Author Archive

Rooftop Restaurants & Bars Near Lincoln Park Chicago

Posted on: May 12th, 2021 by lakeshoresf

Looking for a nice place to enjoy a meal or drink outside while taking in the beautiful views of Chicago? Here is a list of popular rooftop bars and restaurants in and around Chicago’s Lincoln Park.

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The Philosophy of Tennis and Mental Training

Posted on: December 9th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Within the tennis world, there’s a shared sentiment that who you are as a person is expressed in how you play. Within the boundaries of a tennis court, the technical demands of the sport and the stress of individual competition have a way of flushing out a person’s instinctual way of being. (more…)

What’s the Difference in Tennis Lessons: Groups, Privates, Semi-Privates

Posted on: November 18th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

In tennis, there are countless ways to improve, whether that be by taking some time to play with friends, semi-privates, privates, or group lessons. But, what are the differences and strengths of each different option?

Privates

When first beginning tennis, privates are often one of the best ways to build a foundation for the game. Working one-on-one with a coach allows young and old to work on technique and other very specific aspects in an individual’s game.

Privates are also important for players who take the game seriously and are looking for a competitive edge. Tournament tennis players (whether middle school, high school, college or adult) can use private lessons as an avenue to develop better matchplay strategies, point development, and target their areas of need.

Additionally, privates are an offering where the client is in the most control of how they spend their time. If you are struggling with your serve, you can use the entire lesson if your heart desires to improve your serve. Privates are “your” hour more than any other option.

Semi-Privates

Semi-privates are in the same boat as private tennis lessons, as you can join in with a friend or teammate and work together. Great for doubles partners and families, it opens the door for using your time as effectively as possible.

Groups

Group lessons are also beneficial to all players, but the environment of these lessons are more controlled by the coach than players. They are a great way for young beginners to socialize and build friendships in the tennis environment.

They are also beneficial as junior players get older for point play and live action opportunities. While groups tend to be more “game” centered, these games are intended to lead to rallying opportunities between players, and to replicate matchplay strategies and situations in a low pressure environment.

Groups can be equally beneficial for adults in the same regard. They create a fun and competitive atmosphere, and are a great way to get a good cardio workout in a different way than a run or bike ride, in a coach-facilitated environment.

What’s Best?

There really isn’t a right or wrong answer. For any player who takes tennis seriously or who uses the sport as their hobby or athletic activity, a mix of both groups, privates, and semi-privates can help improve a player’s game in different ways.

Want to get more involved in tennis at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln Park? Discover all the lessons we offer as well as details about open court time and matchplay opportunities.


Written by Max McDulin, Tennis Pro at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness

5 Questions Answered to Start Playing Tennis

Posted on: November 11th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

As we all deal with the new realities of a Covid world and staying safe, it can be a challenge to keep up with health and wellness routines. People are looking for new ways to stay active in this new reality and tennis is seen as one of the activities to turn to. It checks the boxes for active cardio workout, and being social while being safe.  And, whether you are a current or former player, or considering playing for the first time, tennis is a sport that’s easy to pick up.  Here are 5 common questions answered to help you start playing tennis.

Is it safe to play with Covid?

Because tennis does not require any direct person-to-person contact, players can enjoy the many physical and mental benefits that tennis offers so long as you practice physical distancing by keeping six feet apart from other players to ensure you are in a safe exercise environment.  The USTA has created guidelines to help players understand appropriate conduct.

What equipment will I need to get started?

Related to the previous question is the issue of getting new equipment. The basics of a tennis kit are: shoes, athletic clothing, and a racquet. All major manufacturers including Head, Wilson, Yonex, Babolat, Prince, and others offer high-quality equipment. Expect to pay between $100.00 – $250.00 for a new racquet. And while deals may be found online, local shops usually offer demo racquets that you can try out before purchasing.

For shoes, the only limitation when getting started is that some running style shoes with black tread will leave scuff marks on the tennis court and are usually prohibited. Other shoes like cross-trainers typically work fine.

