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East Bank Club
Rating Details »
- Nearest Transit:
-
Merchandise Mart (Purple Express, Brown)
Clinton (Pink, Green)
- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 5:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sat. 6:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sun. 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
62 reviews for East Bank Club
This business is a Yelp Sponsor
1/17/2008
4/5/2009
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12/10/2008
8/16/2009
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10/2/2008
Updated - 9/1/2008
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1/21/2007
One of the Business' Favorite Reviews What's This?
Wow. So I've been a member for about a year now and I have to tell you that this place is amazing. They have everything and you could spend a full day here. Not only do they have golf, tennis, basketball, indoor and outdoor pool, a full cardio and weight room with tv's etc...but they also have a great dining room, and unbelievable service. I walked in on my birthday and immediately was greeted with a "happy birthday!". That would explain it all. Even after I moved from Gold Coast to the LP I still maintained my membership because this place is too nice to leave!
East Bank Club is more like a country club in the city than it is a gym. The facilities are on-par with the best gyms but the social networking and celebrity clientele definitely place a social focus on this private gym.
Most Recent Membership Dues:
$125- Members Under 30
$175- Members 30+
*The fee to join also varies with your age and many companies offer discounted initiation rates.
The Highlight(s):
Classes- If you like classes: the frequency and variety of the classes are hard to beat. Most are free with a few exceptions. Classes include a variety of yoga classes, dance classes, strength training, and muscle toning.
The Pool- The rooftop pool is the place to see and bee seen. A word of warning : it can verge on a pickup joint so proceed with caution!
The Food: The new main level restaurant, Maxwells, is a great addition to the club. It is on the main level and open to the public. Dress code is business casual. The upstairs grill (and seasonal pool grill) are regular hangouts for members and offer tasty and reasonably priced dishes.
The Facilities: 3 Pools (1 currently under construction), Power Plates, Kenesis equipment, 4 rooms for classes, Racquetball courts, Basketball Courts, Golf Driving Range/Swing Analysis, Spa-Grade Locker rooms (Steam Room, Sauna, Spa services on-site, etc.), Cardio Theater, and more.
The Downside(s):
Parking- While they offer a discounted rate at the attached garage ($5.25), it is a hassle to always pay for parking. Unfortunately, if you don't live in River North- car is the best (and sometimes only) way to get there. The new meter rates don't offer much solace.
The Decor: While the club is while maintained, there is a distinct early 90s vibe. In time, I'm sure they will remodel.
Overall, it is a great club. Its a bit pricey but the social scene and member events make this a lot more than just a gym.
Love, love, love this place.. Anything you want to do, it's here. You want to drop off your laundry, wash your car while you get your work-out on.. it's here. You want to get breakfast, lunch, dinner, and shop you can.. Love the classes they offer on a daily basis and they are free.. They also have private classes you can take advantage of as well or personal trainers. This place is endless, you can literally spend the whole day at this place. There is so much to do, it's crazy. The spa is out of this world... swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, quiet rooms etc. I can't say enough about EBC.. Plus, it helps when you work out next to a celebrity.. Been a member here for over 3 years, but it does not come cheap. This place is so tempting, that your membership is nothing compared to what your bill looks at the end of the month. Money well spent....
I was a member here for the better part of my adult life. I love EBC. The staff is top notch, trainers are the best, the attendants in the locker room were so sweet. I actually think I miss them the most.....
Why no longer a member? I no longer work a minute away (damn condo developers) and as the commute got longer and life unfolded, I found myself paying a lot of money (its expensive if you use it, outrageous if you don't) and not getting the use out of it. This is luxurious and state of the art with out a doubt. The people watching and socializing is spectacular. As a matter of fact it was the socializing that got me in trouble. What? I've been here two hours and never made it out of the locker room. Yeah, see what I mean. The rooftop pool is amazing with breathtaking views of the river. The events division is on top of their game. Really, its packed to the gills with service and fitness professionals. And discretion is their forte. Trust me on that one.
There is not a amenity that is overlooked although I will say, I did quite miss the napping rooms and the free tanning that they did away with. If you use it, worth it, if you don't well its not but it is the nicest club I've ever been to and they have world wide reciprocal deals so you can actually enjoy similar facilities on a global basis. Membership does have its privileges.....
This place is amazing!
Whether it is to work out, run on the 1/4-mile track during the winter, shoot hoops or practice my golf swing, I can't get enough of this place.
The staff is friendly, the grill is great and the work room to take a call or get work done before a workout is an amazing perk.
I can't say enough good things about this place.
