Exercise & Workout Classes

9 parent questions ▼
Archived Q&A and reviews ▼

Parent Q&A

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  • exercise bootcamp over summer break?

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    Mar 13, 2023

    I'm looking for some sort of exercise bootcamp for myself over my kid's summer break (which in our case will be the last week of July and the first week of August). North Oakland / Emeryville / South Berkeley area, preferably outdoors; I'd like something involving weight training, but any kind of exercise is better than the none I'm currently doing. Any recommendations or leads greatly appreciated. 

    Mar 13, 2023

    I've been attending Oakland Adventure Boot camp which is a women's exercise class that meets at the pergola at Lake Merritt every weekday morning for a decade. There is a 530am and 630am class (it's possible in the summer she will offer a later morning class too). There is a wide range of ages and ability levels and the teacher Anna is extremely nice and can help you modify any exercises to meet your level of ability. The other women in the class are super friendly too and that's what's kept me coming for so many years. Every day is a little different, but there is always a combination of strength, cardio, and core. You bring your own mat and weights. Highly recommend!

    Mar 15, 2023

    https://oaklandbootcamp.com is amazing!

    she often does special summer hour classes as well. 

    Mar 15, 2023

  • Looking for a STRETCH class

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    Dec 28, 2022

    Specifically looking for a stretch class - not yoga or Pilates - for an active (but stiffening) middle-aged couple in East Bay.

    Dec 28, 2022

    Check out the Stretch Lab in Albany (in the parking lot next to Habit, across from Sprouts). I was looking into their classes, and really liked what I found, but then we moved away. https://www.stretchlab.com/location/albany

    Jan 4, 2023

    Would look at Stretch Lab - there are multiple locations in the East Bay, including one in Albany / Berkeley off San Pablo. 

    https://www.stretchlab.com/location-search

    Jan 4, 2023

    I've never been but there's a Stretch Lab in the University Village plaza in Albany: https://www.stretchlab.com/location/albany

    Jan 4, 2023

    Stretch Lab is great (https://www.stretchlab.com). They have locations all over the Bay and they are opening up in Oakland soon. They do an analysis of your body and then come up with a customized stretch plan and literally help you stretch. 

    Jan 5, 2023

    I highly recommend Tom Stifler and his Somatics instruction. I took Tom’s class many years ago and referred many happy massage clients to him. Per his website it looks like he now does private sessions and sells a video. It’s worth direct instruction at least initially. I still remember and love the exercises all these years later! http://www.tomstifler.com/new-page

    Jan 7, 2023

    I took a stretch ZOOM class with Norlisha (NoLo F.I.R.M. Well-Fit, 510-205-1560) that I loved. The only reason I stopped is because my schedule changed. Right now, her stretch classes are Monday 10-10:30am and Saturday 10-10:30am. HIGHLY recommend. She is a great instructor. 

    Jan 31, 2023

    I recommend David Parker, a somatic personal trainer, who offers a live Zoom 30-minute stretch class at 7am M-F. He started when COVID restrictions started and has continued them due to demand. His training is in Active Isolated Stretch and he taught classes at the Club at the Claremont for decades. I have been doing his classes for years and love starting my day with “Coffee & Stretch”. It’s low key, no one can see you. I think he has an older crowd of students, hip replacements and the like, but I started his classes maybe 25 years ago in my 30’s. Definitely hits the spot! In fact, it’s “too easy” for lots of folks but it is deep work. Good Luck! Moving creates longevity! 
    TheParkerApproach.com

    Feb 1, 2023

  • Zumba/Dance/Hip Hop classes for adults?

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    Jul 10, 2022

    Hello! I'm looking to dip my toe back into group fitness in Berkeley. I used to take weekly adult dance classes in another town (I'd like to avoid barre work for now, I'm more interested in floor/aerobic classes). Does anyone have recommendation for 

    1) Classes that on Wed evenings 7p or later in a studio?

    2) Classes on a weekend that are outdoors (parks are fine) or in a studio?

    Thanks!

    Jul 10, 2022

    Check out Hipline on Lakeshore. Their classes are so much fun!