And for clothing, gone are the days of the all-white outfit (it’s still fine if you have one).

What if I don’t have anyone to play with?

It is very easy to find players in and around club facilities. And private and group lessons are a great way to develop skills and meet other players.  

What if I can only play certain times during the week?

Club organizers help new players find activities and times that align with busy schedules of all types.

I have an old racquet, can I still use it?

Old wooden racquets are definitely not recommended. Even racquets that are 10-20 years old are considered obsolete. Some may be usable, but if they’ve been in storage for a long period, then some refreshing will probably need to be done, including new strings and new grip. It’s best to get the perspective of a local tennis professional who can provide equipment guidance.

Tennis is a Social Distancing Sport

Posted on: September 9th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Most sports like football, basketball, hockey, and soccer involve physical contact among players. Obviously that’s something you want to avoid during a global pandemic. If you’re looking to play sports and stay active, now is the perfect time to start playing tennis – the ideal social distancing sport.

The Ideal Social Distancing Sport

Social distancing and tennis have always gone hand-in-hand. Leading up to the US Open Tennis Championships, USTA CEO Michael Dowse has described tennis as “the ideal social distancing sport.” Social distancing can be easily achieved (players spread 6 feet apart), especially during singles play, because tennis doesn’t require direct person-to-person contact.

Unlike typical contact sports, in tennis opponents are spread out across the court from one another. Furthermore, the net serves as a barrier between players. Doubles play is still possible, but partners should coordinate with one another so that physical distancing can be maintained and physical contact should be avoided (such as high-fiving, chest bumps, etc.).

According to an article from The Houston Chronicle, “The Texas Medical Association ranked tennis as one of the least risky activities during COVID-19. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the safest, tennis is a 2, the same as pumping gasoline or ordering takeout.”

Why You Should Play Tennis

Staying physically active is important for your overall health and wellness. Tennis is a great activity for people of all ages. It’s truly the sport of a lifetime. Players young and old can benefit physically and mentally from the exercise involved, just as long as physical distancing can be maintained and other safety recommendations are followed. Tennis is an excellent cardiovascular activity that can improve heart health and burn calories. Most importantly, it is a great deal of fun!

Aside from the health benefits of playing, tennis can also be a social sport. It’s easy to meet new players, especially at a tennis club like Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln Park.

Even if you’ve never played tennis before, now is the perfect time to start! Dr. Linda Yancey, infectious disease specialist, says “Tennis is a good example of a sport that is really well suited to a pandemic.”

Guidelines for Tennis COVID-19 Safety

The USTA and its Medical Advisory Group have created safety guidelines that you should follow when playing tennis. Many are straightforward, but should still be followed to ensure the safety and enjoyment for all players. Here are some of the highlights.

Do not play tennis if you are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19. First and foremost, you should not play tennis or come in contact with anyone if you are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, headache, chills, muscle soreness, or any other symptoms you may suspect might be related to COVID-19.

If you have been in contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 within the last 14 days, you should self-quarantine for another 14 days. By self-quarantining, you will not put any other tennis players at risk of exposure.

Wash your hands before and after play. Wash your hands with hand sanitizer or soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after playing tennis.

Avoid sharing equipment such as racquets, towels, water bottles, hats, grips, etc. Be sure to wipe down any surfaces you have touched that another player may come in contact with. Use new balls whenever possible. Each player should use their own set of 3. That way, each server is only touching balls from their own can. While there’s no scientific evidence that the virus can be transferred via tennis balls, USTA CEO Michael Dowse says, “We always want to err on the side of being overly cautious, so as much as we can put in to make it safer, each player having their own can of balls makes a tons of sense.”

Pick up balls using your racquet and foot. If you need to send a ball to another player or court, kick or hit the ball instead of tossing it with your hands.

Do not shake hands after each match. As a show of good sportsmanship, it’s customary for players to shake hands after a match. Instead, verbally acknowledge your fellow players, wave to them, or give them an “air high five” without physical contact.

