This studio has transformed my health and my life. The trainers are extremely attentive and knowledgeable across both physical exercise and recovery / muscle and tension release. They are the best of the best! When I first started with DJ I was slightly worried because I had had chronic knee problems and I didn't know if I would be able to achieve my fitness goals or if that would further injure my knee. He is extremely knowledgeable and tailored my regimen to help me achieve my fitness goals without ever provoking my knee. If anything, he has made improvements to it because he is able to apply physical therapy practices to improving it along the way, and he taught me what adjacent stressors were causing pain in the knee. I have been working out with him for a year and a half now and I am in the best shape of my life. I couldn't recommend them more highly. read more

So here'a the deal. The three are the nicest most caring professional trainers I have ever worked with. They are all a little different, but all check their EGOs at the door, and just want you to succeed. That being said if you want to be pampered go to the nursery. Your paying them to balance you, and push you, not break you. They know the body and how not to hurt you. So many idiot trainers will either push you to the point of breaking and hurting Or don't know body mechanics and hurt you. They also have some sweet amenities. 1. Big screen TV 2. Great screen savers 3. You can pop in for a quick cardio session if their not too busy 3. Don't Use trendy bullshit. Most of the work is you using your own body. They do have great equipment but is very select and designed around you using your body to work the machine, or bench or use the moon shaped leather bags from Romania?? NOT the other way around. 4. Jack Lalaine is rumored to haunt the studio 5. Great PC screen savers. 6. They smile and drink Cofee as they work your ass off. That's so sweet. 7. You get what you pay for. Great attitude, support, and a true deep down commitment to make you want to do, and be better. read more

I trained with DJ for years and he is an awesome trainer. He really pushed me to my limits and I got really strong, and never imagined I could do the things I do. When you meet with DJ, bring it, because it's a real workout and he doesn't fool around, it's all business then the last few minutes he tortures me more with foam rolling. It's a love hate relationship and I reveled in it. Wouod have continued to train with DJ, but we moved to Livermore :( read more

Training with Justin at Fit Life was one of best decisions I've made in my life. Last year, I was so depressed because of constant knee pain and lack of an active lifestyle. After going through 2 major knee surgeries in 3 year, my orthopedic and 2 other specialists recommended a 3rd major surgery to decrease pain. I finally accepted the fact surgery is needed so decided to be proactive and strengthen my knee at Fit Life. 2 months into training, my knee pain went away! And my legs are so much stronger. I could golf (walking the course) every weekend. This major surgery can wait! Who wants 3 surgeries in 4 years anyways? And an added bonus, my body is in the best shape ever. I can do real pushups now! I can't rave enough about Justin. He knows his stuff. All the trainers here are top notch. Top class trainers and facility. Great family atmosphere. I always look forward to my workouts. BEST IN SF! read more

DJ, Justin, and Stephen are exceptionally gifted trainers who have truly put in tremendous effort to understand not only my fitness goals but how to overcome various injuries and obstacles that have for years hampered my training. DJ is a tough trainer who really knows his stuff but he's also very encouraging and non-judgmental, which is great if you're coming in with relatively poor fitness levels or are new to crossfit style workouts. I can't recommend this place highly enough. read more

Justin Chin, DJ Dashnyam, and Stephen Brown recently opened this new training studio across from 24HourFitness in North Beach. I have been working with Justin Chin for just over six years, and I think Justin is probably the best personal trainer on the planet. I have been blown away by his vast knowledge, experience, and commitment to continually learn new training techniques, methods, and equipment, and his ability to effectively incorporate these evolving elements into my workouts to help me achieve my goals. By way of background, I have been weight training and active in sports since I was in high school. I was a competitive boxer in college (Golden Gloves Champion), have competed in triathlons, and am currently active in biking (mountain and road), surfing, a variety of martial arts, and skiing. I have an eclectic array of active interests, and my fitness and athletic goals are constantly changing. I call upon Justin to be able to map my routines to meet my continually evolving training goals. His ability to craft the appropriate workout program to accommodate an advanced and challenging client like myself is an impressively rare quality that I have not found in other trainers. In fact, I have so much confidence in Justin's abilities that I introduced my fiance to train with Justin. She is a complete neophyte when it comes to weight training, and has attempted to work with trainers at other gyms only to meet with frustration. Justin has been able to craft an appropriate program to both meet her fitness goals and provide an adequate base from which she can build into more advanced training methods. I am also aware that Justin has clients that literally fly in from New York, just so they can spend a week to train with him. I have never heard of anything even remotely resembling something like this with other trainers. Justin is a uniquely gifted trainer who inspires confidence in his clients while pushing them to excel. Quite frankly, Justin is the only trainer I trust to meet my goals, and I would recommend him to any one of my friends and family members. read more

