The colder it gets, the more tempting it is to stay inside all day. But getting exercise is just as important (if not more so) in the winter as it is during the summer. Here’s where Chicago families can beat cabin fever and get a fun workout.
The Little Gym Chicago
What they offer: A good variety of classes, including gymnastics for ages 3-6 and 6-12, dance for ages 3-6, sports skills for 3-6 and parent/child movement classes for ages 4 months-3 years. Kindermusik, karate and enrichment programs are also offered during other times of the year.
Details: The Little Gym goes beyond athletic ability and instead focuses on play-based learning, with emphasis on motor skill development, color and number recognition and social skills so your little one will get a well-rounded experience. There’s no excuse not to check out a class since they’re available seven days a week with times during the morning, afternoon and evening.
Cost: Classes start at $25
3216 N. Lincoln Ave, Lakeview
POW! Kids
What they offer: Classes in self-defense, martial arts, boxing and speed; and sports performance for kids 4-18.
Details: Kids can learn self-defense and strength techniques by taking Judo, Tai Kwon Do or Krav Maga, build confidence with kickboxing or up their fitness game with the Parisi Speed School program. Does your child dream of becoming Spiderman or Wonder Woman? Make their wildest dreams come true with the POW! Kids Superhero class. The class combines teamwork, physical skills and problem-solving to give littles the ultimate caped hero experience.
Cost: Varies by class, call for more information.
310 Racine, 1st floor, West Loop
Bloom Yoga Studio
What they offer: A variety of yoga classes for pregnancy and postpartum, mom and baby 6 weeks through pre-crawling infants, kids yoga for ages 4-8 and 9-14 and family yoga for kids 5 and up.
Details: If your schedule doesn’t allow time to take your own yoga class, bring your tot along! Drop-in classes are available on a weekly basis. Kids can learn the basic poses and increase flexibility with Kids Yoga or spark your child’s imagination with Storytime Yoga. Tween and Teen Yoga focus on learning breathing techniques and guided relaxation, to help them remain calm and focused at school and home. In need of a break from your children? Find your zen at Bloom’s Yoga & Meditation class.
Cost: $20 per class and up.
4663 N. Rockwell, Ravenswood Gardens
Lifetime Athletic
What they offer: Adult, child and family swim classes, yoga, pilates and cycling for adults and children’s lessons including yoga, karate, dance and sports.
Details: Take a swim class with your child, then drop them off at Lifetime’s Kid’s Academy while you work up a sweat in an adult studio class. Kids can explore sports and activities in the Academy’s private studio rooms and they’ll also benefit from the focus on Spanish immersion, arts and crafts and lessons in nutrition.
Cost: Memberships start at $75 a month.
9 locations throughout the Chicago suburbs
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