EBC = my happy place. Whenever I'm down, upset, overworked+underpaid, etc I know that a good workout at EBC will clear my head. However, I also know that I can get a massage, manicure, meal, and fulfill any retail therapy needs I may also have. It really is incredible that it has everything and is so convenient...really cannot say enough about it.
Great machine area, classes are intense, great weight options. Try to avoid the 6:30 rush hour, but other than that there's usually no wait. Love that this place makes it so easy to work out!
Tip: I was lucky to sign up early enough to take advantage of the under 26 rates...soon enough, I'll be paying a steeper fee because I'm quite sold, but it's been a nice year and a half.
I'm a lover, not a hater. I decided to check out EBC recently as a way to meet new people and force myself to get out of the house more often. The $170 monthly price tag is a real motivator to get my ass to the gym! I've been a member for almost 3 months now and am a happy camper.
The classes are great and seem to be in high demand and make me feel like I'm getting more for my money as compared to other gyms. I know some reviewers have complained about the clientele here, accusing some ladies of wearing too much makeup to the gym. I say, whatever it takes to make your face more palatable for others wherever you're going - more power to ya! I have seen some post-workout outfits that induce eye-rolling but I just consider it free entertainment.
One could spend an entire weekend day within the confines of EBC...and I have! One Saturday I started with brunch, installed myself in a lounge area to tackle some work, had a nice long workout and then polished off my day with a relaxing steam in the locker room. One thing to note: the services at the spa are VERY reasonable compared to other Chicago spas. I'll go ahead and publish this, because I'm so impressed with the prices - a brazilian bikini wax at EBC = $40...at Bliss = $70. I'm no math wiz but that's a $30 a month savings. Helps me justify the hefty membership fee. ;)
As a foodie I'm not extremely impressed with the food (based on dining at the Grill; haven't eaten at the restaurant yet) but it serves it's purpose and I've often times picked up a salad for dinner on my way home.
Net net - I like the social environment this urban country club offers and it's quickly become my home away from home.
Disclaimer: This review is only for the Food Shop.
So, not everyone can afford to sweat it out at the East Bank Club but I was ecstatic to learn I can eat here without breaking the bank!
The Food Shop is filled with prepared foods made in-house, most of them healthy. I was surprised to find a flavorful egg white salad, and for only $4.99 a pound. Broccoli Rabe, beef tenderloin, chicken breasts, turkey burgers... a protein playground of options. The chefs create designated South Beach diet favorites (I saw something resembling a spinach and egg fritatta) and their salads (most are $7.99) are not only well-portioned but topped with generous rations of grilled chicken or salmon. No skimping here.
If you feel like blowing your diet, plenty of baked goods are available for the choosing. Entertaining at your home after work? Take home a bunch of fresh flowers. They've redefined and nailed the concept of a full-service deli.
During the week, the Food Shop opens at 7 am so you can get your joe and your first square of the day. Though our relationship is a new one, I think it's already serious.
So I have been a member nearly a year here, and I still love it. It is pricey, and I have to cut some other things out of my budget to afford it, but it is worth it.
I tried the grill for the first time today and I liked the Vegas diner-y feel, and the salmon blt with sweet potato fries and the breakfast burrito I shared with Jessie B were delicious. When MA and I went to the restaurant a few months ago, it was also really good (we shared a ton of small plates on tapas night). And I buy food from the food shop all the time and have yet to be disappointed. I love waking up on the weekends, walking to the club, and sitting out by the pool (where there are also food and cocktails available). I have yet to take advantage of some of the special events, like movie on the terrace or the summer party, but I still like that there are those little extras.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/30/2007
oh EBC, I had heard of you for years but always thought you were out of my league. But I decided to… Read more »
I'm not a member. I'm just a friend of a member. Lauren H decided that I could be her guest to this very fancy, very sheek, and very cool county club like gym I was very honored.
Why you ask? Because this place had everything. If you wanted to get your nails done you can. If you wanted to give your hair a little cut you can. If you are hungry and are in need of a snack you are in luck because you can. A drink in the middle of the afternoon? You can! Oh yes...also if you wanted to any of the following...YOU CAN! Golf, tennis, basketball, racquetball, swimming, yoga, pilates, weight lifting, or running. (That was a mouth full) There really aren't any limitations when it comes to the EBC.
This place truly does cater to all your needs as far as relaxation or fitness. I am only giving them 4 stars because I didn't actually work out. Hopefully I am lucky enough for another visit with Lauren to get my butt kicked.
Oh yeah, don't forget to check out the little deli they have near the lobby. It has delicious food that you can take home and munch on. Schezwan beans! They were to die for. And the orzo salad was pretty scrumptious too.
Take me back there Lauren! Take me back!
Still a member -- still love it.