Avoid changing ends of the court. For recreational play, it’s best not to change ends of the court. If for some reason players agree to swap ends of the court, maintain physical distancing when doing so. Best practice would be for each player to move around the opposite end of the net.

Start playing a social distancing sport like tennis today! Click the button below to learn more about our programs and offerings at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness.

Toddler Swim Lessons in Chicago | Why Parents Should Swim with Their Child

Posted on: September 2nd, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Getting your toddler comfortable in the water is a great first step to learn how to swim. While it’s never too late to learn how to swim, the more comfortable they are in the water at a young age, the easier it will become later on. Discover how toddler swim lessons in Chicago can help your child learn to swim!

Swimming With Your Child

The ability to swim is an essential safety skill – no question about it. But some children have an innate fear or aversion to water. Exposure and proper instruction at a young age is a great way to overcome those feelings. One of the best ways to get your child acclimated to the water is by swimming with them A LOT. Make family swimming a regular activity and before you know it, your child will not only become comfortable swimming, they’ll get good at it, too.

Starting out may not be easy for all children. It’s important to have fun with them – play games, splash around, blow bubbles, etc. Use encouragement and positive reinforcement. Swimming with your toddler is a great bonding experience, and everyone will get some extra activity.

So when should your child start swimming? The Red Cross starts children out as young as 6 months. Why would you want to start a child out so young? As we’ve said before, it’s all about getting them acclimated to the water. As the child grows and develops, they’ll learn more advanced techniques and eventually learn the techniques for swim strokes such as freestyle and breaststroke. Also, who doesn’t love a little parent-child bonding time?!

If you want a more structured environment, toddler swim lessons in Chicago is always an option!

Chicago Toddler Swim Lessons

At Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, our Chicago toddler swim lessons are structured so parents can accompany their children in the water, creating a positive nurturing environment in which they can learn. The focus of these toddler swim lessons is to establish their comfort level in the water through games, songs, and a parent-child bond.

Designed for our youngest swimmers (9-36 months) and an adult, our instructors will address the needs of each child with fun and positivity to ensure they progress at their own pace.

All of our group swim lessons meet once a week for a total of 10 weeks. Our swim lesson curriculums, including our toddler swim lessons in Chicago, are developed by staff with Olympic and international experience.

Looking for toddler swim lessons in Chicago? Visit our Lincoln Park page or Illinois Center page for more information at the programs at each club!

6 Kid Friendly Activities in Chicago

Posted on: August 5th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Need to get your kids out of the house this summer? There are plenty of kid friendly activities in Chicago to choose from! Here at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness, we’ve come up with a fun lineup of activities to keep kids active, engaged, and creative.

Saturday Playdates

Drop the kids off for an afternoon playdate every Saturday at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln Park! Our team of camp counselors will organize group games, crafts, sing songs, enjoy a snack, and more! Busy parents can take time for themselves to work out, run errands, or just relax. We will keep the kids busy with competitions, time on the playground, and group projects. This is a drop-off program and appropriate for ages 3.5-10 years old. We require all kids that attend our Saturday Playdates be potty trained. One playdate per Child per Month is included in our family membership.

Family Performance on the Roof Series

Join us every Sunday for a family-friendly performance on the roof! We will host a variety of kids’ performances from favorite Chicagoland artists, such as Mr. Dave and Laura Doherty, a bubble show, magicians, and more! Lunch will be available at Harvest to follow to make it a true Sunday fun day! The cost is $25 per family.

Art Camps for Kids

Crafting and painting is great for developing minds. Let your little ones express their creativity with one of our art camps!

Make a Mess-ter-piece for Kids – Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln Park
August 11th & 25th
4-6PM
Kids will make messy paintings or other various art projects outside – squirt gun art, freeze dance painting, large name murals, and more! Summer treats & adult beverages will be available for purchase each week at this whole-family event.

Creation Station for Kids – Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln Park
August 20th
4-6PM
We will provide the opportunities for families to work on a craft project together. Summer treats and beverages will also be available for purchase.

