The trainers here do not give a damn what you think, they really will put you through the most…read moregrueling workout until you keel over from exhaustion, and it's just what I need to not need a forklift to carry my coffin when I die, instead of a hearse. I'm an admittedly, um, horizontally-challenged individual, and I wanted to get fitter, and I thought it would be nice to lose some weight while also learning something. Boxing seemed a solid way to go, so one afternoon I headed to the Elorde Boxing Gym in front of La Salle and signed up for one session with a trainer. I thought he'd just show me the ropes and let me ease into what I hoped would be a nice routine. I was wrong. He made me run lap after lap around the gym, and THEN we went through rigorous warm-up routines. Before the warm-up was even over, I was puking my guts out in the bathroom. But I soldiered on. I did shadow-boxing drills over and over again, and then he paired me up with a petite college girl who then proceeded to wipe the floor with me a la Scarlett Johansson and Jon Favreau in Iron Man 2. It was humiliating, and I haven't gone back since. But that's more of a reflection on me than it was on the gym. There's no false advertising here. They give you what they say they'll give you. There's no coddling, no extended rests. You sweat and you lose weight. Nothing less.

I've been going to this gym since 2012. Honestly, I'm really not athletic nor physical activity…read more Back in high school and college, Physical Education was my least favorite subject (practically failed the subject). BUT, when I started working, I started to feel the "heaviness" of my over-eating and over-drinking lifestyle. So, I guess it was a wake up call to lose weight and get fit! I tried out the gym (which BORED me!), spinning classes and even those calorie-count diets. None of these kept my interest. Then, a friend invited me to try out Boxing. During that time, PacMan was at the peak of his career. So, everyone was boxing for fitness or trying to be amateur boxers. For me, I thought it would be cool to wear wraps and just punch the heavy bags. :) My very first day at the gym was quite memorable. In a room full of guys, I was just 1 of 3 girls. Each student was assigned a personal trainer; I got Coach Steve. It was pretty easy at first: warm up, stretching, putting on the wraps. Then, he taught me the basic footwork + stance. When he saw I was comfy, we started with the punches. This went on for about 3 minutes (Round 1). Before Round 2 started, Coach Steve told me, "Ma'am, ang hina ng suntok mo. Ilabas mo galit mo! (Ma'am, you're punch is weak. Unleash your stress/anger!)". That surprised me! So, I DID! I just let it ALL out! He kept at it until we reached a total of 6 Rounds with the mits, 3 Rounds with the heavy bag, 3 Rounds with the hanging ball + an Ab Workout. I was sooo TIRED but happy that I even finished ALL of that on my very first day! After that, I was hooked. It's been 3 years and Coach Steve is still my trainer! Enjoying something is probably the number one reason why you'll stick to any routine and get better at it too. For me, boxing is FUN! Boxing is my workout and stress-reliever. Try it for yourself! Who knows, boxing could be that awesome exercise you've always wanted. :D P.S. - the reason I'm giving this a 4-Star is because the gym isn't a high-end gym. It's more like a boxer's stable. So, don't expect it to be clean and air-conditioned. The grunginess adds to the charm.

The Good: They have the best trainers, regardless of your skill level…read more The Bad: The showers leave much to be desired The Pro-Tip: If it's your first time, look for Steve or Powell! I've always been a fan of fighting! Even when I was a kid, I would spend summers learning Japanese Martial Arts like Aikido or Judo. Too bad boxing wasn't so big back then! Fast forward to decades later - here I am, looking for alternative sports to augment my boring gym routine. I lucked upon a friend who does boxing. He invited me to his gym which happened to be near my office so I decided, why the heck not? It was love at first sight! There are a lot of things I love about boxing: the science behind it, the discipline, the practicality. And yes of course, the workout! Boxing is a great form of exercise! It combines both aerobic and anaerobic workouts. Plus, it's very much scalable to your fitness level. Oh, and did I mention that hitting stuff is a great way to relieve stress? Onto the gym itself: Elorde Ortigas is very spacious. One of the biggest boxing gyms I've been to! Their prices are very reasonable specially since all training sessions are one-on-one. Since it's an Elorde gym, you know that you're getting the best professional training - all of their trainers are pro fighters or pro coaches (one of the perks of being in the Philippines). My one negative about this place are the showers. There's only one shower stall and it's not exactly the cleanest. So, shower at home if you have the option to! Will we be coming back? Yes, at least 3 times a week!

I have nothing but positive remarks about FIST GYM. The atmosphere screams hard work and…read morededication will get you results. The coaching staff are patient and considerate. They will breakdown techniques for you and help you step by step. As a foreigner looking for a BJJ gym to continue my training I couldn't have found a better spot. This is the gym for anyone who wants to work hard. I look forward to training at FIST GYM when I go back to Manila.