    Jul 13, 2022

    I recommend the dance and other movement classes at The Beat on 9th Street in Berkeley.  Chi Chi's Wednesday evening "Advanced Rhythm Tap" is a very fun class that I've taken from time to time when I can. 

    Jul 13, 2022

    Makingwavesstudios.com!

    It is hybrid (the next few weeks some classes are pre recorded because of holiday travel), wonderful community, wonderful Zumba, wonderful teachers!

    I do the Sunday 9:30 am class and others when time permits and highly recommend!

    Jul 13, 2022

    Carah teaches great zumba classes outdoors at at MLK middle school in Berkeley at 9am Saturdays and at Bushrod park 5:30pm Mondays details: https://workouttemps.com/workout2uclasses

    Jam4Joy teaches zumba classes outdoors at at MLK middle school in Berkeley 10am Sunday and 6:15pm Wednesday - they don't have a website but you can sign up for their emails  jam4joy2020 [at] gmail.com

    Jul 14, 2022

    https://www.newstylemotherlode.com/

    Corey Action has the best energy and moves 

    Jul 20, 2022

    Love, love, love Corey Action at New Style MotherLode!

    https://www.newstylemotherlode.com/

    Found his classes originally through BPN!  Used to have a studio on College Ave. in Rockridge, then a studio next door to Oakland Tech, now on E. 12th at 2nd Ave.  When I first went I thought I might be too old, but it's exactly my demographic -- mostly women 35-70, one dancer just celebrated his 76th birthday.  Corey also does Zoom and it is so so fun.  Highly recommend.

    Jul 21, 2022

  • Outdoor Berkeley exercise classes

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    Mar 14, 2022

    Hello! I live in SW Berkeley, and I'm looking for outdoor exercise class options during the work week.  Currently, I have helped to organize a Pilates class in the SW corner of San Pablo Park from 2-3 every Monday (join us!), but I am hungry for MORE OPTIONS. Do you have any classes to share? Yoga, HIIT, etc!

    Mar 14, 2022

    I've been digging this Zumba class on Saturdays at 9am at King Middle School. Not during the work week, but it's pretty fun! 

    https://www.zumba.com/en-US/class-location/martin-luther-king-jr-middle…

    Mar 16, 2022

    Technically in Oakland, but I drive by Sweat all the time on San Pablo Ave and they are running classes outside. I've wanted to check them out but haven't yet. https://www.mindbodyonline.com/explore/locations/sweat-strength-cycling…

    Mar 16, 2022

    https://www.outdooryogaberkeley.com/
    Donation requested classes at Cedar Rose & Ohlone Parks several days a week.  

    Mar 16, 2022

    Here are a couple of yoga options: https://www.outdooryogaberkeley.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/groups/1289492258218387 (you should be able to see it even if you don't have FB and aren't part of the group). Green Yogi also has outdoor classes that I have been loving but they stopped all the weekday classes over the winter - I hope they bring them back! 

    Mar 16, 2022

    Highly recommend Sweat in Emeryville. Great outdoor HIIT class. 

    https://www.sweatoften.com/

    Mar 16, 2022

    Try Fit First with Jan Curl.  Early morning class at Hopkins tennis courts in Berkeley.   http://www.fitfirst.com

    Mar 17, 2022

    I want this too!  Can you tell me more information about your Pilates class?  How do I attend!?

    As a single parent, I have to find exercise classes that happen during the work week, preferably lunch hour or afternoon, and it's super hard.  I don't even care if its indoors, I just want a lunchtime Zumba class in Berkeley or Oakland.  Anybody know one?

    Mar 23, 2022

    There is zumba at MLK Sat at 9am and Bushrod Mondays at 5:30 with Carah via https://workouttemps.com/workout2u-1

    Zumba at MLK Sunday at 10am and Wednesday at 6:15pm(Wed starts April 6) with Jam4Joy https://www.facebook.com/jam4joy2020/

    Strength training class Sundays at 9am MLK - https://sweatinplace.com/shared-calendar and I think they offer some early morning weekday bootcamps at MLK as well.

