Raul is really great! I had always been fairly fit, but had trouble getting rid of the last few pounds. Wanting to take my fitness to the next level, I signed up for the 6AM Golden Gate Park session, at 4 days a week. I am decidedly NOT a morning person, but I decided that I were to commit to this, I should do it in a big way. The first few days were really rough, but within a few weeks, I was having no trouble getting up in the mornings, and even looking forward to each morning in the park. At the end of each workout, I feel invigorated and ready for my day. It really is a beautiful way to start the day. The results speak for themselves, as well. Within a month, my girlfriend was commenting on how much weight I'd lost. Other friends keep mentioning how trim I've become, and asking me about my exercise routine. Additionally, I've increased my strength, and find the general aches and pains I would otherwise get (leg injuries while running, back pain) have essentially disappeared. I am on my third session, and this has become the center of my fitness routine. Raul is greater trainer, making things interesting, varied, and (relatively, for a difficult workout) fun. He brings a healthy and constructive attitude to the sessions, with no judgement. The rest of the is of the same way. We're all coming from different places, with difference abilities, but are all working towards the same set of goals. It's a great, constructive environment, and has really changed my outlook on health and fitness. I would definitely recommend Bootcamp SF. On a side note, to really take full advantage of the program, it's best to follow the dietary guidelines they provide at the start. read more

Joined a year ago, been going ever since. Great trainers, great vibe to the whole thing. Whipped my a** into shape, no head trips, no yelling, just quiet intense excercise at the crack of dawn with a bunch of cool folks. Do it. read more

I think this is good if you are already working out and want a jump start to something else. When it says it's for everyone, it's a little misleading. They don't do a fitness evaluation on everyone individually to find out if you have injuries or if you have ever done a fitness routine like that before. They test your run time, push up #, sit ups and the basic tests like we got in 7th grade to see what "group" you are in. Even though I had completed a marathon and 2 triathlons, I was put in the low group due to my run time being slow. I had come off of 2 injuries - but not given the option to take on the other group when I said I wasn't being challenged enough. I took the class with my partner and when the hour was over, (she was in the high group - and NEVER worked out like this in her life)she was dripping with sweat and super worked. I barely broke a sweat and ended up having to go to the gym to get the work out I really wanted. I did express my concerns - but didn't get much response. Over all the trainers were all nice and knowledgeable about fitness, but all in all - I prefer the gym with a trainer who has a plan for me and my needs. I would not recommend this to someone who hasn't worked out before nor would I recommend this to someone coming off injury. It's not for everyone. read more

I started bootcamp in January of this year, all thru the freezing weather to the beautiful summer weather! I absolutely love it! What bootcamp does for me is - gets me out of bed eary morning, I have seen parts of Golden Gate park which I've never seen before and most importantly meet great trainers an developed motivation to keep working out. Regardless if someone wants to loose weight or just get in shape - bootcamp is an awesome solution! I highly recommend it! read more

Have to upgrade my rating. Started working out with Chris again and loves it. Totally worth the money because before coming back I was with a trainer who cost a lot more and didn't have as much fun or feel as great as in bootcamp. Also, I don't know what people are talking about when they say poor customer service. I've always had pleasant encounters with Cat, and trust I ask many questions. read more

Just completed my 2nd session. Totally worth it, likely going for a 3rd round. Never ran a mile before this, thought I would die the first time. My friends thought I was insane. (Cept for the other 2 that signed up with me). Now I've got a few thinking about joining... Miraculously I haven't died or passed out, and made it through the 1st session whilst shaving 2 minutes off my 1.5 miles timed run. (Don't be too impressed, I was pretty damn slow when I started). Crazy. I actually like running now. After session 2, took another minute off the timed run. Not that I'm ready for a marathon (maybe a half one of these days?) but I have some serious quads that never have seen the light of day. Not that they do at 6 am, but day light savings is approaching, it'll be nice for a few mornings to have some sunlight again, although the mosquitoes in golden gate are getting fiesty. GGpark Instructors: Love 'em and hate 'em all in the span of an hour. At least Nairn has an accent, and he likes to say bits n bobs. And Gwen's all perky and sweet and a red-head to boot, so she's hard to glare at. That leaves Raul: heh, don't hurt me next session. Otherwise, best 12 weeks of my workout life ever. Worth the money, great people to sweat with and push and pull you through. UPDATE: well, I did bootcamp Golden Gate Park for almost 1.5 years, and loved everything about it. Raul rocked my world and I was in the best shape of my life. Did my first 1/2 marathon. life changing. Then had an injury (not from his classes, just from the running) and had to take it down a notch, but Raul is great with altering the workout for your needs. I did a lot of jump rope. Unfortunately, with the move back to the east bay (o-town!), I had to give up Raul and my fellow 8:30 classmates. Sigh. I tried out the Lake Merritt version with Ron. Sorry to say (oh so sorry), but it was no comparison. The groups are smaller, there are only early morning classes, and I don't know, Ron's great, but it just wasn't for me. Too much repetition of the same exercises. Plus, with only a few classes in the morning, my schedule couldn't accommodate. So for you east bayers, i'd give it a 3 stars. read more

