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Spring Wellness Center
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Pilates Active Life Fitness & Instruction Yoga Pilates, Yoga [Edit]
1350 W Newport AveSte 2
(between Lakewood Ave & Southport Ave)
Chicago, IL 60657
Neighborhood: Lakeview
(773) 327-1678
- Nearest Transit:
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Southport (Brown Line)
Paulina (Brown Line)
- Good for Kids:
- No
47 reviews for Spring Wellness Center
47 reviews in English
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Review from Kim O.
Chicago, IL
1/3/2012
By far my favorite place! Wonderful instructors and fantastic classes. Gizel is an awesome instructor that really helps you get the most out of your pilates and yoga/pilates practice. Angie and Sayward also give fantastic pilates equipment classes. I've also had good pilates mat classes with Joia, Emily L and Alison. You really can't go wrong and the prices are the most reasonable in the city. LOVE!
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Review from J. P.
Chicago, IL
3/24/2012
I wish I could write a review for an actual class, but I didn't make it that far. They offer your first class for $5 if you are a new and I thought it'd be fun to check one out. Signing up for classes is a bit odd; something like if you don't hear from them the class is on? Hmmmkay. I signed up for a Saturday 1 hr. all level Kettlebell class. I was super excited because I had some exposure to Kettlebells and wanted to find out/do more exercises with them.
I show up on a cold Saturday morning by 8:15 a.m. I was told to get there 10-15 min early since I was new and to fill out paperwork, etc. I ring the buzzer. I wait. There is no lobby or anything so I'm forced to wait outside. I ring the buzzer again. Still waiting. Did I mention it was cold out? A few minutes later a woman arrives and starts talking to me; she is surprised no one is answering the bell (apparently she's been here before?) and so she rings it and we're buzzed in. I guess they didn't hear me earlier.
I walk up the stairs behind her and it's, well, an apartment. Very similar set up. She disappears. I peer into a room trying to see where the hell I should be going for this class. The three people (one of them appeared to be an instructor) were carrying on a conversation and didn't even blink when I popped my head in to see what was up. In fact, no one even looked at me. Well this explains not hearing the buzzer before. I head down the hallway and walk to a desk. Hello? I ask. Nothing. I hear two girls having a conversation off to the side behind the desk but I cannot see anyone. I say hello again. The talking stops. I say helloooo a third time and asked if they wouldn't mind popping around the corner to check me in. I mean, really? I was getting frustrated.
Finally, an employee walks in from outside. She still doesn't ask if she can help me until I start walking away. She also seemed annoyed with me when I began to explain what had transpired during my twenty minute struggle to get acknowledged.
I headed back to my house, changed clothes and went for a run. I have no desire to give Spring Wellness another chance. Maybe they have good classes, but their customer service sucks. -
Review from Sam K.
Chicago, IL
5/29/2011
I had a voucher from buywithme for a class package. I had been doing bikram for awhile, and I just wanted some variety. I took an early morning class with Jill, and she was great - really attentive, really sweet and on task. I really enjoyed my class with her and welcomed the change of pace from Bikram. The best part was the mood of the class - it reminded me of going to sports practice with my friends in high school. Everyone laughed a lot and was clearly at ease with each other. There was this young female camaraderie and lightheartedness that I just loved, and felt unique to this studio.
I decided to bring a friend of mine a few days later. My friend is super sweet and the type who won't speak up with people who are rude to her.
The person teaching the class the second time I came in was most definitely NOT cool. Even though they're supposed to offer a $5 class for new people, he refused to honor it for her, saying that since I, a friend of hers, had been there before, she either had to pay the $15 fee or use one of my buywithme classes. The way he phrased it was really rude, too: "You can't pay just five dollars, because your friend has been here before. You can either pay the $15, use one of her classes, or just LEAVE."
This policy doesn't even make any sense. Why on earth would the fact that I'd been there before affect how much she pays?
I told her she could use one of the classes from my package, of course. And the instructor continued to bother her, calling her out every few minutes, saying "ladies, don't grimace now," and then saying specifically to her "no more ugly face."