The only thing I've noticed is that several other Yelpers clearly ate at the upstairs cafe rather than the restaurant (now named Maxwell's). They are *completely* different and serve two different purposes. The food and drink options at Maxwell's are great (try the martini's).
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/21/2008
Ok, so I've only been a member for 3 months now, but I am STILL getting used to this gym. In one… Read more »
This place really does have everything. But it's almost too big. It has too many machines, too many members, and too much land. I would consider it almost more club and less gym as others would call it.
I would take a smaller more practical gym anyday.
Dining experience only....
Perfect for the occassion, but not a place I'll visit normally. I was sick this holiday and made no family-plans due to work I wanted to finish. I'm not a member of the club, but friends kindly asked me to join them for the Thanksgiving buffet. LOVELY. Wonderful selection, but in a cramped space for the number of participants. But we were fortunate to know to stay at the bar area rather than sit at a table in those cramped and souless dining rooms - more like dining areas. Poor atmosphere back in there. Sorta soup-kitchenish if I'm honest. But the bar space is wonderful and peaceful and relaxed. Very comfortable chairs, which is why you CAN dine there. Good service; punchy, but appropriate.
I'm a member since 1982. I'm healthy and happy because of EBC. I've been to all kinds of spas all over everywhere and NOTHING is as clean and beautiful and big and wonderful as the East Bank Club of Chicago. I am proud to be a member.
I died and went to fitness heaven when I walked into this place. It is a fitness metropolis. I worked out during peak workout time (5:30 - 7:30 pm). I did not have to wait for any of the cardio equipment and only had to wait a few seconds for some of the weights. This place has everything that you want from cardio to 170 classes a week - yes, 170! Golf, tennis, indoor & outdoor pool, outdoor track, dry cleaning, car wash, mini grocery store, bar, spa...the list goes on.
I was actually surprised at how down to earth the clientele was - I did not see anyone fully made up or "fake" working out as I have in other gyms - everyone seemed to be there to actually work out. The monthly fee is pretty steep, so maybe they are all making sure they are getting their money's worth. The personal training prices are low compared to most other gyms and the food in the bar area was pretty reasonable. I admit some of the decor could use a facelift, but they were remodelling the main dining room while I was there.
I thought my gym was pretty midscale, but now I will think I am slumming it everytime I go there. If I lived in Chicago, I would definitely join this place and spend the majority of my free time here!
Walking into EBC feels sort of like entering a small city. I'm pretty sure this place would be self-sustaining for at least a month should Chicago ever have a major emergency.
Not only can you do any kind of workout you want (and next to people like Oprah or Obama nonetheless) you can also eat almost anything you want. Smoothie? Sure. Salads? Okay. Sweet potato fries? Why not.
And you can use their free wi-fi while enjoying your pre or post workout snack.
Apparently though you have to give up your first born child for the membership costs. Hey, luxury is expensive people.
First of all I feel the need to clarify a few misconceptions in other reviews: Yes this place deserves it's own zip code, but everything is easy to find and I have never felt overwhelmed. They do allow kids but only in the "kids pool" which is on the 4th floor. For serious swimmers like myself the 1st level pool is kid free and only for lap swimming. Also kids are restricted to the south area of the locker roooms, which is adjacent to the stairs for the, again, KIDS POOL. Also the grill and juice bar serve one purpose, a quick meal/drink with your workout. If you want a fine dining meal try Maxwell's downstairs. Also while the fees are very pricey, consider all they offer. If you can walk in empty handed to the gym and leave presentable enough to return to work, that's priceless. Lugging around towels, shampoo, conditioner, a hairbrush, hairdryer, q-tips, etc., just to save maybe 50 bucks a month, no thanks. Go back to Bally's. Also with the amount of classes each week, nearly all are free you can't beat it. Not to mention indoor basketball, tennis, golf, and the 1/4 mi track.
Can someone please tell me the value of working out in full makeup, hair done and in a *juicy* sweatsuit?
Well, I'm not sure how effective that is, but you see it a fair amount here.
I've been to east bank a few times with friends, and while it is a nice gym, I certainly wouldn't join.
The gym has a nice cardio area, a large weights area and a couple of pools... but so do a lot of other nice gyms. I've grabbed lunch at the cafe, which was convenient, but not mind blowing.
Honestly the vibe I get here is socializing, not working out. It's nice, but I much prefer the halsted multiplex for gyms in this general price range.
I have to agree with some of the other reviews for EBC... this is not just a gym; it is a country club! They have anything and everything your little heart desires from weights, cardio, classes, tennis, golf, spa, restaurant, market, shopping, and more.
