It's the dead days of winter and resolutions to be better shape for 2009 may already be dying. With this bitterly cold winter, it can be hard to muster the energy to workout outdoors. Yet gym memberships can be expensive. Not all of us can afford the luxury of a place like the Lakeshore Athletic club, where monthly fees can run close to $100 a month. Yet no time like the present to commit to being fit. What else are you going to do when the cold makes it unpleasant to venture outside?
Below are five approaches to affordable fitness. When considering the options, be sure that you are considering the cost of transportation and parking, which can add up quickly.
1. The YMCA--There are numerous YMCAs throughout the city, and by getting membership at one you have access to all. Even better, certain Y's will adjust their rates depending on your income. I have a friend who is a student and he pays $15/month at the McCormick Tribune YMCA location. There, if you make less than $55,000 a year, you may be eligible for an adjustable rate.
2. XSportFitness--This gym offers some very good deals for teachers (as low as $32/month if you pay in full for the year), families/couples, or those willing to pay in full in advance for the year. Furthermore, they have lots of classes and exercise machines, a beautiful pool and sauna. The downside is that it can be very, very crowded.
3. Cardinal Fitness. Monthly fees can run as low as $20, and $30 for couples. They require no long term contracts, so you can cancel at any time without a fee. You can't beat this.
4. Consider buying a yoga pass. If you want to build muscle tone, consider buying a yoga class package, and supplement the yoga with the occassional run. There are several affordable package options in Chicago. Two of my favorites: Bloom Yoga in Lincoln Square offeres $12/class for students or affordable packages of 10 or 20 classes; Yoga View in Bucktown offers similar rates.
4. Find a way to work what is free. Find a running partner, go on daily walks after work, commute with a bike, use one of the city's many (free!) indoor pools.
Print
E-mail
Caitlin Elsaesser
Caitlin Elsaesser is a Maine girl transplanted to Chicago. More
Comments
Thanks for posting this! I have some friends that are looking for an affordable gym. I wish I could have them come to the gym inside the the Tribune Tower, but that's only for peeps who work here--and I believe we opened up the gym to the Equitable Building employees next door. I don't know what our next door neighbors pay, but I only pay about $35/month.
Thanks! Too many people don't take advantage of Chicago frugal fitness options.
Nicky
http://frugalchicago.wordpress.com/
Post new comment