Rooftop Movie Nights

We frequently hold rooftop movie nights at our Illinois Center location. Families are welcome to enjoy a relaxing night while watching a movie on a big screen on the rooftop. Refreshments are also made available for purchase.

Club 48

Club 48 at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Lincoln park is THE PLACE for children in the 4th through 8th grades to spend time with their peers who are ready to explore, have fun, and sometimes just hang out. At Club 48, every day is full of new activities and adventures to create lasting memories at the club. This is an exclusive club only available to our LSF members in the 4th-8th grade.

Basketball Classes

Do your kids aspire to be the next Michael Jordan? Lakeshore Sport & Fitness-Illinois Center has basketball classes for kids of all ages and ability levels! 

Kids basketball (4-6 years)
This is an entry level class intended to provide beginners with foundational skills around hand-eye coordination, ball handling, and value of teamwork.  

Youth Basketball (7-9 years)
This program is designed to get your young basketball stars prepared for the next level. Your child will learn the fundamentals of shooting, dribbling, passing, and conditioning to get them ready for their upcoming basketball season. 

Teen Basketball (10-13 years)
This youth basketball class focuses on development of ball handling, shooting, and passing with an emphasis on speed and agility enhancements.  Players will also scrimmage to focus on offense and defense as well as court awareness.

In the Loop with LSF – Illinois Center 7/22/20

Posted on: July 23rd, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Kids Events & Programs

Family Rooftop Movie Night continuing into August!
Join us for a relaxing night with the whole family while we watch some great family movies on a big screen on the rooftop. Food and beverages are available for purchase during the event.

How to Train Your Dragon on Tuesday, July 28th, starting at 7pm will be open to everyone in the community.

Reservations are required, please RSVP to ICKids@LakeshoreSF.com or visit the MyLSF App for registration. Stay tuned for the August movie line-up as reservations will be open to LSF members and first-time guests only in the month of August.

Join us for the kickoff of our Summer Basketball Academy on July 25th!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to join this great program as it starts on Saturday, July 25th, and runs until August 15th.
Kids Basketball is for 4 to 6-year-old children from 9:00am to 9:45am
Youth Basketball is for 7 to 10-year-old children from 10:00am to 11:00am
Teen Basketball is for 11 to 17-year-old children from 11:00am to 12:00pm
For more information or to register, please email ICKids@LakeshoreSF.com or call 312.856.1111. Stay tuned as a Fall Basketball Academy will be coming in September!

Summer Children’s Aquatics kicks off in July!
It’s not too late to join the Summer Children’s Aquatics program as we are offering Parent & Child lessons, Learn to Swim lessons, and Level 1-3 lessons in this 4-week offering. Visit the MyLSF App for registration or email ICKids@LakeshoreSF.com with additional questions.

Sports of All Sorts Saturday Series – Children’s Climbing Showcase on August 1st!
Want the opportunity for your child to try out a new sport? The Children’s Climbing Showcase is the chance to meet our program instructors and experience a new sport for an afternoon by climbing the tallest indoor climbing wall in the United States! Climbing is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States as it is one of the most unique and challenging activities a child can participate in.

Reservations are required as we will have two sessions within the showcase.
Session One: 1:00pm to 1:50pm
Session Two: 2:10pm to 3:00pm

Email ICKids@LakeshoreSF.com or call 312.856.1111 to enroll in the event as it is open to everyone in the community.

Family Pool Day on August 2nd!
Enjoy a day at our rooftop pool with the whole family. We will have two waves for the event with wave one from 12:00pm to 2:00pm and wave two from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. Guests are welcome and reservations are required. Space is limited so please RSVP to ICKids@LakeshoreSF.com or visit the MyLSF App for registration.

Adult Events

Classic Movie Night on July 30th!
This movie night is for the grown-ups! Join us on the rooftop with a friend or partner to enjoy the need for speed with Top Gun! Adult beverages will be available for purchase. Guests welcome. Visit the MyLSF App for registration or email ICEvents@LakeshoreSF.com at least 24 hours in advance to reserve your spot as reservations are required.

