Great trainers and big facility. The exercises were easy enough to follow but complex that it keeps your mind engaged as well. The bathrooms were clean and they have showers. They give you a cool towel after your workout which I found thoughtful. Will be back ! read more

Beautiful large well-appointed faculty with excellent staff and trainers. Ample classes including every day at noon. Will return next time I'm in Chicagoland. read more

This is - hands down - the best neighborhood gym I've ever worked out at. I've been a member at other gyms that turned out disappointing, poor quality, or unprofessional. It was refreshing to find UA. Jonathan and his team are engaging and thoughtful fitness professionals. The trainers are clearly committed to client's success and there's such a strong, supportive community here - zero attitudes! The equipment is high quality and well maintained. I tend to work out mornings and while it's got a good buzz with classes happening and people working out, I never struggle to find equipment. Plus it's full featured, with a steam room, towel service, and very clean locker room and showers. Thanks for creating a true fitness community in the neighborhood! read more

Happy to report that because this gym has been under new ownership since May, previous issues have been resolved. The new owners are incredibly helpful and responsive in their efforts in making this one of the best gyms in the city. read more

The classes are so well run. They are safe, and there is a great group atmosphere. The trainers and staff are professional and friendly. The gym itself is clean and well organized. read more

Great instructors who genuinely care about us and our form, awesome class variety and a wonderful, supportive community: you come as a participant and leave as a friend :) I should also mention that you get results!! read more

It's been a few years but I miss this gym. It was clean, staff were nice and called me by my name right away. I got so fit on the cycling classes. I loved the scented towels after classes. I'm trying to find a new gym in my new city and having a pity party cuz nothing compares. read more

This place is excellent! The facility is clean and well-equipped and the trainers are friendly, supportive and informative. Somehow this gym has made me look forward to going!! The participants are friendly and the music is great. read more

Writing this review on behalf of my girlfriend, who has been suffering through an inordinately baffling and expensive ordeal in trying to cancel her membership. She was told a month ago that they were freezing her account and that a supervisor would call back with cancellation instructions. When nobody called her back, and Urban Athlete charged her credit card for another month, she called and was told that she'd have to come in to the gym to complete the cancellation. Be forewarned if you're trying to cancel your membership--this business will try to get another month or two of membership dues from you before "allowing" you to discontinue doing business with them. Shameful. read more

I've been a member here since July and I love it so far! My previous gym only had one squat rack, no fitness classes, and was very bare bones. Switching membership to this gym was definitely an upgrade for me. The facilities are always clean and well kept. The staff is very friendly and helpful. I've taken quite a few fitness classes here and I will say that they are quite fun and challenging. But there is definitely no pressure if you're a beginner and can't keep up. Working at your own pace is encouraged. I also appreciate how hassle free joining this gym was. It is also not a pain to downgrade or upgrade your membership. I currently just use the gym alone (no class membership) because it works better for me at this time and it was very easy to switch over. I'm planning on staying with this gym for quite a while. I've been pretty happy so far! read more

I highly recommend Urban Athlete. It's a great neighborhood gym with tons of space, lots of equipment, and lots of options for group classes. If you're looking for a gym that is well maintained, amazing trainers, and awesome members this is a great gym for you. And it's locally owned! Gotta support our local businesses! I'm really excited about the new Urban Athlete location coming soon in Lincoln Park. Though it is closed right now because of the pandemic, they are lending out their equipment to members, which is super thoughtful of them. I am looking forward to checking this place out as soon as it opens up! read more

Before I enrolled at Urban Athlete, I was a skinny weakling who couldn't bench press his way out of a wet paper bag. Now I can lift a bag of mulch clean over my head at Home Depot without any help from my wife. This place is great: classes are challenging, instructors are top-notch, the fitness analytics/points are highly motivating, the facilities and equipment clean, modern, and well-organized. A very strong recommend. read more