I was lucky enough to get a one day pass during my visit to the Windy City and I enjoyed a workout and an amazing lunch as well as use of their wireless! I loved the salad and splurged with a side of sweet potato fries - yum! (At least I worked out before I ate them so I didn't feel so guilty!)
I was blown away after my one visit to EBC! If I ever move to Chicago, I'll find a way to become a member for sure.
Well, kids, I did it. I finally weaseled my way into the East Bank Club. I've heard all of the rumors about the place, but I kind of wanted to see if it was all true. Let's just call this one hell of an experience and I'll take you through the major points that has it earn 5 stars from me:
1) presentation: I am still in awe of how a nondescript box of a building with a crappy awning over a revolving door could somehow transform into the lobby at the Ritz, complete with marble fountain and tuxedo-clad concierge. I was so fooled by this little charade that I asked my friend where we have to go to get to the gym. She gave me an amused look. She was kind. Oh, and did I mention there was a gift shop?
2) nose: Other yelpers have touched on it, but I want to confirm (and laud) that there is a distinct lack of odor in this gym. This phenomenon occurs EVERYWHERE-- fitness rooms, track, free weights, you name it. I am pretty sure they have it engineered so that you couldn't even smell the sweaty person next to you if you tried. How they were able to negate the aroma of the"well-perfumed" and "cologne-washed" is a miracle of modern science and should be patented. Probably is, I guess.
3) instruction: I took the Peak Performance class here and though I got my ass handed to me by two wonderful instructors, they still made me laugh. The bonus is that they know their stuff so no injuries, twinges, soreness at all. All of our postures were correct and the exercises were well crafted. Technically speaking, I was impressed. I will be back, whether they like it or not.
4) atmosphere: Yes, I went to the bar. Wouldn't you?
Anyway, I know there is a scene and there are the celebrities, the gold-diggers, people who get off on their proximity to celebrities, and people who want to show off their money or the bodies that said money has produced, but for the class I took today and the overall experience it would recommend that you overlook the fluff and check it out. I'm not going to gloss over the fact that it is pricey, but it lives up to the hype. Not many places can say that. I don't think this is the gym for me, but every now and again, eh why not?
UPDATE (07.25.07)
Went to the pool, AKA the magical land of the beautiful people. Lounged in super comfy chairs and sipped the greatest vodka lemonade *ever*. For those of you laughing at me, I'll have you know I did work out on the cardio machines first. I deserved a nice little break afterwards, thank you very much.
Anyway, it was a little piece of luxury, and the crowd, as beautiful as they were, was friendly. Can't beat that. It's nice to go every so often and made me forget I was in the middle of a city.
This is the gym to compare all gyms to. I have never seen anything like it.
First of all, it is ENORMOUS. In addition to what you would expect in any other higher end gym, the East Bank Club comes complete with a spa, pool, restaurant and smoothie bar to ruin your diet at!
My friend's membership price is at a premium, but it doesn't seem that the add ons are that unreasonable. She pays about $35/hour for her trainer and $60 for a massage and has no extra charge for classes. She also claims to have seen a handful of B-list celebrities at the gym during her workouts, which seems like a pretty exciting perk.
This place sure beats the YMCA here in Connecticut! Maybe I should petition them to open a more fabulous facility?
I am by no means in what any sane human would refer to as being "in shape" unless by shape, you meant round, but I love the EBC. The facility is superb and they go to great measures to make sure it stays clean and gives an excellent presentation. With up to 3 basketball courts, many tennis and racquet ball courts, a driving rang, track, workout studios, pilates studios, free weight rooms, cardio rooms, nautilus rooms, health and welllness center, an indoor track with views of the city, 2 indoor pools, 2 outdoor pools, amazingly useful locker rooms, this place is amazing.
Sure there are some snobby people, but while some of those eligible females noses are stuck up in the air, it gives you a longer chance to check them out...which means I spend more time on the machine working out. So it all works out in the end. It is a mutually beneficial relationship with out any contact!
In all honesty, I have no regrets about joining the EBC! They have great affordable food, smooothie bar, and an actual lounge with live music. You could feasibly live inside and never leave, but I have made many great friends and solid business contacts there. I did the seated row with Rev. Jesse Jackson, and Obama changed pants standing next to me...
Laura, quit hating on my *Juicy* sweatsuit!!!
EBC offers a lot for a gym and (urban country) club at a great price and the amenities are worth the extra price for the convenience.
It provides a great atmosphere for those who are serious about working out while those who want to be seen can socialize and workout.
There is so much to do beyond the standard aerobic and weight rooms - basketball, golf, tennis, the track, indoor pool. They keep the equipment up-to-date and there is always plenty of staff to assist you with questions or spot you on a bench press.
