So, You Wanna Be Fancy and Join Equinox in Chicago? Let's Talk Dollars, Baby (and Maybe Sweat)
Thinking about trading in your dusty free gym membership at your apartment building for the luxurious pastures of Equinox? Hold onto your Lululemon, because this post is here to crack the code on those oh-so-important membership fees.
First things first, my friend: prepare for sticker shock. Equinox isn't exactly known for its bargain-basement deals. We're talking treadmills with built-in Netflix and eucalyptus-scented towels (okay, maybe I made that last part up, but you get the idea).
Here's the skinny on the membership tiers:
- The "Maybe I'll Just Use It Once a Month" Option: This gets you access to one club for a cool $185 a month (minimum). Think of it as a fancy day care for your gym clothes.
- The "I'm Feeling Kinda Social" Option: Feeling fancy? For a whopping $255 (minimum) a month, you can strut your stuff at any Chicago location. Mingle with the elite (or at least those who can afford the membership fee).
- The "I Basically Live Here" Option: Alright, high roller. If you crave access to all 80+ Equinox clubs across the US and Canada, you're looking at a hefty $315 (minimum) a month. Just remember to pack your swimsuit, because apparently with this option, you can even hit the gym in Miami.
But wait, there's more! Don't forget the ** initiation fee**, which can vary depending on the club and your negotiation skills (because yes, apparently you can negotiate with Equinox, although good luck!). Think of it as a buying-in fee for the exclusive club (and maybe a small donation to the upkeep of those fancy eucalyptus towels).
Now, before you faint from hyperventilation over the cost, here are a few things to consider:
- Are you a group fitness fanatic? Equinox boasts an impressive selection of classes, from spin to barre to yoga that might be worth the splurge (although, let's be honest, YouTube has a ton of free workout videos these days).
- Do you crave luxury? Equinox is all about the upscale experience. Think sparkling locker rooms, top-notch equipment, and maybe even a juice bar that serves beverages with names you can't pronounce.
- Is your bank account bottomless? If you can afford it without sacrificing your avocado toast habit, then hey, go for it!
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to join Equinox in Chicago is up to you. But hey, at least now you know what you're getting yourself into (financially and sweat-wise). Just remember, there's a perfectly good gym at your apartment building... it might not have eucalyptus towels, but it probably has a treadmill that doesn't judge your questionable workout playlist.
