Fitness Formula Clubs Union Station

There are just too many hidden fees. Read your contract and realize you may get hit with other unexpected fees. They will offer a company discount (still expensive) and every year they make you pay a large amount in dues unlike other gyms. So be prepared to pay dues again your second year. My biggest gripe is that I closed out my contract and was told I didn’t owe anything. Unemployed 2 months later, my credit card is hit with fees. I was told my employer didn’t pay dues for the last month I attended so they billed me (the last month they make you pay for when you initially sign up.) Well, I cancelled because I stopped working with my employer. I asked where in the contract that I signed, does it say I need to pay if the employer doesn’t pay dues the last month they force you to do. The billing department lady, Susanne, which I think is outsourced had problems understanding that I closed out my contract and when I signed it, was told by their staff I didn’t owe anything. The lady had issues understanding my name and entering it correctly. It was super frustrating trying to get her to understand anything else. I think that tactic was on purpose. I said I wanted to talk to someone else because she wasn’t understanding me and they stopped picking up from my number or blocked my number. Regardless, I am super unhappy with their corporate billing department and money grabbing tactics. When I first joined, the sales person signed me up with less than 15 days left in the month. You have to visit 8 times a month, otherwise, you get hit with a 15 $ fee. You would think they prorate it for your first month, but nope. They are as good as other gyms, but sales people try to tout themselves as being the best. They are definitely a money making machine.

I’ve been a member for 6 months now.
PROS:
Clean
Friendly
Convenient
CONS:
–Basic membership is WAY overpriced
–Spa services are even MORE expensive than the membership
–They say you get your enrollment fee back after 3 months if you complete all the training sessions and check into the gym x amount of times-​Did that– and they returned my enrollment fee in «FFC BUCKS» which is ONLY usable for Spa Services… Which as mentioned cost and arm and a leg and have no desire to use any of those.
–12 50 minute sessions with a personal trainer cost more than a years membership.
I plan on terminating my membership at this end of this month and going with a different gym.

I am new to joining FFC and decided to take advantage of the free training sessions to get my fitness on track and stay consistent. Alejandro «Aleks» Chavez is newer to FFC and is a true value add to this this gym. He has a true passion for fitness with 15+ years of experience, who genuinely cares about you as a person and your goals, and provides very challenging, yet fun (yes fun) workouts. You wouldn’t get a workout like this on your own. If you are looking for a knowledgable, talented and motivating trainer, I would highly recommend Aleks.
Overall, this gym is very clean, has great fitness options (including classes) and newer machines, as well as a friendly staff. The two hour free parking is also a great perk.

I would like to point out this is my first review for anything online. The only reason I am writing this today is to warn potential gym members about the very bad experience I received here.
I signed up for a FFC membership in late-​January. During the registration process the representative and I agreed on a reduced initiation fee. This was a huge selling point for me since I travel a lot for work so I signed up right then and there. After going over the contract details (annual fees, monthly rates, etc.), I completed the registration process and left the facility very pleased. I was so happy, I even got my girlfriend to sign up that following Monday.
By the time February came around, I received my first bill and called the front office to walk through the charges. When I spoke with the General Manager, Bob, I discovered the representative who I signed up with had manipulated the rates by splitting the «reduced» initiation fee into two installment plans. Therefore, I paid the full initiation fee — half when I signed up and the other half on the third month of my membership. When explaining the situation with Bob, he was unsympathetic since I was past the amount of days I could cancel and receive my refund.
All in all, I would not recommend this gym. The front office is dishonest and will do anything to make a sale. Additionally, the General Manager has very poor customer service. I would advise anyone who is looking for a gym to look elsewhere and take my experience into consideration before signing up here.

Really bad experience here， especially with those front office folks. Their general manager Bob doesn’t know how to do customer service and solve issues. Those Yankees need to get more trained and need to understand racial slur is forbidden while you are serving your customers. You can always find somewhere else like UIC recreation center that is way better than staying with those business trashes. Take care!