They offer plenty of classes and seasonal clinics as part of the membership but for a few $$ extra they offer additional training to help improve your golf or tennis game.
The outdoor pool on summer weekends is a scene in itself.
I like the restaurant and bar. The food choices are good and they offer plenty of healthy choices. The juice bar has great smoothies. All are convenient and quick for a sit down or get your food to go.
I work in the west loop, so it's easy to stop by after work or walk there for a quick workout during lunch. When I drive in at night or the weekends, it's not difficult to find parking nearby for less than the indoor garage plus I get my car washed occasionally in the garage and having the cleaners there is great.
I've been a member for a couple years now and it's been worth every penny.
Those familiar with New York's Chelsea Piers will find East Bank Club almost equal in atmosphere and services, except I don't think EBC has a full-size hockey rink...or does it? EBC is so incredibly large, but most of it is filled with driving ranges, racket courts and swimming pools. What's left is an incredibly large aerobics area with terrific equipment and two weight rooms with every conceivable device to build whatever muscle you want to bulge. Other reviews hit all the highs and a few lows, and since I was on a guest pass, here are a few things that stood out:
LOTS of children on the weekends, which happens at other clubs, but I was particularly surprised at how many people bring little children. I'm not sure why a club that charges a significant premium to members allows little ones....I mean kids that belong in a stroller and not playing around the swimming pool and in the locker rooms.
THEY CHARGE WHAT to join? Oh god...and I thought my old Holmes Place Gym charged a lot. Listen, folks, it's a huge, Byzantine gym with a lot of stuff you will end up having to pay extra for. Yes, of course, it's wonderful if you live within a block or two, but $170 a month is astronomical when you add the initiation fee, parking (because you'll have to have someplace to park your SUV like every other member does) or taxi charges, training fees, court/range fees and perhaps class fees. Sure, the basic membership fee grants you a lot, but it's just a huge gym that you'll need to use several times a week to make it worth the fees. You're paying for all those employees running around and that fancy fountain in the lobby. There's no climbing wall, but man, EBC has one heck of an impressive lobby.
EBC is really for Gordon Geko types, serious athletes and people who like to spend A LOT of time in a gym. It's an OK place if you use their facilities, classes and services regularly, but Equinox, Lakeshore Athletic Club and Holmes Place offer nearly the same equipment (sans hair salon, children's play room, and restaurant/bar) for $50-70/month less. I was amazed by the sheer number and diversity of the classes EBC offers (on a typical Sunday, there are--count them--30+ classes; my health club has like 4), so that is a plus. This is truly the Woodfield Mall of gyms.
I had an opportunity to spend about two weeks @ EBC last year on a series of guest passes. It really is the most profound gym I've ever been to.
Actually, I would say that EBC is more like a (312)-country club. It's very easy to spend the entire day here. Show up in the morning, get in some AM weight training, have a protein smoothie, lounge in the sauna, watch some TV in the bar with a cocktail, have a mid day swim in one of there pools, a light snack, then a long run on there MASSIVE cardio area or lift again in one of there MULTIPLE weight rooms, then do an organized gym class of whatever you might like, then dinner, then a massage then drinks at the bar till close.
the only downside, crazy expensive. Like I said earlier; it's 312's country club. ergo, it's expensive like a country club. Although this really is the pinnacle of a rounded fitness environment with tennis, golf, running, swimming, beauty shops, massage, sauna's, steam rooms... you get the idea. If you can afford it, rock it. I wish I could.
I'm always a tad embarrassed when I admit this is where I work out. My personal brand is not this tier. However, beyond swank is the most functional gym I've seen.
The prices are high but as a morning workout person, I've never had to wait for cardio equipment, have my choice of early AM classes, pools, and a very clean environment to enjoy all the while. Off all things to invest in, a fun, comfortable place to exercise is one of the most fruitful.
This isn't just a gym -- it's a country club. If you want to work out AND eat a good meal AND maybe go to a salon AND get your drycleaning done AND have the money to pay for it, then go here.
Of course, if you're just looking for a gym, go elsewhere. This place will set you back a few hundred, otherwise.
I like this place because there is so much to do here. I can spend an entire day working out -- the indoor track alone is worth the $165/month. I also like the pools-- especially the rooftop deck during the summer.
They also have awesome classes, special clinics, and health-screenings twice a year. There are tons of machines, weight rooms, tennis, golf, racketball, you name it, they got it.
They have a casual grill, a smoothie bar (yum city) and a fancier restaurant. All very nice. Oh, and a Pro-Shop with lots of clothes and stuff.
