Are You Ready to Transform Your Strength Training Experience?
Logan Square just got a bold new addition to its fitness scene: Coach Tom, a gym that’s not just about lifting weights, but about building community and personalized growth. But here’s where it gets controversial: in a city saturated with boutique studios and high-intensity workouts, can a group strength training gym truly stand out? Let’s dive in.
Located at 2000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Coach Tom is the brainchild of Tom Schneider, a seasoned strength coach with over a decade of experience. This isn’t his first rodeo—Schneider already runs a successful gym in suburban Kenilworth, but bringing his vision to Logan Square feels personal. “I wanted to replicate the same welcoming, functional space I have up north,” he explains. The gym’s red and blue color scheme? A nod to Chicago’s spirit, according to Schneider. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the colors; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves.
Coach Tom focuses on group strength training, but with a twist. While many gyms offer one-size-fits-all classes, Schneider emphasizes customization. “We help people move better and become more functional for their everyday lives,” he says. The gym’s layout is intentionally simple: benches, fitness boxes, resistance machines, free weights, and plenty of space for group exercises. No frills, just results.
Here’s how it works: classes are led by Schneider and four other trainers, combining exercises that target the entire body. The goal? To build strength, improve movement, and foster healthy habits. But what sets Coach Tom apart is its emphasis on community. “Exercise is a universal language,” Schneider notes, “and I want this gym to be a place where people feel connected.”
Bold claim alert: Schneider believes strength training offers something other workouts can’t—a unique set of abilities that go beyond the number on the scale. While he acknowledges the benefits of activities like biking (he even completed a 2,500-mile cross-country bike trip in 2016!), he sees his gym as a complementary option for Northwest Siders seeking structured, group-based training.
Pricing is straightforward: $275 a month for four sessions a week (early bird special for the first 50 sign-ups), $100 for one session, $180 for two, and $240 for three. The gym operates by appointment from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., ensuring a personalized experience even in a group setting.
So, here’s the question: In a world of trendy fitness fads, does Coach Tom’s focus on strength, community, and customization hit the mark? Or is it just another gym in a crowded market? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
