FFC News and Blogs on Fitness,
Nutrition, and Inspiring Success Stories

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Mature entrepreneur suffering from neck pain

Q&A with Massage Therapist Tony Ryan

Ah, the mysteries of getting older. While I think the process has a lot of perks, the gradual increase of aches and pains is definitely not one of them. Luckily, the growing trend of self-care has proven to be a great motivator in paying more…
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Image of a bowl of baby spinach on a granite countertop.

Chocolate Secret Spinach Oil-Free Plant-Based Muffins

Most vegan baking recipes involve lots of oil, refined sugar and refined flour. While these treats are free of animal products like butter, milk and eggs, they can often be less than nutritious. Taking a whole foods, plant-based approach to…
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Man running on treadmill with headphones on listening to music

FFC Featured Playlist – Liz Silberman

Liz Silberman is the Membership Director at FFC Boystown and has been with FFC since 2018. She's lived in the Chicago area forever and has a deep connection to Chicago and the Chicago music scene, as her father was a session player in many…
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Mature active female in sportswear doing side-bends while training by riverside in urban environment on summer morning
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Smart Aging: Three Quick Tests to Assess Your Strength and Flexibility

Are you "actively aging"? Try these three tests to assess your strength and flexibility and to determine a game plan for your mobility as you age.
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Finding Balance in Your Diet and Challenging Your Food Guilt

When it comes to eating a balanced diet, don't let your mind run the show. An indulgence every now and then won't ruin your healthy choices, and feelings of food guilt can and should be challenged.
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Girl in snow holding a coffee cup

5 Coffee Shops in Lincoln Park To Help You Escape Chicago Winter

If you've got cabin fever this Chicago winter, check out our top 5 favorites coffee shops in Lincoln Park that transport you to far-away places.
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How to Communicate Your Needs to Your Massage Therapist

“Finding a hairstylist takes time! It’s like dating, except you have to wear the results on your head.” That was one of the first things my hairdresser said to me when we met. Still new to Chicago, I had spent six months looking for…
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Cropped shot of fitness woman standing in urban park wearing sportswear and mobile phone armband. Female model in sportswear with earphones listening to music during workout break.

FFC Featured Playlist – Rachel Gitlevich

This month, we're featuring Rachel Gitlevich's workout playlist! Rachel is a personal trainer at FFC Old Town. She loves helping people feel empowered in their mind, body and soul. Outside of the gym you can find her spending time outdoors,…
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Men having coffee

Boystown’s Best Cafes for a Cup of Joe

Despite the crazy fact that only two U.S. states actually produce coffee (Hawaii and California, in case you were wondering), you can bet U.S. citizens drink a LOT of coffee. An average of 3.1 cups per day, in fact! We’ve rounded up a list…
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kale bunch on a table

Vegan, Gluten-Free Recipe: Kale Waldorf Salad

Sweet, nutty and tangy, this vegan, gluten-free salad hits it all. The ingredients in the salad work double-duty as the ingredients for the oil-free dressing. Walnuts provide healthy fats. Apples and raisins add natural sweetness, and Dijon…
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Female runner holding phone and listening to music with headphones on.

FFC Featured Playlist – Victor Virgilio

This month, we're featuring Victor Virgilio's workout playlist! Victor is the Operations Manager for FFC Park Ridge. After working in hotel management, Victor decided to follow his passion and work in the health and wellness industry. He…
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Woman getting head massage

Feeling Congested? Learn How Massage Therapy Can Help

Stuffy nose, splitting headache and trouble sleeping. Sinus congestion can drain your energy levels for weeks. Did you know that massage therapy can provide relief for sinus congestion, pressure and headaches? Read on to learn how massage can…
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