God, I love this gym. It's my local gym, I live in the Lincoln Square area. First found out about it through Groupon last March and decided I needed a new routine (I was doing Barre and outdoor running/biking). I stuck around because I really could not be happier with it! The owner Aj is so personable and really knows his stuff and the trainers are fun and motivating, also very knowledgeable. The new location is BEAUTIFUL- new cycling room, gorgeous locker rooms, cool layout, good class space, good music sound, some treadmills and cardio machines. I only take small-group classes (which are about 45 minutes) and am extremely happy with the options for class types and times. I think there are like 15 different class types (maybe more!) so something for everyone. I normally am a 5am'er as I'm an early bird so it's great to have such an early option because a lot of places do not. They have such a good variety of work outs going on and I'm telling you I never leave feeling like I could've done more! And if I do that's only my own lazy fault lol. There is a great mix of people that come in here too, which I love. You've got younger, older, male, female, athletes, beginners, etc. No matter your body type or activity level coming in, they make you feel comfortable and push you to your goals. Altogether, it's a great neighborhood gym vibe, love that everybody knows your face and name, and very effective and efficient classes! read more

Urban Athlete - Trainers Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I don't write Yelp reviews unless I feel extremely compelled one way or the other, but I felt it was time that I finally gave Urban Athlete the ink that it truly deserves. I began my journey at UA about two years ago--I'd walked past the storefront countless times on my way to and from Mariano's but it looks a little intimidating to me so I always kept walking. Finally, I reached a point where I was tired of throwing away money at a big box gym chain that was neither convenient nor particularly inspiring--I paid a visit to UA well, the rest is history. It's a smaller gym with VERY intense classes and they will all kick your butt. The instructors here are knowledgeable, motivating, creative, and professional. I've struggled with knee pain all my life and I often need modifications on exercises, which they'll happily give to you without being discouraging to your challenges. There is a wide variety of classes available 7 days a week and they change the schedule up seasonally so that you don't fall into a rut. I'm in my early 40's and in the best shape of my life from a strength and conditioning standpoint, and I credit a large portion of this to Urban Athlete--they make challenging workouts fun and I look forward to planning my week around my morning workouts. I have also recently signed a lease at a new apartment and one of my Must-Have points of criteria while I was searching was "Must be within 1mi of Urban Athlete"--I'm happy to say that I was successful and I'll still be able to be a member of UA even after I move. Oh, and some other selling points--the facilities are gorgeous (complete with rotating art installations and very chic fixtures & finishes), they have very flexible membership plans, cold towels after every workout, and free coffee in the AM. If you're looking to get serious about your fitness UA your place. I can't recommend it enough. read more

I've been going to gyms for a long time. Urban Athlete Ravenswood is easily the best gym in the city. Excellent quality of instruction in every class, consistent member following, a familial atmosphere. Most importantly,, I am inspired by my fellow members who encourage me to work out harder and lift heavier weights. I truly love this gym and the people. read more

UA is one of the best gyms I have belonged. The space is always super clean, has all the equipment you need and definitely doesn't have that basic Big Box gym feeling. The trainers and staff know your names, are super friendly and the people that go there are just as friendly. The classes are fun, small and very tough ( see Chris D!). Whether you are recovering from an injury or a beginner to working out , The exercises can be tailored and modified to each person and the trainers don't mind. They are very attentive and want to make sure you are doing things the right way! You never feel like you get lost in the mix. I'm so happy I joined and would recommend it to anyone looking to join a new spot. read more

This is hands down the best gym I have ever been a member of. UA has the best classes and trainers and you will never feel intimidated. Everyone is so nice. read more

I had worked out on-and-off for years with large spans between the on times...until I found Urban Athlete. Now, I consistently work out at least 3 days a week and have for the last 3.5 years! I'm in the best shape of my life and I have UA to thank for that. The owners, staff and trainers always exceed my expectations when it comes to gym cleanliness (there is always someone cleaning the floors, locker rooms and equipment), service (fresh towels, smiles at the door, informed staff) and quality. They offer a variety of classes and no class is ever the same (I'm never bored). The trainers are experienced and care enough to correct my form during class, offer alternative exercises when needed and ask for my feedback. And even when the gym can't be open, I love the videos they've been posting on YouTube and how they're keeping the UA family connected on social. read more