I've been a member at the EBC now for about a month. I really cant say enough good things. Tons of machines, indoor track, full-court basketball, thats all I really need. The locker rooms are nice and everyone seems to be pretty cool. It does have a country club vibe to it. You could be in and out in 45 minutes or you could spend the whole day there. I've done both, depending on how much time I have. My main concern when joining the EBC was it not being over crowded. The place is so big that you can work out in your own room if you wanted. It has a 1/4 mile indoor track that I hit almost every day that never has more than 10-15 people on it at peak hours after work.
Also, yes, some beautiful people work out there, but it really isn't as pretentious as some people have said. I have yet to see makeup running down a woman's face.
I've come here a couple of times on my friend's guest pass for vinyasa yoga class on tues nights at 6:30. I've never done yoga in my life, and it's a little intimidating to do, but the class was awesome. My 2nd time back, I could do MOST things the instructor asked, and the instructor tailored the workout to what the class wanted to work out.
This place is no gym - it has a bar, restaurant, pool, indoor driving range, sauna, spa, store, pianist, etc. It's a scene and be seen workout place, and many do come here to network.
Regardless, their classes are awesome - I would consider joining just for the classes and the indoor driving range. The annoying thing is that it's inaccessible via public transportation, but there is a cab line right outside the gym. The restaurant is relatively healthy, but don't expect tasty food. They do have a mean veggie burger, and they feature nutritional info (calories, fat, etc.) for their daily specials, which typically involve fish.
I love EBC. My five hour workout today was as follows:
Had a light breakfast and read the Tribune from 11:00 to 12:00.
Watched the IU/Illinois basketball game at the bar from 12:00 to 2:00.
Ran a 5K on the treadmill from 2:00 to 2:25.
Worked out on the machines from 2:25 to 3:15.
Steam room and juice bar from 3:15 to 4:00.
Okay, so maybe I only "worked out" for an hour but that's why I belong to EBC and not Bally's.
If you've read any of my reviews, you may notice a trend: I'm big on SERVICE. That is the main area that inspires me to Yelp either praise or insult on a business.
In that vein, EBC excels. In every experience with management and other employees, I've been exceedingly impressed with their diligence, attitude, and policies.
They do not need new members so they do not have rigid policies or obnoxious salespeople. The lack of a mandatory contract term (ie. month to month membership instead) is just one example.
If on top of all the facilities you've read about already, you also want a "gym" (I agree "country club in the city" is more accurate) that treats members with complete respect and professionalism, then seriously consider EBC.
I miss EBC! I was a member for about 4 or 5 years. And well, I turned 26 and my rates went up, I was starting to study for the LSAT ( = no working out.....just LSAT stuff!!!), and my boyfriend would not let me give member services another dime!
oh well, i'm at fitness formula in the gold coast now and it's good b/c it's so close to my house.....however, i miss east bank club and all it had to offer.
I hope to be back at ebc one day....probably after law school! =)
I have to admit I was totally against joining this place after watching the heavily done up girls and primped guys walk into it day after day (I live right next to it), BUT I joined when I quit my job and had more time and I love it. I don't love the "scene" like a lot of people do but I love the facilities themselves. It's clean, well maintained, and everything is always stocked. The only things I don't like are how stupidly expensive it is (and the initiation fees are ridiculous), and the total inattentiveness of 95% of the staff in the childcare room. They just let your kid cry when you leave and then page you if he doesn't stop within 5 minutes - I experienced it and then heard the same from 75% of the parents I know. I've actually sat there and watched the staff sit around and talk to each other as kids are wandering around playing alone and bored - and you pay extra for this service. Very disappointing but I still love the club - when I can get a sitter!
Good gym. Very prestigious, great sevice. Met michael jordan there. Gave me a pat on the butt in the mens room, it was kinda wierd, but hey, its MJ.
Moved here this summer and was really impressed with this gym. Like every gym I think there are pros and cons. I love the space first off, huge room with plenty of machines that are kept in working order, some machines have the tvs on them and there are several larger ones as well. You dont feel claustrophobic in a small sweaty space. Tons of room to stretch and lift weights. The pool indoors is wonderful, plenty of room to share a lane.
My favorite part is the amount of available classes. Im a huge class person and have tried yoga (very good), to a weights class (amazing). but my favorite are the spin classes. The bikes are top notch! I never sit on the bikes here and find something wrong with it like at past gyms I have belonged to. The classes are high energy and challenging. The only con to this is that they are only 45 minutes long so the actual time spinning is about 40 min. I personally like 60 min classes, but that is my preference.
