Respect Privacy: No Cell Phone Use in Locker Room Areas

As a reminder, for the privacy and comfort of all members, cell phone use is strictly prohibited in the locker room, including the steam room, sauna, and whirlpool areas.

These are shared spaces meant for relaxation and personal time. We ask that all members be mindful and help maintain a respectful, distraction-free environment.

Thank you for doing your part to support a positive and private experience for everyone.

Meet Adanna: FFC Gold Coast’s Newest Pilates Instructor!

Looking to add some energy, variety, and feel-good vibes to your Pilates routine? Meet Adanna, one of our talented instructors at FFC Gold Coast. Adanna knows how to keep you moving, motivated, and smiling (even when your core is on fire).

Her favorite exercise? Chest expansion: a classic that builds strength, improves posture, and helps you feel more connected to your body.
Don’t just take our word for it:

  • “Adanna is a great instructor! A good asset for FFC.”
  • “Adanna provides great variety in her classes!”
  • “Adanna’s classes are the best!”

Want to try a reformer class for free? Email srens@ffc.com to reserve your spot!

Local’84 Cafe Staff Favorite

Looking for a delicious blend of fruits and greens? Meet Daniel, our Member Experience Manager at FFC Gold Coast, and try his go-to smoothie; a refreshing mix of flavor and nutrition.

Daniel’s Pick: A fruity veggie smoothie made with Spinach, Mango, and Pineapple. It’s light, energizing, and the perfect post-workout boost or midday pick-me-up. Give it a try and taste why it’s a staff favorite! Available in your Local’84 Cafe.

Meet Devin Gobrick: Expert Massage Therapist at FFC Gold Coast

Looking to take your recovery to the next level? Meet Devin Gobrick, one of our talented massage therapists at FFC Gold Coast. Devin brings deep expertise in sports massage, making him a top choice for athletes, personal training clients, and anyone working through physical therapy. He’s available on Fridays and Saturdays .

In addition to his hands-on work, Devin is a professor at The SOMA Institute, where he has taught and mentored rising massage professionals, including our very own Ashley Wells, who now practices at both Gold Coast and Oak Park.

Looking for something more relaxing or shared? Devin is also available for couples massages, exclusively at FFC Gold Coast. Whether you’re focused on performance, recovery, or pure relaxation, Devin brings the skill and care to help you feel your best.

Book your session today at ffc.com/spa.

Big News: Red Light Therapy Mask Now Included!

We’ve added even more value to your membership — our Red Light Therapy Mask is now complimentary for all Signature and Premier members. This advanced treatment supports skin rejuvenation, reduced inflammation, and faster recovery. Whether you’re here to train or relax, this new perk delivers.

Stop by the spa desk to learn more or book your session today.

Rooftop Classes Are in Full Swing at FFC Gold Coast

Take your workout to the next level — and to the rooftop! Join us for outdoor classes with views of the Chicago skyline. Sessions like 6 AM Sunrise Salutation, Vinyasa Yoga, Race Day Ride, Pilates Mat, and LOADED are powered by the SOUND OFF headphone system for clear instruction and immersive music. Step outside, breathe deep, and move strong.

View the schedule and register for a class in the FFC+ app.

FFC Run Club

FFC Lincoln Park is starting up its Run Club again this year! Join us on Saturdays starting July 12 through October 25, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. All members and guests are welcome to register and join our staff-led sessions. The club is open to all levels, from beginner to intermediate runners.

Each session begins with a dynamic 5-minute warm-up, followed by 20 minutes of power, stability, and strength training that even those who choose not to run can participate in. Then, we run a 5K (3.1 miles) together, ending with breathwork and stretching cooldown.

Runners should wear running sneakers and bring water. Members and non-members are both encouraged to bring friends and enjoy a good time run!

Sign up via the FFC+ App or contact Fernando Sanchez at fsanchez@ffc.com.

Taste of Local’84

On Saturday, July 20, Local’84 will be offering their entire menu in trail sizes available all day. Come enjoy a taste of Local 84 with convenient portion options perfect for sampling!

For details, contact Terron Edmonds at dedmonds@ffc.com..

Parent’s Night Out: Picnic Party

Join us on Friday, July 25 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM for a Picnic Party at the FFC Kids Club, designed for children ages 3 months to 12 years! Enjoy pizza, chips, and juice boxes included in the event. The cost is $35 per child or $45 for two children for FFC members. Non-members are always welcome at $5 more per child.

Don’t forget to register by Tuesday, July 22 to secure your spot! Sign up via the FFC+ App or contact Marianne at mfrianeza@ffc.com.