WTF? I've heard instructors urge practitioners to keep their "expressions soft," but what he was saying was just completely out of line. I honestly felt like he was trying to make her feel unwelcome. The voice he used with her was gruff and mean. And though he definitely is sort of a gruff speaking guy, his demeanor with her (and with me, to a much lesser extent though) was not the same demeanor he had with others.
This experience is extremely disappointing, as my friend was new to Chicago (and also new to the United States) and I hate the fact that I introduced her to something negative. My class with Jill was awesome, but a studio is responsible for every person who works there, and it makes me angry that someone would so directly discourage a person who didn't fit the right image.
I'm left with such a bad taste in my mouth that I don't even want to step back there, and am letting my two remaining classes go unused.Listed in: Disappointments
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Review from Becky P.
Chicago, IL
8/1/2011
Like many others, I purchased the Groupon promotion for 5-classes. It was a great deal, even though I'm not necessarily giving a rave review. I only took the Kettlebell classes with Gene, which I was super excited about because my experience with Kettlebells was very limited. And honestly, I still think it's limited. Although the classes were an hour-long, I rarely received any feedback or personal attention regarding my form. And I'm pretty sure that I'm not some Kettlebell pro who nailed it on my first class. If there is one thing I know about the 'bells, it's that form is everything. So the lack of attention was disappointing.
I did think it was a killer workout. The class is at a high intensity and it's absolutely exhausting. I sincerely apologize to anyone on Southport who had to see me or smell me afterwards. But my complaint is that the AC was never on in the classrooms (even in June) and it was god-awfully hot in there. Because it was so stifling, the windows were opened which caused the smell of cigarettes from the smokers outside to waft through. There is nothing more gross than sweating your butt off in a sticky hot room that smells like cigarette smoke. Seriously nasty. This is a deal-breaker for me and now that my 5-classes are up, I will continue my workouts at better ventilated, smoke smell -free establishments. -
Review from Vanessa M.
Chicago, IL
11/8/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I had a groupon for a 5 class package that I forgot about until two weeks ago. I decided to get my money's worth by taking Gene's Kettlebell class. Holy crap, this class is fantastic. It's a one hour class that kicks major butt (and thighs, abs, arms, etc.). The first 10 min is a warm up that includes jumping jacks, burpees, stretching, etc. that is enough to put a nice sheen of sweat on you. Then you grab your weights. Every class is a little bit different from the last class. But it is constant movement: swings, dead lifts, squats, ab workouts... It seems to go on forever! But when you get out of the class, you feel amazing. I plan on buying a class package to keep with it. (Note: kettlebell classes fill up, so you have to reserve a spot a day in advance.)
Listed in: Women "glow," Men sweat
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Review from Sao-Mai N.
Chicago, IL
7/23/2011
Groupon is the ticket to the city. I really can't write my reviews without a Groupon to get me there. This most recent Groupon took me here, since I've been looking for a new yoga place. (see older reviews, the one by my place closed (sad emoticon)). Although the center is located no where near my place, the trek on the Brown line is super easy.
The instructors are really welcoming and helpful to everyone's skill level. The place is clean and comfortable. Their yoga mats are lululemon mats, which are fabulous. I can definitely see myself continuing after my groupon for a 20 unlimited pass. No Ashtanga but I think for my level the vinyasa poses are quite challenging. Jill is excellent at helping you in and out of poses. So far my classes have only been 3-4 people, hopefully this review will get more people to come and support Spring Wellness Center. -
Review from Gwyn S.
Chicago, IL
8/30/2011
I love this place! I bought the Groupon and I've used three classes and have been hoarding them! I have two left that I need to use and almost don't want to go because I don't want it to end! Twisted, I know.
The yoga and pilates classes compliment running so much it's crazy!
My only "complaint," and it's not even a complaint, it's really more of a sadness, is that I see them on Groupon Now all the time for a $5.00 class but it's always only for new clients only. I went to a class today that was offered on Groupon Now and there were only two of us. If you offered those to your regular client base you would likely (1) fill up the class with a few more people and (2) create such goodwill with your current clients that they might just purchase something else. I admit I don't understand when a place says new clients only as that just tends to alienate the existing client base. Just sayin'. -
Review from Becky S.
