Cutting Edge Fitness in the Northern Suburbs

When JCC Chicago announced the Marvin Lustbader Center for Health, Wellness and Fitness was opening in Northbrook (practically my neighborhood), I had to check it out. So I did a site visit and got a tour from Katy Landaverde, the director of health and wellness.

The Lustbader Center has top of line equipment, great group classes, experienced babysitting and much more. Here's my interview with Katy:

What's your elevator pitch on the Lustbader Center?

We believe that everyone has the motivation to live a life full of wellness and the desire to connect with others. No matter where you are on your path to health and wellness, we will empower you to achieve your goals.

Will I be able to drop my boys off at the daycare and get in a workout?

Yes! We will have babysitting available for ages 6 weeks to 8 years old. Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to noon, 4 to 8 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m. to noon; and Saturday 8 a.m. to noon. Babysitting is free when you enroll for a family membership or $5 per child for a 2-hour visit.

I heard you guys are getting some unique pieces, can you give some insight on the equipment?

Yes, we will be getting brand new equipment with unique pieces like the Queenax, Woodway Treadmills and Nu Steps.

Woodway: The 4Front Woodway treadmill is designed to mimic the feel of running outdoors and to provide the user with a dynamic, low impact workout every time.

Queenax: It's a free-standing system that can accommodate functional and suspended body weight training accessories, like punching bags, a battle rope and more. The format configurations will be the hub of personal training activity that's bound to attract and engage.

Nu Step: NuStep was designed to enable as many users as possible -- regardless of age, or ability level. NuStep's inclusive, low-impact, total-body design and wide range of resistance levels allow for a full-body cardio and strength workout. The seated (recumbent) position reduces the risk of falls.

Keiser M3i bikes: The 3i bike was designed with over ten years of research and collaboration with experienced manufactures, trainers, and the largest gyms in the world. These bikes will be in the spin studio as well as the cardio area.

What type of classes will you be holding?

We will have a variety of formats for all ages and fitness levels. There will be yoga, Pilates (mat format part of membership, Pilates reformers (additional fee), WERQ, Zumba, strength/cardio, kickboxing, and Indoor Cycling to name a few.

What are you most excited about?

The experience our members will see and feel as soon as they enter our front doors. We are here to provide exceptional customer service as well as to showcase our talents in the fitness environment.

What has the response been so far?

People think the new space is great and beautiful. Additionally, I've received a lot of feedback on the staff, and how friendly they are!

What's been the biggest surprise since you opened?

The snow and bitter cold is not stopping people to come work out! We had over 100 visits on Sunday.

What Jewish values do you think the club embodies?

COMMUNITY would be it. It's been fun seeing people run in to old friends and reconnecting. This is going to be a great hub for the community.

For membership and other questions call (224) 420-7779 or visit them online.