I’ve been here a couple of times but was holding off to complete a review. I took part in a 21 day fit study which I started on November 6^th. I was given personal training sessions and access to the gym.
The gym, equipment, and locker rooms all deserve 5 stars. The trainers and front office staff however deserve no stars. First off, yes this was a free program and beggars can’t be choosers but from my experience if you want to bring someone to sign up and your gym you shouldn’t be so pushy and rude. I never had the program explained to me and had no idea what they wanted me to do and when I asked she told me she said she didn’t see the flyer so didn’t know what it included. It was my first training session and my goodness it was brutal. I’m a beginner so it’s a little disheartening when your trainer rolls her eyes (multiple times!!) when you are out of breath. For my second session I was pushed to the point of vomitting to which she responded, «oh, I didn’t think you were working that hard.» We didn’t even finish the 21 day study because she contacted me and cut it short.
If this location didn’t have some of the people I dealt with I’m sure it would be better or if I had dealt with better people, but sadly that wasn’t the case.

I’ve really enjoyed going to FFC Union Station. I’ve never been a big gym person, but I decided to try it out because I wanted access to a pool. I love that the gym isn’t super crowded and the atmosphere is relaxed. I also started doing sports massages with Howard, which are fantastic. I didn’t realize how tight my muscles were, and Howard has been a pleasure to work with. He answers my questions, and I leave the sessions ready to workout more. I highly recommend Howard!
Overall, while FFC is a little pricey, but it’s been worth it so far.

I love this gym. I joined 1 month ago and sort of felt a little lost my first couple days. I took advantage of the 4 free training sessions and the assessment you get when you sign up. I really recommend doing this for new members as the facility is so huge the extra help is useful to getting your bearings. I feel the gym is clean, well maintained and the staff is friendly.
Now for the best part. I was assigned to work out with Austin for my 4 free training sessions. HE IS AMAZING! I love working out under his guidance. He pushes me and I am finally enjoying the workout again! He seems young but don’t let that fool you. He has a lot of knowledge and he has a lot of ideas and fun things to throw at you during your training sessions. I’m very happy! So happy I signed up for more sessions. I’m a cheapskate and have worked out in the past so know how to spend an hour in the gym effectively, so I must be very happy to want to continue at my own expense.

I have been a member of FFC for 6 years now, with West Loop being my most current «home gym» location. My membership allows me to visit all of their gyms, which I often take advantage of. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with FFC as a company. I have utilized the spa at FFC Union Station twice now, and I wanted to rate the quality. I called this evening to get in with Jen, who had been recommended by a trainer at the gym. I was able to get in an hour after I called. I am highly satisfied with the entire experience. Like most massage therapists, Jen asked what areas I would like to work on. I explained that I was training for the Chicago Marathon, which is two weeks away, and what parts of my body are sore. I also explained my various orthopedic medical conditions that were aggravated, and she knew how to appropriately treat those areas. While I did receive deep tissue work, I felt overall improved after the session. I was also very relaxed. As a medical professional, I would highly recommend Jen to those with injuries or whom are athletes. I’m glad to have found another solid, knowledgable massage therapist downtown.

I joined this gym in January, 2015. I just checked my attendance and I’ve been 59 times since I joined, so I’m not someone who joined and then never saw the inside of the place. I just cancelled because my office building remodeled its gym recently and it will cost me only a $ 50-​one-​time-​fee to use it, so I’m going to save the cash.
PROS:
Big space, lots of cardio equipment
Indoor lap pool
Pilates equipment classes
Helpful staff
On the spectrum of gyms, less pressure to buy «extras» than most gyms
CONS:
$ 40/​month to rent a locker and since other members use MULTIPLE day lockers overnight while you pay it can be frustrating
Longtime female members are loud as hell in the locker room.
This is a trainer-​heavy gym and if you want to find space on the main floor to work out in the mornings you might not be able to.
Some cardio machines, mats and other equipment are in poor repair and should be replaced.
Ultimately if I didn’t have a much less expensive option, I would keep going to FFC. It’s a nice gym and a great location. My gripes weren’t enough to make me cancel on their own. Would join again if I change office locations.