Naperville, IL
9/25/2011
I have purchased two separate Groupon packages as well as paid for classes on my own here because I can't get enough of Gene's awesome Kettlebells class. It is seriously so hardcore -- love it! After having a baby and trying to get my body back with very little time for exercise, Gene's class has been perfect! It's like three workouts rolled into one. He is an awesome instructor, keeping the energy high and correcting you when you need it, which I appreciate. I also like his choice of music for the class. I definitely do not like the lack of A/C in the summer though -- definitely the one drawback. We are moving out of the area, and I will definitely miss getting my butt kicked every Saturday morning by this crazy Russian!
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Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
11/26/2009 2 photos
My thinking is that if I write a review about a wellness/fitness studio on Thanksgiving, it means I can eat another slice of pie...so, here goes.
$5 intro (group) classes! Great reason to check it out.
Core Ballet
Kettlebells
Vinyasa (Hot & Regular)
Pilates (private appartus and mat classes)
The goal is to try all 4 of these, and with the aid of my well-intentioned, non-food gorging Groupon...I shall do just this. I'll update accordingly.
I opted for the HOT-Vinyasa class on a recent evening...and was pleasantly surprised. FINALLY, the perfect balance between Bikram (too hot for me) and regular temperature. Just enough heat to work up a sweat, and sink into some poses super deep...but the ability to still breathe and *not die* still present. It's probably around 85 or so in the room, and it heats up as class gets going.
Alison (instructor) was sweet (no calling people out, I like!) mindful of the class, excellent at guiding, just a touch of zen for good measure...probably one of the most aptly led yoga classes I've ever been to. Yay!
Studio is clean and polished, hardwood floors, lots of light and open windows. Located on the second floor overlooking Southport. Kind of a tight squeeze in the hallway (no locker room, but there is a small changing room), but everyone is pretty polite...
$5 intro classes... and they've just introduced some community (donation only) classes at 430 on Saturdays...do it. I'll be back to it next week....after I finish digesting. :)Listed in: Working Out., Yogilates? ;)
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Review from Amanda Z.
11/30/2009
I have come to terms with the fact that I cannot just each what I want these days, not work out, and stay trim. Nope. I'm getting older, which means I have to (a) start watching what I eat and (b) working out.
Pshaw. It sucks. Mainly because I really don't like working out.
One session at Spring may have changed that. Hot yoga. Vinyasa. Stretching. No jumping around. Super friendly and sweet instructor (Alison, you rock). I sweated in class and felt wonderful when I was done. I was sore the next day (don't judge, I'm out of shape). An hour and fifteen minutes flew by. I could get used to this version of "working out."
Mats and towels were available for use, if you don't bring your own, no charge. They even have good-smelling sanitization spray for clean-up purposes (hello, hot yoga means lots of sweat, clean-up is mandatory!) Changing rooms available. $5 first class. Can't beat it. They also have other classes including pilates and kettlebell, which I'd never seen before, but it looked kinda fun.
Now, if I could just figure out how to really watch what I eat... -
Review from Sarah L.
12/18/2009
I purchased the Groupon for Spring Wellness Center and this is one of the BEST Groupons I purchased so far. I have only taken Kettlebells at Spring and I could not be happier with the class and the instructor. Gene is the instructor that teaches class on Saturday mornings. He works you hard for the entire hour. When I leave class, I can barely go down the stairs and I am covered in sweat. Fifteen minutes before the workout, Gene goes through an entire body warm up. Once you are stretched out and warmed up, Gene takes you through explosive Kettlebell exercises that lengthen and tone your muscles.
I have 2 more classes left and I am holding onto them. I am seriously considering purchasing more classes just so I can continue to keep a solid Kettlebells workout out in my fitness routine. Just a warning, you will not be able to walk right for about 3 days after you take the class. I have the "old lady" hobble because my legs burn with pain. It's a good pain right? Something so painful must be doing my body good!
