Stories from the 78

← Back to Stories

Former White Sox Physical Therapist Brings TFI To Vernon Hills

By
1/4/2024

You ready to kick 2024 right in the mouth? Yeah, me too!

TFI (formerly The FIT Institute) has opened their second location in Vernon Hills, Illinois at 701 N Milwaukee Ave. TFI is a privately-owned physical therapy clinic, Pilates studio, personal training gym, and recovery room that bridges the gap between rehab and sports performance for people of all ages.

TFI’s second following the opening of its clinic on the north side of Chicago — is co-owned by 2010 Olympic silver medalist speed skater Brian Hansen; Ryan LeFever, a former physical therapist for the Chicago White Sox; Isaac Lai, a Vernon Hills local who’s worked with members of the Chicago Bears and Blackhawks; and Luigi Degirolamo, a former collegiate soccer player and former head coach for Notre Dame College Prep and the Wilmette Wings.

“Less than 6 months before the 2010 Olympic trials, I herniated a disc. Very quickly, physical therapy became very important. Being in a collaborative environment between physical therapists and personal trainers became critical to stay in shape while also training with an injury,” says Olympic silver medalist Hansen. “That experience made me passionate about working in an environment where there is collaboration between those two disciplines. And this collaboration is one thing TFI does really well. Trainers and physical therapists work under one roof at both clinics in Chicago and in Vernon Hills. I’ll forever be grateful to Luigi for bringing us together.”

Akin to their flagship facility on the north side of Chicago, TFI is committed to delivering exceptional personalized care with an integrative approach. “Our physical therapists and trainers work together to provide unmatched service that is paramount in assisting clients of all ages during their recovery and journey to optimal performance,” explains Hansen. “From youth to high school and college athletes to senior and geriatric fitness enthusiasts, our staff is knowledgeable in a variety of specialties like baseball, soccer, track, volleyball, recovery techniques, injury prevention and even neurological physical therapy.”

The new Vernon Hills location offers a wider range of services in a state-of-the-art facility that combines cutting-edge technology with customized care. From a modern recovery room with two cold plunge tubs and sauna to a fully-equipped Pilates studio, every aspect has been designed with the guest’s comfort and well-being in mind. The 5,500 square foot space provides access to top of the line fitness and rehabilitative equipment. A premium is placed on the quality of service, cleanliness, safety, and an encouraging, family-oriented atmosphere.

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.