Throw powerful punches and weights around in an exciting and friendly group training atmosphere on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 PM starting August 5. With quality training instruction, members will be taken through heavy bag boxing workouts along with a variety of weighted and free-weight exercises. Register under ‘Leagues and Programs’ in the FFC+ app—cost: $272/month (2x per week).
Questions? Email Nick at nmotyka@ffc.com.
We’re taking Pilates to the FFC Gold Coast rooftop for a summer evening of movement, music, and connection. Join us on Friday, August 15, at 5:30 PM for a signature Pilates Mat class hosted by FFC’s Exclusive Instructor Becca Russo, set against the stunning backdrop of our beloved Chicago skyline. After class, stay for a high-energy social hour featuring a live DJ, giveaways, games, and bites and beverages from local partners like Happy Camper, Dollop Coffee (in partnership with Sips Syrups!), Hopsmith, Goddess and Grocer, and more.
Tickets are $25 for members and $50 for non-members.
Register in the FFC+ app under “Leagues & Programs.” Non-members can create an account and register at the link below. Invite your friends for a fun evening!
Get ready to dance for a great cause on Sunday, August 31, from 12:00 – 1:30 PM! Join Liz, Tania, and Kari for a 90-minute 90s-themed dance session to raise funds for the Animal Care League.
You can contribute by making monetary donations at the door, or you can donate directly through the Animal Care League Amazon wishlist.
To reserve your spot, please sign up in the FFC+ app!
“It’s not always so much about the physicality of working out, it’s about our mental health as well. It’s about going to a place where we feel like we can make mistakes, where our bodies don’t need to be perfect, where we go and we have our gym friends.” – Lois Miller, FFC Director of Group Fitness
There’s a powerful shift that happens when you stop working out alone and start showing up together. Group fitness isn’t just about exercise, it’s about connection, confidence, and community. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, building strength, or just trying to clear your head, being surrounded by like-minded people who share a common goal makes all the difference.
Lois sees it every day: people walk in with different goals, but they leave with something more. “We make you feel better when you leave than when you came in,” she says. “And that to me is a job well done.”
It’s that emotional shift, not just the physical effort, that makes group fitness so impactful.
Lois Miller, FFC Director of Group Fitness, Instructing FFC’s “WTF!” Class
Becca Russo, FFC’s 2024 Instructor of the Year, began her fitness journey teaching Zumba in Cleveland and has been leading group classes in Chicago since 2012. Now an exclusive, full-time instructor at FFC, she teaches a variety of classes, including cardio, spin, strength training, aqua aerobics and Pilates. Becca brings a positive, welcoming energy to every class she leads.
“By far my favorite part is the community building. It really is more of a social emotional experience teaching a fitness class than it is anything else,” Becca says. “It’s about reading the room, figuring out the dynamics between myself and the students, and celebrating life’s moments with people.”
Becca builds community with intention, starting with something as simple as learning names and taking song requests. “Getting to class early and staying late, that’s where the magic happens,” she says. Her classes are uplifting and inclusive spaces where connection takes center stage. That sense of belonging is also shown through her social media, where Becca keeps the energy going and the community connected.
Something special about Becca’s style is that she uses her classes to spice up the ordinaries in life. Whether it’s celebrating city anniversaries, turning holidays into themed workouts or creating fun challenges like her Saturday “Tribecca” series- where participants who complete all three back-to-back classes earn a custom button and a social media shoutout- Becca finds creative ways to keep people excited, engaged and coming back for more.
Becca Russo, FFC Exclusive Group Fitness Instructor, Teaching
Lois has been in the fitness industry for over 40 years, and since 2013, she’s served as the Director of Group Fitness at FFC. Her passion goes far beyond workouts. It’s about creating experiences that are welcoming, energizing and deeply human.
The variety of class formats and the creativity of the instructors helps keep group fitness new and exciting. Whether it’s cardio, strength training or hybrid classes that mix different styles, there’s something to fit every goal and preference.
“One of the best things we can do for our bodies is to cross-train, not just formats, but instructors. Go to our different clubs, experience different instructors and realize that there’s not just two or three hot instructors. We have 200 incredible ones, and I want you to experience them all.”
She believes that the emotional and social aspects of group fitness are just as important as the workouts themselves. It’s a space where people feel supported, seen, and safe to be themselves, especially when starting out.
“All it takes is just that one class for them to feel like they went from new to now being seasoned where they can walk into any class. And I always tell members, it may feel new to you for the first time, but you’re not alone.”
At FFC, that sense of belonging is intentional. From creative programming, inclusive training and standout signature formats, every element is built to help members stay consistent and excited to return.
FFC Spin Group Fitness Class on the FFC Gold Coast Rooftop
Research shows group fitness isn’t just more fun, it helps people stick with their workouts and see better results. Here’s why:
Group fitness brings together variety, connection and fun, which is what helps people stick with it as a routine and keep making progress.
FFC Themed Group Fitness Class
Alex Castillo, FFC Group Fitness Manager, Taking Lois Miller’s Class
Curious about group fitness? Getting started is simple! Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, there’s a class that’ll fit you.