Wine Garden on August 13th!
Spend an evening with your friends on the rooftop sampling wines and socializing on Thursday, August 13th, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. We’re excited to partner with 3 Forks for this free event and bottles will also be available for purchase. Guests are welcome, and reservations are required. Visit the MyLSF App for registration or email ICEvents@LakeshoreSF.com at least 24 hours in advance to reserve your spot as reservations are required.

LSF School

We Have Solutions for Parents Struggling with Remote Schooling!
While we are still unclear about what the official school week or day will look like, we know that we will offer a program that meets all of your needs, including full-day coverage, instructional time with access to great WiFi to follow online classes, tutoring services, structured play, lunch and snack service, and, of course, safety!

Currently, we are gathering interest in such a program and starting to collaborate with parents to develop the optimal offering. If you are interested, please fill out this form. We will work with those interested to ensure they have a spot and to craft the program to meet all of their needs.

We have a great staff with a variety of skills and degrees that can help ensure your child progresses and has a good time! These team members are experienced with managing safety protocols and fun for our kids during our summer camp. We also are actively recruiting skilled school instructors to enhance our curricular offerings. If you know someone who might be interested in helping teach for us, kindly ask them to email KidEvents@LakeshoreSF.com.

LSF Virtual Studio

We’ve Launched a Virtual Studio – Enjoy LSF Classes from Home!
Want to enjoy classes from your favorite LSF instructors any time, anywhere? We now offer on-demand virtual classes to keep you moving towards your fitness goals. Our Virtual Studio consists of a constantly expanding library of recorded classes to keep you motivated and on track — including HIIT (high-intensity interval training), yoga, strength, and cardio workouts. For a limited time, this offering is INCLUDED with your LSF membership!

In the Loop with LSF – Lincoln Park 7/22/20

Posted on: July 23rd, 2020 by lakeshoresf

Club Happenings

Summer is NOT Canceled! We Repeat….Summer is NOT Cancelled!
Just because we have new limitations and guidelines for public health, does not mean we can’t still have fun this summer — we just have to do it a little differently! So, join us for all sorts of fun activities for adults and kids alike. Our upcoming events include an Amazing Race family scavenger hunt on Saturday, a kids’ Saturday Playdate, Ben’s Bubble Show on Sunday, a Rooftop Family Campout, and a Taco Tuesday Pop Up event, featuring guest chefs! All members are welcome to attend events at either Lakeshore Sport & Fitness location. To check the upcoming events and to register, go to the MyLSF app > Programs > Events or MyLSF app > Programs > Children’s Programs > Special Events.

1320 Market Now Open
1320 Market is now open for Smoothies, Drinks, and Grab and Go. Get more convenience pre- or post-workout!

Childcare Now OPEN!
Childcare services are available Monday-Sunday from 8:00am-12:00pm and starting July 27th, will be open from 8:00am-4:30pm Monday-Friday. Childcare services require a reservation, which can be made on the My LSF app under Bookings – Childcare. Reservations are limited to a 1.5-hour slot. Masks are required for those 5 and over, but are not required for those 4 and under, per Chicago childcare guidelines. Our team will greet kids at the check-in counter to take a temperature check. As toys are used, they will be removed from the play space and sanitized.

LSF is Members Only This Summer – Don’t Forget About our Amazing Referral Program
In an effort to ensure we are able to give the best member experience possible given the guidelines in Phase 4, we are currently members only. We are welcoming new members, however, and remember, for everyone you refer that joins, you receive $10 off of your monthly membership for the life of their membership.

Interested in Checking out all the Great New Changes?
Even if you have been a member for years, there may be some questions or curiosity as to how our operations are running. We are happy to give you a tour and go over all of the protocols and workout spaces with you. We will explain the safety measures taken in each area for your safety. We have tried to design a safe and comfortable space for everyone. Please email Membership@LakeshoreSF.com to schedule a tour. We are here when you are ready!

