CHICAGO — For those who made New Year's resolutions to shed extra pounds, the Chicago Park District wants to help.
Free Fitness Week is an annual, week-long affair that ends Jan. 11 and allows Chicago residents to use the district's fitness facilities for free. Residents can also try out group fitness classes at 72 fitness centers throughout the city, including in Englewood, Chatham and Grand Crossing.
“Our goal is to get people active and give them the opportunity to come see what we have so they can start a healthy lifestyle,” said Brandon Lyles, senior program specialist for the Chicago Park District.
He said the initiative is an attempt to draw people to the gym in hopes they'll eventually become members.
The cost of a membership compared to L.A. Fitness or XSport Fitness is significantly lower, Lyles said. While it depends on the park, monthly prices range from $10-$25, while annual passes range from $100-$225, a park district spokeswoman said.
L.A. Fitness, for example, has initiation fees that can start at $99, which doesn't include the monthly fees.
“We open our doors to people who may not have the luxury to spend money at a more expensive private gym,” he said. “We try to keep our prices affordable for everyone,” Lyles said.
For Free Fitness Week, residents must register at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Some of the classes being offered on the South Side include:
• Fitness Boot Camp for those 18 and older: Friday, Foster Park, 1440 W. 84th St.
• Fitness Preview Class for 18 and older: Through Jan. 10, Ogden Park, 6500 S. Racine Ave.
• Cardio Line Dancing for 60+: Thursday, Foster Park, 1440 W. 84th St.
• Samba for 18 and older: Wednesday and Friday, Hamilton Park, 513 W. 72nd St.
• Mom, Pop, Tot Fitness Bootcamp for ages 3-6: Thursday, Nat King Cole Park, 361 E. 85th St.
To view the entire list visit www.Chicagoparkdistrict.com
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