Spring Wellness Center is a clean and bright space. There are hooks and cubbies out in the hallway to keep your belongings but no lockers. If you have something of value, bring it into the classroom. There are 2 changing rooms available if you are coming from work. The Pilates studio is very nice, nice equipment and exercise props. They offer private lessons as an individual or with a partner. You can also sign up for classes online or by calling. If you want to get into a Kettlebell class, sign up a couple of days before. They always fill up!Listed in: Off the Brown Line..., Working on my F I T N E S S
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Review from Kathryn M.
Chicago, IL
12/9/2009
Needed: 1) Sweat-inducing workout with 2)some type of meditation to repair my chi that 3)won't break the bank and 4)isn't too far away that I can 5)attend in the company of much needed friends.
Solution? Spring Wellness Center, ftw.
$5 for the first class, absolutely fabulous instructor, and nice facilities. Despite walking to Spring in the pouring rain, exhausted from a mind-numbing week, I walked out feeling goooood. Yeah, I was sore the next day, but the good kind of sore that makes you smile AND wince.
Just what the doctor ordered. -
Review from funmi m.
Chicago, IL
8/9/2009
I used to like the mat classes and my personal training here. I was looking forward to going back for more when I experienced the worst customer service ever:
After a car accident left me shaken and a little bruised, I contacted Spring to get a refund on my boot camp deposit. Initially, it didn't seem to be a problem. But the check never showed up. Then I sent a reminder e-mail. Then the owner sent me a reply telling me she'd refund my money, but my business was no longer welcome. WTF!?
Apparently my repeat request offended her, but how that justifies crappy treatment of a client is beyond me.
So, I took my money and workouts to Body Endeavors. They're friendly, knowledgeable, and seem to have the business management and social skills Spring Wellness Center is so desperately lacking.Comment from Alex M. of Spring Wellness Center 8/11/2009
Hi Funmi, Thanks for your review. We appreciate any feedback… More » -
Review from Emily S.
3/25/2010
I took a kettlebells class with Gene on a Saturday morning. WOW.
The workout was incredibly intense, and some of the moves were like being tortured, but Gene was funny, upbeat and kept the class moving. The hour was over before I knew it.
Be warned: his class involves a shitload of squatting and lunging, and your legs will pay for it the next day (ok, your whole body, and it was more like 3 days). However, on my next run, I definitely noticed an improvement, and I will for sure be back!
The $5 first timer offer certainly doesn't hurt, either! -
Review from Boon K.
5/20/2011
I was happy to see that they have the TRX and Kettle bell classes but I felt that I just couldn't get a great workout in. Why? First they don't really have a lot of option for classes, which doesn't work for my schedule. Then, the instructor spends most of his time flirting with cute model-like girls complaining that their 5 pound kettle bell is just too heavy. I left feeling uneven after the class because i knew I was doing way to many reps on one side. Overall, the place felt like a spa more than a place to get a good workout in. Sorry but I just need to honest.
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Review from Arelys V.
Chicago, IL
6/25/2011
What a great place! I purchased the Groupon for 5 classes because just the day before the Groupon came out, I had already decided I wanted to check this place out. What a great coincidence!
The place is conveniently located off the Brown line Southport stop. There is a lot to do around there so if you arrive early or want to do some eating or shopping afterwards, there's plenty to keep you entertained.
When you walk in you take your shoes off (if you don't need them for your class), sign in, and get set up. I've now taken the Pilates Mat with Emily, Pilates with Props with Joia, and the Kettlebell class with Gene. It seems as though I picked them in the right order. PIlates was a very quiet and calming class and everyone seemed very focused. Emily's voice was very soothing and she walked around to help out those like me whose hips were in the wrong position during plank. Joia is absolutely amazing. Her class was so fun! Everyone was having a great time and I managed to get a good sweat in. And finally, the kettlebell class that kicked my butt. Gene really knows what he's doing! I don't think I've ever left a class as sweaty and smelly as I did today. I got home and had so much energy. I'm sure I won't be able to walk tomorrow, but that's okay. The class was so fast paced but definitely doable.
I hope I can find the time to keep going once my life as a teacher starts back up. But for now, I'm having a great time at Spring! -
Review from LaNisa F.
