5 Unusual Workout Concepts In Chicago
Whether you want to be ripped or simply want to climb a few flights of stairs without catching your breath, these workouts will get you in shape in no time.
Where: 3131 N Lincoln Ave
Why: Called “the triathlon of martial arts,” Shidokan is a full body workout meshing the essential elements of karate and kickboxing with the throws and holds of grappling martial arts styles. Students ranging from novices to professional fighters use Shidokan’s Chicago headquarters to improve their conditioning, speed, agility and strength.
Cost: $10/day pass. $50/monthly. Annual memberships: $500 (New students get four months free.)
Where: 4437 N Ravenswood Ave
Why: In one word: swordplay. Forteza bills itself as the Midwest’s only full-time school to study historical swordplay styles such as the rapier, longsword and arming sword. It’s also home to the “Baritzu Club,” the “lost martial art” immortalized by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in his Sherlock Holmes novels.
Cost: $125/class
Where: 700 N Carpenter St, 2528 N Armitage Ave, 3334 N Clark St
Why: If you free your mind, the rest will follow. Yoga has long embraced this philosophy and Moksha practices several forms in a welcoming, nurturing environment and offers special events such as farm retreats and group dinners incorporating yoga and healthy eating.
Cost: Single classes: $8 (taught by student teachers) to $18. Packages: $65-$180.
Where: Multiple locations
Why: Using aerial silk hammocks, AIR incorporates yoga, Pilates and ballet for a total aerobic workout, lengthening your muscles while strengthening your core.
Cost: $30/class; new client special—$100/30 days
Where: 1543 W Chicago Ave
Why: Learn to dance the samba and play a musical instrument while getting in shape at Chicago’s only academy dedicated to the Brazilian martial art.
Cost: $20/class (first class is free). Memberships: $90/month
