Hard Effort Works

Hard Effort Works, known locally as HEW Fitness, runs high-intensity group fitness classes that combine HIIT, strength training and cardio. Each 45-minute class opens with a coach-led warm-up, moves through a workout built from scratch by the programming team, and ends with a structured cool-down. Equipment includes barbells, kettlebells, dumbbells, ropes and tires, and coaches explain each movement. No prior experience is needed.

The gym is part of a franchise, and this Woodstock location is locally owned and operated by John and Christina Szarzewski and Meghan Geisler. Classes run on weekday mornings and evenings and on Saturday mornings, and new visitors can book a free trial class. The gym is at Towne Lake Parkway in Woodstock, and the location also raises money for charitable causes through the franchise's HEWman Collective.