I like how this club has a social aspect as well, however I mainly keep to myself but its nice to have a good brunch with my fiance on the weekend after a workout. Love the smoothie bar, and the little market is my go to spot to grab some fruit and a healthy salad for lunch (in the work week ams). Nice perk to have a cab line out front if im running late to work.
My biggest con is the spa. I was stoked to see I could get a 90 minute massage and facial for around 200. l haven't had one in months so went in very excited. I hate to say anything negative. but wow it was just not good. I had zero consultation on how my skin was, she just dove on into it. she was incredibly rough with the massage too, not educating me on what she was doing when she did it. and while i was supposed to be "relaxing" she was making an incredible amount of noise. Nice as she was I walked out somewhat irritated and my skin not really feeling great. My massage was just as bad, i was carted into another room with a woman who barely said a word to me. she didnt ask what my ailments were or what pressure I wanted. I just laid down and she kept me on my stomach so so long (longer than usual) that my lower back was aching so bad (I have a sensitive lower back) when i had to turn over it took me forever. I just couldnt wait to get out of there. I had high hopes but will stick to the gym portion.
I was absolutely a skeptic before taking the leap and paying the enrollment fee, but I'm completely a believer. The classes are varied and instruction and facilities are second to none. The restaurants are awesome and offer healthy menu options, which is entirely appropriate seeing as how it's a gym! I have never seen so many cardio machines in my life, not gonna lie. It's insane. Not only are the facilities awesome, but you can see Barack, Oprah, Jesse Jackson, and so many others there, which is kinda cool. Yeah, it's expensive, but like so many other things, you completely get what you pay for! Don't just assume that it's more expensive than other places, though. I've found that a lot of the services that they offer there are great because not only are they convenient, but the prices are very competitive as well. Their salon and spa are actually very reasonably priced for comparable facilities. It's not a gym, it's an experience!!
After 5 joyous years (although there was some pain involved after a few very difficult classes) I broke up with Equinox for East Bank Club. I didn't want to do it and Equinox will always have a special place in my heart, but East Bank Club is just more convenient...and I don't go out of my way for any gym.
Have to admit I was a little nervous about my new relationship with East Bank Club...do people really wear makeup to work out here? The answer is yes, some people do, but there are plenty of others who don't.
And so far I have to admit I'm pretty happy in my new relationship. This is more than a gym- it's a restaurant, it's a pool with quite the scene, it's a spa, and yes...it's even a meat market. They have everything you could possibly need from tennis courts, to a golf driving range, to really delicious looking sweet potato fries that I saw someone munching on today. :)
I'm a class person because I get bored working out on my own (even with the eye candy walking around east bank club). So far I've tried 2 classes and I've been very pleased...and I plan on becoming a regular in Lissa's spinning class (great music and an amazing workout!).
I also plan on getting my ass in shape this year for my upcoming wedding so I was really excited to learn that the trainers here are only $37. I guess it's not so cheap when I think of the monthly payment I'm giving East Bank each month, but it makes me feel a little bit better about spending the amount of a car payment on my gym each month. However, there are few things more important that your health so if you're someone (like myself) who will go multiple times a week I think it's worth the price.
Edit 9/17:
I've now been a member of EBC for 6 weeks and have to say I absolutely love it! I'm a class person and was on the search for good classes when I first started my membership so figured I should now share what I've found to be the best classes:
1) Anything with Kimmy Carlson- Basic Training and Cardio Circuit are my favorites. She does a great job of kicking your ass, while still making sure you''re having a great time.
2) Joel Burrows: Try Peak Peformance and BOSU. He's got a bit of an attitude, but if you don't mind that you'll really get the best workout ever. My abs hurt everytime i coughed for days after first trying his BOSU class.
3) Lissa Chrstman: Spinning. I don't even like spinning, but Lissa could make anything a good time! Her weight lifting class on Sat mornings is amazing as well, but get there early because the line to get in wraps around the gym!
4) Heather Johnston: body strength. She really focuses on technique, which I personally think is important in any weight lifting class.
5) Nancy Burrows: I've only taking her step interval class, which I thought was great- I tend to get bored in step, but nancy keeps things going so fast that it's impossible to get bored! I'm sure her basic training class and anything else she teaches is amazing as well...
6) Sarah Sharon: Kickboxing. I got spoiled by amaizng kickboxing classes at Equinox and while Sarah doesn't quite compare to them I still find her class to be very enjoyable and a great cardio workout.
I also asked around for the toughest trainer at EBC and am now getting my ass kicked weekly by Will. He may not be for everyone...he informed me I'd probably throw up during my first session, and while I didn't throw up I definitely wasn't feeling so hot. But he really pushes me, which is what I wanted. And love that trainers only cost $37 here!
Hope that helps some new members!