I just started Boot Camp and am loving it. I was in the Navy for 13 years and know a little about military calisthenics. This builds on those core principles but is done in a fun and motivating environment. Nobody is yelling at you. On the contrary, people are their encouraging you to do your best. I am a huge fan and am hooked. read more

Boot Camp SF is the best workout ever! The only warning is that it is completely addictive. I started going to BC over a year ago and love, love, love it. The instructors have an amazing ability to push you to your limit and make you better than you ever thought you could be, while being really supportive and inspiring. I am totally gimpy and have a variety of random issues such as tendonitis, knee issues, tennis elbow, etc and all of these actually improved while at bootcamp! At any rate, BC is awesome, the instructors are great and you will never be bored working out again. read more

This is my first bootcamp experience, and I'm really digging it. We meet in Golden Gate park, light or dark, rain or shine, and get to it. The flexibility is nice; you can do 3 or 4 days a week with a make-up class on Saturdays at Crissy Field. Love my instructor Andrew, a low-key force that hasn't repeated one workout destination/routine in over 4 weeks now. This is not a screaming/yelling boot camp experience. Not much cheering or team stuff, either. Just a get-it-done bootcamp that leaves me sweaty, tired and stronger each day. read more

I normally hate working out and don't like gyms but BCSF has been a life changer in that it has shown me that working out can be the highlight of a day instead of a dreaded activity. Our leader, Jen, provides the perfect balance of motivation, variety, and fun. I won't tell you I jump out of bed every morning at 5.30a but 5 minutes into class I am so happy I did as my days now feel incomplete without a boot camp session. I would highly recommend this class to just about anyone, so much so that after the first day of the current session I talked my brother and another good friend into joining and they know swear by the class too. I am definitely signing up for another six week session. read more

Bootcamp SF really hasn't changed a bit it seems to me, besides losing a few faces and replacing them with some increddible new ones! I really like the philosophy and the integrity of Bootcamp SF. I've tried Bootcamp SF three summers in a row and I have to say every summer I've tried it, it has absolutely rocked my socks! I have seen different trainers come and go, but the program seems to stay the same. I really trust the program, its helped me a lot and I would highly recommend it! read more

I love Bootcamp SF. It was the best decision I made for myself last spring. I initially did it because I wanted to get into shape for my trip to Peru. My friends and I were planning on doing a five day trek to Machu Picchu. I have done two more sessions since. I have had personal trainers at gyms, but I never saw the results in my body that Bootcamp has been able to produce. Raul provides great workouts that challange you every time and overall an amazing trainer. He is very knowledgeable about nutrition, training, and injuries. Not only did I learn a lot about exercise, but how to also eat better overall. He always motivates you to do your best and every workout is different than the previous one. I am not doing it this session but plan on signing up for the next one. It's hard to believe how addicting it can be to vigorously challenge your body four days a week! I have never felt or looked better. read more

I signed up for Boot Camp SF because I was tired of my old gym workout and needed some serious motivation. I'm almost done with my first six-week session and am so addicted I'm definitely going back! First, the trainers are amazing. My trainer (Gwen) is super energetic and really knows how to motivate the group. She also is very attentive to any questions/problems you may have about exercise or nutrition. Because of this, even though I'm in a group of about 5-10, I feel like I have my own personal trainer. She's definitely a big reason why I'm signing up again. Yay Gwen. Second, training with a group of people at 6 am really builds a sense of friendship quickly. Everyone I have met that participates in the program is supportive, encouraging, and inspirational through the hard workouts. Working with a great group made a big difference as compared to my gym workouts. Third, it's a great workout, no matter what fitness level you are at. I feel much healthier and stronger in these 5 weeks than I have felt in years with my gym workouts. The program is just the right amount of intensity - and you can make it harder or less strenuous by asking the trainers for modifications of the exercises. I don't have my official results yet (they do a fitness assessment at the beginning and end of each training cycle) but I'm sure that I've definitely made progress. Lastly, throughout each cycle the trainers provide mini-newsletters with fitness and nutrition tips, including shopping lists and food log websites. The BCSF website is helpful too - they record your personal stats there on your own account, and provide more recipes/food ideas. So, I highly highly recommend BootCamp SF if you want a complete lifestyle change or just want something different from the gym for a while, or have any fitness goals in between. read more