Best Muay Thai gym in Metro Manila! They have a syllabus from beginners to advance. Other Muay Thai…read moregyms just teach you how to do jab-straight-kick and it becomes a monotonous routine. Fist Gym trainers adhere to a set of standards that really teaches you the art of Muay Thai. Great for fitness enthusiasts and for competitive athletes as well!

Its a very accomodating gym.. Were staff is good as well as the coach. They cater pickleball,…read morebasketball, badminton reservation and also they have boxing, muaythai and lastly weights.

Until Manny Pacquiao came along, the country's greatest boxer has always been considered to be the…read morelate, great Gabriel 'Flash' Elorde. Long after he retired from the ring, Elorde was able to maintain his celebrity status. He was also a smart and savvy entrepreneur who put up a sports complex along Sucat Road in Paranaque, but I believe it was only after he passed away that members of his family decided to turn his name into a brand, and set up boxing gyms all over the metropolis. Competing with the numerous Elorde gyms are the Penalosa Boxing Gyms, of which there is a relatively new one along Dona Soledad Avenue in Bicutan, Paranaque. Some may ask, who is this Penalosa guy. For those who are in the dark, there were actually two Penalosa brothers who became world boxing champions. The older one was Dodie Penalosa, who won a world crown despite being a polio victim. But it was his younger brother Gerry who had a longer career in pro boxing. To this day, Gerry Penalosa remains active in training young wannabe champs. He is also frequently seen helping out Manny Pacquiao by attending Pacman's workouts, giving tips and generally supporting the Pinoy champ. Gerry Penalosa has also lent his name to the string of boxing gyms challenging the Elorde gyms for marketing supremacy. The gym in Better Living is quite airy, which is important when working out. Surprisingly, there are ladies who are also into boxing now. This place trains both male and female in the sweet science that is boxing.

As obvious from most of my reviews, I could stand to lose a lot of pounds. All that eating does not…read moredo me good. I tried a lot of exercise too, from gyms, where the cheap ones are deficient and the better ones are too expensive, to walking, where I was out of breath not from effort but rather the smoke from all the vehicles. In short, none of them are fun. You know what's fun though? Boxing. You're constantly moving, constantly sweating, and it's more or less a full-body workout. And thanks to a certain someone, I went ahead and joined a boxing gym. Elorde, in Makati Ave. and I was right, this place is fun. Pumping loud music from big speakers (at this time, unfortunately, a mix of Jason Derulo and house music, I don't know why), this gym boasts of shower rooms (segregated, and a unisex one), a boxing ring (duh) and competent boxing trainers, whose approach to your goals of fitness, though varied and unique to each trainer, all center around how well you can throw punches AND not get hit. While not as fancy as, say, more upscale boxing and fitness gyms, this gym does give you that unique taste of how boxing REALLY is. It even comes with a resident old timer, a trainer affectionately called "Tatay". If ever you go there, look for Vic.

Five years ago, I started boxing, and I haven't stopped since. It's a great exercise and it also…read morehelps your self-defense. Unlike team sports where you need to gather a group, which can be very difficult as you get older, you can just go alone and train/spar with your trainer. I've tried many gyms through the years, but the longest I've stuck with, the one I currently go to, is Elorde at Makati Ave. Admittedly, it's not the newest or most advanced boxing gym out there. One could even describe it as gritty. But if you're like me who doesn't really care about how sleek a gym and its facilities should be, then you'd like it here too. For me, it adds to the testosterone of the place. As long as they have working equipment and good trainers, I'll be alright. The music there changes from day to day. You've got hip-hop, pop, house, pop, and sometimes, OPM ballads... Someday, I will play my iPod there (they allow). The training is rigorous and thorough. The trainers are professionals who can adjust to what kind of training style you want or need. While some want to improve their fighting skills, others just want to lose weight. If you're a fan of no-nonsense boxing, this might be the right place for you.

I've been coming to Primal Ape for almost a year now and it still feels like the best decision I…read moremade for myself. I walked in super nervous--zero lifting experience, just some random home workouts--and thought I'd probably embarrass myself within the first five minutes. Nope. The coaches (shoutout to Coach Anton especially) scaled everything perfectly for me from day one. They're tough when you need a push but so patient and genuinely happy when you hit a new PR, even if it's just a little one. The box is massive, the energy is electric, and somehow the community makes you want to show up even on days you feel like dying. I've made actual friends here--people who cheer for you during the WOD and ask how your week was after class. It's cheesy to say, but it really does feel like a second family. The workouts are brutal (those damn burpees still haunt me), but seeing my body get stronger, faster, and more capable week after week is addictive. I'm sleeping better, eating more (and enjoying it), and honestly just feel like a more confident version of myself. Five stars aren't enough. If you're even a tiny bit curious, just go try a class. You won't regret it.