    Mar 29, 2022

  • Looking for fun fitness class in East Oakland

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    Jul 15, 2021

    My husband and I are out of shape and still haven't fit in a good exercise routine after having our daughter 14 months ago.  We're hoping to find something good in or around East Oakland, where we currently live.  We're open to outdoor classes at a park or going to a gym with some fun group classes.  Looking for friendly, welcoming instructors that can ease us back into working out.  Thanks for any recs!

    Jul 15, 2021

    I used to go to Inner Athlete Fitness on E. 14th just over the border in San Leandro. The group classes are very upbeat and fun. They’re super body-positive and the other participants are encouraging. It seems to be a small community. 

    Jul 21, 2021

  • Exercise for out-of-shape mom?

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    Oct 14, 2019

    Is there a gym or other exercise studio near Piedmont that is not filled with women who are already in excellent shape? I'm a middle-aged, overweight, out-of-shape mom who is looking for a place where I won't stand out and look ridiculous because I can't keep up. Would like to see a variety of body shapes and sizes, ages, etc. Also need convenient/ ample parking - I know about the Oakland Y but the lack of easy parking is going to be a hinderance to me going regularly.  Thanks!

    Oct 14, 2019

    May be far for you, but Happy Hour Fitness in Albany is very welcoming of all sizes, ages and abilities. 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I highly recommend a peloton!  Get the bike.  With your subscription, you also have access to on demand strength, yoga, running, etc content.  There is a huge Peloton Facebook community.  If you join, you can find support/accountability partners and groups.   The community of people is made up of all shapes and sizes.  No one will shame you for being out of shape.  It’s all encouragement.

    Oct 16, 2019

    The Berkeley ymca is full of all shapes, ages, and fitness levels. I like it because you can pick an exercise you like (for me it is dancing and the occasional “body sculpt” class) and participate at your level. 

    I entered as a super out of shape mom and am now a mildly in shape one. 

    I look at the 80 year olds in my class and think “if they can do it so can I”.

    once you find a class you like, other members or the instructors are generally able to point you to similar classes at that level. 

    Parking is ok— 1$ with validation after 4 pm and sometimes on the weekend. 

    Good luck getting moving.

    Oct 16, 2019

    I belong to Bay-o-Vista Tennis Club on the Oakland/San Leandro border. They have great parking, all shapes/sizes, many amenities and for me the best part is $1 a day daycare. Everyone staff and members that I have encountered have been very friendly. I have never felt judged and never have to wait for equipment. 

    Oct 16, 2019

    Check out Oakland Adventure Boot Camp. Classes are at the Lake Merritt columns for the 5:30 and 6:30am classes, and at Lake Temescal for their 9am class. I was an out-of-shape mom a little over a year ago, and have really enjoyed finding a community within this group of women. It fits your requirements around people of varying body shapes, sizes, ages and abilities as well. It's definitely tough when you first start out, but stick with it, and it gets easier. Good luck in your search!

    Oct 16, 2019

    Not sure if you are aware of this but the Oakland Y has an attached parking garage that is super easy. It does cost $3 an hour, but that’s commensurate with nearby street parking. I love the Y for many reasons, including the one you’re talking about.

    Oct 16, 2019

    Hi, I go to the Mariner Square Athletic Center in Alameda, and it meets your criteria and not much further than the Oakland Y. It's just through the tube from downtown Oakland, so practically in Oakland. There is a big parking lot, and it is next to a large shopping complex with even more parking. There are a wide variety of folks going -- plenty of seniors and middle-aged folks, plus younger folks, lots of different body types including overweight. There are a lot of amenities (pool, hot tub, towel service, etc.) and a lot of great classes, some of which are taught by seniors (it's not a place where all the instructors are 25 and buff). There's also a large variety of classes, with some more intense and some more gentle. I particularly like Cardio Sculpt or Step Combo with Thomas; it's a great combination of aerobics, step routine, hand weight lifting, and core exercise, plus stretches, that is easily adjustable to all fitness levels and the teacher is great and makes everyone feel comfortable and have fun. If your kid/kids are young, there is an excellent onsite child care for babies through I think age 12, not sure on upper limit. I recommend it. 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I recommend Hipline near Lake Merritt, which offers very fun dance and fitness classes for women. 