How to Get Started:
Take that first step and discover why so many people keep coming back. Your best workout and new fitness friends are just a class away.
To participate in our Summer ’25 Cabana Contest, head to our Instagram page!
SUMMER ’25 CABANA CONTEST GIVEAWAY RULES, TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
FFC’s Summer ’25 Cabana Contest giveaway ends Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST. Winner will be notified by Tuesday, August 5, 2025, by Instagram Direct Message. Three winners will each receive one four-hour small cabana at the FFC West Loop outdoor pool and a $75 food and beverage credit (outside of alcoholic beverages), redeemable at the FFC West Loop Splash Bar. Each winner is permitted to bring 3 guests to FFC West Loop to share the cabana on the day of their rental. Enter to win by following @ffc_chicago and tagging 3 friends in the comments on the Instagram post from Monday, July 28. Limit one entry per account. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. Both FFC members and non-members are eligible to win. Employees of FFC, and their parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, promotion and advertising agencies, and members of their immediate families (spouse and parents, children and siblings and their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside) and persons living in the same household, whether or not related, of such employees, are not eligible to enter or win. Winner will be selected at random using a randomizer software platform. No purchase necessary. Purchase does not enhance the chance of winning. Void where prohibited. You must be 18 years of age or older, live in the Greater Chicago area and hold a valid photo ID with an Illinois address to be eligible to enter. The contents of the giveaway cannot be redeemed for cash value or transferred. The contents of the giveaway must be redeemed with Fitness Formula Clubs West Loop by September 8, 2025.
Meet our Member of the Month, Ethan Jones! See the Q&A to learn more about John’s FFC Story:
To me, membership represents commitment. My commitment to challenging myself. Being disciplined, and not being afraid of trial and error. It also represents consistency and a reminder to trust the process and that we are all a work in progress. Membership means there is no end “goal”. Self investment is the goal.
Typically early afternoons during the week.
Have a healthy mind. What began as physical therapy after a life changing injury became my therapy in general. Exercise helps keep me focused in addition to healing injuries over time. Add in some bumping music, and my workouts are always a bit of a fun time for me.
Join us on August 9 from 12:00 – 1:00 PM for a female focused Self Defense class. Learn and practice simple skills on how to protect yourself if you are attacked around town or on a college campus.
About the instructors:
Julia Peisker – I am a former police officer who has been through extensive defensive tactics training, and have applied this training in real world situations. I have also participated in other various jiu jitsu and self defense classes.
Christian Herrera – Certified MMA Instructor with 11+ years of experience in grappling and striking. Christian specializes in practical, effective techniques that build confidence, awareness, and strength—no matter your experience level.
The cost: $15 members/$25 non-member. Sign up today in the FFC+ app!
We’re feeling 22 but partying likes it’s 2003! Join us for a week-long celebration leading up to our Grand Anniversary Party! From Monday, August 18 to Saturday, August 23, party like it’s 2003 and enjoy samples from some of our favorite brands, prizes, Birthday BINGO, themed-classes, cake (of course), and more!
Bring a friend and share the fun! RSVP your guest here: https://login.gymsales.net/ffc-east-lakeview/ffc-east-lakeview-turns-22
Join us for a Healing Sound Bath and Guided Meditation on August 20 from 7:00 – 8:30 PM, with professional Sound bath practitioner Kristin Sassi. Sound and meditation can help clear energy blocks and allow you to release and let go things your body no longer needs. Sound baths restore harmony and peace in the body. Bring your beach towel, pillow and/or blankets or other props. Payment must be made with registration or registration will be cancelled. Invite your friends! Land fee (chaise lounge chair): $20 for members and $30 for non-members; Float fee: $40 for members and $55 for non-members; Double floats are available per request at a fee: $50 for members and $65 for non-members.
Register under ‘Leagues & Programs in the FFC+ app” or email Alex at acastillo@ffc.com to reserve a Double Float. Not a member? Click here to create an account, then register under ‘Leagues and Programs’ in the FFC+ app.
Kick off the night with a Bachata dance class at 6:30 PM, then keep the energy going with music starting at 7 PM. The bar will be open, food available for purchase, and the pool is yours, so don’t forget your swimwear if you’re planning to take a dip! Already a member? Register under ‘Leagues and Programs’ in the FFC+ app.
Not a member? Click here to create an account, then register under ‘Leagues and Programs’ in the FFC+ app.
Fitness Formula Clubs brought the energy to this year’s Taste of Park Ridge, engaging with hundreds of attendees during the annual three-day festival held July 11-13. The FFC Park Ridge team offered a mix of fitness fun, giveaways, and family-friendly activities, designed to inspire healthy habits in the community.
Taste of Park Ridge is an annual summer festival that brings the local community together in the heart of downtown Park Ridge. Known for its local restaurant vendors and live entertainment, the event draws thousands of residents and visitors each year. It celebrates the spirit of Park Ridge, supports local businesses, and creates memorable experiences for all ages.
Festival attendants stopped by the FFC booth to spin the prize wheel and win exciting items such as one-day membership passes, personal training/pilates sessions, and FFC swag. In addition, guests were encouraged to enter a digital raffle for a chance to win a complimentary one-month membership and two personal training or Pilates sessions at FFC Park Ridge.