Simulan na ang pagsusuri mo...The first rule of crossfit: never shut up about crossfit. And I'm…read moreabout to fulfill that rule. Yep, I used to make fun of the cult (albeit lovingly), but now I'm part of the cult and quite happy about it. Primal Ape is a Crossfit box that offers two fitness packages: Crossfit and Bootcamp. If you avail of the Bootcamp package, that's all you get, but if you sign up for Crossfit, you can also take Bootcamp classes. The crossfit package is naturally pricier, though. You can google the difference between Bootcamp and a WOD (Workout of the Day). But basically, bootcamp is mostly bodyweight. Crossfit's where you do all the #doyouevenliftbro-level weights stuff. Both are exercises done in groups, although the coach keeps watch of everyone. No spotting, though. But that's okay because the coaches will teach you how to handle the weights properly, and also, they're bouncy weights. Like literally, if you drop them, they bounce! I heard that Crossfit gyms are called boxes. And from what I've seen, Primal Ape's box is HUGE compared to most other Crossfit establishments locally. It's literally an entire warehouse. As of the time this review was written, construction is not done yet, since right now it's very new. The establishment has no aircon, which I like. SWEAT HARD. NO PAIN NO GAIN. Ahem. Equipment include rowing machines, weighted balls, kettlebells, barbells, ring rows, pullup stations, mats, foam rollers, jump ropes, wooden boxes (for jumping on and off, I don't know what you call them.) The entire box also spans a 100m run. I was with Primal Ape since its roots. Well it's actually still roots level right now, haha. But during their beta testing, I availed of a 2 week free trial for Bootcamp, and I liked the workout AND the environment in the box so much that I never stopped until I signed up for the actual Crossfit package. Which, by the way, shouldn't deter you if you're new to it, since there is a Foundations class. And mind you, I never ever used any equipment or worked out at a gym before doing crossfit. Okay, so you know what you're getting into and so you know how much you, too, can do this, I might as well give you my physical background: I used to do Bikram Yoga, and I work out nearly everyday (I stream cardio, abs and HIIT stuff on Youtube), but I'm also anemic. I have been completing the WODs just fine. Well, okay, not just fine, my butt gets kicked every single time, but in the best possible way. Take note these workouts are ruthless and brutal, but very rewarding. But if a scrawny little pipsqueak like me can handle them, then YOU can. Provided you don't have health concerns that directly conflict with this form of fitness, naturally. If getting into crossfit worries you about certain medical repercussions, I'd suggest consulting with a doctor before you go ahead and sign up for classes, or inquire with any of the coaches or partners at Primal Ape. They are very nice, honest and will tell you if you should take Crossfit or not. Speaking of the coaches and partners, they do a really good job at building the environment in the box. First timers are told to "sing, dance, or say something about yourself" which immediately warms people up to each other. The coaches and regulars initially only seem intimidating because they're BEASTS. But they're all really nice, and encouraging and motivating and understanding that fitness is a process and you can't be a great crossfitter off the bat. They'll help you push yourself. Head Coach Anton, who handles the WOD classes and the foundation classes (but also does some Bootcamp classes) is actually the Hulk. No, kidding aside, he's extremely helpful. His criticisms, praise and encouragement are quick, concise and effective.. Hey, just like CrossFit! Since I started with Primal Ape, I've been the fittest I've ever looked and felt. But I'm also eating a lot more, for the record. I'm normally squeamish about group exercises since I'm a terrible introvert, but I like the community a lot and I've already made some new friends. I feel a sense of very healthy and supportive "competition." But really, the only person you're truly competing with here is yourself, BOOM CHEESY FITNESS MOTIVATION LINE. True, though. I mean it. Some closing pieces of information: If there are certain movements you really can't do properly yet, the coach will tailor the requirements of the movements for you. The locker rooms are air conditioned, well equipped, basic and clean. Also, the rug will get you dirty for sure. You will get down on all fours and on your back a lot. It's easy to book classes, I do it through an app called MindBodyConnect. They offer classes in the morning, lunch break, and after work hours. They have morning and 4pm classes on Saturdays. The gym is closed on Sunday. You'll need lots of sports bras and a change of clothes. The sweat is merciless. You will learn to love Burpees... ... enough to make you hate them a little less.

Ka Pow! Fight factory BGC, kind of pricey compared to most gyms…read more But you know the saying, "you get what you pay for" I've been to a ton of boxing gyms in the Philippines this is definitely in my top 2. Equipment is in good condition wherein other gyms there's holes in the heavy bags it speed balls. They have weights, cones, ladder, battle rope! - make sure to ask to use some of their other equipment to get your best workout. - comparing this place to some of the gyms in California it's top notch. - 1 on 1 mitt training in a California gym can cost up to 30 dollars a session here it's way more affordable. - there's shower facilities - gender friendly - all the trainers are nice and helpful. Also I lost five pounds in about two weeks !

