows how to cater a great circuit trained workout. First of all, there are no contracts to sign a 6 or 12 month agreement nor do you have to pre-pay 6 months in advance. Last July/August I was looking for a "boot camp" style work out to get back into shape. There was another fitness place, that wanted a 12 month "contract" where you pre-paid for 6 months at a time for $250-400 per month....for a very similar workout schedule/set up as what Tori has at Finetix Fitness 5.0. I found this place on Facebook and I texted the number and got a reply back in half an hour or so. Tori was professional and avoided any negative statements about other fitness places around...she spoke to me directly and up front and stated what she can provide. I signed up for the boot camp option and here I am, roughly 6 months later, I purchase a 12 sessions of one-on-one training along with the boot camp, and circuit training(we did, upper body, lower body, abs, cardio, boxing, etc) types of workouts...I spent roughly $60/month for 6 months plus roughly $200 worth of personal training, and I am extremely happy with the results...a lot less than spending $400/month for a year...I didn't break the bank to get the results...I suggest, eat healthy and just show up and be ready to workout for 45

I absolutely love this gym! I used to be an Orangetheory member but to be honest the prices is what…read moreinitially attracted me (I'm paying half as much as I did at OTF). But that's not all. The coaches are so motivational and encouraging, they meet you where you're at and challenge you to put your best effort in. The workouts really get you sweating. Its a mix of treadmills, water rowers, and synergy station (body weight, weights, trx, and terracore station). I never though my heart rate could increase while weight training but I'm in the fat burning zone most of the time. Lastly what makes this gym awesome is the saunas! The personal sauna's promote healing and are super relaxing. You can use it individually or with a friend or two. You can even bluetooth your music to them. Overall I've loved my experience with Red Effect, I only wish they'd open more locations!