Pop 5: Best Gyms in the City

Rebecca Taras — Tue, 24 May 2011 08:00:00 CDT

Welcome back to the Pop 5, featuring Chicago's best places to do anything and everything. Last week, we told you about the best yoga studios to get down with your downward dog. This week, I've compiled your favorite gyms to bust a sweat - or glow if you so choose.

One of the largest gyms in the city also happens to be one of the most iconic. East Bank Club (500 N. Kingsbury St., 312-527-5800) feels more like a plush resort than a gym - which might explain why it's been known to draw a bit of a social scene. Aside from an abundance of superb cardio (see pic above) and strength machines, East Bank boasts tennis, racquetball, and squash courts; indoor and outdoor pools; a golf course; and a gymnasium to shoot some hoops. The full-service salon is perfect for a post-workout blowout before heading to the resto for dinner.
I'm not the only one who loves Equinox (multiple locations) for its variety of cardio, sculpt, yoga, and Pilates classes, as well as the ability to get on a machine at almost any time of the day. Of course, you can choose to up the ante with personal training or individual Pilates sessions, too. All four city locations (The Loop, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Highland Park) also have cafes where you can fuel up and spas to remedy those muscles post-workout.

Did your fave make the list? Read on to find out.

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Pop 5: Best Gyms in the City