5 to Try: Workout Shake-ups

by Carly Boers - Citysearch Contributor - 15 Reviews - 5 Lists

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Updated: October 26, 2009

With cooler temps rolling in, the days of bike rides and jogs along the sun-drenched lakefront are numbered. But fear not, fitness-minded friends, it doesn't mean you'll be forced to sentence yourself to the "dreadmill" till spring. Before you pack your gym bag for nine months of doldrums, take a look at these calorie-torching Chicago workout alternatives.

Unconventional Calorie Burners

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended All About Dance
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    2214 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

    Cardio Dance: Sometimes you just wanna shake it. Whether your moves suggest Beyonce or Elaine from Seinfeld, let loose on the dance floor at this Lincoln Park studio, and pick up some new moves in the process.

  2. 2 Bulldog Bootcamp Co
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    4305 N Lincoln Ave Ste P, Chicago, IL 60618 (map)

    Basic Training Challenge: There's no need to let cooler temps confine you to indoor workouts. If you're a winter warrior, this 12-week military-style bootcamp is for you. The drill sergeants scoff at the cold, holding their notoriously challenging classes outdoors year round.

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Chang's Martial Arts & Fitness
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    1534 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (map)

    Hoopdance: Hula-hooping makes a comeback (as if it ever went out of style!) with this midsection whittling craze where dance is incorporated by spinning colorful, weighted hoops with hypnotic on-and-off-the-body moves. Bring a pal to class and get those hips moving for half price.

  4. 4 Core Fitness Chicago
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    1030 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (map)

    Primal Training/ Train Like Jane: Tarzan and Jane didn't get their svelte physiques by counting carbs and riding the stationary bike. Get back to the primal basics with these gender-specific classes. The testosterone-fueled Tarzan workout involves drills such as sled pulls to improve strength and muscle mass. Janes can expect to use Bosu balls and hand weights to improve hormonal balance and core stability.

  5. 5 Lakeview Athletic Club
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    3212 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

    Wall Climbing: Before you hit the wall with your gym routine, take to this one. Start out with the six-hour introductory course and then climb to your heart's content. Club members and non-members are welcome.