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LA GRANGE
Living in Los Angeles at the time, Jennifer Burgos could be seen regularly on the reality television show “Work Out” about the business of elite fitness training.
Now, Burgos has returned home to La Grange after almost 20 years and brought her expertise in health and fitness with her.
Burgos recently opened The HIT Locker, 71 S. La Grange Road.
“I spent close to 20 years in L.A.,” Burgos said. “I met my husband out there and convinced him, despite the weather [in Chicago], to move back here to raise our daughter and build my business.”
Burgos said she began training people in health and physical fitness when she was 19 years old and working at Bally Total Fitness. In L.A., she produced, wrote and hosted 40 episodes of “Workout TV.”
With the opening of The HIT Locker on May 30, Burgos looks to bring her experience as a certified personal trainer to those looking for a healthier life.
“I bring personal training elements to group classes,” Burgos said.
Burgos said her training plan concentrates on high-intensity elliptical cardio and strength training.
“Most [customers] aren’t looking to body build. They want more definition in their arms and a flatter stomach,” Burgos said. “It’s all internal training. Mentally, you’re up for a few minutes [working out] and it ends quickly.”
Burgos said she also has modified exercise plans for people recovering from an injury.
For Burgos, coming home felt like the perfect place to try something new.
“My family is from La Grange,” she said. “It’s nice to come back. This is the perfect place to start a new venture. Their downtown is the best place to live.”
Episodes of “Work Out” with Jennifer Burgos can be found on Netflix.