Intense: strenuous or earnest, as activity, exertion, diligence, or thought: Justin Chin has been part of my fitness training for 2+ years now. He is what you call an individual who can adapt to your needs! If you are prior service as he and I, ( special forces ) he has the latest and greatest Ideas and training skills ( I call it my stealth training sessions ) Iam a PRO mountain bike racer which means we train on a seasonal bases! Justin, in coordination with my cycling coaches will design programs that fit my cycling schedule on and off the bike. My fellow racers and friends are always curious how quickly I get stronger and faster than them! One is that I have a strict training regime but one of the real secrets is, what Justin teaches me when Iam off the bike! Not only do I get stronger, but I prevent myself from injury ( or worse injury ) You prior armed forces folks will feel right at home with him not only with the camaraderie, but how INTENSE and beneficial his programs are!! Chad read more

There are many reasons to run (or jog, haha) and not walk to train with Stephen at Fit Life, but before I get into those, I just need to set the context for my own experience. CONTEXT: My exercise background includes many years of competitive swimming through grade & high school with only swim practices (where I was told what to do). To really illustrate how not invested I was in this- when I won an award senior year for best improvement in competitive time, my coach verbally expressed his bafflement (in front of my parents, sigh) at winning because I barely showed up to practice. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ SO: Absolutely no understanding of nutrition, of exercise on my own (from stretching to lifting weights), or motivation required ever. When I decided to "get healthy" in my mid-20s, I tried a crossfit class and in the very first session ended up injuring my back because of bad form during kettlebell swings. I knew I needed help but wasn't exactly sure how or what (aka. the classic not knowing what I didn't know). After reading great reviews for this studio, I ended up being paired with Stephen for about 18 sessions over a few months. In that time period, Stephen whipped me into shape, got me thinking consciously about nutrition, and helped me become more aware of my form while exercising. A lot of our sessions covered resistance training and weight lifting with an emphasis on identifying & maintaining form throughout. THE REVIEW: It wasn't until recently that it really dawned on me just how much Stephen has helped me.. Recently, in a class, I did kettlebell swings for the first time in almost 2 years amongst other weightlifting exercises. Not only was I maintaining form even when I felt maxed out, I felt really good about it, too! Seriously, preventing injury is *such* a high. THE STUDIO: Great space; clearly they care about their clientele's comfort and experience. DJ & Justin, while I haven't trained with them, were always great to chat with. All 3 have a chemistry that is very appealing to see in studio owners- there was never any hint of derision or resentment (which I have honestly witnessed in trainers at a lot of other studios). These are guys who genuinely enjoy each other, their studio, their clients, and the work they do. THE RECOMMEND: I credit Steve with my education in maintaining and being incredibly aware of form, working towards my fitness goals and preventing injury. He helped me build the foundation I needed to be able to work towards my fitness goals in a conscientious way. I am incredibly appreciative of this, and I highly recommend him and the rest of the team at Fit Life. read more

I was referred to Justin Chin in 2010 where I met DJ and Stephen during my training sessions. Since then I've never looked at another trainer the same. Imagine yourself at your best and they will take it to an even greater level. Like any training community the word 'can't' is not part of the workout and that was best exemplified here when I showed up for training 3 days after I broke my elbow, in a sling, determined to stick with my routine. Shockingly enough, I wasn't sent home. It says a lot when you have a trainer that is so well educated that they know how to work around injuries so you don't have to experience down time. I've personally worked with Justin and am currently working with DJ. I can say a lot about their style, dedication and unmatched knowledge but it only goes so far until you go experience it for yourself. You will find that many of their clients are lifers, I know I am. Being metrics driven [occupational hazard] I will share that in the first 3 months of training with them my BF % went down to 17% from 22%, the healthy way. We trained and strengthened old high school injury aggravations to the point where they are not even existent anymore. You get so much more than just a trainer when you work with the guys at Fit Life. If you are already dominating as an athlete or just dipping your toe into getting into wellness, you MUST check out a session with Fit Life. You will leave with a sweet feeling of satisfaction after the work out. read more