    They're a self-described "judgment-free space" and you'll see all ages, colors, sizes, and fitness levels. As a middle-aged woman, I always feel welcome. I also like that the dance classes are more about shaking it than nailing the choreography.

    The studio is next to Trader Joe's and parking is available in the TJs lot. They also have in-house daycare, though I've never used it. 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I would recommend Flex on Piedmont. Definitely not an intimidating gym. Lots of people of different ages and ability. It’s street parking but it’s usually not hard to find 

    Oct 16, 2019

    Hipline is a body positive and great place for women of all ages and sizes!

    https://myhipline.com

    Oct 16, 2019

    Try Flying Studios in Temescal. Relatively easy parking. Lots of dance fitness classes, start with their Zumba offerings. Why? Because the zumba classes are simple to follow, very forgiving of not "knowing" the moves with lots of encouragement to just keep moving until you become more familiar with the songs. Give yourself at least 3 sessions with each teacher before contemplating whether you like their class or not. There is a variety of folks, older, younger, bigger, smaller. Everyone starts somewhere.

    Oct 16, 2019

    The Oakland Y has a cheap parking garage-- parking is no problem there!  

    Oct 16, 2019

    There is parking in a garage for members at the Oakland Y. Just call them and ask if you want more info. They are great! We took our son there for swimming lessons in the fall and the staff is so helpful and there are women of all shapes and sizes in the locker room and hot tub. 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I had a membership for a few years at Mariner Square Athletic Club in Alameda (just through the tube), and always loved how anonymous it felt in that regard. Lots of different people, shapes, and sizes. Their classes are great (yoga and zumba, specifically), and they have a pool. Also, if you ever want to walk or work out casually sometime, please feel free to hit me up. I'm also middle aged and woefully out of shape.
    :)

    Oct 16, 2019

    I don't have recommendations, but could be a walking buddy, if you want to walk the lake together some day. I was also hindered by the Oakland Y's parking situation.  Let's motivate each other to get moving! 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I'm a 37-year-old, overweight, out-of-shape (newish) mom and I know how you feel! I worked out at Flex Circuit Gym on Piedmont Avenue for years before I moved to Berkeley last month. I loved that gym because it was very welcoming and inclusive: you see every shape, size, and age. There's a public parking lot about a half block away or people also park in the Wells Fargo parking lot at night, which has ample parking. Good luck with your search! 

    Oct 16, 2019

    I'm currently trying to see if a treadmill in my living room is the solution that will work for me, but I wanted to recommend the Berkeley y's women's gym. They have a whole area that is no men allowed and the vibe is amazing, friendly and inclusive. 

    Oct 23, 2019

    In addition to classes/gym I highly recommend the MommaString program. It’s online workout videos, 15 minutes a day, $5/month with an incredibly supporting & empowering message for moms (by a mom, and with a big online community if you choose to join it). Can’t say enough great things about it!

    Oct 23, 2019

  • Exercise Class near Berkeley or Oakland BART

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    Sep 30, 2019

    Hi! I’ve searched online but am just not having luck finding an exercise class that meets the following requirements:

    • short walk from BART in Berkeley or downtown Oakland
    • a morning class that starts after 8:15
    • OR an afternoon class that ends before 3:00 
    • an on-site shower

    I prefer barre classes but at this point am open to anything. Thanks!

    Sep 30, 2019

    Try the Berkeley downtown YMCA, they have a variety of classes scheduled all day long,

    and are walking distance from Berkeley BART.

    Oct 2, 2019

    In Oakland there's Active Club in the city center at 1200 Clay St. https://activesportsclubs.com/

    In Berkeley there's the Downtown Berkeley YMCA at 2001 Allston Way cross of Milvia, across the street from the post office. https://ymcaeastbay.org/locations/berkeley-ymca

    Both should have what you're looking for.