The booth wasn’t just about prizes and giveaways, it was also about getting people moving. Kids enjoyed spinning a special wheel that encouraged fun physical activity, creating an energetic and playful atmosphere that families loved.
As a sponsor and longtime supporter of local events, FFC continues to demonstrate its commitment to building strong and healthy communities through accessible outreach.
Couldn’t make it? We’d still love to meet you. Stop by FFC Park Ridge to schedule a tour and discover how our expert team can support your fitness goals. Visit ffc.com/park-ridge or call us today at (847) 802-9826.
Established in 1984 by Founder and CEO Gale Landers, FFC owns and operates 10 upscale, mid and large size multi-use health, sports, fitness and spa centers in the Chicago area. The company provides corporate wellness programs, health insurance reimbursable nutrition therapy services, signature group fitness programs, spa treatment services, individual and group training, physical therapy and medically based rehabilitation programs. Each Chicagoland location is dedicated to supporting the local community. FFC is recognized by the fitness industry for creating a distinct member experience delivered by its staff professionals. For more information, please visit www.ffc.com.
Get ready to sweat, compete, and win big this summer with fun challenges and the opportunity to win up to 12 months of free dues!
Challenge Dates:
June 1 – August 31, 2025
Progress resets at the end of each month.
Here’s How to Play:
1. Opt-in to participate via the FFC+ app starting May 26, 2025
2. Check in to any FFC Club at least 10 days of the month
3. Complete 10 Group Fitness Classes
Achieve both challenges in a single month and you’ll be automatically entered to win 4 months of free dues! Three lucky winners will be selected — one per month!
Keep tabs on your progress in the “My Dash” section of the FFC+ app. Both the MTD Checkins and MTD Classes metrics will be red until you hit 10 checkins and 10 classes completed. Once achieved, the metric will turn green signifying you’ve completed that component of the challenge. Progress resets at the end of each month, so stay consistent!
Turn up the heat this summer! Opt-in to participate beginning May 26, 2025. Good luck!
The program runs from June 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025. The 12 free months of dues will be awarded as three separate prizes (four months free per winner), one for each month of the challenge. Participants must ‘opt-in’ to the challenge via the FFC+ app beginning May 26, 2025 to confirm participation. Your 10 check-ins do not need to be at the same FFC location – we will track your visits across our 10 clubs. There is a max of one qualifying visit per day. You will be automatically entered to win the four free months dues prize once you have reached 10 visits AND completed 10 group fitness classes in a single month. Progress resets at the end of each month, and prizes will be distributed by the 8th of the following month. The dues credit cannot exceed $179 per main member on account, is non-transferable and has no cash value. Other restrictions may apply.
Build your confidence on the strength floor with Intro To Strength Training, an entry-level class designed to teach you the essentials needed for a great workout. These complimentary classes are taught by our FFC personal trainers and take place at 10 AM every Saturday in April. Each week will cover a new tool used on the fitness floor. Come ready to learn more and leave feeling empowered to use this equipment on your next visit.
Reserve your spot in the FFC+ app today.
Level up your lunch game with our registered dietitian approved lunch guide! Lunch is just as important as any other meal of the day. Eating lunch helps raise your blood sugar to give you the energy needed for a productive afternoon. It also breaks up your day to day tasks and acts as a “reset” for the second half of the day.
From mouth watering bowls to satisfying salads and savory sandwiches, our lunch guide will elevate your midday meal and make sure you’re getting the appropriate nutrients to keep you full and fueled throughout your day. Visit ffc.com/nutrition to download your copy today!
Join Alyssa for a dynamic Pilates session every Monday in August at 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM, to reduce back pain, discover how to improve body control, increase your range of motion, enhance posture, and more! All are welcome.
Register in the FFC+ app or contact Alyssa at aperez@ffc.com for more information.
Bring the family for a final pool party prior to the start of school on Sunday, August 10 from 10 – 2 PM.
Contact Aaron at aaron.smith@ffc.com with any questions.
Join us on Saturday, August 16 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM for a night of fun and games! We take the kids while you enjoy an evening at the theater, a romantic dinner, time with friends, or quiet time with your partner. We will be playing games in the gym and watching a movie in the Kids’ Club. Registration ends Thursday, August 14.
Stop by the Kid’s Club to pre-register or contact Jaime at jmules@ffc.com for more information.
Join us for movie night on the turf on Saturday, August 30, starting at 6 PM. Popcorn will be provided and the bar will be open for smoothies and adult drinks.
Contact Jaime at jmules@ffc.com for more information.
It’s not too late to register for weekend Summer Swim Lessons.
For a class overview and to enroll contact Jaime Mules at jmules@ffc.com.
Join us Thursday, August 21 from 6:30 – 9:00 PM on the rooftop for an evening of skyline views (weather permitting), live DJ vibes, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar. All bar proceeds will support the FFC Cares Foundation. This complimentary event fills fast! Register in the FFC+ app starting August 1. One guest per member.
Have questions? Email Daniel at DFord@ffc.com.