Programs

Tennis Summer Session II begins Monday, August 10th!
Both Junior and Adult Programming is now available on the MyLSF app! We’re offering Junior Tennis beginning at 3 years old and up! For adults, we offer Intro through 5.0 competitive play. Check out Summer Session group classes by going to MyLSF app > Programs > Tennis. For private, semi-private, and private group information or to have a rating to determine your level of play, email LPRacquet@LakeshoreSF.com.

Outdoor Kids’ Classes – Included with Your Membership!
These class times match some of our most popular group fitness classes and are available to book on the My LSF App under Classes. Outdoor kids’ classes are included in your LSF family membership. If you have any questions regarding these classes, please email KidEvents@LakeshoreSF.com. Ages 3-10.

Hello PeeWee’s!
PeeWee Camp runs Monday-Friday from 9:00am-12:30pm and is for kids ages 2-4 years old. In compliance with the governmental requirements, all groups will maintain 10 or fewer campers. Our team of PeeWee teachers will remain with the same group weekly. Weekly registration is required of all PeeWee campers to ensure we maintain this safety measure. Our team will greet PeeWee campers at the door to take a temperature check. Masks are not required for those 4 and under, per Chicago childcare guidelines. Chicago camp guidelines prohibit water activities in Phase 4, so we will not include swimming this season. The weekly cost for LSF members is $295. If you have any questions regarding our PeeWee Camp program, please email us at PeeWee@LakeshoreSF.com.

Camp Lakeshore – The Place to Be This Summer!
We have launched our same great camp programs, including weekly themes, dress-up days, opening & closing ceremonies, craft activities, science, music, sports, great food options, and more! We are excited to offer traditional day camps and tennis camps as well as a half-day camp option. We have a huge outdoor area to utilize for camp programming and will also use area outdoor parks. Most activities will take place outdoors, but we will have specific indoor spaces reserved for a break from the weather. To see more details regarding our camp operations or if you have any questions regarding our summer camps, please email LPCamp@LakeshoreSF.com.

Aquatics Private Lessons
Whether you are looking to make sure your child is safe at the pool or lake this summer or are looking for more instruction on stroke development, LSF is back in the water, safely, with your swimmer this summer! Email LPAquatics@LakeshoreSF.com to book a private lesson!

Club 48 – Exclusive for 4th-8th Graders – Included with Your Membership!
This program is for LSF members entering 4th-9th grade in the fall. A variety of classes will be available Monday-Friday from 3:00-6:00pm and on weekends from 12:00-5:00pm. Each class requires a reservation, which can be made on the My LSF app under Classes. If you have any questions regarding our Club 48 program, please email KidEvents@LakeshoreSF.com.

Triple Play Sports Program for 10-16 Year Olds
LSF has launched a new group fitness play-based program for kids ages 10-16 years old. This program includes one hour of group tennis play, one hour of basketball play, 30 minutes of free swim in the pool, and a snack. Triple Play runs 1:00-4:00pm and is available Monday-Friday. The cost is $60 per day per child. Participants can register for as few or as many days as you would like! Each class has a maximum capacity of 6 kids and can be booked on the My LSF App under Classes. Please email us at KidEvents@LakeshoreSF.com with any questions!

LSF School

We Have Solutions for Parents Struggling with Remote Schooling!
While we are still unclear about what the official school week or day will look like, we know that we will offer a program that meets all of your needs, including full-day coverage, instructional time with access to great WiFi to follow online classes, tutoring services, structured play, lunch and snack service, and, of course, safety!

Currently, we are gathering interest in such a program and starting to collaborate with parents to develop the optimal offering. If you are interested, please fill out this form. We will work with those interested to ensure they have a spot and to craft the program to meet all of their needs.

We have a great staff with a variety of skills and degrees that can help ensure your child progresses and has a good time! These team members are experienced with managing safety protocols and fun for our kids during our summer camp. We also are actively recruiting skilled school instructors to enhance our curricular offerings. If you know someone who might be interested in helping teach for us, kindly ask them to email KidEvents@LakeshoreSF.com.