I liked bootcamp SF at first, but then found the workouts to repetitive and boring after completing a few sessions. I switched bootcamps to Basic Training SF and absolutely love it! We do new locations, activities, and exercises every class. read more

Ok, so this is an exercise program that you will be easily able to stick with. Whether you need to kick start your metabolism, prepare for some special event or you have finally decided to do something about your beer spolier. The 6 am beginners group became a team after day 1 when we all realized we were at the point of no return. The team certainly motivated me not to stop and keep running....... Bootcamp rocks and once you get used to the fact that the 1 hour training session ends up feeling like 15 mins you will be back for more! Bring on 6am! read more

It runs contrary to my cynical and sarcastic nature to write a review, especially a positive one. But I just can't help myself! BootCampSF is the BEST!! A few weeks before Thanksgiving 2006, I arrived home from work stressed and needing a stiff drink (or two.) Going through my mail I spotted a slick looking postcard that said, "6 WEEKS WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE." Now, unless the program involved surgery and mood-enhancing pills, I didn't see how that was possible as I was 80+ lbs overweight, working 80+ hour weeks, unmotivated and depressed. The next day I called BCSF to see if I was qualified to participate as I had a ZERO fitness level. They said they had groups for everyone. I signed up figuring if I hated it I could quit, just as I had with EVERY other exercise program I had ever tried. I nervously arrived that first cold, dark day at 6:00 a.m. in Golden Gate Park. To my horror it began with a fitness assessment. I was unable to do even a single push up or sit up, could jog only 1 lap (of 6) and I think I may have stretched their tape and fat measures (seriously.) But the trainers didn't flinch, reminding me I was there to improve. I was assigned to Tracy's group with 7 athletic women. Intimidating, but from the start Tracy was knowledgeable, patient and motivating, while at the same time demanding and tough. Every day was a different workout in a different location. Although I was always at the back of the group, I was never left behind. Tracy and my classmates were so encouraging. After 6 weeks I had lost a lot of weight, fat and inches and was able to do some sit ups and push ups and jog 1.5 miles. I looked and felt better, and was officially hooked on BootCamp. Just 11 months after joining BootCampSF, I completed my first half marathon (without stopping!) and went on to complete another 5 half marathons in the following 12 months. I guess that was too much of a good thing as I burned out and fell off the wagon a bit. However, my "relapse" only reinforced how important the BCSF program is for someone like me. As of May '09 I'm back at camp with the goal to run a full marathon in May '10. It's overwhelming to think that when I started BootCamp SF, I couldn't even make it around the track once, and now I plan my social calendar around the next race event. How crazy is that??!! My success wouldn't have been possible without Tracy's great support and training, and the BCSF program. I encourage you to try this program if you've ever struggled with your weight and/or motivation. BootCamp SF has truly changed my life and I am forever grateful. read more

BootCamp SF is a low-key (no motivational yelling) and low-tech (lots of simple calisthenics, running, and resistance training) fitness program that happens in and around Kezar Stadium in Golden Gate Park. I've been put off by trainers before with their buffer-than-thou attitudes, and classes where everyone in it is off to their triathlon and I'm just slowing them down. Not so here! The pace is brisk but you go at your own speed, doing as much or as little, going as fast or slow as you like. The instructors (there are usually more than one) keep a close eye on form and are always there to give assistance. Example: the other night my instructor ran over to me right away in the middle of a set because I stopped. I told him I felt a twinge in my back and he suggested a different exercise to work the same muscle group. Very effective. They also emphasize individual, long-term improvement instead of drop-and-give-me-twenty, immediate score-keeping. I look forward to the sessions and I'm feeling fit. Or maybe just sore, being it's only my first week. So, if you're looking for a real workout outside with no pressure, look no further. read more

yes, i'm still doing boot camp--close to three years now! i'm in better shape than ever, and constantly getting compliments, even from people far younger than i am. Boot Camp Works! read more

awesome views whilst getting your ass whipped into shape.