Chicago, IL
9/27/2011
Totally stressed out after work I didn't feel like running on a treadmill at the gym so checked out the deals on groupon "now". I came across a 5 buck yoga class at Spring Wellness Center and jumped on it. It was just what I needed! The instructor was awesome and I loved that she remembered my name so quickly so could help me with poses. Listening to Wilco while in downward facing dog didn't hurt either. It was a small class so we received individualized attention. I'll go back even if it's more than 5 bucks.
I gave it a four because it was kinda noisy with the Pilates class right outside; but still worth it. -
Review from Wayne C.
IL
7/22/2009
This place is fantastic. I was never at the old studio so I'm not sure how the new one compares but it's definitely new. Very clean and well kept. The staff there is very nice and not at all snooty.
I'd taken a Pilates Reformer class elsewhere and enjoyed it but didn't find it too challenging. I take the Pilates mat classes here and they kick my ass. But I'm also a weakling in general so probably not the best gauge.
The online sign up system is convenient and the price is very reasonable, especially for the area. I was looking for a Pilates studio somewhere near my apartment and while there are a few that are closer, none of them seemed to compare price-wise. $120 for ten classes. Perfect. The other thing is that you decide when you go, which I love. You can go every week for ten weeks or use all of them ten days in a row. It's up to you.
Overall I love this place. And my abs feel like they've been pummeled on a weekly basis and it's wonderful. -
Review from Ato Z.
Chicago, IL
4/11/2010
I took advantage of an introductory special for pilates private sessions. My instructor Lizzie was great. My only complaint is that it is hard to get a good evening or weekend time for a private because they are pretty full (and I can't workout too late or it screws up my schedule), but I can't really fault them for that.
Easy access from Brown line (parking kind of difficult though)
I am sure I will return for a class or another private sometime. -
Review from Rachel M.
Chicago, IL
9/12/2009
This place is amazing. The price is right, the classes are challenging, and the people are incredibly friendly. Give it a shot!
I've taken pilates, kettlebells, and cardio bosu classes here. I've been doing kettlebells classes at Spring for two months and my body has completely changed--I'm much stronger, leaner, and more toned, and the class is challenging but really fun! Cardio bosu made me really sore, which is fantastic, and pilates is always a great workout to add to the schedule once a week.
The space is gorgeous, light and airy, and the teachers (especially Gizel and Gene) are fantastic, I definitely recommend one of Gene's kettlebell classes if you're looking to add some muscle to your frame! For $5 for your first class, with a 50-step walk off the brown line Southport stop, how could you pass this up? -
Review from Jack R.
San Francisco, CA
3/5/2010
The five stars are for Jill Gamer. I was in a yoga teacher training with her recently and have witnessed her as a teacher. She was clearly born to do this kind of work. I dare you to take a class with her and not love her.
Jack Tone Riordan, Licensed massage therapist and certified yoga instructor -
Review from Jennifer N.
Chicago, IL
2/26/2010
I've been going to Spring now for a long time and I thought it was about time to write a review about them. When I was looking for a pilates studio I looked at several places in the area and Spring was the best option. In addition to being a yoga and pilates studio they also offer classes like kettlebell and core ballet. You can come to this studio for a full range of classes. I've had an opportunity to try a lot of the classes and I can tell you they are all great. They also have great little perks like hot tea and tangerines while you wait for your class.
I came to Spring looking to do some cross training. I'm a marathon runner and was having some overuse injuries and need to develop in other areas. I can now say 6 months later I back to marathon training and I'm stronger, healthier and in better shape now. I highly recommend Spring if you are a runner. The instructors are all top notch and can help you with your trouble areas.
I know this review is a little long but I want to give feedback on some of the wonderful instructors, I highly recommend them.
Gene, who teaches kettlebell classes, is awesome. Kettlebell is a total body work that will get you into shape fast. Gene is one of the best fitness instructors I've ever had. From my first class I was totally hooked. He makes working out fun while always trying to challenge the class.
Joia, who teaches pilates is great. I take group apparatus pilates with her once a week. Joia has such a great way of teaching. Her goal is to try different things and gives a great overall pilates workout. I think its Joia athletic background that makes her a great teacher. She looks at where each one of us struggles and then incorporates that into our workouts to make us all stronger. This is one class that I look forward to every week because I can come in stiff/sore from running and I leave feeling great.