Well, going to FIT Studio, is a part of my weekly routine. So if you are looking to get fit and healthy in a scientific way with the coolest dude that's DJ. I have been working with DJ over a year. I strongly recommend to work out with him. I have never met anyone so dedicated and passionate about what they do for a living. Just, swing by and see how great the group are read more

I love working out here. Stephen Brown is my trainer. I couldn't do it W/out him. He is wonderful and truly a great trainer. All the trainers here are great. It's always fun working out if DJ is there training as well. Ladies. Both Stephen & DJ are great. read more

DJ (Gantulga Dashnyam), Stephen, and Justin have been a part of my life for over 3 years now and have recently opened this new studio. I can't say enough about their professionalism and well-educated ability to work with their clients, helping them achieve their health and fitness goals. Not only that, but they are 3 of the most genuinely fun, kind and down-to-earth guys I have ever met. How I found them: I've been fairly athletic my whole life, but working in a cubicle and a high-stress environment took a toll on my body, my health, and my workouts. That's when I decided to look into personal training and met DJ. Instantly, I knew we'd get along and that he'd be able to help me get healthy. Now, years later, DJ has helped make health and fitness a part of my life. He's been with me on a journey that's transformed from getting healthy to improving performance. With his background and education, he's been able to continually inspire and challenge me and, as a result, I've never felt (or looked) better. I can now do things that I never thought possible. I couldn't imagine my life without DJ and FitLife. I look forward to every session and I highly recommend this studio to anyone -- whether you're new to fitness or a seasoned athlete. Come check it out! read more

I love FitLife! I've worked with DJ for about 18 months, and worked with Yasuko for 2 years until she moved back to Japan. Both are talented, top-of-the-line professionals in their knowledge and willingness to share their knowledge to help me understand my body and how to make it stronger. They care about their clients and truly want to help you achieve your fitness goals. DJ always changes up my workout - to make it fun AND challenging - and he could not be more encouraging and positive. Even working out 2x/week for 3+ years, I have never had an injury or strain and I just keep getting more fit and stronger. I am a 59-year old woman, who was intimidated even to walk into the weight area of a gym before I started going to FitLife. Now I know my body's physiology and musculature and how to work it out in many, many ways and am empowered by that knowledge. I've always been "active" and did yoga and "worked out" on my own, but didn't know how to change my strength and fitness level. FitLife has changed all that forever! All the trainers there - and the clients - are super friendly and helpful and nice. The space is pleasant and functional and easy to work in...and there's always good music on, too. I recently had some massage/body work done by Steven Brown, and he was fantastic - highly recommended! read more

I started working out with Justin at Fit Life during my 13th week of pregnancy. He created custom strength training workouts to help me maintain my level of fitness during pregnancy while preparing my body for labor. He taught me exercises and stretching techniques that are not only safe during pregnancy but also beneficial in preventing those inevitable aches and pains. I travel a lot for work so he sent me some workouts to do on the road, definitely a service above and beyond! I'm looking forward to my postnatal workout regime to get my pre-baby body back! All of the guys that train at fit life are very professional and knowledgeable. I highly recommend their services! P.S. Did I mention these guys are all Ex marines - all bad asses. read more

This personal training gym is very intimate and inviting! The people there are welcoming and encouraging! I've been training with Stephen for about 7 months now and have been able to move better and be injury free!!! He can push me to do more than I would expect out of myself but with the right path. read more

I've been using yelp as a reference for years, but this is the first review I've ever written. That should immediately tell you something about the quality of this place. If you're looking for a place where you can have an intimate, well-designed, total fitness experience, this is the place to go. I just had my first session with Justin (one of the trainers and owner) and I've never been more impressed in my life. He and the other owners have so much experience training people of all shapes and sizes and have the results to show it. I am not a gym noob by any means but Justin pointed out some mechanical flaws in my lifts, helped me out with my meal plan, and got me on a solid cutting regiment (lose fat, retain muscle). The space is very well kept, clean, and approachable. I am an architect by trade and would not change a thing. They have all the right equipment in the right places. It is a small space but very efficient. Lean and mean; that's how they operate. I highly recommend stopping by and checking out the place. There's no monthly fee or anything like that; just sign up for some personal training and as long as you regularly train then you can come and go as you please. The shower is clean with fresh towels and they have bottled water for free. By far the best workout experience I've ever had and will be a regular for sure! read more