I have been a member of FFC clubs for well over ten years. I have been a multi club member and an avid user of their trainer services. This lady year has been tough for me to stay. Management seems pressured to cut expenses and pressure staff. There has been a huge turnover in long time employees. Employees who worked hard and loyal. Employees who helped the company get it to where it is. If you only care about the bottom line to make the franchise a sought after takeover target. Just say it and quit trying to chase long time members away. I doubt union station will ever see me again!!!

If I could give FFC as a franchise negative five stars, I would. I’ve been a member with the Lincoln Park location for about a year now, and have spent in the neighborhood of $ 5,000-$ 7,000 on individual and couples training sessions on top of the $ 119.95 a month I spend for the joint membership I have with my wife.
I just tried to add the Union Station location to my membership so that I could ride my bike to work, take a shower, and walk to work in the Loop. Their response? «That would be an extra $ 15.00 a month.» I talked to two sales people and one more senior manager today to try to get this waived, and they have all refused, fully aware of the thousands I’ve spent.
For those of you who enjoy being treated by vendors who have taken thousands of dollars from you in the past year as though you’re someone they just met at a bus stop, and nickle and dimed, this is the place for you. Absolutely ridiculous. I’m using up my training sessions and resigning. Lots of gyms out there.

Used to be a great club now FFC clubs are doing a terrible job with their management and customer service. They definitely lost me as a customer.

I’m not much of a «reviewer» however I felt the need to write one for people who may be hesitant about joining FFC. Now I can only vouch for Union Station’s location as I have only been there so far.
I’ve been a member for a little over a month now and can’t express how happy I am to have pulled the plug. The price at first was a little scary. But I tell you once you get passed that you will see that it’s all worth it.
I’ve had my fair share of other gyms over the years (ballys, xsport, planet fitness… etc) to compare it too and it really ranks supreme. The amenities alone could sell you. The gym smells great (yes, I factor this in because my last gym smelled like sweaty armpits in your face as soon as you walked in) the locker room is like a luxury get away. There are plenty of showers, lockers, counter space, hair dryers, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, lotion, mouthwash, etc etc. I could really write a review just on the locker room… I mean there’s a hot tub in there! Come on!
Anyway one thing I really want to commend them on is their friendly staff. They are some of the nicest and most helpful people I’ve ever had at a gym. I’ve pretty much had contact with anyone there from their sales staff, trainers, their door greeters, all the way down to their locker room attendants (who have made it a nice habit to say hello/​goodnight each and every time I see them) I know it seems like it may not be much, but it really does make all the difference.
Lastly, the training sessions. You get 4 complimentary. I used one to meet with the nutritionist which was a really cool option. And the other 3 went to Jamie, who has been great. There is always a little uncomfortable feeling going to work with a trainer because you don’t know how it’ll be. I’ve always turned down free sessions from other gyms but this time I chose to take them and I am so glad I did. Even if you don’t think you need it, it’s nice to have someone make sure your form is right, or push you to a higher intensity than you’re used to. If you’re nervous about working out with one, I suggest Jamie because she’s not intimidating, but she definitely kicks your ass. I even signed up for more sessions with her after my free ones were up.
Overall, I could rave on and on about this gym and their staff. (Especially the eucalyptus mint towels!!) But the price is definitely worth every penny. It does get crowded around post work hours, sometimes making it difficult to get a mat, but usually it’s fine. The service and amenities make this place feel like a nice getaway especially after a long day at work. Highly highly recommend!

I had a 30 day membership here after relocating for work from California. I started out going to the location in the West Loop, but I moved, and work is near Union Station. After my first 30 days, I decided to inquire about a membership. I like having a membership that allows me to visit any location. It is indeed a bit pricey, but I feel it’s worth it if you actually use your membership 3 – 5 days a week. The things I like most are the wide variety of equipment, the cleanliness of the facility, and the amenities. I bring my gym bag with me and am able to put it in a day locker while I work out. The shower facilities are clean, abundant, and not over crowded. There are always plenty of clean towels, hair dryers, deodorant, hairspray, razors, and other toiletries. Also, the staff at the front desk and the facilities maintenance staff are all very pleasant.