Kristen, who also does pilates is wonderful. I've only done a few private sessions with her but really enjoyed them. If I had more days in the week I would definitely take classes with her. Kristen also has this skill of finding your weaknesses and helps you improve upon them. You will love her great personality and friendliness.
Gizel, I think she is a butt kicker. I've only had the opportunity to work with Gizel through Spring's pilates boot camp but I can tell you I've never had my butt kicked so hard. Gizel has to be one of the most knowledgeable pilates instructors out there. She is great in teaching classes and really knows how to give you a really great workout.
If you are looking for a fitness studio you should give Spring a try, I don't think you will be disappointed. Everyone at the studio is great and the classes are all wonderful, there is something for everyone. -
Review from Jennifer M.
Chicago, IL
10/14/2010
Took a kettlebell class here that was absolutely great. It was so intense my legs felt like jelly walking down the stairs to leave. Although I've taken kettlebell classes before, none compared to the intensity of this one.
The best part, I was able to accomplish this for $5.00, which is the price for the first class.
If you're looking for a place with great kettlebell classes, I definitely recommend this place. They even have kettlebell bootcamps which I'm thinking of trying as well. -
Review from Emily Z.
2/25/2010
I got a groupon here, I've tried 2 of the classes so far. The studio is upstairs and the door is kind of hidden but the space is pretty intimate and cute, though I usually go to Bally's so its not hard to impress me.
I've tried the Hot Vinassa yoga, I wasn't really a fan, though I definitley felt it the next day, it was a small class of about 8 and the teacher was relaxing and gave personal attention I just prefer Bikrham yoga over salutatoins.
Yesterday I tried kettle bells, it was a class for all levels, but it was super intense. I don't know if something was wrong with me but I got really dizzy and had to sit down a few times. I think its becaues it was after a hot yoga class it was like 90 in there, which I think is great for slow breathing and moving but not for an intense workout. My teacher was great though he seemed to favor two young ladies in front, then again I don't think I'd like that extra attention. The class definitley uses muscles you dont' usually use, I can barley walk today, but lets be honest I could barley walk out of there after the class, you have to go down 25 stairs to get out... not a good idea.
I would love to try some of the pilaties machines looks fun.
I would definitley recomend trying a group class, it a good change of pace from the crowded gym. -
Review from Erin C.
New York, NY
10/10/2009
This is the first studio I've found since I moved to the area 1.5 years ago that I really, really like. The class schedule is incredible - they actually have classes people who work can attend! Early morning classes are my favorites (6am yoga? yes, please), but they also have later evening classes (after 7pm) to suit people who can't get there early. The weekend classes are limited, but the 8am classes are great.
I haven't taken any of the Pilates classes yet, but I've heard great things from my yoga classmates.
The studio is clean and welcoming. Everyone is very friendly. Above all, the people working at Spring are awesome. I've liked almost all of my instructors and, the one time I had a less than stellar instructor, the studio was open to our class's feedback and reimbursed for the class. Way impressed. -
Review from Alex K.
Chicago, IL
2/14/2010
I am not really a yoga person. I have done once before, at home privately with a book :) But my start to yoga bootcamp is awesome!
I immediately fell in love with hot yoga - it stretches the muscles you haven't felt before and builds endurance.
I admit i was fainty for like 30 minutes in the class - but the instructor was nice, told people they could leave and come back.
But also feeling soooo good after the class is amazing. I am hoping this will get me back to normal exercise but will stick to hot yoga since I didn't realize how physically challenging and completely amazing it is.
Yoga Bootcamp is a way to go! -
Review from Jennifer B.
Chicago, IL
3/22/2010
Like many reviews, I am a Groupon-er getting my money's worth! I've taken both a ballet class and a kettlebell class and can't wait to try the yoga classes...
Here's what you gotta know about Spring: it's very easy to get to (metered parking everywhere, steps from the Brown Line, etc), and everyone is really friendly. The area is small and I mean SMALL, so you kinda gotta cram your coat and handbag into a little cubbie-like area. Likely in the hall you'll be smashed up against folks. But the classes are so good you really won't mind.