LSF Virtual Studio

We’ve Launched a Virtual Studio – Enjoy LSF Classes from Home!
Want to enjoy classes from your favorite LSF instructors any time, anywhere? We now offer on-demand virtual classes to keep you moving towards your fitness goals. Our Virtual Studio consists of a constantly expanding library of recorded classes to keep you motivated and on track — including HIIT (high-intensity interval training), yoga, strength, and cardio workouts. For a limited time, this offering is INCLUDED with your LSF membership!

Exercise Can Lower Risk of Severe COVID-19 Illness

Posted on: July 20th, 2020 by lakeshoresf

We all know the importance of exercise and its numerous health benefits. During this pandemic, you might find yourself struggling with conflicting ideas: gain weight while inactive at home, or go to the gym and risk contracting coronavirus from someone. Some underlying health conditions can cause a more severe reaction to COVID-19 but the good news is that exercise can help!

General Health Benefits of Exercise

Staying active is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Everyone can benefit from exercise no matter your age, gender, ethnicity, or body type. All it takes is 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If you’re not used to moderate-to-intense exercise, you should consult your doctor before starting a new program. You should always start out slow and build as you make progress.

Some benefits of physical activity include:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Improved cognition as you age
  • Better sleep
  • Weight management
  • Reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, and some cancers
  • Strengthen your bones and muscles
  • Improved balance
  • Healthier skin

Exercise and COVID-19 Risk Factors

So what does this all mean for risk factors related to COVID-19 severity? There are a number of underlying conditions which could potentially put people at risk for severe COVID-19 complications. However, exercise may mitigate some of these risks.

According to Dr. Michael Osterholm, PhD, MPH, an internationally known expert in infectious disease epidemiology, the University of Minnesota Director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, and former interim Director of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), says the #1 risk factor for people under the age of 55 is obesity. “Eating the right diet, getting physical activity, and managing stress are some of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from the disease.”

Physical activity enhances immune function and reduces inflammation, which may also reduce the severity of the illness. Other underlying conditions such as chronic heart disease, diabetes, and asthma that are known to cause COVID-19 complications may also be improved through physical activity.

One of the more severe complications that can be developed by patients with COVID-19 is Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), a condition that causes the lungs to become swollen, which results in fluid buildup and oxygen deprivation. Research has found that an antioxidant enzyme, which is produced in large quantities during vigorous exercise, can lessen the risk of ARDS. Also, the study showed the more regularly you exercise, the more the enzyme will be produced.

Why Return to the Clubs?

You might be feeling hesitant to come to the clubs to exercise. However, we want you to know that we are doing everything we can to sanitize equipment and surfaces with superior cleaning technologies, and our large facilities allow for physical distancing without eliminating the activities you enjoy. We have created advanced reservation systems for a number of programs and spaces, such as group exercise classes and pool lap lanes.

Many of the protocols we’ve created during this reopening phase go above and beyond what local health departments and the CDC have recommended. On top of wiping everything down with sanitizing chemicals after every use, we have invested in UV light disinfection systems that irradiate 99% of pathogens in a space (including surfaces and in the air). It also reaches surfaces underneath and behind fitness equipment that are normally difficult to sanitize with spray bottles.

Aside from sanitizing, we’ll be testing our surfaces regularly to audit the cleanliness of our facilities.

How to Exercise Safely During the Pandemic

As we mentioned above, we are doing our part to make sure the clubs are as sanitized as possible. When returning to the clubs, remember to do the following to ensure the safety of yourself and others:

  • Wear a mask
  • Practice social distancing at all times
  • Don’t come to the club if you experience a fever, cough, or difficulty breathing
  • Wash hands thoroughly (about 20 seconds)
  • Choose a form of exercise that matches your fitness level, especially important after a long period of physical inactivity

So as you can see, we want you to feel safe and comfortable returning to the clubs so you can focus on your health. Obviously we want what’s best for our members, so if you have a suggestion, feel free to let us know how we can improve.