This gym is the best. Since I started in January I’ve lost about 20lbs (I’m still a terrible eater, probably could have lost more) by working out here. They have everything you could want and more in terms of equipment and workout options.
They set you up with a trainer to give you 4 one hour sessions for free. After that if you want to continue with them it will cost you a lot, but there’s no pressure to do so. The other members of the gym are extremely nice and welcoming. The crowd is a lot of young and middle-​aged working professionals who are there to get a good workout in and the staff is really energetic and friendly.
There are a lot of people at the gym, but it never feels crowded, I’ve never had to wait to use any machine or equipment. Also, the classes here are fantastic – if you want to have a funeral for the fat you, take the «Chisel» class with Steve. You will get an insane workout and feel great afterwards. If intense workouts aren’t your thing I would try taking a yoga class with Laura, she’s super zen but also very assertive and wants you to improve in her class.
Personally, my favorite thing about this gym is the shower. They have those fancy rainfall shower heads that are as big as dinner plates (with perfect water pressure) and always have piping hot water.
The beauty of FFC is in the details. The locker rooms have huge lockers with a great locking system and are always extremely clean. They have shaving cream, q-​tips, mouth wash, warm towels, etc. I feel spoiled every time I go.

You may be reading mixed reviews and I can honestly understand and respect the negative reviews. However I have now been with FFC for three months and I want to share my thoughts on the negative points that have been shared.
Costs: Yes, the gym is costly BUT it’s well worth it especially if you live in the area. The contract is a month-​to-​month (which is AWESOME!) but you do pay the first and last month. AIM to get your registration $$ back (in a gift card) by getting to the gym, make it a personal goal! If you work in the area, make sure to ask if your company has a gym discount, it will save you on registration costs. If you don’t like crowds, come here before 7am and after 6pm and you have yourself an almost-​empty gym. I also suggest you sign up as a couple, you SAVE money.
Hours: The gym does not have the most convenient hours especially on weekends. If you live in the area, closing on Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. really is a bummer, but you can definitely adjust! In their defense, you have to remember that FFC Union Station is in the business area of downtown Chicago, so they tailor to that audience as that is most of their clients are at the gym Monday-​Friday.
Service: I have not had a problem with services in the gym when it comes to asking for extra towels, getting assistance when I lock myself out of my locker (COOLEST lockers, no lock needed!) or extra lotion. The service team in the locker rooms is AMAZING and the spa team members are always willing to help out.
Classes: The classes are not convenient if you are a commuter (Chicago to Suburbs) but the teachers are great! The teachers really like what they are doing. I recommend Zumba on Mondays with Dominick and ANY class with Lois. YOWZER will she make your muscles sore!
Side note: I am happy to say that I completed the FFC Union survey (I am in marketing so I do every survey I can as I know it helps!) and I heard back from the General Manager within 24 hours after I mentioned a summer freeze on my account. It was awesome.
I like FFC and I will keep going even if it’s not always convenient for me.

Customer service? Uh no habla ingles… As long as this place is nickel and dime-​ing you, they will treat you great. Once there is an issue all of a sudden they cant help you.
Long story short I had leftover training sessions that they wouldn’t let me use. My company had a temp contract with them while our gym was being renovated. I payed close to 500 bucks for a bundle and did not use them all in time.
FFC I hope you keep the hundred something dollars left because I will never be back. Not just I but everyone that I forewarn. This gym is nothing special. Xsport, world gym, la fitness are all better.
Side note: My sneakers were stolen here once. I guess when you pay over 100 dollars a month people cant afford much else in their lives.

