Lakeview Athletic Club, the latest member of the Chicago Athletic Clubs family, is sure to make her older siblings quite jealous. This 47,000-square-foot space has all the new and high-tech cardio (some even have iPod chargers!) and weight machines, as well as beautiful group-exercise rooms, a climbing wall, two pools and a kids' club for active little ones.
The five-level club is decked out in warm, rich tones, with leather seating and well-lit areas to keep the space from looking drab and too business-like. It's suitable for the young professionals, families and students (who can afford a hefty monthly membership) in the neighborhood looking to stay fit.
After pushing your body to the limits, enjoy the whirlpool, steam room and sauna, or just relax in the locker rooms. They're so clean, you won't freak if you forget your flip-flops.
Classes: LVAC's group-exercise schedule features something for everyone, from signature Chicago Athletic Club classes like Full-Body Blast (a blink-and-you're-done 30-minute toning workout) and live spinning (an intense spin class accompanied by a DJ) to new offerings like maximum-strength kickboxing and live-music yoga.
Centerstage Reviewer: Maya Henderson