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

Latest Stories

How to find motivation - even when things get tough

Strong Mind | Strong Body #2: How to Find Motivation Even When Things Get Tough

FFC Old Town membership representative Sophia shares her tips for how to find motivation, set goals and achieve them - even when things get tough.
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What's in my gym bag? The handy gym essentials checklist - fitness resources Chicago

What’s in My Gym Bag? Gym Bag Essentials Checklist

FFC South Loop fitness specialist Matt Wallace answers the question, ‘what’s in my gym bag?’ and shares his list of top gym essentials to keep handy when you’re sure you’re forgetting something. Having the correct gear for any situation…
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Healthy stir fry recipe for Vietnamese orange ginger cashew stir fry.

Healthy Stir Fry: Vietnamese Ginger Orange Cashew Stir-fry with Brown Rice Noodles

Fun fact: ginger is one of the 6 spices that will help improve your health. It can help fight inflammation, which means you’ll feel less sore after an intense workout. In this Vietnamese ginger orange cashew healthy stir fry recipe, the spicy…
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3 Easy Mocktail Recipes to Try Out Now

Though a love for red wine could potentially improve one’s heart health, the latest global studies have shown that no amount of alcohol is safe for consumption. While there are some benefits to certain types, they do not outweigh the risks,…
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Effects of stress on the body and how massage for stress relief can help.

Effects of Stress On The Body And How Massage for Stress Relief Can Help

FFC Oak Park spa manager Jason VonGerichten shares the effects of stress on the body and stress management tips, including strategies like massage for stress relief, among others. Check out the research and tips below! When discussing the…
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Cinco de Mayo party ideas Mexican Shepherd's Pie with Smoky Sweet Potato Crust

Cinco de Mayo Party Ideas: Mexican Shepherd’s Pies with Smoky Sweet Potato Crust (Tartas Pastores)

Looking for Cinco de Mayo party ideas? Look no further! Traditional Shepherd’s Pie gets a Mexican twist with this spicy vegan recipe. A hearty filling of black beans and corn will give you healthy protein and complex carbs – essential nutrients…
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Fitness motivation videos: 5 essential fitness YouTube channels you should know

Fitness Motivation Videos: 5 Essential Fitness YouTube Channels

If you're like me, you may spend some nights deep in a YouTube rabbit hole, going from one topic to another until you've wasted hours you could've used to catch up on sleep. The amount of content out there can be hard to sift through, especially…
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How to shop organic - must-have organic grocery list items

How to Shop Organic: Must-Have Items on Your Grocery List

Are you someone who's wondering how to shop organic? Or even wondering if you should? Even if you're not ready to commit to buying EVERYTHING pesticide and additive-free, here is a quick guide on how to shop organic - plus some must-have items…
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Healthy mushroom soup recipe with barley and leeks - great for a post or pre-workout meal!

Healthy Mushroom Soup Recipe With Barley & Leek

From Lion’s Mane mushroom tea to Shiitake mushroom broth, mushrooms are quickly becoming one a favorite for both nutritionists and chefs. A healthy source of iron, protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants like selenium, it’s no wonder they’ve…
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Image of hands giving the okay sign

Positivity Perspective: Body Positivity & How to Prioritize Healthy Habits

FFC Union Station personal trainer Tyler Sutphen shares a perspective on the body positivity movement and a reminder to prioritize health habits above all. As you read this, please know that I do not condone bullying of any kind. However,…
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Gluten-free vegan bread recipe with no yeast - Irish Brown Bread

Vegan Bread Recipe: No-Yeast Irish Brown Bread

If you want to try baking bread, this easy vegan bread recipe is a great place to start! This Irish brown bread doesn’t require any yeast so you don’t have to wait around to bake it. Traditionally using white flour, this healthy, vegan version…
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Hotel room workout: a simple bodyweight workout for when you're traveling

Hotel Room Workout: A Simple Bodyweight Workout for When You’re on the Go

FFC-exclusive group fitness instructor and trainer Austin Head shares a simple 15-minute bodyweight workout for when you’re on the go. Needing no additional equipment (just yourself!), this hotel room workout will ensure you’ll be able to…
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