I have spent my whole life in Chicago, and as a result, Chicago transplants often say to me, “You’re used to the winters and the cold, aren’t you?”
The answer is no, I’m not a winter person. I don’t like the short days, the bitter cold, the ice, and the slush. In short, I’m just not a fan. I know I’m not alone, and I’m sure some of you would rather hibernate through the winter too.
However, since we can’t outrun Mother Nature, here are four ways to beat the Winter Blues by coming to the club:
1. Cannonball!
I’m the Head Lifeguard so obviously my list is going to start with the pool. Our indoor 4-lane, 20-yard pool is home to a variety aqua exercise classes. My favorite way to forget about the winter cold is to sit in the hot tub and turn on the waterfall, which makes me believe that summer is right around the corner.
2. Tennis Fun X 9
We have 9 indoor courts perfect for singles, doubles and Cardio Tennis. Ball machine usage is complimentary. Tennis is the foundation of our history, and our new tennis leadership team is excited to help you enjoy the game. We also provide a top-notch youth tennis program to introduce your kids to tennis.
3. Suzanne McCullough’s Favorite Things
Suzanne McCullough runs the Pro Shop at Midtown. She loves helping you find the right outfit, racquet, or shoes to help you better enjoy your workout or tennis game. Stop by the Pro Shop to check out the latest lines of clothing and accessories.
Suzanne also loves to play paddle. If you’re new to the sport, check out our 4 outdoor paddle tennis courts. We have both men’s and women’s teams. Stop by the Pro Shop and Suzanne will get you suited up in warm and efficent gear, put a paddle in your hand, and probably give you a few pointers on how to enjoy this cold weather sport. Paddle tennis is great way to stay active during the winter months, and a fun way to shake up your regular exercise routine.
4. Get Upstairs and Get Fit
Our Fitness department offers a wide variety of classes, including cycling, pilates, and yoga. Our trainers hold a variety of personal training certifications, including MAT and CrossFit. Whether you enjoy cardio or you want to build or tone your muscles, stop by the Fitness Desk to speak with one of our personal trainers to set up a session.
How do you stay active during the winter months?
This is the time of year we evaluate the year that’s ending and develop a game plan for the next year.
2012 can be your best year yet, and we want to help you achieve whatever goals you set for yourself.
Have you set a weight-loss goal? Our fitness trainers will work with you to build a fitness plan to help you achieve it. Our trainers are certified in many different areas of fitness and each of them brings a unique approach to help you feel great about your body.
If working with a personal trainer isn’t for you, then we have dozens of group exercise and cycle classes offered at different times throughout the day for your convenience. Check out Paula’s cycle class or Kokay’s Yoga class. Our instructors love meeting new people and introducing them to the world of group ex.
Doing your cardio or strength training by yourself is one thing, but when you have the support and energy of a room of people, it becomes an entirely new workout. Also, make sure to jump in the indoor pool and swim a few laps for that full-body cardio experience.
Looking to improve your tennis game in 2012? Our Tennis department develops not only seasoned tennis players, but also turns people who love the sport into players themselves. Whether via group or individual classes, our tennis team will work with you to help develop your talent. The Tennis department is also a great avenue for meeting new friends: our Cardio Tennis and Social Mixers are a great way to connect with other tennis players.
While you may set a New Year’s Resolution of losing weight or improving your tennis serve, you also might consider a different kind of resolution this year. Above and beyond the physical benefits of working out and playing tennis, Midtown offers you the chance to make and develop relationships with people.
Our club has always been about people first, so try something new in 2012: meet new members and associates and experience elements of the club that you haven’t before. Come in for coffee, try a new class, or meet a new trainer. Try that deep water aerobics class, or experience what you can learn about your body in a MAT session.
Let 2012 be a year of change. Resolve to break out of your usual routine a few times this year to experience everything that Midtown has to offer. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
What part of Midtown are you going to discover in 2012?