Great club and amenities. You don't smell sweat here, though...only desperation as people posture and try to hook up. One woman's makeup was running so badly, it sparked images of the Shroud of Turin as she wiped off with a towel.
I have belonged here for a few years now. As the other reviews say, it is packed full of activities that are well worth their steep monthly fee. The pilates studio is amazing for an extra fee. Their spin classes are fantastic, with amazing bikes! The cardio and weight rooms are full of new equipment all the time. They have both indoor and outdoor pools. Their indoor track is a quarter mile long, with a few rooms with heavy bags, boxing gloves, hand weights, bosu balls, etc. The spa services are great and reasonably priced. The restaurants offer a great variety of healthy and non-health foods. I love that they have a carry out market. They are constantly improving and adding more classes and equipment It is a large part of my everyday life and I feel fortunate that this is a place I spend it.
All that being said I do have a few complaints. First and most importantly, I have yet to see in all of the time that I spend there, an employee wiping down the equipment. I think this is huge, especially considering the fee each month. One would think it's possible to dedicate an employee or two to clean the equipment, or hey, post signs , add more spray bottles around, and ask people to clean their own after use. Just a reference in case you might want to wipe your own down before you use it! Secondly, I am a swimmer, but I don't swim often. The outdoor pool is amazing for that purpose, but I find that the patrons hate the swimmers and would prefer all lanes for socializing, with cocktails and faces full of makeup. Come on, it is a health club after all, I understand weekends the pool and bar are fun and a great place to socialize, but tuesday afternoon, I should not hear "f*#@king swimmers, they just splash so much, this jerk just ruined my hair." You are in water, at a gym, where lap swimming, triathalon training take place, your makeup and hair may get messed up. There is also a 30 minute time limit and a wait list during busy times, which is great to get people in and out, but I like to workout for an hour, so it can be a nuisance when you plan on that being the cardio for the day. The indoor pool is nice, but some people get rather angry when they have to share a lane (this also applies to the outdoor pool). I've seen a few argument over this. Rules state 2 people to a lane, but some must think they are more important. Which comes to my third complaint. There are some "very important people" there, well they feel that way, but I expect that, and actually find it entertainment sometimes. But really, we are all paying the $165 a month, no matter what the profession, I don't believe that you can look down on anyone who belongs to this elite club.
All in all, I love this place. It really is worth every penny, and would never consider another gym unless I moved away.
Go Bears!
Ah, East Bank. How I love my eccentric, slightly smarmy friend despite your well-publicized proclivities. Yes, you have a penchant for harboring stargazers, and could be the setting of a Jerry Springer show entitled "Sleazy Old Men & the Golddiggers who Love Them." But, you're still the best damn health club in the city so I love you anyway.
Seriously, though, while the social scene at ebc proves that class is something that wealth cannot buy, it is an otherwise perfect place to live a healthy, athletic lifestyle at a good value. Yes, I said good value. And, no, I'm hardly rich, and only a little crazy. East Bank is $165 a month (500 initiation) for those 26 and up, and $115 per month for young adults 21-25 (200 initiation) with no contract. Ebc is so pimptastic and rightfully self-assured, that they allow you to quit at anytime, with the only catch being that if (cough, when) you rejoin within 6 months, you have to pay the dues you missed to get back in.
The reasons EBC is a good value, and why most people who quit come back, are manifold. The club is 450,000 square feet, and every inch is well-maintained and well-managed. In this 2 city block castle, they cram in two full gym courts where they have pickup and league basketball, soccer, and volleyball, an indoor golf driving range recently remodeled with the same FieldTurf used in NFL stadiums and in which tees can be placed. There's also 8 tennis courts, a quarter mile, rubberized track, squash and racquetball courts, 4 aerobic excercise studios, a pilates reformer studio, a spinning studio, a boxing area, a simply gigantic cardio room, a large free weight room, four pools, a physical therapy center, a high end restaurant, a casual restaurant with reasonably priced, healthy food, a smoothie bar, a prepared food store, a dry cleaner, a hair and nail salon, two massive locker rooms that each have two whirlpools, two saunas, and two steam rooms on top of tons of lockers. I hear the women even get a full service spa in theirs! There's even a "PMS room" isolated on the top floor of the gym where people can do their cardio without getting haraunged by the aforementioned less-than-subtle members :P
Most importantly, though, while east bank offers an absolute plethora of things to do, they do everything right. The management and staff truly takes care of the members and treats them like family. They are constantly putting money back into the facility to keep it modern and undertake several capital improvements annually. For those yelpers who can actually balance the yummy eats listed all over this site with consistent excercise, the ebc membership fee is money well spent.