    Oct 2, 2019

    Great Western Power Company (a member of the touchstone climbing gym) is near the 19th street BART and has multiple lunchtime classes throughout the week including yoga, crossfit and TRX. They also have onsite showers.

    Oct 2, 2019

    The Dailey Method Berkeley in the Elmwood is a pretty short walk from Rockridge BART (10-15 min flat walk), has barre classes and a shower. 

    Oct 2, 2019

    Pure Barre is half a block from Downtown Berkeley Bart, on Center street. They also have an OnDemand video streaming service for $30/month.

    Oct 9, 2019

  • Any group exercise classes between 8:30 and 11AM on weekday mornings?

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    Jan 7, 2019

    Hello- can anyone recommend a group exercise class that meets on weekday mornings between the hours of 8:30 and 11:00AM?  I'm looking for some type of strength training and cardio exercise, and do best in a class setting, but everything I've found meets either in the early morning or evening hours, when I don't have childcare.  I'm willing to go pretty much anywhere in the East Bay if I can find the right classes or studio.  Thank you!

    Jan 7, 2019

    The Dailey Method has classes during the time frame you're looking for with studios in Berkeley and Piedmont.  The "interval" and "fusion" classes both have a cardio component; the regular barre class does not (just strength).  They also have cycle classes which I assume are cardio intense, but I haven't done those.  I like the classes and have definitely built muscle (arms, quads and abs in particular) since I started. The instructors vary in terms of style but all adhere to the same basic philosophy/regimen. I have my favorites, but I think it's good to change it up anyway.  Another good thing is that it is easy to schedule using their app and you can cancel if something comes up, as close as an hour before the start of class, for most classes.  

    Jan 8, 2019

    I just started working out at 9Round, a kickboxing-based circuit training gym in Emeryville.  It just opened a few months ago. Circuits start every three minutes and a trainer is always on hand to guide you through an intense half hour of exercise.  The gym is closed between 1:30-4pm, but you can drop in and work out mornings and evenings.  It is a small, but very welcoming and professional space.  It is also more affordable than Orange Theory, and other similar programs.  I am four classes in and I love it.  

    Jan 8, 2019

    I really enjoyed working out with Lift and Sprint this past summer.  They meet behind the library in Kensington at 9:30AM on Weds.  It is a great workout and the classes are small enough that they will accommodate you at whatever level of fitness you are.  It is also nice to get outside! I am taking a hiatus right now because I'm pregnant, but looking forward to going back post-partum!

    Jan 9, 2019

    Check out Hipline on Lakeshore for their dance classes or dance/lifting “power” pop classes. Very relaxed environment for dance- varying abilities, ages, bodies- Choreographers stay up front and you just follow and do what they do. You might even have a moment imagining you’re a back-up dancer for Beyoncé.

    Jan 9, 2019

    I love Lift and Sprint, and they have a 9:30 am class in Kensington Monday - Friday. Their workouts are outdoors - rain or shine - which I find much more motivating than going to a gym. They offer a free week, so you could try them out and see if their classes are a good fit for you before making the commitment. 

    Jan 9, 2019

    I don’t know off the top of my head a good workout, but I do know of an app that makes it super easy to find workouts at the times you need. It’s called Mind Body and I have found that most studios in the area have their classes uploaded in the app. It makes it easy to search by time, type and location. I have also found facialsts on the app. I found my go-to studio ‘Vita’ on College using the app. 

    Jan 9, 2019

    Try Happy Hour Fitness on Solano Ave in north Berkeley. I believe the current schedule includes spinning at 9:00 Tuesdays and various whole-body workouts Mon-Wed at 10:15 and Thurs at 9:00. I also prefer these hours and I love every class I've taken there - the instructors are great and the workouts are always varied. 

    Jan 9, 2019

    Crufit in Montclair! Mia Honore (the owner) runs TRX classes at 9am Mon, Weds & Fri. Great blend of strength & cardio for a whole body workout. I love the group too - low key & supportive.