Urban Athlete was the first gym I ever joined and will likely be the best I'll ever go to. I had always been pretty intimidated to join a gym, as I was entirely clueless about what exercises to do, how to do them, and how ridiculous I would look trying to figure all that out. The group classes they offer instantly took all of that fear away. AJ explained which classes would be most beneficial in complementing my training as a cyclist, and came up with a mock schedule of classes I could attend almost every day of the week. The price of the gym did seem a little high to me up front, but I have no regrets or doubts that it was worth it. All of the equipment is kept immaculately clean, and the locker rooms always smell and look great. They really pay attention to every detail here. In regards to the classes, the workouts are designed to be challenging but not overly so. The trainers are always willing to adapt a particular workout to any individual's needs. I also received countless helpful feedback from the trainers, which as a total novice, I most definitely needed and appreciated. I would recommend Urban Athlete to anyone in a heartbeat, and hope to live close enough to join again someday! read more

I love this gym. I'm no athlete, mind you, and I've always been intimidated by "cross fit" and that sort of thing. Although the monthly cost is a little intimidating too, honestly it is absolutely worth it. You get what you pay for as they say. The instructors are marvelous, the facilities are clean and nice, front desk staff are great. And anyway, there's no joining fee (yay) and you can pause your membership anytime you need to or reduce the number of classes-- it's super flexible in that way which I really like. The classes themselves are amazingly fun and fast and effective. Only 45 minutes long, but every second counts. After three months I can definitely feel the difference, in endurance and strength. read more

I love this place. In early 2013 I decided I really needed to get into better shape, but most gyms seemed VERY intimidating and I felt I really needed personal attention. I checked out one of the group training classes at UA, and though I couldn't quite handle them because I was in such poor shape, I liked the vibe of this place and signed up for twice-weekly personal training. So I have gone from someone who would not set foot in a gym to someone who HATES missing a training session. I lost 30 pounds in the first three months and over the past 30 months I have gotten into the best shape of my life. This gym is for every age group--most clients are fairly young but I just turned 60. The staff really feels like a family to me. I like Urban Athlete so much that I got their logo tattooed on my arm. After all, they were responsible for GETTING me the biceps I have today! And the new gym--which is just up the street from the previous location--is incredible! Lots of new features and five times the space. If you're looking for personal attention, don't look to a place like LA Fitness for it; just walk a block south on Ravenswood and check out Urban Athlete instead. read more

Great gym, great staff, great people. You couldn't pick a better gym. The classes are great and diverse. The gym is well equipped and always clean. Its a gym for adults who want to get in shape and have fun doing it! read more

Urban Athlete has me enjoying the gym again. I joined UA when they were at their old location, but the move a few blocks North cemented what is my best experience with a gym, ever. People From the friendly "hello" by Autumn at the front desk, to the ability to talk directly to the owners, AJ and Nelle, and just a lot of down-to-earth clients who don't take themselves too seriously (but do want to get healthier), all make this a great place to join. I'm always comfortable working out here with both the trainers and fellow members around. Facilities I'm a huge fan of the new space. This is the gym I'd build for myself if I had a warehouse and a whole lotta cash. There's a great locker room, a cycle studio, a class studio, and a workout/equipment room that meets the balance of limited space, a lot of equipment, and thoughtful layout so that you can get your workout done and not trip all over people. The facility is always clean and the climate control is solid. Training and Classes The training mentality at Urban Athlete is designed to suit the needs of each member. They find out, early on, what your state of mind is regarding training, your goals, and the amount of "push" you need. Then, they customize your plan based on the feedback you give. I never feel pressured, but I appreciate the motivation I get when I need it. You have three options at UA when you join: Personal Training + Gym/Class, Semi-Private Training + Gym/Class, or simply Gym/Class access. I decided to use a trainer (Grant) for the first time ever, and the results have been terrific. Not only have I made great strides in my own workouts, my sessions with Grant have me walking away with a stronger core (my personal goal) and a knowledge about physical health I didn't have before. I can't recommend him enough if you decide on a trainer. I never took classes before joining Urban Athlete, but I now take a few routinely (Urban Flow yoga and Urban Restore yoga with Jaime) and some when I feel like it (Urban CSC and Urban Power). The other people in my classes are just like me, not trying to kill ourselves, but wanting to get in shape and needing the push a class setting can give. Bottom Line If you are looking to get more than the "economy gym" experience, then Urban Athlete is a terrific option to consider for all of the reasons above. AJ and crew should be proud of what they've built over the years in Urban Athlete, because it's impressive. read more