 

Sound Bath and Guided Meditation with Kloe Z

Join us for Sound Bath and Guided Meditation with Kloe Zhang Latting on Friday, July 12 from 2:00 – 3:30 PM. This healing session uses sound and meditation to help clear energy blocks and allow you to release and let go of things your body no longer needs. Sound baths restore harmony and peace in the body. Please bring your favorite pillow, blankets, or other props for comfort.

Registration and payment must be completed via the FFC+ App or by contacting acastillo@ffc.com acastillo@ffc.com, or your spot will be cancelled. Invite your friends! The cost is $20 for members and $30 for non-members.

Boxing Intro Session

Try a complimentary Boxing Intro Session with Tim Cho, a former professional boxer and MMA fighter, and current FFC Level 3 Trainer. These one-on-one sessions are available by appointment only and are a great way to learn proper technique, build confidence, and explore the benefits of boxing as part of your fitness routine.

To reserve your free session, contact Tim Cho at tcho@ffc.com today.

Body Weight Athlete

Try a complimentary Body Weight Athlete session with Tim Cho, FFC Level 3 Trainer. Whether you’re working on handstands or just curious about bodyweight training, this one-on-one session will give you tips and tricks for handbalancing drills and functional strength. No experience necessary—perfect for beginners or experienced athletes looking to take their skills to the next level.

To schedule your free session, contact Tim Cho at tcho@ffc.com.

Parents Night Out: Luau Night

Join us on Friday, July 25, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM for Parents Night Out: Luau Night at FFC! Kids ages 4–12 will enjoy tropical-themed games, crafts, pizza, and a movie while you enjoy a night off. The cost is $35 for one child of a member, $45 for two children of members. Non-members are welcome for just $5 more per child.

Registration is required by Wednesday, July 23. For more information or to reserve your child’s spot, contact Dawn Brunner at dbrunner@ffc.com.

 

Intro to Pilates

Discover the fundamentals of Pilates in this Intro to Pilates class, designed for first-time clients. Join us on Saturday, July 12 at 11:00 AM or Monday, July 21 at 5:00 PM to explore the core principles of mindful movement. Whether you’re new to exercise or looking to add a new dimension to your fitness routine, this gentle, beginner-friendly class is the perfect place to start.

You’ll learn basic Pilates movements and terminology, breathing techniques, and proper body alignment, while improving your core strength, posture, and flexibility. Modifications are offered for all fitness levels.

Spots are limited. Register via the FFC+ App or contact Shanna Tobin at stobin@ffc.com.

Pilates at the Park

Join us for Pilates at the Park on Sunday, July 13 from 9:00 to 10:00 AM at Agora, located at 1135 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605. This classical mat Pilates session will focus on core engagement, stamina, strength, stability, and stretch — a full-body experience in an energizing outdoor setting.

Meet at the FFC South Loop fireplace by 8:45 AM. Please bring your own yoga mat, towel, and water. The session includes a special 15-minute archival Joe Pilates standing finisher to give you something new and dynamic from your typical mat class.

Cost is $20 for members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited to 25 participants. Register on the FFC+ App or contact jgarvy@ffc.com for more details.

International Day of Self Care: Lunchtime Recharge

Celebrate International Day of Self Care with us on Thursday, July 24 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM with a relaxing and revitalizing Lunchtime Recharge event. Enjoy complimentary chair massages, access to the Recovery Lounge, and 15% off all Local’84 items, including our new Soothie Bowls.

Members and non-members are welcome! Bring a coworker to this free event and receive 2 guest passes and be entered to win 2 complimentary training sessions.

For more information, contact Alece at ademaray@ffc.com.

 

Small Group Training: Challenge Yourself. Make a Change. Find Your Fit.

Our Small Group Training program is the perfect blend of motivation, accountability, and results. Train alongside others in a supportive environment where you’ll push yourself, make progress, and maybe even make a few new friends along the way.

This is a cost-effective way to train with a fitness professional. Energizing classes are offered throughout the week and all fitness levels are welcome. Your first class is complimentary—try it out and see what it’s all about. Contact Justin Balog at jbalog@ffc.com to reserve your session.

Member Spotlight: Michael Costello’s Powerful Journey Toward Health at FFC Oak Park

“If I can learn this stuff, anyone can.” That’s how FFC Oak Park member Michael Costello sums up the incredible progress made since starting on a fitness journey in January. With the support of personal trainer Lawrence Kay, a meaningful gift from Michael’s mother, and the welcoming community at FFC, Michael’s health and outlook on life has already been transformed. Michael’s story is a powerful personal training success story rooted in consistency, support, and a total mindset shift.

 

A Wake-Up Call — And a Gift That Sparked Change

At 46, Michael had reached a point of feeling stuck. Between raising two teenagers and working more than full-time as a music minister at both a church and a school, fitness simply wasn’t on the radar. Michael’s weight climbed to 320 pounds, and a visit to the doctor revealed a diabetes diagnosis — a moment Michael describes as a personal wake-up call.