    Jan 9, 2019

    Hi! Not sure from your post whether you're a mom, dad, or neither, but in case you're a mom you might want to check out No Excuse Mom. There are many chapters in the Bay Area who offer regular workouts that you can bring your little one to (or not if you'd rather work out on your own). Classes are free and super fun. I'm part of the San Leandro/San Lorenzo group and we meet Sunday, Monday and Friday morning and every other Wednesday afternoon. You can check out the group on facebook -- just look for No Excuse Mom.

    Jan 9, 2019

    Zumba at flying studios Tuesday and Thursday at 9:30? In Oakland.
    I go to the evening class (Wed) by the Tuesday teacher and it's great. The Thursday teacher sometimes subs for her and is also a lot of fun.
    It's a wonderful community.

    Jan 9, 2019

    X-Core Studio in Oakland often has classes at

    those times during the week. https://www.xcorestudio.com/schedule/

    They offer a 40 minute Pilates class then which I find to be effective and efficient. 

    Jan 9, 2019

    Try Hipline! I'm looking into Ride Oakland and CRUfit but can't vouch for them.

    Jan 9, 2019

    Hi! Check out fit4mom 510. 

    Jan 9, 2019

    The ice chamber has a great class from 9-945 every weekday morning. It is located near pt Isabel in Richmond. 

    Contact me for details but I highly recommend it!

    gretchen

    gretchen_davidson [at] yahoo.com

    Jan 9, 2019

    Fuse Fitness on San Pablo Ave in Albany, if you like interval training, is great.

    Jan 9, 2019

    Hip-hop dance class at New Style Motherlode - E.12th right at Lake Merritt.

    9:30 a.m. M, W, F, Sat and lots of moms there.  Love the teacher Corey Action!

    Jan 9, 2019

    Hi - Albany YMCA and I'm sure Berkeley and Oakland Y's as well.I know Albany schedule as I go there during those times: Stepclass 9:40 Monday, Core circuit 9:15 Tuesday, Step & Strength 9:40 Wednesday, Bombay Jam 9:15 Thursday, Nia 9:45 Friday. Albany YMCA 921 Kains Avenue Albany 510-525-1130

    Have Fun! Berkeley and Oakland YMCA's should have classes all day, too.

    Jan 9, 2019

    The YMCA! They have free drop in childcare and classes included with membership. We go to the Richmond hilltop branch and are very happy. My 20month old and I go almost every day:)

    Jan 9, 2019

    The Albany Y has a step-&-strength class at 9 a.m. twice a week, as well as lots of other choices on different days and times.  Members can use any YMCA in the area, so look through the schedules at different locations to see what works, and join the branch that you plan to use most.  Note that through the month of January, they are waiving the usual joining fee.  You can visit once for free. They also offer reasonably priced on-site child care (limited hours, though) if you find there's a class you really want to attend when you have the kids.

    https://ymcaeastbay.org/locations/albany-ymca

    Jan 9, 2019

  • ISO a workout group that doesn't involve my kids

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    Apr 10, 2017

    Hi,

    I would love to join a group / circuit workout that's fun, will make me sweat and doesn't involve me bringing my stroller full of kids. I need to expend energy and be with adults and be challenged and have fun.

    Are there any good outdoor groups or boot camps in the Elmwood / Rockridge area? I was an athlete before 3 kids, and now I'm late 30's, work full time and need to feel strong in my body again. <cry for help>

    shannon

    Apr 10, 2017

    If you're at all interested in a barre class, Remedy Barre & Foam Rolling just opened last month on Telegraph at 48th. It's a great, sweaty workout that will definitely leave you feeling strong and confident. The teachers are great at correcting form and giving feedback, as well as being mindful of different levels of fitness and injuries. They also have foam rolling classes that focus on myofascial release and helping sore and tight muscles relax. 

    Apr 12, 2017

    SWEAT fitness is awesome. There's a location on Solano Ave in Albany and one on College Ave in Oakland.

