Push Your Limits

MG “Parker's takeover”

8 years ago

Visiting Chicago but I had to get my gym day on. A friend told me about this place. Home of the great Ed Coan so I had to try it out. Wow is all I have to say.. they have everything you could possibly think you want and more.

J O

4 years ago

Dave is a great guy, he's incredibly easy to speak to. The sign up is a smooth and quick process that doesn't include arduous cancellation processes like other gyms. What's really important about this place though is the culture that resides here. It is THE BEST gym I have ever been to. If you want to seriously get in shape and be surrounded by others who want to do so as well, this is your first and last destination. You're surrounded by others who friendly, serious about working out, and have very good gym etiquette. Nobody leaves weights laying on the floor, everything is put back into place, bars are stripped and everyone washes their station down after usage. This sounds like a minor gripe, but I've been to gyms where people think it's OK to just leave stuff around - this isn't the case at Quads. There's MORE EQUIPMENT then you can ever possibly imagine - seriously, Dave is basically an Iron Porter and has new machines developed to push you coming in on what feels like a weekly basis. You're never going to find yourself waiting for machines. Each floor is packed wall to wall with tools to improve and use. This includes cardio and strength training. On top of it, you've got history on every wall from over the decades of the great power lifters and bodybuilders who have utilized Quads Gym throughout their careers. Huge motivation to leave the locker room and see photos of Arnold and Ed Coan pressing real weight. I know this is a long read but if you're considering it at this point, stop by and just see for yourself. Dave has truly built a special place that will be a real destination for a long long time.

Grant Simmons

7 months ago

Used the $20 day passes while in town for the weekend, staff was friendly and helped me get squared away with passes easily. If you’re like me and prefer an old school gym feel with good solid equipment I cannot recommend quads enough. Now go lift heavy

Greg McCoy

7 years ago

This place is legendary. A time capsule of body building and strength culture. 40k sq ft of machines from all generations. I spent a solid hour just walking around looking at the photos on the walls. The owner Dave was there both days we were there and was super helpful and accommodating. If you're into strength sports this is a must-visit.

Crystal G

4 months ago

This is a great gym for people serious about fitness and bodybuilding. Amazing staff from the front desk to the trainers like Daniel Taylor and Rob Hirsch. I’ve been going here for over a decade. I wasn’t sure how things would go after Dave the owner passed but I can see that worry was unfounded. ❤️

John Ott

a year ago

Awesome gym! They have nearly every piece of equipment you can imagine! It’s like walking in the old school bodybuilding era. The owner Sharon is a total sweetheart! The people are awesome. If you’re in Chicago, you have to check this place out!

Jenna Gray

5 months ago

This gym has everything — an incredible range of equipment, from classic free weights to specialized machines that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s spacious, well-organized, and clearly designed with real lifters in mind. Whether you’re into bodybuilding, powerlifting, or just working to improve your strength, Quads provides the perfect environment to push yourself. The energy is motivating, and you can feel the history and dedication that have made this place a cornerstone of the local fitness community for decades. What really sets Quads Gym apart is its no-nonsense atmosphere and supportive community. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, always willing to help with tips or spot a lift when needed. The members range from elite athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts, and everyone shares the same respect and drive. It’s a place where hard work is valued and progress is celebrated. The combination of old-school grit and modern equipment makes Quads more than just a gym — it’s a Chicago institution that continues to inspire generations of lifters.

Michael Hirthler

4 months ago

If all gyms were like Quads, we would have a much fitter and happier country. An incredible training facility (for anyone! Not just bodybuilders!) filled with friendly members and an incredibly welcoming and gracious staff. I dropped in from out of town and by the time I left I felt like I had been a member there for years. I've dropped in to 4 other gyms in the area but my goodness not a single one compares. The membership prices are also better than most big city gyms. After my workout, I sat and ate my lunch and conversed with other members working out nearby. This place has the ability to change lives. I can't wait to come back!

Scott McCabe

4 months ago

This city changes so much. Quads is a preserved gem in Chicago. 1 week in, everyone I’ve brushed shoulders with is approachable and welcoming. This is important because there is so much equipment I’ve never tried before! After years at lifetime fitness, I was really picky, with high standards for my next second-home. This is a valuable self-investment and it’s worth every dollar. I started with 1-month. No intro fee nonsense, no breakup fees when I plan to go away this summer. I can’t wait to bring my brother, because they offer a no expiration 10-visit punchcard. Perfect for family. I’ve been working out for 12 years (played FB in college), somehow Quads has every piece of equipment I’ve ever used and loved. I’m so happy to have found this place and don’t think I’ll stop saying that any time soon.

Guilherme Stefani

a month ago

Quads Gym is something else. The layout makes no logical sense and that is exactly the point. This place was not designed to impress anyone on Instagram. It was built for people who actually train. Equipment is excellent but also properly old school. We are talking rust, wear, history. The kind of gear that tells you this gym has seen serious work for a long time.