That’s when Michael’s mother stepped in with a powerful gift: a one-year FFC membership complete with personal training sessions. In January, Michael sat down with FFC’s Julius to create a plan — and hasn’t looked back since.

 

Support, Structure, and a Whole-Person Approach

Michael works out three times a week for an hour with personal trainer Lawrence Kay, who built a plan that went far beyond just cardio. With guidance around nutrition, hydration, movement, and lifestyle habits, Michael has already lost nearly 50 pounds. Even more importantly, Michael’s A1C has dropped dramatically — now just one-tenth of a point above normal. Michael’s doctor recently took them off two medications and is thrilled with the progress.

This personal training success story is about more than just weight loss. It’s about education, accountability, and the power of showing up with support. “Working with a personal trainer has been incredible — I could have gone to the gym without Lawrence, but I wouldn’t have had the same amount of success.”

 

“I Didn’t Grow Up Around This” — Rethinking Fitness as a Lifestyle

For Michael, this journey hasn’t just been physical. It’s been a total mindset shift. Michael didn’t grow up around people who valued fitness or viewed it as part of everyday life. That meant there was a learning curve — but one Michael’s tackled with commitment.

Now, fitness is a regular part of Michael’s routine. Michael takes walks, looks forward to workouts, and feels a sense of belonging at FFC Oak Park. “You start to get to know people. The membership team is always so welcoming, and I see the same faces each week. There’s a wide range of ages and fitness levels, and that makes the space feel inclusive.”

Michael’s experience shows how a personal training success story can begin at any age — and how support, education, and community can reshape your entire lifestyle.

 

Everyday Wins: Strength That Shows Up in Real Life

Michael’s transformation is showing up in unexpected ways — from everyday tasks to being a musician. “I play piano and harpsichord and move a lot of gear. Now it’s so much easier.”

Michael recently bought a house and finds that everything from stairs to home maintenance feels more manageable. “I feel stronger. I feel more confident.”

 

Looking Ahead: Healthy Habits and Long-Term Goals

Michael’s ultimate goal is simple: to get to a healthy weight and manage diabetes without relying on medication. Michael once weighed 200 pounds and hopes to get close again, but is more focused on sustainability than a specific number.

“I used to do extreme dieting, but it never lasted. Now, I still enjoy many of the foods I love — I’m just wiser about when and how I eat them.” The psychological benefits are just as powerful: more energy, better moods, and no more daily naps.

Michael’s even starting to dream a little bigger. “I never thought I’d do a 5K — but now I think, maybe I could.”

 

Leading by Example — At Home and in the Community

Perhaps most rewarding of all, Michael is becoming a role model — for their teenage children, coworkers, and others watching the progress. “A coworker joined FFC after seeing how well I’m doing. I want to show my kids that this can be a part of life.”

At FFC Oak Park, and with personal trainer Lawrence, Michael has found not just a gym — but a supportive, knowledgeable, and empowering environment that makes wellness possible, even with a packed schedule. Michael’s journey continues to inspire others and stands out as a real-life personal training success story that proves it’s never too late to start.

 

4th of July 2025 Club Hours

Please be aware of the club’s operating hours for the 4th of July Holiday.  Have a happy and safe holiday!

Thursday, July 3:

  • All Clubs:  Open at normal time and close at 9 PM

Friday, July 4:

  • FFC East Lakeview, FFC Gold Coast, FFC Lincoln Park, FFC West Loop, FFC Oak Park, FFC Elmhurst, FFC Park Ridge:  7 AM – 6 PM
  • FFC South Loop, FFC Union Station, FFC Old Town: Closed.

Saturday, July 5 and Sunday, July 6:

  • FFC East Lakeview, FFC Gold Coast, FFC Lincoln Park, FFC West Loop, FFC Oak Park, FFC Elmhurst, FFC Park Ridge, FFC Old Town: Open at normal time and close at 7 PM.
  • FFC South Loop: Open at normal time and close at 2 PM due to Nascar Race
  • FFC Union Station: Closed

All members have access to all clubs during these days.

Regular club hours for each location resume Monday, July 7. 

ENTER TO WIN: 2 All-Inclusive Suite Tickets to the Crosstown Classic at Guaranteed Rate Field

Do you want to experience the ultimate showdown between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox? FFC is giving ONE lucky winner a pair of all-inclusive suite tickets to the Crosstown Classic game at Guaranteed Rate Field on Friday, July 25 at 6:40 pm

To enter the contest, click here and fill out the form by July 18. We’ll announce the winners by July 21. Good luck!