I love, love, love this gym. My fiancé and I have been members now for only a month, but I think we will be long-​term customers as long as we live downtown. FFC is the kind of place that makes you wake up and want to go to the gym. I get happy as soon as I walk inside — between the clean and modern atmosphere, the soothing vibe, the perfect temperature (I hate gyms that are freezing cold all the time).
Even at their busiest times during the week, I’ve never had to wait for a treadmill or any other machine. At its most crowded, the gym is never really that crowded.
FFC is expensive, but they put the time and effort into the little details. The water fountains are a perfect temperature and fill up bottles at a high speed so there is never a line. There is a little place to grab a eucalyptus soaked refrigerated towel after your workout to open your pores. The locker rooms are nice with gender specific hot tubs and saunas, vanity mirrors with hair dryers, and they even have shaving cream in each shower stall. The showers all have rainforest heads with great water pressure — so much so, that my fiancé has stopped showering at the condo and just prefers to shower at the gym.
They have a great recreational facility upstairs, with 2 full basketball/​volleyball courts, an indoor pool (the west loop location has an outdoor pool with cabanas and bars, so after your workout you can feel like you’re at a Vegas hotel), a number of rooms for pilates, aerobics, and spinning classes… and my personal favorite… the boxing room filled with a variety of boxing and kickboxing bags.
Their lifting machines were a little intimidating for me at first because I was used to foolproof Nautilus type machines that give you idiot proof diagrams to spell out exactly how you should use the machine and what muscles you were working. But the staff has no problem showing you how to use each one, and the best part is there is never a line of people near the machines, so I don’t feel rushed or pressured to figure it out. I haven’t tried the classes yet, but I will soon.
Above all else, FFC is a place for professionals who just want to be healthy. This is not a gym for singles who are looking to find a date or where people show up with their hair and make-​up done or judge others on how they look. There’s a great balance between your more serious athletes or fitness experts, young professionals just trying to stay in shape, and people who are trying to lose weight. It’s an equal opportunist place that does not judge you on your looks, shape, or size. This welcoming type of atmosphere helps make you want to stay longer and get a better workout, instead of rushing it to get in and out and avoid a pretentious vibe.
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I joined FFC about 6 weeks ago upon the recommendation of my sister and a close friend. I just moved to Wrigleyville and FFC East Lakeview is the gym nearest to my new place so between the recommendation and the location I was sold.
I have worked out at FFC more than 20 times now in three of their locations (East Lakeview, West Loop and Oak Park) and there are very few things I’d change about my experience. FFC is expensive and it was a tough pill to swallow at first but the amenities and the convenience of being able to go to any of their 8 clubs make it worthwhile. Here are some of my favorite things.
— Parking: Free parking for 2 hours at all 8 locations is a huge bonus. 80% of the time I take the bus there from work but on the evenings and weekends when I have errands to run around my trips to the gym I am amazingly grateful for the convenient free parking! I have never had trouble getting a spot which I think is pretty amazing!
— Locker Room: I cannot say enough great things about the FFC locker rooms. They are zen like places that are ridiculously clean and every time I am in there I see a staffer cleaning the floors, replacing towels, etc. I also am a huge fan of the steam room and the clean showers. The locker room is also fully stocked with anything you could need to get ready (q tips, shampoo and conditioner, hair dryers, lotion, etc) and I have no problem getting ready for my workday or evening out in the relaxing environment.
— Equipment: All of the equipment at FFC is updated and there is plenty of it! I’ve never had to wait to use any of the cardio machines and in all of the clubs I have been to they have two separate cardio areas so it’s never too cramped or crowded.
— Staff: I have not done any of the group fitness classes yet but all of the staff I have encountered have been welcoming, polite and friendly. There are people everywhere in case you have questions and it’s definitely worth mentioning again that there is always a staffer in the women’s locker room picking up or restocking things.
Now that I have listed all the great things I will say that the membership fee is quite high. I am on a program where if I work out 36 times in the first 90 days I will get my membership fee back, but not in cash, just in FFC services (massages, personal training sessions, etc). I’m glad I will be getting it back in some form I would just prefer to pay less or get it back in cash. I also think it’s a little silly that they charge an additional $ 20 something/​month if you want to have your own locker and that they charge for childcare. I truly do believe that my $ 80/​month is well spent at FFC I just wish the other services they offered (massages, locker rental, etc) were a little less expensive because the joining and membership fees were so high.
All in all I’d HIGHLY recommend FFC. I look forward to my work outs there and really have nothing negative to say other than it’s costly.