I have to rave about Gene and the kettlebell class. It's really just a joy to take his class b/c he is so funny, and he really gets the class involved. By the end everyone is exhausted but laughing and in a great mood. I wish every instructor was like him.
I would encourage anyone who wants to work out in a class setting to try Spring! They have such a variety of classes that you will always be trying something new! -
Review from Carrie B.
Chicago, IL
7/15/2011
I started going to Spring Pilates about 8 months ago when I moved to the area. I found it was the closest and most convenient Pilates studio to my house. Quickly after starting I signed up for the apparatus classes with Joia and it was the best decision. She is an incredible Pilates instructor as she is very knowledgeable and takes great passion in Pilates!
Each and every week she introduces new moves, ways to make current moves harder all while making class fun. Sometimes we joke that the hour goes by too quickly. We are able to have a good time and work hard too.
I would highly recommend Spring Pilates to anyone and if you are able to sign up for one of Joia's mat classes or Reformer classes you will be sure to come back for another! -
Review from Abbey F.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 2/7/2010
So I'm still working out at Spring all these months after my wedding, and I can't believe it! Before I started working out with Joia, one of the pilates instructors at Spring, I could never commit to an exercise routine. Pilates equipment and mat classes are soooo freaking hard, but so fun that you forget sometimes that you're exercising.
Joia is my favorite teacher at Spring. She is a classically trained Pilates instructor who has taught some very well-known people (just ask her!). Her group mat classes and apparatus classes are hard core without you even realizing it, because she is so sweet and fun to hang out with. She has a great following at Spring and I wouldn't be there every week if it weren't for her!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/14/2009
I've been working out at Spring for about 10 months now so it's time for me to write a review! I… Read more »
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Review from Ashley B.
Chicago, IL
1/25/2011
I LOVE this place.
I have to admit, everyone who knows me is shocked, as I have always strongly advocated against working out (I mean, I could be shopping or sleeping or eating!) but since joining with a friend days after the start of the year (just a coincidence...and an upcoming trip to Jamaica...) I have been there 15 times for classes. Thank goodness I bought the affordable 30 day unlimited pass.
I have found that not only do I (gasp) like working out, but I also don't want to maim the instructors - in fact, I like them! :0) I even will do back to back classes. I agree with the kettlebells - I was cursing poor Gene's name for days - but I honestly enjoy all of the workouts, from kettlebells to yoga (detox, hot, and flow) to pilates (mat and with props).
The staff are friendly - every time I have a new instructor, they come up to me at the end of class, introduce themselves, and welcome me. While I have my favorite instructors (funny Joia and Gene, sweet Jill) I have found everyone to be amazing. I anticipate this being a great, long lasting relationship. -
Review from Annie W.
Chicago, IL
5/26/2011
I really appreciate that they are not so....oh how do I say it....granola and also not so Barbie-ish. Spring Wellness Center gives me a centering experience without being so hippy dippy, they play a mix of more contemporary music (that still matches the flow of yoga), but don't just play the default flute over a babbling brook type of cd. The instructors seem very passionate about yoga, Pilates, health, and wellness and not about having the cutest yoga outfit or the perkiest pony tail. I appreciate that appearance is not the focus and I appreciate this as I don't want to be thinking of if I fit in when I go to work out.
UPDATE: I had taken the yoga classes and a few Pilates mat classes before, but I had never the Pilates apparatus classes at Spring or anywhere else until earlier this month. I really have to say that I love the classes and I also love Marie. She has been a dancer for years and also experienced what it is like to recover from injury and I get the sense that both of these things influence her style. She's not chatty and not too much - she gives lots of good, constructive feedback and will adjust you to make sure that you're moving properly. Some people say that the springs are relatively weak there, but having never done Pilates before, I can't speak to that, but I do think that Marie is a fabulous instructor. -
Review from Franny S.
