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Chicago Strength Training

The best strength training studios in Chicago

Looking for the best strength training classes in Chicago? Whether you are a seasoned lifter or picking up a dumbbell for the first time, Chicago has an incredible roster of studios ready to help you build muscle, improve your form, and crush your fitness goals. From intimate semi-private sessions in Lakeview to high-energy bootcamps on the South Side, these are the top-rated strength training studios on ClassPass in Chicago right now.

Studios were selected based on review volume, average rating, and consistency of positive feedback from the ClassPass community.

1. Orange Shoe Personal Fitness – Andersonville

Orange Shoe Personal Fitness in Andersonville is the gold standard for strength training in Chicago. With a staggering 500+ reviews and a near-perfect 4.96 average rating on their flagship Strength and Conditioning class, this studio consistently delivers personalized, results-driven workouts. Their WORK class (4.99 rating, 241 reviews) is one of the highest-rated strength offerings in the entire city.

“Love this class! Very welcoming for all levels and tailors your workout to whatever injuries or limitations you have. Highly recommend!”

“Nichole was super welcoming and helped demonstrate how to use the machines for me as a newbie. The class was a great workout and accessible for different fitness levels!”

“Great quick strength training class with a small group. The instructor was helpful in guiding me with my form.”

Rating: 4.96 (500+ reviews)

2. Orange Shoe Personal Fitness – Lakeview

The Lakeview location of Orange Shoe brings the same quality coaching in an even more intimate semi-private format. With class sizes small enough for trainers to correct your form in real time, this studio is ideal for anyone who wants the feel of personal training without the price tag.

“Caleigh is a great instructor and the small class size was really helpful.”

“Love the quick format and the one on one like feel. Kyle did a great job of watching everyone and correcting people’s form as well as modifying the workout to account for different injuries and limitations.”

“This was my first strength class in years and I was nervous, but Jack taught a great class! He gave me personalized guidance on form, which was easy to do given the smaller class size. I’ll definitely be back.”

Rating: 4.91 (217 reviews)

3. CrossFit Glen Ellyn

CrossFit Glen Ellyn brings a refreshingly beginner-friendly approach to CrossFit-style strength training. Their Strength Training / Floor Coaching class pairs a 4.96 average rating with hands-on instruction that scales to every experience level. Coaches take the time to demo movements and modify loads so you get challenged without getting overwhelmed.

“Ryan was great. I’m a complete newbie and he was able to quickly explain and demo each move. He modified things for me so I didn’t overexert myself but encouraged me to add weight when possible. I definitely want to go back!”

“Absolutely incredible class. The instructor, the other attendees were so welcoming and encouraging. The class was challenging but not overexerting!”

Rating: 4.96 (114 reviews)

4. Treadfit Palos Heights

Do not let the name fool you – Treadfit is not just about running. Their signature class blends treadmill intervals with serious strength work, earning a 4.97 rating from over 500 ClassPass reviews. Instructors like Sarah create an atmosphere where walkers, joggers, and experienced runners all feel welcome and pushed in equal measure.

“OMG! Best class I have taken in such a long time. It was my first class here and Sarah made me feel so welcomed and encouraged me to push myself but also assured me it was good to stay at my own comfortable pace. She was the kindest woman and a great instructor, I will absolutely be back.”

“Nicely paced, hit all the muscle groups, great music, love the studio/space set up. Thank you for the great experience and workout!”

“Renette was kind, welcoming and high spirited! I enjoyed the different exercises that keep things interesting! Will be returning for sure!”

Rating: 4.97 (500+ reviews)

5. All in Motion Fitness

All in Motion Fitness is a true community gym that punches well above its weight. Their SGST (Small Group Strength Training) class holds a 4.93 rating across 500+ reviews, focusing on dedicated strength work with a variety of weights and plenty of instructor attention. The intimate class sizes mean you will never feel lost.

“Friendly instructor and small class size which allowed for individual adjustments. The gym is downstairs but it looked like there was an elevator to get in. There were a variety of weights and the instructor gave a lot of options for adjustments. It seemed like a good community gym!”

“This place was awesome! Robin was attentive and made sure to guide you through the set so you didn’t hurt yourself. Will be returning! Workout was killer.”

“Robin was very personable which is rare in the west loop fitness circuit. He cares very much about his clients and the gym had everything. I also loved the combination class of cardio and strength. Highly recommend!”

Rating: 4.93 (500+ reviews)

6. RxFitness

RxFitness brings authentic CrossFit programming to Chicago with a welcoming twist. Their CrossFit class carries a 4.88 rating across 196 reviews, while the RxPulse class adds a HIIT-focused strength alternative. Members consistently highlight how friendly and helpful the coaching staff is.

“The class was great! Manny was super helpful, everyone was so nice. It was a great workout!”

“Clean space. Very friendly!!!”

Rating: 4.88 (196 reviews)

7. Evolve Yoga & Fitness Chicago

For early risers who want to start the day strong, Evolve Yoga & Fitness offers a Sunrise Full Body Strength Training class that blends bodyweight movements with high-energy HIIT elements. The instructor-led sessions emphasize charismatic coaching and good music, creating a motivating start to your morning.

“Melissa was very friendly and charismatic – she’s great. Class was quick and fun and good music – moves were mostly just body weight.”

“Great use of your time overall, in that you will work out your whole body and feel challenged. This workout started with a lot of ab work, then moved to glutes, legs and arms. There was a healthy amount of cardio which I’ve been trying to do more of for heart health.”

Rating: 4.84 (43 reviews)

Find your next strength training class in Chicago

From intimate semi-private sessions to high-energy bootcamps, Chicago’s strength training scene has something for every fitness level and goal. Browse all strength training classes in Chicago on ClassPass.

Compliance checklist

  1. Trial/pricing language: PASS – No mention of pricing, trials, or subscriptions.
  2. Partner sentiment: PASS – All studios framed positively. No negative comparisons.
  3. Lead gen language: PASS – CTA is invitational, not pushy.
  4. Savings/value claims: PASS – No dollar amounts, deals, or discounts.
  5. Health claims: PASS – Experiential language only.
  6. Review attribution: PASS – No user names. All reviews from 4+ star ratings.
  7. Terminology: PASS – “Studio” throughout, “community” (not “customers”).
  8. Inclusive language: PASS – Welcomes all levels, gender-neutral.
  9. One Narrative leaks: PASS – No internal metrics or partner-facing terminology.
  10. SEO basics: PASS – Primary keyword in H1, city in title and subheadings.

Data sourced from CP_BI_DERIVED.DATAPIPELINE.TOPS_IN_CITY and CP_BI_DERIVED.DATAPIPELINE.SCORE_COMMENTS on 2026-02-18.