Stronger Together: Celebrating 41 Years at the Best Gym in Chicago
Last week, Fitness Formula Clubs (FFC) turned 41—and the celebration came with an even bigger reason to cheer. For the second year in a row, the city voted us the Best Gym in Chicago.
That recognition isn’t just about workouts, equipment, or amenities. It’s about something deeper: the community that has fueled FFC since 1984 and continues to make us stronger, together.
Our 41-Year Journey
When we opened our first club more than four decades ago, fitness in Chicago looked very different. There were fewer options, limited facilities, and little focus on wellness as a lifestyle. FFC set out to change that.
From day one, our mission was to create neighborhood clubs where people could do more than work out—they could belong. Over the years, we’ve grown to 10 clubs across the city and suburbs. We’ve been evolving with every era of fitness: from free weights and racquetball courts in the 80s, to high-energy group classes in the 90s, to today’s cutting-edge amenities like infrared saunas, InBody scans, and recovery services.
Through it all, one thing has stayed constant: our commitment to community, service, and innovation These qualities have helped establish FFC as the best gym in Chicago.
The Energy of a Citywide Celebration
From the first day, members walking through FFC doors knew something special was happening. Tables lined with samples from beloved partners—like Red Bull, Magic Bar, Local’84, The Goddess and Grocer, Ruby Tea, and Begyle Brewing—set the stage. Smoothies, cold brew, and wellness bites gave fuel for workouts. Brands like Drink Delta, SpaceTime, and Hormbles Chormbles introduced members to fresh flavors and recovery options.</span>
But the real energy came from the unexpected moments: surprise-and-delight giveaways, scavenger hunts that had members exploring their clubs, and live experiences that turned ordinary weekdays into memories.</span>
Stronger Together: Team Teaches
Themed “Stronger Together,” group fitness team-teaches were the heartbeat of the week.
- At <strong>East Lakeview, Becca and Matt packed the cycling studio for RockSTAR Ride, while GaGa Mayhem mixed dance and fitkick for a high-energy Tuesday night.
- At <strong>Gold Coast and West Loop, Dance Mash Ups brought instructors together to create high-energy choreography that had the room buzzing.
- Lincoln Park’s heated vinyasa yoga paired Darren & Molly for a flow that left members centered and inspired.
- Old Town’s On the Ropes and Touchdowns & Tight Ends bootcamp showed just how fun functional training can be.
- Oak Park took it to the water with Aqua (X)treme and stacked its Thursday night with back-to-back Endura94 and Core94.
Each class was more than a workout. It was a celebration of community, with members cheering each other on, laughing between sets, and walking out stronger together.
Why This Week Matters
Being named the Best Gym in Chicago two years running is a reflection of something bigger than workouts and amenities. It’s about people. Member Appreciation Week showed us once again that what makes FFC stand out isn’t just our classes, lounges, or vendors—it’s the energy our members bring every time they walk through the doors.</span>
For 41 years, FFC has been committed to fitness, wellness, and community. Last week, all three came together in a way that reminded us why Chicago continues to choose FFC.
Thank You, Chicago
tyle=”font-weight: 400;”&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;>To every member who joined us for a workout, tried a new product sample, danced through a mash-up, or
laughed with a friend—thank you. You’re the reason FFC is proud to call itself the best gym in Chicago.
Here’s to 41 years behind us—and many more memories ahead.
Want to see what makes us Chicago’s favorite? Join FFC today and be part of the story.