I can't say enough about the guys at Fit Life, they're awesome. I've been training with Stephen for 8 months now and I've put on almost 10 pounds of muscle, I can't thank him enough. The dedication he's had to me and my training has been priceless for my health. I'm 31 now and I haven't been in this shape or had this type of body in . . . well ever :) If you're looking for trainers that care about you and what's important to you- or are wanting someone to really guide you and push you to better health, I would recommend these guys all day long. read more

Can't believe I've never reviewed these guys! I went here to learn how to lift from DJ. I've since moved on to a powerlifting gym and coach, but there isn't a day that goes by without some one commenting on my excellent form. I owe that all to DJ and his coaching. He has a knack for teaching movement, form and execution. If you want to start lifting but you have no idea where to begin, Fit Life is the best present you can give yourself. read more

These guys are some very talented trainers with very good bench-side manner. I know Justin from his pre-Fit Life days. Very talented trainer who knows how to calibrate to the level of challenge appropriate for his clients. He and the gang have created a solid training space at Fit Life. I swing by for drop-in sessions on occasion, and I especially like the Olympic platform and bumper plates, but you don't have to be an expert or a meathead (as if I'm either). Highly recommended. read more

Reviewing these guys because they are nice! I've never stepped one foot in their gym, but I called inquiring about a day pass. Unfortunately, they don't offer it since they are private but he was super helpful. Thank you! read more

These guys rock. This clean and incredibly well-equipped studio is perfect for private training. I've been working with Justin for well over a year now, and he is definitely among the most motivating, intelligent, nice, up-to-date trainers I've ever met. He will kick your fanny! In a good way of course... read more

Amazing place with amazing trainers! I've been working with trainer Yasuko Shiga for the pass 3 years... she is one of the best! Not only does she have abs of steel (yes, this woman is crazy toned!) but she is great motivator. She helps you pushes through those tough workouts and keep you focus on yours goals. She doesn't let you give up. In short she is amazing!!! This gym is also exceptional, all the guys there are pros and atmosphere is chill + fun. If you're looking for a great place to train there is no better place than here! read more

I have been training with DJ for the past 3 months. I randomly walked into Fit Life one morning, bc I work out at 24HR across the street, but wanted personal training. Best workout/training decision ever. I have done personal training in the past, but the workout I get from DJ is amazing. I have a work out plan when I am not with DJ, but when I am working out with him, he pushes you to your limit which allows you to get to the next level. His personal training keeps me motivated and makes me challenge myself when I am not working out at the Fit Life Studio. He is incredibly knowledgeable about fitness, work out form, and post work out stretching. I would HIGHLY recommend anyone looking for personal training to check out SF Fit Life Training Studio! Thanks DJ and the Fit Life Staff! read more

Where do I begin? I've been exercising my whole life (running, biking, swimming, weights, yoga, you name it), and didn't realize how inefficient I'd been until I started working with Justin. He's amazing. Who knew I had this many muscles that I'd never used?! Funny thing is, the ones that I was neglecting the most happened to be the most important ones - especially when you get older. These are the muscle groups that keep your back from caving, your hips from snapping, and your stomach from falling over your belt-line. He is all-encompassing, calisthenic focused, and preaches "mind over matter" (stemming from his USMC background)... His approach to building, growing and maintaining a balance in both physical and mental health make him, in my opinion, the perfect trainer. I guarantee that no matter how long you've been working out, he can help you take it to the next level... & for those that think, "I can't afford a trainer," think about how much you just spent at the last restaurant or bar you were at, and maybe cut out one of these out per month, and invest in your health... just a thought. Thanks Justin. T read more