The Zone Badminton Court has one of the best locker rooms among all the badminton courts that I've…read morebeen to within its price range. Nicely laid badminton court mat. However, some courts are damaged and they just patched the damages instead of replacing them. White stuff coming from the ceiling also fall down which I assume are bird feathers. They did not even bother to fix the damaged lights. Most of the staff are either lazy or rude. I have only come across two staff members who are nice so far (mostly women). Half of the time that we go there, they do not automatically turn on the exhaust on each court. We either have to turn it on ourselves or go back to the counter to ask them to turn it on, which, of course, consumes the time that we paid. Rudest of all is the guy receptionist who I think is on his late 20s or 30s. He once switched the light off of our court when we just started playing. When approached, not even one apology was heard from that guy or from any of the staff present. This guy also tends to answer sarcastically. They also have a very inconsistent rescheduling policy. Or so said this guy. We have asked to reschedule more than once before this incident because of an unexpected conflict on our schedule. We thought that that would be better instead of cancelling. All of the receptionists that we talked to have always been happy to accommodate this. However, on one eventful day, same receptionist guy said that they don't allow rescheduling even if it is on the same time period that we have scheduled and that it should be done at least 2 days before our supposed schedule. That is the first time that we have heard of that policy although guy insists that that is always how things go. Weird how that is not how it always was for us and only happened when he was the one we're talking to. When asked about this rescheduling fiasco and the unwarranted-turning-off-of-the-court-lights-incident, this receptionist guy even taunted that we should go there so we can discuss it in person. AGAIN, NO APOLOGY WAS HEARD. They suck at complaint resolution. Lastly, expect that when your schedule is near their closing time, they will turn off your court light without any warning 1-2 minutes before the supposed end of your playing time.

I've been to many badminton courts in the Metro, but The Zone remains to be my favorite. For one,…read moreit is conveniently located if one lives and works within Makati CBD. After work, I just walk to the court. I don't need to bring my car, even if there are ample street parking slots in front of the building. The Zone has a total of fifteen standard badminton courts. Six of which have wood flooring, while nine are equipped with Taraflex material. There's also a basketball court complete with digital scoring system. The shower and comfort rooms are air-conditioned and personal lockers are also available. A food stall in the receiving area makes sure that players don't have to worry about drinks and food. If you forget to bring accessories, there's even a small store that offers sports socks, apparel, and other badminton stuff. Recently, The Zone improved its security by placing surveillance cameras in strategic places inside and outside the building. With this, fees and court rentals have slightly increased. At present, the entrance fee is PHP 75.00 per person. During peak hours, weekends, and holidays, you can rent a Taraflex court for PHP 300.00 per hour, while a wood court can be used for PHP 250.00 an hour. A play-all-you-can promo is available during weekdays from 6:00am to 5:00pm for just PHP 150.00 per person. The basketball court rate is PHP 1,500.00 per hour during off-peak time and PHP 2,000.00 for peak hours.

First time here for the Manila Live 2026. Nice venue. Clean environment. Comfort Rooms are clean…read more No toilet tissue or hand soap - will need bring your own. For a huge arena I would have thought the score board would be bigger. Overall it was a great experience. I did not walk around to see if there were concessions.

The Rizal Memorial Sports Complex may mean different things to different people: football stadium…read moreto the Azkals fans, martial arts dojo for the taekwondo and wushu practitioners, or badminton/tennis court for the avid players, etc. But for me, it will always be my most memorable playground, a.k.a. the place where I learned to swim, only two years ago. The sports complex may be known for its Olympic size pool, once the hallowed training ground of the members of the Philippine Team. What most don't know is that there are actually three pools side by side in the pool area: a small diving pool, 16-feet deep, if I remember correctly, where our Olympics contenders have tested their mettle; and a regular pool, half of the Olympic-size, four-feet deep, where swimming classes for kids and students are often held. It was in the latter pool were I was taught to swim. We were already working then, but my friend (the one who cajoled a.k.a. coerced me into taking lessons with her) and I persevered through learning how to kick, using a kickboard, mastering the freestyle breath, and enduring humiliation from the kids in the water with us. We used to just pay Php 60 to get in and use the pool for the whole day. (We paid a different rate to the instructor. The guards and staff at the sports complex recommend contacts for those who want to learn.) Sadly, the pools were declared closed to the public a few years back. One can still swim with their accedited instructors' supervision, though, or with a special permit from management (which may be requested).