Reviews & Ratings for Equinox

05/22/08

Equinox evolving, still a great club

by Maat2 at Citysearch

I joined in September 2007. At that time, I thought it was the cleanest and best fitness center. It's still clean. Their spa does not use vegan organic products, so I don't use it. Besides, for what we pay, I think the spa and Pilates should be much cheaper, if not free sometimes, for members. I am chemical-free as much as possible. Equinox was not that accessible, but made accommodations. Within a few months, I was making progress, so I was able to step into the shower when transfering from my wheelchair--something that I could not do before coming to the club.

As time went on, I was unable to take full advantage or even partial use of the club to justify the cost. CLASSES THAT I could do a part of the time were canceled or moved to a time slot that I could not use. What I found is that this was new to them, so Idecided to work with them. People with mobility limitations need fitness, too, in a holistic environment. I had some problems, such as cleaning crew using chlorine bleach in a club that promotes a non-toxic environment, which sent me ruinning outside due to allergies and irritation of my eyes, lungs, and mucuous membranes. Also, the elevator was out for weeks and the steam room or sauna were constantly breaking down, esp. the steam room. Both were helping me in reducing pain and removing toxic buildiup in muscles.

I like the naturalness of this club. The view of Lincoln Park may be minimlaistic bliss. The club is not snooty. The people are down to earth, but I agree they need ro do more to make the classes meet the needs of all members and offer discounts to people who are disabled and cannot take advantge of full services. Maintenance staff is friendly and courteous to me and not just patronizing me. Management is much improved.

When I come off of medical freeze, I am determined to regain my progress and if my accessible transportation is back wih affordble rates, I intend to be at the club daily or at least 5 days a week.

• Pros: nontoxic environment, ambience, natural lighting at lincoln park club, friendly desk staff
• Cons: not all are as wheelchair-accessible as could be, no clases suitable for people who are disabled, not enough discount on Pilates to members

05/12/08

Poorl

by BellaDonna151 at Citysearch

I've been an Equinox member for a year and a half, but have been working out in gyms for 10 years. I used to think it was a pretty decent chain of fitness clubs, but I have been very disappointed with the selection of group fitness offerings lately. The Lincoln Park leadership is unresponsive to the needs of its members, and I question the competence and judgement of some of the management personnel. If you are serious about your fitness, think carefully before joining this club. It's run like a factory cranking out widgets rather than a club dedicated to enhancing one's workout experience. "What's your after?" is an interesting slogan for this chain since Equinox managers really should ask themselves that very question.

Upscale, Zen-inspired gym catering to the fit professional.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Scene
With its ultra-clean, minimalist décor and its topnotch staff, Equinox raises the bar for chain health clubs. At consistently spacious facilities, the design team continually maximizes natural light and highlights organic architectural quirks. Equipment from industry standards like Cybex and Hammerstrength are paired with high-end machinery--including one specifically designed for the company by Life Fitness. Even the piped-in music (which varies from room to room) has been thoughtfully programmed. Locker rooms are uniformly spotless.

The Workout
The in-house personal-training program--which approaches strength, balance and coordination in a cyclical pattern--is so highly regarded that some independent gyms recognize it in lieu of more established national certifications. Indeed, instructors in the top tier must have academic articles published in their area of expertise. Classes are offered round the clock and range from Spinning and yoga to more unique hybrids incorporating boxing and ballet. Many studios boast sprung floors.

03/14/05

Best in Chicago!

by gymrat12 at Citysearch

I recently joined Equinox in Lincoln Park and could not be happier with my decision. Equinox is not only a beautiful club, but the energy is great! The club is extremely clean, the desk staff already greets me by name and the classes i've taken have taken have kicked my butt. I never thought I could justify spending $100 a month on a gym - but now I've learned that you get what you pay for. I've been members of many other clubs in Chicago and this one is second to none!

• Pros: free parking

03/14/05

dumbbells, but no dummies

by phil60622 at Citysearch

Since joining Equinox last year, I've recommended the club in Lincoln Park to many friends and coworkers- most of whom have joined me as members there, or at the Equniox club on North Michigan Avenue. I dig the fact that the club is *truly* a clean machine (I'm not afraid to sit down in the locker room!). The membership advisors and front desk staff are uber-friendly. When I've had a question that couldn't immediately been answered, I've always gotten a call within a day. The personal trainers are a notch above the fray I've encounted at other clubs. They are more knowledgeable and more helpful than anywhere I've ever worked out. I recommend Equinox it to anyone who appreciates a premium product.

• Pros: clean, excellent service, top trainers
• Cons: pricey, outdoor parking