What if, instead of a bar where everyone knows your name, you had a gym where everyone knows your name?! That's what I've found at Urban Athlete! While living in the area, almost 2 years ago, I decided to give UA a try and I haven't stopped going back since! The classes are small and challenging, taught by personal trainers that make sure you're doing things correctly and will push you to make sure you're getting the most of the class. The personal trainers at UA are amazing, they pay attention to what's going on and will make changes to exercises if you have something bothering you, even giving different stretches you can do (in and out of the gym) to help with any pain. From the challenging classes to the weekly personal training sessions with Mike that seem more like working out with a friend than a personal trainer who's pushing you to your limits, I can't say enough good things about UA! I moved to Evanston and still make the trek back to Ravenswood to get the best workouts. The free parking and being across the street from the Metra make for the perfect location! read more

Good local gym. I do personal training here and have had two different trainers. Both have been very good. There seems to be a wide variety of training equipment and the facility is quite clean. I can easily recommend this gym. read more

I almost barfed after my first workout at UA, and it never got easier. That was a very, very good thing. If you feel like you're putting in the time but not getting the results you want, go take a class at Urban Athlete. Sometimes the only way to make progress is to step outside your comfort zone. AJ, Nelle, Greg, Grant, Jack, Jaime and the rest of the team at UA will push you outside your comfort zone and keep you there for the entire 45 minute workout. After 3 years of classes, I'm still shocked that you can accomplish so much in such a short time. It is, without a doubt, the most efficient workout in the city. The first few weeks will be rough. You will definitely be sore. If you can stick it out for 10 classes, you'll be hooked. Pair that up with an Eat Clean Challenge and you'll be on the way to completely transforming your body. After moving out of the neighborhood, I do not miss my old apartment, my easy commute to work, the things I had within walking distance, or really anything else. I do miss the crap out of this gym, though. Between the space, staff, community and overall value, there is absolutely nothing like it. read more

I have been, and continue to be, incredibly impressed with Urban Athlete. I have worked out at traditional gyms, AND personal training gyms before and this is as good as it gets. The trainers that I have worked out with are Greg (fantastic), Nelle (amazing) and Grant (truly outstanding). The ownership is truly committed to ensuring a fantastic experience from start to finish. The new facility is amazing - clean, beautiful locker rooms, a cool training space, and equipment you won't find at many gyms. The best part about this gym is that you are never bored -- they are smart enough to know that anyone can walk into a gym and do a bunch of arm curls and sit ups. The exercises are different every single time I have a training session. The staff takes the time to understand what YOUR particular needs are. They are also great about always bringing in new equipment and new techniques to ensure that you AND your muscles don't get bored. I have tried many of their boot camps and they have all been great AND a tough workout. I particularly like "Urban Power" Finally, I feel that the owners and trainers are extremely open and welcome to suggestions, demonstrating their commitment to customer service. HIGHLY recommended. read more

When you walk into Urban Athlete you are instantaneously approached with a sense of welcoming as a true member and individual instead of being just another scanned barcode like all your corporate gyms. As your comfort grows within the gym, so will the friendships and not just from other fellow members, but from the front desk staff trainers and owners. Whatever your goal may be, from repairing past injuries to wanting to becoming a better, stronger you, you will find it at this gym. You won't find an influx of machines or a bunch of dude-bros hogging the weights, dropping equipment and grunting to show off their bulging testosterone. In fact, you'll find the opposite and not in the sense of a bougie, white collared establishment. You'll find real people, with real body images trying their hardest to become their best self. You'll find the same faces trying just as hard as you, and if you're primarily a weight lifter (like myself) verses a class taker, than you'll see those members working hard to becoming strong and healthy. And those times you're struggling with a workout, you'll look over at them in the classes and you'll feel inspired. If you're look for a gym that epitomizes what an establishment for working out should be then this is it. No hidden costs, no bullshit, tough classes, trainers who are actually educated in their field, and everything you need to get the job done. Come check it out because there's always new tools to utilize in becoming a stronger athlete, and you'll definitely want a cold incense infused towel to cool down with. Trust. It'll change your post workout life. read more