Newton, MA
3/21/2007
I had my first private session at Spring Pilates last night and it was...well, as pleasant as any kind of exercise could be (to me, at least). The studio is in a converted apartment and it's a very cute, inviting space. Their prices are also much more reasonable than the other pilates places I'd investigated. Gizel was extremely encouraging despite the fact that she was stuck working with someone who hadn't exercised in years (that would be me). She really took the time to make me feel comfortable and explain everything. That being said, she totally kicked my ass and nearly every part of me is in pain today. I'm actually looking forward to my next session though!
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Review from Jennie H.
Venice, CA
2/23/2008
This place's only fault is its size. On the other hand, that could be what makes it feel very homey and not intimidating. It's literally a 2 bedroom apartment converted to a pilates center. The instructors are young, attentive, and fun. The classes are super affordable. I have done mat classes and "duets" classes, which is where you and a friend have a private instructor and use the various apparatuses. My friend and I went to Jessica, who is new and totally awesome. She is enthusiastic and very aware of what you're doing at all times. I recommend her highly, but if you don't want to commit to a program, take a mat class. They will kick your butt, and Spring just started offering them almost every day which is great. The only problem, like I said, is the size, where you literally need to stagger your mat so you don't knock the person next to you.
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Review from Tara P.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 7/21/2009
Upgrade! The new center solves all space problems and adds lots of sunlight and some waiting areas, along with a variety of new classes including kettlebells, various types of yoga and more. There are yoga/pilates studios closer to my condo, but none are better than Spring, so I continue to go out of my way to get there.
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5/2/2009
I love this place! Must echo previous reviewers - mat classes are affordable, teachers are great.… Read more »
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Review from Leslie S.
Chicago, IL
9/1/2011
I've been in a quartet Pilates class for a couple of years now with Joia as my instructor. She's THE BEST! She is what makes Spring a wonderful experience for me. She has many years of experience and always gives me a great work out. When she lets us know that the hour-long session is up I am always so surprised that it's over because she makes it so fun!
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Review from Courtney S.
Chicago, IL
8/1/2009
I used to visit the old studio and the only complaint I had was similar to what another reviewer mentioned--too many people in a small-ish room. However, their new studio is gorgeous. Light, airy, pretty spacious. The staff is very friendly and I never feel intimidated. I took the kettlebells class, looking to spice up my usual routine of yoga or pilates, and I loved it. Gene kicked our butts right from the start but I felt amazing when it was finished. I have already booked a space for the next class.
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Review from Maura H.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 6/29/2010
Since my favorite instructor has since left, I felt like I needed to update my review. Spring is still awesome - Kristen left a hole, no doubt, but I can still get here for all the group activities I need. Lizzie, Sayward and Joia have been GREAT to work with. Their mat classes and the group apparatus classes have still left me sore and have had fantastic results on my waistline and arms. I love how accessible it is and how flexible Gizel/Alex can be when you need them to be. The website is kept up which is a huge bonus when you are trying to find your new favorite instructor :)
Listed in: My Neighborhood
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12/10/2009
I needed something to supplement my running since i wanted more tone i knew that running alone… Read more »
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Review from Ann M.
Chicago, IL
2/5/2010
I took advatage of their first class for $5 deal and was really pleased with the quality of the class. I've taken Pilates for years, and I know good teachers from bad. The class kicked my butt in a good way. Can't wait to go back for more!
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Review from Gina M.
Chicago, IL
8/3/2009
Fantastic! I came here for a Candlelight Vinasa Yoga class. Not only was the space clean, relaxing, and conducive to a great workout, but the instructor was AMAZING! She talked about our injuries, concerns, and places that we wanted to work. She thoroughly explained every move and made sure we were doing them correctly. I left the class feeling inches taller and slept like a baby that night. I can not wait to go back and try more classes!
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Review from Aliza C.
Chicago, IL
2/26/2010
I love Spring Wellness Center! I have tried several different yoga studios in the Lincoln Park/Lakeview area (Bikram, Vinyasa) and this is my favorite hot yoga class. The classes are small, so the teachers are able to give individual attention. My favorite is Core Vinyasa.
I also LOVE kettle bells. I have become obsessed. I think it is an amazing workout, and Gene is a great teacher!
I highly recommend this studio
