Anytime Fitness — Attraction in Rogers Park Township

As a frequent traveler, I am often looking for a place to get a couple of workouts on the road. On a recent trip to Chicago, I saw that this Anytime Fitness was close by and filled out the web form. Mike called me that day and shared the details and asked about my trip. He then called the day before I was flying to check if I was still coming and called the day I had said I would want to exercise to remind me the hours to be sure I could get my pass. They were really friendly and helpful when I arrived. This was the level of service for a day pass. I can't imagine how good it would be for a member. Just amazing.

The facility itself is very well stocked with excellent free weight, cardio, plyometric and even boxing equipment. There is a large open area for stretching, sled pushing and body weight work. There is a really nice wood floored aerobics area with online training. The whole facility is clean and bright.

Based on this experience, I can't...

Unfortunately, this was my least-friendly interaction I’ve had since moving to Chicago a couple of weeks ago. I’ve been looking for a new gym since I got here, and realized there was a gym within walking distance which was perfect. After trying to call repeatedly to get no answer or ability to leave a message, I decided to just walk down to the gym.

When we got to the doors, they were both locked. There were people standing just inside the door, and we saw that there was a buzzer, so we pressed it. The person that answered the door stood in the doorway and with the snarkiest tone possible said “can I help you guys?” When I said we had just come by to check out the gym, we got another sour-faced response “do you have an appointment?” No. We didn’t. Mainly, because no one answered the phone when we called. It’s ok, there are plenty of gyms in Chicago. This one apparently doesn’t need my money, so I’ll take...

Great staff, clean facility. It’s on the smaller side but there’s plenty of equipment that can be modified for a more dynamic workout. They provide a very friendly atmosphere as well.

My only gripe is the music. It’s really unbearable at times. Typically at a gym you have something upbeat and motivating, but they be playing the most random and weird stuff. Not an issue with headphones of course, but if you don’t have any or want to workout with someone else the music is really distracting, when you’re trying to lock into the zone and maximize your workout. That play folk, country, and just music you don’t expect at a gym because it doesn’t push you. Maybe not a big deal for others but it’s noticeable to me...