If you are looking to get fit and healthy in a stylish environment with the best and most educated trainer around, look no further than Justin Chin at Fit Life. I have been working with Justin for a year and a half and I can honestly say that I have never met anyone so dedicated and passionate about what they do for a living...in any field! Justin travels all around the world to get training in various fitness methods and synthesizes all that he has learned into workout routines that are customized to help you meet your fitness goals while taking into consideration your physical limitations or attributes, all while challenging you to improve. He is personally invested in the success of all of his clients. The guy is constantly devising ways to help them (especially me!) achieve their goals, whether its weight loss, strength or muscle gain, competition, wedding prep, just getting fit, whatever. Being an ex-Marine, he's not easy, but he's no drill sergeant either. He knows when you have had enough and adjusts on the spot. There is no such thing as a cookie cutter approach with Justin. Every client is unique. Mature, young, male, female, competitive athlete, weekend warrior, pre-natal, post-natal, coach potato...No matter where you fall on the spectrum, Justin will be able to create a workout routine that is challenging, but rewarding. And for people like me who hate working out (and never did before working with Justin), sometimes even kind of fun. Bottom line: Justin and his crew at Fit Life are serious about what they do, but serious about having fun too. They are professional and focused, yet laid back. Their studio is clean, efficient and stylish and their training style is personalized. This is a good group of guys who are running the best fitness studio in town. Don't waste your time or money going to the PTs at chain gyms, the real deal is at Fit Life. read more

This is definitely not a regular gym. This is THE GYM. I usually train with DJ( Dashnyam Gantulga), but I get pointers, tips from Justin, and Stephen ALL THE TIME. They are the most knowledgeable and professional trainers I have seen. Not only have they trained me, but they have influenced me to live a better lifestyle, a fit lifestyle. These guys are seriously the best... they treat their clients with the utmost respect, and will push you to the limit. You will not be disappointed with Fitlife, I guarantee it. read more

I've been training in some shape or form for 30 years and the Fitlife crew know what they are doing. Very professional and well equipped gym. They are also a lot of fun. Regardless of if you're new to training or an experienced athlete, you'll find what you're looking for at Fitlife. read more

Last Halloween I donned a Bavarian Beer Wench costume, and upon seeing the photos from that decadent yet debaucherous night, I noticed I appeared rather hefty. So, I joined a gym--24 Hour Fitness to be exact. That being said, I had never set foot inside a gym, and I knew that if I was to avoid agitating my nagging and constant lower back issues, I needed a personal trainer to show me the ropes. I did not, however, want someone to get all boot-camp on my ass and scold me about my pinot noir vice, inability to perform a push-up, and lack of coordination. Stephen D. Brown, the trainer I selected, transcended that rather unfair stereotype. Additionally, under his excellent training and superb nutritionary guidance, my aforementioned flabby physique has morphed into a nicely toned and svelte build. More importantly, though, I retain more energy and a general sense of well-being throughout the day. Recently, Stephen and two other master trainers from 24 Hour Fitness left to open their own fitness center, Fit Life. Stephen, DJ Dashnyam, and Justin Chin have created an integrative and unpretentious fitness environment equipped with TRX suspension training, rowing machines, and a yoga and massage room, dubbed the "princess room." These three charming men have even thought to supply hair ties for the unprepared female client. The whole out-fit is very "rugged-chic" yet down-to-earth. So, in short, Fit Life has all you need to maintain your health without the unwanted, corporate "gym scene." All three trainers are experts in all levels of training, and each is fully adept at explaining the complicated concepts of body science in an accessible and applicable way. As an added benefit, Stephen, DJ, and Justin are all great conversationalists. I list this as a benefit because engaging in an interesting discourse proves as a welcome distraction while performing the dreaded walking lunges. Overall, this place is fabulous, and I look forward to each session with Stephen. I highly recommend Fit Life to the fitness novice as well as the fitness guru. read more

When Stephen Brown set out on his own to open a training space with DJ and Justin, I was already a training client. With Stephen's instruction and support, I'd already lost 83 pounds. Now, in his new space, I'm focusing on increasing my core strength and basic lifts. It's really nice to have a space where I can drop the weights on Olympic-style lifts--like you're supposed to--without worrying about a lecture from the staff. I'm having a great time training at Fit Life and would recommend Stephen to anyone who's looking to challenge himself or herself to get to a new level of fitness. read more