    I've been a regular there for a bit over a year. I go 2-4 times a week depending on my schedule and kids. The classes are High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) classes. They're super challenging and really fun. The trainers are all really impressive too. I've been really really happy with the change in my body over the year I've been working out there. www.sweatoften.com

    Apr 12, 2017

    You're describing BeFit! It's an interval training group exercise class that meets twice a week (you can add on more). We are almost all mothers and can empathize with one another about making time to take care of ourselves. Tiffany is very encouraging and supportive, and the classes are tough! http://www.balancedfitnessformoms.com/programs

    Apr 12, 2017

Archived Q&A and Reviews

Questions

Outdoors workout?

March 2009

I went to a Pilates workout outdoors in SF today with a friend. I'd love to find something similar here in Oakland. Here's what I'd like, a full body, hour long exercise class at Lake Temescal or the cemetery, that meets once or more per week. Does anyone know of anything like that? I saw the Women's Boot Camp website but it seems expensive. Still if you loved that I'd like to hear it.Thanks! ready to get in shape

You might check out Montclair Outdoor Fitness (http://montclairoutdoorfitness.com/), which meets in Montclair Park on Moraga Ave. I see them out there weekday mornings and they look like they're having fun. Montclair Mom

I don't know which bootcamp you have tried, but I highly recommend Oakland Adventure Bootcamp. It is all women, meets at Lake Temescal at 9:30 am or Lake Merritt at 5:30 and 6:30 am. It is a full body workout with cardio, Pilates, kick-boxing, bands, free weights - you name it. It is run by two great women, both moms, who inspire women to push themselves. It is not cheap but you can choose to do three days a week which is the least expensive. Having done this for some time I can't imagine going back to a gym - even these last couple of weeks when it was pouring down rain during the workout. Trying to be fit

Early morning exercise classes

Feb 2009

I'm looking for an early morning exercise class in the Albany/North Berkeley area to get back in the swing of working out after having two babies in three years. Having a specific day and time scheduled in advance should help motivate me to get out of bed and work out before the kids and hubby wake up. I'm planning to call the Albany YMCA about a Monday morning boot camp class they offer (if anyone is taking that and has feedback, do share!). I'd also love to hear any of your recommendations for early morning pre-work classes or any gyms that offer classes that I should check into. Ready to Get Fit

The Ice Chamber in Albany has awesome 6, 7, 9, and 10 a.m. bootcamp classes that will make you feel like a million bucks. www.icechamber.com 9 a.m. bootcamper

There are so many choices!! Crossfit in Oakland/Emeryville border is great (every morning at 6am, you can look at Crossfit website to see what their philsophy and program is, http://www.crossfitoakland.com ). Many like Ice Chamber in Albany (www.icechamber.com). Good luck! like to exercise in the AM, great start to the day!

The Ice Chamber in Albany (558-0807) is great for early morning ''boot camp'', as well as personal training. I know that Jessica and Steve are terrific trainers. Go there. gym rat

I highly recommend the Ice Chamber! It's the first gym that I love going to. Every class is different and fun, and all the people there are so supportive and encouraging. Here's the link to the website. http://www.icechamber.com/ finally fit

I take bootcamp classes at Phoenix Fitness gym in West Berkeley and highly recommend them. They have classes in the a.m. 6:30 and 9:30 M, W, and F. The classes are an hour long (and they use every minute), intense and very effective. The classes are really small right now (5 -6 people) so you get lots of attention from the trainers. The fitness levels of the people in the classes vary - some are very fit and some are just getting back into shape. But the trainers know how to tailor the workout for everyone. Plus, they are really nice and funny (and evil but in a good, sick way). Every class is different which keeps it fun and interesting and you won't believe what they can coax out of you. The people in the classes are supportive which means you all suffer together. This isn't one of those yelling at you boot camps. Kelly, Juliet and Dmitri want you to excel and know how to get you there. Like they say on their website, ''it's badass hard work but it is fun and rewarding.'' check out their website and call/e-mail them today. You won't be sorry. http://phoenixfitnessgym.com/about.html

