Working out shouldn’t be restricted to the likes of treadmills and cable machines— there’s a lot more out there! Whether you’re looking for a different approach to cardio or exploring a new activity, Chicago’s got you. From boxing-inspired group classes to indoor golfing, we’re here to help you get that heart rate going while having fun. Check out our favorite fitness alternatives in Chicago if you’re tired of going to a regular gym!
Rumble
11 E Elm St, Chicago, IL 60611
Rumble is a 10-round, 45-minute full-body workout split into two styles of training. First, explore the skills and drills of boxing. Then, power through resistance training. You’ll be bopping water-filled, teardrop-style boxing bags and using numbered bench stations throughout the class.
There’s a mega-watt sound system and custom playlists that will get you pumped and kicking ass––complete with old school and new school beats. Rumble is great for all levels of fitness, whether you’re a first time boxer or professional fighter. Gather up the squad or go solo. If you enjoy group fitness, Rumble’s a good bet!
Altitude Trampoline Park
404 N Armour St, Chicago, IL 60642
It may look like all fun and games––and it is—but don’t be fooled…you’ll definitely be sweating after a day at Altitude Trampoline Park. This 33,000 square foot facility has 14 attractions and is perfect for families and large groups, as well as hosting parties, team building, and more.
Channel your inner Spiderman and bounce off wall-to-wall trampolines. Jump, tumble, practice tricks, and hone your acrobatic skills throughout the foam pits. Other attractions include a Log Roll, Trapeze Swing, Foam Pit, and Wipeout. You can also squad up for an elevated round of Extreme Dodgeball and bring your A-game in Trampoline Basketball.
Five Iron Golf
609 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60654
108 N State St Unit 200, Chicago, IL 60602
1000 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
There’s no end to golfing season when it’s indoors. Five Iron Golf has three locations in the city: River North, Lincoln Park, and the Loop inside Block 37. The company grew rapidly, with facilities in other big cities in the country as well, including New York, Seattle, Philadelphia, and Vegas.
It’s no surprise how popular Five Iron Golf became. The Block 37 space has 11 golf simulator bays and HD video-enabled TrackMan tech, which tracks data like ball speed, club path, and more. Golfers can also choose fun settings like Jurassic Park or actual PGA courses. When you need to take a break and give your arms a rest, chill out on the plush seating and enjoy rotating food and drink menus.
AIR Aerial Fitness
2217 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
1317 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
AIR is the nation’s leading aerial fitness training method. Utilizing silk hammocks and workouts inspired by Pilates and HIIT, AIR is designed for all levels of fitness. In class, you’ll strengthen your core and tone your physique.
The most popular class is the 50-minute AIR Foundation, which starts with a warmup followed by cardio, core, and stretching. AIR Flow is better for newbies — this class gives you a deep stretch and core strengthening at a slower pace. Don’t let the ribbons scare you — the helpful instructors are there to guide you every step of the way.
First Ascent
2950 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
108 N State St Suite 420, Chicago, IL 60602
3516 N Spaulding Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
4718 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640
With four locations throughout the city––Humboldt Park, the Loop’s Block 37, Avondale, and Uptown––First Ascent is a popular spot for those of us itching to get to new heights. Sign up for programs including climbing classes, yoga, fitness and training classes, as well as kids programs. First Ascent is a great place for team building as well. What better way to build trust, comradery, and teamwork than climbing and bouldering?
The Block 37 location has 10,000 square feet of bouldering terrain up to 15 ft tall and over 200 unique boulders set for all ability levels. There’s also a climbing training area with Moonboard, campus boards, hang boards, and scatter wall. Tack on additional fitness with two dedicated yoga studios, 10 cardio machines, free weights, and functional training equipment for when you miss that gym life.
Avondale has the largest location with 26,000 square feet of climbing terrain up to 60 ft tall and offers both rope climbing and bouldering.
Image Credit: AIR Aerial Fitness