I've suggested to some of the trainers at Boot Camp SF various improvements to their website, including a testimonial section. If you've pinged this up on Yelp you probably have some idea what you'd be getting yourself into. 6 weeks, 4 days a week, an hour a day and hopefully a workout to challenge and change....your fitness level, your self confidence and your comfort zone. BCSF can do all of those things. Commit six weeks and you'll be fitter, stronger, more confident and maybe even happier. I did two sessions and have remained friendly with some of the trainers and members. I can't think of anyone truly unhappy with their experience. With this, a caveat, you will get out of BCSF whatever you put in, use your minimum efforts and you'll get minimal results and even those may be significant. Try your best and your results will be plainly evident and remarkable. I'd tell you to introduce yourself to your trainer and ask plenty of questions, pay attention to what works for you and what doesn't, get at the staff via email and facebook, take advantage of their accessibility and you'll get more out of your workout, crowded sessions or not. Asked to be worked hard and you'll be worked hard, say you're hurting and need a bit of a break and they'll give you a break from what's hurting and leave another part of your body sore for the next morning. Give BCSF an honest go and you'll be writing a five star review on top of mine. read more

The Bootcamp SF program is a great way to get yourself back on track with a workout routine. The trainers are supportive and create a solid, cross-training type of program without being cheesy. Its also helpful that they have various locations around the city which makes easier to incorporate it in your schedule. read more

I'm at the end of week 4 of 6 at the Embarcadero location and I am loving it so far that I signed up for the next session. I am not a fitness expert at all and before I got to bootcamp day 1 I was extremely nervous -- nervous the whole first week actually. Gwen & Brooks do a great job to push you along and make you do better, they don't like to take I can't do that for an answer! I may hate all the exercises we do while I'm doing them, but at the end of the session I feel great and proud that I stuck through it! I can already tell that I'm gaining a little bit of strength, running faster and really enjoying getting my butt kicked! I would highly recommend this for anyone who is looking for motivation. read more

Great workout. A little expensive, but definitely worth the money.

I'm just completing my first 6 wk BootCampSF training period. Notice I say first; I definitely want to do more w/these guys! I was intimidated at first, as I started out so out-of-shape. I immediately felt supported + well-challenged, well-directed, & the positive results & effects after only 6 wks are solid. Love it! Highly recommended. (Surprise: it's fun, too! Hard but fun.) read more

Boot Camp SF is fantastic. This is my second time going through the 6-week program and I absolutely love it. Time flys and you get the most intense amazing workout ... while watching the sun rise and meeting new people in the city. I plan to continue on for several sessions in a row. Sebastian is awesome!! read more

I did (2) 6-week sessions at 3x a week. My instructor was Brooks Jenkins, the class was amazing and a great workout that really pushed me. It got me ready for my wedding dress fast =) This bootcamp is well worth the money paid, I would do it again if I worked back in SF. read more

I love it. I started boot camp with drop in sessions at Golden Gate Park with Raul's 6:00am group. I only did it because I was going to an intensive 7-day boot camp in Southern California and figured my yoga training needed a boost. Well, I got that boost for sure! Although I practice hot yoga and vinyasa yoga religiously (and for many hours a day), the boot camp sessions have been unbelievable. You are out at 6:00am in the dark, watching the sun rise, running, jumping, squatting, stretching, and stair climbing until you think you just can't do anything more... but then you get your second wind and you do more. Great motivation, great leadership and good fun. I'm signing up for the next session for sure! read more

The classes are good and worth a try. I did have some knee pain from doing a lot of running, but I saw results. Nothing a little wrap can't fix! read more

Great workout. I hadn't trained in months and the motivation boost here is what I needed.

Love the early morning classes, classes are always exciting and challenging. I have seen a huge change in the last two months.

I joined my first bootcamp session in 2007: I can't believe it's been that long ago! That is how addictive and fantastic this kind of outdoor training is! Before I started bootcamp, I was a gym gal, doing cardio classes 3 days a week and not seeing much progress as far as changing my body or getting any fitter. I heard about bootcamp from a friend who was about to join and he asked if I wanted to join him at 6am for a 6 week session. At first I thought "no way", but then I reconsidered because my friend offer to pick me up at 5:30am and drive me to class. I'm so glad I said "yes", because I've been hooked ever since. The trainers (I have Brooke) are awesome and they motivate you to work hard and push yourself to get fitter. I do bootcamp at the Soma location and Tuesdays we do hills in Portrero, super cardio workout, you feel great when you're done. And being outside even when it's cold and wet is invigorating: it's the perfect way to start your day! read more