Some of the Ice Chamber's former trainers opened their own gym. Phoenix Gym offers hour-long bootcamp classes at 6:30 and 9:30. I signed up for the 6:30 class, which lets me work out in the morning and still get to work by 9:00. It's hard and I am really sore. But I feel stronger already and my body is changing and I've only been doing it for a couple weeks. I've always worked out but never been happy with the results. Now I see that I haven't really pushed myself enough. The Pheonix trainers push me until I can't go anymore. We do all sorts of things like stair running and kick boxing, weight lifting and rowing, squats and push-ups so it never gets boring. And the trainers, Kelly, Juliet and Dmitri truly love what they do. Highly recommend them. http://phoenixfitnessgym.com/about.html 415.260.1112 info [at] phoenixfitnessgym.com getting back in shape

Oakland Y and club one have fitness classes starting pretty early (they open at 5, but I can't remember how early classes start). Berkeley Y probably has early ones too. janet

I missed the original post but if you are looking for early morning exercise classes, you should definitely check out Phoenix Gym in West Berkeley. It's a small space but the bootcamp classes are awesome. They are a full hour, they are different every day and they are always challenging. There are always two trainers so you get a lot of attention - especially with form so you don't get hurt. I love getting my exercise out of the way and feeling energized for the entire day. Their classes are 6:30 and 9:30. http://www.phoenixfitnessgym.com/bootcampinfo.html Bootcamp addict

I've been going to the Oakland Y for Bootcamp for the past year and love it. It's at 5:30am (the only time I can get away as I am SAHM of 3 under 4). Every day is different. Sometimes in the gym, sometimes outside. There are three instructors (2 are volunteers) and there are about 50 people in the class. Everyone knows everyone else's names and the support is fantastic but not obnoxious. I couldn't run a block before and and know I can run 4 miles! Check it out! Finally getting in shape again.

Exercise class I can take my toddler to

Oct 2008

Hi there, I am looking for suggestions about exercise with my 2-year-old. I just moved from San Diego, where I was a regular at ''Stroller Jam'' sponsored by the YMCA there. It was a great way for me to get a workout without having to put my son in childcare. I was disappointed when I realized the Berkeley Y doesn't have a similar program. Does anyone know of a group (Stroller Striders-type thing or more informal) that meets in Berkeley, North Oakland, Albany, or El Cerrito? I would also like to find some classes that he and I can do together such as parent-toddler yoga, dance, etc, something that provides activity for him and at least a little exercise for me. Thank you! Rebecca

W.O.W. baby is perfect for you! It's the newest outdoor parent and baby interactive fitness class to come to the Oakland area. We have classes five days a week at two locations in Piedmont and Oakland. After our workouts we have guided play time with a parachute, songs, bubbles, and story time. The first class is free - come check it out!!! www.workingoutwithbaby.com Thea

There is a stroller exercise class called Working Out With Baby (WOW Baby) that meets Monday - Thursday and Fridays in Oakland. Check out the schedule at www.workingoutwithbaby.com anon

Drop-in classes

Does anyone out there know of any aerobic or similar classes running in North Berkeley or environs which you can attend as a drop-in rather than signing up for a session? They would have to be either in the evening or with child-care during the morning.a Childcare and family committments make signing up for a session very difficult - and I would prefer to attend a class for motivational reasons rather than just drop in at a gym. Catherine

No Sweat on Solano Avenue has a drop-in policy for their many various classes. There isn't child care available, but they have kickboxing, hiphop, salsa, and samba dancing (along with other kinds of stuff). Lots of fun and definite communities in some of the classes. It costs $9/class, but it's cheaper if you buy a multiple class card. They're at 1831 Solano Ave. (next to Peet's). 528-1958. Ilana

Cal-FIT on campus (you can get info from Health*Matters, among other places) offers a drop-in card that you can use on some of the classes (depends if there's space). You don't have to be a student or employee either--community members are allowed; it's just that students or staff get a slight discount. Call 642-5151 for more info. Dawn

There is NoSweat on Solano (more or less in front of Andronico's). They have drop-in classes for several kinds of things (hip-hop, aerobics, etc) and (if I'm not mistaken) they cost $9.00 each. hope it helps! Denise