Elmhurst Gym Reopening As Nonprofit

ELMHURST, IL — Elmhurst's FITT RX, known locally as the "Cheers" of gyms, is closing Saturday. In October, owner Jen Knuth started calling longtime clients to break the news she was closing the fitness studio. Distressed by this news, members decided to reopen the studio next Monday as a nonprofit.

Founded in 2012, FITT RX, 123 N. York St., was one of the first independent group fitness studios to open in Elmhurst. In a news release, Knuth described the closing as a "very painful and difficult decision."

"FITT RX is more than a fitness studio — it has been a family," Knuth said. "I was overwhelmingly devastated to be losing this amazing family that I cherish so much."

Members enter through the alley off of Schiller Street and, when weather permits, can often be seen doing burpees outside the police station or lunging down First Street, the news release said. FITT members and staff also have donated to the community by raising more than $200,000 for local charities and schools.

"We were heartbroken that FITT was closing," member Dean Petrulakis said. "The FITT family is tied together by culture, community and camaraderie — there is a true sense of belonging and family. FITT is simply a place with a collective huge heart that you just can't find at big fitness chains."

Said FITT trainer Bridge Draz, "We couldn't imagine another place that could replicate our tight-knit community. We knew we had to find a way to keep FITT going."

Longtime FITT member Corey Gunn said members met after a FITT class and looked for ways to keep the gym running. As a result of these discussions, they agreed to form a nonprofit, which will open on Monday. Clients voted to rename the club FITT 60126. As part of the celebration of reopening, all classes at FITT 60126 from its opening through Dec. 31.

According to the news release, FITT 60126 will continue its mission of welcoming and supporting men and women of all ages and fitness levels. Classes offer a mix of strength training and cardio and range from Spin Bootcamps to TRX to circuit intervals. All classes are taught by certified instructors, the release said.

"I will forever cherish this little studio with its huge heart and the impact it has made on the community," Knuth said.

For more information about FITT 60126, email info@fitt60126.com or visit its website.