No enrollment fee in September at Techny Prairie Activity Center in Northbrook
New members can take advantage of a zero-fee enrollment special this month at Techny Prairie Activity Center, a modern facility owned by the Northbrook Park District that offers an extensive variety of fitness and wellness options, gorgeous views and a unique commitment to environmental stewardship.
Built in 2021, Techny Prairie Activity Center (TPAC) is a 44,200-square-foot building nestled within Techny Prairie Park and Fields, which includes Anetsberger Golf Course. The facility offers a 6,000-square-foot fitness floor with cardio, strength and functional fitness training equipment; more than 50 group fitness classes weekly; an 8-laps-per-mile indoor walking track; and a multipurpose gymnasium for basketball, pickleball and volleyball.
“Becoming a TPAC member is about making a commitment to your health and well-being,” said TPAC Manager Shawn Bernaky. “Our state-of-the-art facilities, diverse range of classes and supportive community provide the perfect environment for you to achieve your fitness goals and lead a healthier lifestyle. Whether you\'re a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, TPAC offers something for everyone.”
This fall, members can enjoy group classes such as Dance Fit, Zumba, Yoga, Mat Pilates, Tai-Chi, Pure Strength, Total Body HIIT, Ignite, Cardio Blast, Essentrics and many more.
Specialty classes will include “Ladies who Lift” in October, and “Weightlifting 101” in October and November.
New this fall is “OsteoFit Fusion,” with sessions running from Sept. 18 to Oct. 23, and from Nov. 6 to Dec. 11. This class is designed to support bone health and improve overall physical well-being, and is perfect for people who want to prevent or manage osteoporosis.
TPAC members praised the facility’s state-of-the-art equipment and pleasant environment.
“I have been a member since it opened, and I love it,” said Andy Roane of Northbrook. “I go to different classes, especially yoga classes and some spin classes. The facility is kept clean, and with the number of windows that we have here, it’s fantastic looking over the golf course and the pond.”
The view also is a major plus for Rebecca Zhang of Northbrook, who mostly does cardio, particularly on the treadmill and the elevated walking track. “It’s really nice, because you can see the park and the trees,” she said. “It’s kind of like a break for your eyes.”
Roane and Zhang also praised the building’s environmentally friendly qualities.
TPAC was constructed as a net-zero energy building, meaning the amount of energy used by the facility is equal to, or less than, the amount of renewable energy created by 833 solar panels on its roof.
Last year, TPAC met stringent criteria set by UL Solutions and achieved the UL Verified Ventilation and Filtration Mark, the first of its kind to measure the efficacy of ventilation and filtration systems in removing aerosols from enclosed spaces. TPAC was the first parks and recreation facility to undergo an assessment and receive this verification from UL Solutions.
Clients can work with experienced certified personal trainers for one-on-one, partner and small group sessions. “Some people need support, and some people need information,” said personal trainer Drew Surinsky. “Most people need both.”
People can benefit from being accountable to another person, or from assistance in following their physical therapy programs. Others are searching for the best exercises to meet their goals, or need help in figuring out what they enjoy most, he said.
At its core, personal training is about developing a positive relationship, At its core, personal training is about developing a positive relationship, said Surinksy, who does a lot of work with clients with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease.
“Compatibility is really important,” he said. “Personal training is considered an allied medical profession, along the lines of physical therapy, so you need to feel comfortable and safe. You can always try one personal trainer and if you want to switch, people won’t take it personally.”
As a personal trainer, TPAC is an especially great facility to work at, Surinsky said.
“It’s well-managed and it’s well-supplied, equipment-wise,” he said, adding that a major perk in summer is being able to do water workouts at the park district’s two outdoor swimming pools. “It’s about creating good programs and giving people good service.”
Techny Prairie Activity Center is located at 180 Anets Drive in Northbrook. Hours are 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. For information, visit nbfitness.org or call (847) 897-6180.
Established in 1927, the mission of the Northbrook Park District is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.