I wanted to love UA. The facility is convenient, clean, and beautiful. I'm also obsessed with their signature towlette and soap scent-- weird, I know. I wish I could bottle that and take it with me! The ownership and staff is extremely nice and supportive, especially AJ and Nelle. I took one class with Grant and it was one of the best workouts I've ever had. I wish I could budget for the small group training because that looked like it was a great, functional workout with more concentrated instructor attention. My one major gripe that has ultimately led me to cancel is that, although classes are scheduled for 45 minutes, I found them to be more frequently in the 30 minute range, with at least one class ending right around 30 minutes. Time is money! Especially at over $100/month. read more

Absolutely love this place! This is the most dedicated I have been to a gym and these guys make it work. I look forward to my class every single day. There's an amazing choice of classes and amazing bunch of trainers. Aj, Nelle, Jameson, Jamie, Grant, Jack, Emily, Angie...love them all. Fab job all of you...my best Gym experience to date!!!! read more

I joined Urban Athlete gym almost 2 years ago and it's one of the best decisions I ever made! The work outs here are no joke. I still find myself on the verge of getting sick sometimes, especially if I've slacked off for a couple of weeks (or if I come in the morning after a few glasses of wine the night before...like I did this morning!!). If you like to train hard and fast with an AMAZING staff, this is the place for you. This isn't your traditional big box gym with people fighting over machines and all the other general annoyances that go with those gyms. In fact I wouldn't necessarily call this a gym at all, rather a personal training studio. Although you can work out on your own and have access to the equipment at any time with a membership, the program really revolves around working with a trainer, either in class or in a semi or private session. The staff is really what keeps me coming back. It's nice to walk in every morning and have everyone know your name and say hello. They are most friendly, professional, fun, and hard working crew I've ever worked out with. I've trained with almost all the trainers and they all bring something different to the table. On top of the work outs never being the same, the trainers all bring their own styles to your sessions. My body is still kept guessing after two years and I still get sore every week (in a good way). The clientele is also great here. It's competitive but not intimidating and it's small enough you get to see the same people most weeks. I hope I never move out the neighborhood so I never have to leave UA!!! Thanks for all you do!! read more

This is the first gym I have joined that is not a big box gym, and I am so happy I did. I did personal training weekly from February 2016 - October 2016. Mike Pileczka was my trainer during that entire period of time. The training approach was tailored to my goals, and Mike was always very conscious of checking in with me to make sure he understood my goals, and that I was comfortable with the work we were doing. Mike also did an excellent job of answering my questions, and I had many. He was available for advice in between our training sessions, and AJ, one of the owners was also frequently in touch to make sure I was happy. I always felt taken care of. Mostly importantly, they helped me achieve my goals - I am stronger, leaner, and I learned how to work out independently. If I need help with any exercise and health goals in the future, Mike is the first person I am calling (and I hope I find him at Urban Athlete!). In addition to personal training, I took many of the different classes. These classes are very different from, and much better than most of the classes I have taken at big box gyms. Class size is usually smaller, the exercises are explained well, and the instructors pay attention to how everyone is doing and offer advice/help when needed. The classes are also rigorous, and definitely played a role alongside my personal training in helping me achieve my goals. Just a much more personal, community feeling at this gym than everywhere else I've been a member. read more

I was in Chicago for the summer and wanted to join a gym while there. I did extensive research and whittled my choice down to three gyms--all offered a free day or week. I was intimidated to check out UA since I had belonged to an all women's gym for the last 15 years, but that melted away while getting a no-pressure tour from the very friendly Sean. I ended up taking a class that evening and quickly forgot about the other two gyms. I was in love with Urban Athlete! I had been working out 2-5 times a week in challenging classes at home, but quickly learned I was capable of far more. Urban Athlete offers 45 minute classes taught by the BEST trainers who push you to the max without being intense (ALL levels would feel welcome in this gym, for sure!). Each trainer runs an effective, challenging class with a touch of humor and a ton of motivation. The classes are kept small (sign up online or through an app), which I adored since there is plenty of room to work-out AND the trainers can easily see if you need some assistance with body mechanics. I almost always needed some prompting or assistance since I had been doing things incorrectly for years (yikes!). I am appreciative of the attention I received at UA since I now have more efficient workout without aches. There is a large variety of classes, but even within the same class -- it is never the same, which kept things interesting. The trainers are wonderful at creating the perfect timeframe for exercises/drills. Just when you think you can't continue an exercise/challenge for another second, you move onto to the next challenge. Everyone who belongs to this gym is supportive and encouraging. I enjoyed the camaraderie that developed in a short time. Since returning home, I received compliments on how fit I look. My resting heart rate has lowered and I am stronger. I've learned workouts and techniques at UA that I will continue to follow. Joining UA was the best decision and I will miss it a great deal! I planned on working out about twice a week, but ended up in there 4-6 times a week since I thoroughly enjoyed it. Canceling my membership was a breeze and took seconds (although if you live in the area, I doubt you will ever want to cancel). Other pros: I walked, but there was always ample parking Clean facilities Free coffee during morning hours Cool towels given to everyone at the end of class Monthly social events (I could never attend but loved that culture of fostering friendships) Incredible staff from the front desk to each trainer -- AJ, the owner, has the golden touch with hiring people read more