This is a fantastic fitness studio! I've been meeting with DJ twice per week. Working full time with a baby and 4-year old change when and how often you workout - DJ offers the perfect motivation required to build strength, endurance and the physique most desired post baby. You will feel challenged in every session! Also, he's flexible with meeting times and knowledgeable about postpartum exercises. Oh, and he's funny, too! read more

DJ, Stephen and Justin are all awesome trainers. I've been training with DJ for nearly 6 years and he is amazing. The workouts are always innovative and varied - he is knowledgeable and really knows how to push just enough to get the most out of you - whether that is knocking a few seconds off your personal best in a circuit, making one extra rep or adding an extra 5lb to your lift. The environment is fun, supportive, encouraging and motivating with a competitive edge if you are so inclined. Whatever you are into or what your goals are, DJ and the guys will help you get there! read more

The minute I met Justin Chin, "Fitness Guru", I was convinced he can change my life, and he did. His background in the marines and knowledge in health/fitness are def impressive. He was the top trainer in the region for 24 hr fitness, but now a successful partner owner of Fitlife with two other well known trainers, Stephen and DJ. I've been thru 6 different trainers (3 in LA, 2 in SF, and my football coach) and I can say none of them compare to Justin. He's at another level. Besides me, an average built guy in his 20's, he trains professional athletes, Olympic competitors, runway models, as well as other fitness trainers. What I love most is how he focuses on correct techniques, stamina/endurance, flexibility, and various workouts that challenges the body. He also completely fixed my diet and bettered my everyday attitude (energetic and optimistic). Before Fitlife, I thought I knew everything about being fit until I started my first session. He introduced a whole new aspect of "true physical fitness". My results speak for itself. Justin's a family man and it shows. He treats me like a brother and just the other day he gave great investment tips that would help my financial situation. That's huge plus! Thanks to Justin, I can now say I live a FITLIFE!! read more

This is GREAT place to train and work out. I've been training with Steve Brown there for about a year and I honestly love working out with him. Having peace of mind and confidence when it comes to health and fitness is invaluable, and that is exactly what I have when I train at Fit Life. If I could, I would work out there 5 days a week. I've worked out with other trainers at various gyms in the past, and though each trainer was competent and knowledgable, I've never experienced the level of expertise as I have with Steve at this fitness studio. I feel the same way about the other trainers there as well; along with Steve, Justin and DJ are so incredibly comprehensive in their fitness knowledge and training skills. Each to he trainers are extremely friendly and easy to get along with as well, in fact there is a great feeling of community there which makes the place even more comfortable and welcoming. Location is also fantastic, right across from the North Point Center so parking is easy and convenient. I HIGHLY recommend Fit Life to anyone who is looking for great trainers and a good facility in which to train. read more

I have to start by saying that the Fit life team comes by my Starbucks multiple times a day everyday; and what caught my eye was how personable and down to earth they were. Justin Chin has been more then gracious enough to spend his time working with me to build my strength and endurance. With only two sessions under my belt i can already feel a drive to work harder. It doesn't matter if you're new to fitness or have been an athlete all your life, Fit Life has an amazing studio that will fit all your needs! read more

I have been working out with DJ for the better part of 4 years and have always had great and challenging workouts. The three owners (DJ, Justin and Steven) are all in top shape and experts with all types of equipment and workout programs. I am Irish and just turned 50 ... that may not mean allot for those that aren't, and this may come as a shock, but I like to drink beer. DJs workouts got me to where I look like I did when I was 30 with the exception of a damn beer gut. After 3+ years of negotiation with DJ, I finally took his advise and for lent I dropped alcohol and started a no carb diet with his guidance. I went from 196 to 178 in six weeks and all from the gut. My goal was always to get to 170-173 and I know that with DJ and the gang at Fit Life, they can get me there. Hell if they can get me to my goals, they can do it for anyone. No only do I feel and look better, but my wife won't leave me alone. Life is good! Seriously, I have been getting personal training sessions for years. DJ and the guys are by far the best I have ever trained with and are willing to work with the most hectic of schedules. They are professional, extremely knowledgable, and quite funny as well. They will kick your butt into shape! read more

I've been there for 6 weeks now, and the atmosphere is really possitive, I'm enjoying every session a lot. The trainers are very professional and very nice guys. read more