I've been a member at Urban Athlete for about 18 months, and I love it! The gym is stocked with all the functional toys a workout enthusiast could want; it's super clean, and the staff is great. I'm also seeing amazing results from working with a trainer. I've been working with Grant Wenger for about 7 months now, and I have seen great improvement in my movement quality, muscle mass and strength; however, the most impressive results came from his application of MAT (Muscle Activation Technique). Through MAT, Grant was able to balance out my body and get the muscles working properly which helped to remove the chronic neck, back and shoulder pain I've experienced for years. I've seen many top Chiros and Physical therapist in the city and experienced some improvement, but the MAT combined with Grant's exercise selection, coaching and cuing have had a much bigger impact for me. I've been training for over 25 years now, and I learn something new from him every session. I am extremely grateful for finding him, and I would highly recommend him to any friend or family member. read more

Urban Athlete is an ideal combo of classes, gym equipment, and personal training options for everyone from a gym novice all the way to long-time gymgoers. Staff are super friendly, the space is always super clean and organized, and in this time of COVID everyone is super vigilant with wiping down equipment and masking. Couldn't ask for a better gym and it's a locally owned business which is awesome - if you're thinking of a new gym, definitely give it a try! read more

Best Gym that I have ever been a member of. At age 38 I have worked out and played sports my entire life. In addition to that I have tried every gym in Chicago as well as many in Los Angeles. The facility is second to none and the staff actually really knows their stuff. You would expect to find a snobby intimidating culture with a gym of this caliber but not here. All folks are welcomed and excepted. All fitness levels represented. Look no further. BTW this is only the second Yelp review that I have ever given that should say something. -Greg read more

I've been going to classes at Urban Athlete for a little over a year and love it. I usually just do my own thing at the gym, but that gets boring and repetitive. I started adding UA classes into my workout routine 2-3 days a week to mix things up. I've taken a variety of classes from a variety of instructors, and I've been very pleased with all of them. The staff is friendly, and the trainers are quick to make any adjustments if you have aches or pains (like my two arthritic knees at 38...sigh). The facility and locker rooms are clean. There's easy street parking in front of the gym, or the metra and brown line are both nearby. I highly recommend Urban Athlete over a corporate, chain gym for a more personalized experience. read more

If you're looking to take yourself to the next level and a place where everyone knows your name like a tv episode of Cheers, that is Urban Athlete in Ravenswood! AJ and his crew provide amazing training which includes 45 minutes session that push you to be a better person! I couldn't have asked for a better place in my neighborhood along Malt Row. Highly recommended!!! read more

I love this gym! I was looking for a gym that had awesome classes and I found exactly what I was looking for. Knowledgeable professional trainers who are super helpful. What I like most about this gym is I get a challenging workout without having to think about it. Very clean with showers, lockers and steam. read more

My husband and I joined this gym shortly after moving here, and we couldn't be happier! This is a mostly group/class based environment. I had never done classes before and I absolutely love it. It really pushes you. I love doing the high intensity interval training workouts. You get a great combination of cardio, lifting, and stretching. I'm definitely getting better workouts here than I ever have before. All of the trainers that I have worked with so far here have been awesome. There well educated, and are there to help you along the way. You can definitely go at your own pace, but they're also there to help support and push you. We use a variety of equipment, too, which makes it interesting and never quite the same class twice. We use Basu balls, ropes, kettle bells, steps, TRX... To name a few! Also, I think it's important to mention that this gym is not pretentious. You can go here and work out not feel like you're in a pageant or singles bar. Everyone is friendly and there to sweat! read more